As the Central Oregon Symphony embarks on its 2024-2025 season, practice is well underway for their opening concert featuring two major works that showcase the full range of symphonic instruments and techniques. The season kicks off with an orchestra showcase concert, highlighting Sergei Prokofiev’s Romeo and Juliet Suite No. 2 and Johannes Brahms’ Symphony No. 1.
The Romeo and Juliet Suite No. 2, drawn from Prokofiev’s groundbreaking ballet, takes the audience on a journey through seven movements, each painting a vivid picture of the emotions and characters from the tragic tale. The concert will conclude with Brahms’ legendary Symphony No. 1, a work that has captivated audiences for generations with its deep emotion and dramatic intensity.
This season marks a significant change for the Symphony as the performances move to a new venue — Caldera High School Auditorium. Following the sudden demolition of Bend Senior High School’s auditorium, the Symphony is embracing this new venue as a fresh chapter in its story.
Concert Dates:
- Saturday, November 2 | 2pm & 7:30pm
- Sunday, November 3 | 2pm
Location: Caldera High School Auditorium
New Ticketing System and Membership Information
With the new, smaller venue, seating is limited, so it is essential for members to secure tickets in advance. A new ticketing system has been implemented through Eventbrite to ensure that all members can enjoy the performances.
Here’s how to reserve your tickets:
- Become a member for the 2024-2025 season.
- Reserve your tickets through Eventbrite.
- Present proof of your reservation at the concert; confirmation will be sent via email.
For assistance with ticketing or membership, please contact us at 541-317-3941 or visit our office.
Community Fall Events
In addition to the concert series, several community-focused musical events will be presented this fall:
Music in Public Places
Experience free live chamber music at local venues across Central Oregon:
- November 9, 2pm:
- Dove String Quartet at Prineville Public Library
- Alpenglow Reed Trio at Sunriver Public Library
- Cascade Chamber Players at High Desert Music Hall in Redmond
These family-friendly performances last about an hour and do not require tickets.
Spotlight Recital Fundraiser
On October 5 at 7pm, attend a special fundraiser at Wille Hall, COCC in Bend, featuring Ryan Zwahlen, Principal Oboe, and pianist Gary Ruppert. The funds raised will help recover $10,000 in equipment losses caused by the demolition of Bend Senior High School’s auditorium. Admission is free, but donations are encouraged. Please RSVP by October 4.
Music Masters Series
On November 23, violinist Casey Bozell and violist Darian Todd, alongside pianist Gary Ruppert, will host a masterclass at 10am and recital at 7pm at Wille Hall, COCC in Bend. Both events are free and open to the public, with an RSVP deadline of November 20.
Looking Ahead
As the Symphony settles into its new home and prepares for a season of outstanding music, it remains committed to delivering a full slate of concerts and community events, including fall, winter, and spring symphony concerts, as well as a chamber orchestra concert.
To ensure the best experience for members, complimentary tickets will not be offered this year. Those interested are encouraged to become members to secure a spot for this season’s concerts.
The Central Oregon Symphony looks forward to welcoming the community to its new venue and sharing another year of timeless symphonic music.