FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Jan. 7, 2026
Madison Symphony Orchestra Welcomes Pianist Yefim Bronfman Jan. 23, 24, 25
Kazem Abdullah guest conducts the first concert of 2026
Madison, Wis. – The Madison Symphony Orchestra’s January concerts will take place Jan. 23, 24 and 25 in Overture Hall, featuring guest conductor Kazem Abdullah and the return of internationally acclaimed pianist Yefim Bronfman. The program showcases works by Gabriela Lena Frank, Richard Strauss and Johannes Brahms.
Escaramuza (meaning “skirmish” in Spanish), a work by American composer Gabriela Lena Frank, opens the concert. Inspired by Frank’s Peruvian heritage, the dynamic piece captures the energy of the Kachampa Andean dance, celebrating the agility and strength of Inca warriors.
Richard Strauss’ Suite from Der Rosenkavalier follows. The symphonic work is filled with elegance, humor and romantic nostalgia that have enchanted audiences for more than a century.
The concert will conclude with Brahms’ Piano Concerto No. 2, a work that combines piano passages with symphonic grandeur. Pianist Bronfman brings his commanding technique and interpretative depth to this masterpiece.
About Kazem Abdullah
Abdullah works internationally and excels at reaching newer and diverse audiences, conducting concerts and operas in a wide variety of styles and formats. Orchestras and audiences recognize him for his impressive conducting technique, thoughtful interpretations, innovative concert experiences and engaging presence. He has worked with the Metropolitan Opera, Indianapolis Symphony and Seattle Opera.
About Yefim Bronfman
Bronfman is one of today’s most acclaimed pianists. The press and audiences consistently acknowledge his masterful technique, power and exceptional lyrical gifts. He has been nominated for six Grammy Awards. A frequent guest with the world’s leading orchestras, he has appeared across the United States, Europe and Asia under music’s most distinguished conductors. He won a Grammy award for his recording of Bartók’s Piano Concertos with the Los Angeles Philharmonic.
Single tickets for all concerts and events can be purchased through the Overture Center Box Office or online https://madisonsymphony.org/bronfmanplaysbrahms.
About the Madison Symphony Orchestra
The Madison Symphony Orchestra celebrates its 100th Anniversary season in 2025–2026. The MSO has grown to be one of America’s leading regional orchestras, providing Madison and south-central Wisconsin with cultural and educational opportunities to interact with great masterworks and top-tier guest artists from around the world. 2025–2026 marks John DeMain’s 32nd year and final season as Music Director. Learn more at madisonsymphony.org.
The Presenting Sponsor for these concerts is Marvin J. Levy. Major funding provided by Madison Magazine, Martha and Charles Casey, Madison Gas & Electric Foundation, Inc., and Fred Mohs, in memory of Mary Mohs. Additional funding provided by Dr. Steven Ewer and Abigail Ochberg, Dr. Peter and Beth Rahko, Mary Lang Sollinger, and the Wisconsin Arts Board with funds from the State of Wisconsin and the National Endowment for the Arts. The Hamburg Steinway piano is the gift of Peter Livingston and Sharon Stark in memory of Magdalena Friedman.
Contact: Taylor Kennedy
Phone: (608) 622-7767
Email: taylor@revelation.agency
Web: madisonsymphony.org
MSO 25-26 Symphony Season Press Photos, Orchestra, John DeMain: https://bit.ly/mso25-26press1
MSO 25-26 Symphony Season Press Photos, Concerts: https://bit.ly/mso25-26press2