It is said that music cannot be confined in a museum because all of us can carry Mozart quartets in our back pocket. I begin my fifth season with the Hastings Symphony by picking the pockets of our musicians and asking a very simple question: “If you had a choice, what would you like to perform?” Their suggestions are inspiring, for they demonstrate a love and dedication to music, and above all, they exude a continued confidence in the musical direction of this fine orchestra.

Our Musician’s Choice season includes works drawn primarily from the Romantic-period composers. Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 4, Mendelssohn’s “Scotch” Symphony, Schubert’s “Unfinished” Symphony and crowd-pleasing overtures including Manfred Overture by Schumann and the Overture to Donna Diana by Reznicek are all energetic and passionate works. I have no doubt that the HSO musicians will take great ownership in these pieces and perform them with intensity and integrity.

Our special guests include flutist Betsy Bobenhouse and the Symphony’s harpist, Heidi Huenefeld in a performance of Mozart’s Concerto for Flute and Harp. The acclaimed South Central Nebraska Children’s Chorale will add their festive voices to our December concert, and a special highlight for the season occurs when pianist Joel Fan returns to Hastings in April for a performance that will undoubtedly leave us awestruck.

Our 83rd Season will be an exciting time of great music with incredible musicians. I encourage you to join us for Musician’s Choice, and to invite your family, friends, and neighbors throughout Central Nebraska to experience one of this state’s finest cultural resources. I look forward to seeing you soon.