There is no better way to begin a new season of the Elkhart County Symphony Orchestra (ECSO) than with music that bursts with life, color, and celebration!
On Sunday, Sept. 13, the Elkhart County Symphony Orchestra launches its 79th season—Stories in Sound: Prelude to 80—with ¡Ritmo Botánico! at Elkhart’s nationally acclaimed Wellfield Botanic Gardens.
Featuring guest soloist Heidi Eash, the Symphony’s principal oboist and a longtime ECSO musician, the afternoon presents a celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month through the vibrant musical traditions of Spain and Latin America.
Presented amid Wellfield’s breathtaking splendor, beneath the covered Woodland Pavilion, the performance combines world-class orchestral music with one of Northern Indiana’s most beloved outdoor venues, creating an unforgettable concert experience as the Symphony begins its countdown toward its landmark 80th season.
A Celebration of Rhythm, Culture, and Color
¡Ritmo Botánico! showcases five works that have become beloved around the world for their passion, energy, and unmistakable sense of place.
The season-opening repertoire includes José Pablo Moncayo’s Huapango, a brilliant orchestral celebration inspired by the folk music of Mexico. Often called Mexico’s unofficial second national anthem, the work overflows with lively rhythms, colorful orchestration, and joyful exuberance.
The Symphony also performs two masterpieces by Argentine composer Astor Piazzolla, whose revolutionary nuevo tango style forever changed the sound of tango music. The haunting lyricism of Oblivion offers a moment of quiet reflection before giving way to the driving pulse and irresistible energy of Libertango, one of Piazzolla’s most recognizable and frequently performed works.
Guest soloist, Heidi Eash
Spanish composer Manuel de Falla’s Three Dances from The Three-Cornered Hat captures the spirit of Andalusia through dazzling orchestral color and spirited folk-inspired dances, while the program concludes with Arturo Márquez’s Danzón No. 2—one of the most acclaimed orchestral works written in the last three decades. Inspired by the elegant Cuban dance tradition embraced throughout Mexico, the piece builds from graceful sophistication to an exhilarating and unforgettable finish.
Together, these remarkable works celebrate the rich musical traditions of Spain and Latin America while showcasing the expressive power and versatility of the modern orchestra.
A New Season—and a New Chapter
¡Ritmo Botánico! also marks the beginning of a new era for the Elkhart County Symphony Orchestra under Executive Director Glenn Northern, who joined the organization this summer following a distinguished 36-year career in music education.
“The season premiere reflects everything that makes our community Symphony so special,” Northern said. “It brings together outstanding musicians, an extraordinary local venue, and music that invites people of all ages to experience the joy of live performance together.”
Join Us for Season 79
Following the season opener, Stories in Sound: Prelude to 80 continues with Duel Vi2lity (Nov. 15), Verdi Requiem (Feb. 14), Cinematic Symphony (March 14), and Planetary Finale (May 16), forming one of the Symphony’s most ambitious and exciting seasons to date.
Season Tickets are on sale now and offer all five Season 79 concerts for the price of four, making it easy to experience every chapter of this exciting new season. Season Tickets may be purchased in person at The Lerner Theatre Box Office, 410 S. Main Street in downtown Elkhart, or by calling the Box Office at (574) 293-4469. Single Concert Tickets can be purchased through Ticketmaster via The Lerner Theatre website.
We look forward to welcoming you to Wellfield Botanic Gardens on Sept. 13 as the Elkhart County Symphony Orchestra begins another remarkable season!
ABOUT THE ELKHART COUNTY SYMPHONY
The Elkhart County Symphony Association employs more than 100 professional musicians in the county. The organization promotes cultural experiences and instills civic pride in our community by encouraging artistic integrity, providing innovative opportunities, and presenting excellent musical programming through concerts, education, and special events.