Southwest Florida Symphony: Masterworks 5 – Cryptic Symphony

The Southwest Florida Symphony, the only professional orchestra in Lee County and fourth oldest orchestra in the state, is excited to announce acclaimed cellist Sterling Elliott will perform the final Masterworks concert of the season on Saturday, April 13. The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. at Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall in Fort Myers. Conducted by Maestro Radu Paponiu, “Cryptic Symphony” celebrates the transformative power of music, delighting both long-time aficionados and newcomers to the symphonic scene with a journey through diverse musical landscapes that will captivate and inspire.

The concert opens with the contemporary allure of Ke-chia Chen’s “Ebbs and Flows,” which masterfully captures the rhythmic dance of the ocean’s tides through its expressive melodies. The evening then brings the spotlight onto Elliott, whose cello breathes life into Tchaikovsky’s “Variations on a Rococo Theme.” This piece, known for its elegance and lyrical beauty, is elevated by Elliott’s emotive and nuanced performance, offering a rare blend of virtuosity and grace. After a reflective intermission, the profound intensity of Shostakovich’s “Symphony No. 5 in D minor” will provide a powerful statement of resilience, dramatic narrative and emotional depth. It’s a work that resonates with the enduring human spirit, making for a deeply moving musical experience.

As part of the symphony’s signature series, patrons can also attend an exclusive pre-concert lecture featuring Elliott and Paponiu, including a Q&A session to enhance the concert experience and provide insights into the pieces being performed. The lecture begins at 6:30 p.m.

To purchase tickets or learn more, swflso.org/tickets/.