Salina Symphony to Present 'Rocking Tchaikovsky' with Cleveland Orchestra Cellist

The Salina Symphony will blend classical masterpieces with contemporary flair in its upcoming concert "Rocking Tchaikovsky," featuring renowned cellist Mark Kosower on Sunday, January 12, at 4 p.m. at the Stiefel Theatre.

Kosower, principal cellist of The Cleveland Orchestra since 2010, will perform Friedrich Gulda's eclectic Cello Concerto, a piece that weaves together elements of jazz, rock, polka, and classical minuet into what promises to be an unforgettable performance.

The concert will open with a world premiere of "...the light that breathes..." by Music Director David Segal. "The piece begins with textures and hidden melodies as if searching for the path forward," Segal explained, noting that it "ends in a glorious celebration of light and life."

The program will conclude with Tchaikovsky's Fifth Symphony, known for its dramatic journey from darkness to triumph through what Segal describes as "lush orchestration and soaring melodies."

Kosower, praised by The Plain Dealer as "a virtuoso of staggering prowess," has performed with major orchestras across the United States, including Detroit, Houston, Minnesota, and Seattle symphonies, as well as numerous international ensembles.

Tickets for this performance start at $42 and can be purchased through the Stiefel Theatre Box Office at 785-827-1998 or online at salinasymphony.org.