FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Nov. 11, 2025
Madison Symphony Orchestra Presents ‘Radiance’ Nov. 21-23
Alban Gerhardt returns to perform Haydn’s Cello Concerto No. 2; Robert Moody conducts
Madison, Wis. – The Madison Symphony Orchestra’s November concert, titled “Radiance,” will take place Nov. 21-23 in Overture Hall, featuring guest conductor Robert Moody and the return of internationally acclaimed cellist Alban Gerhardt. The program showcases works by Christopher Theofanidis, Joseph Haydn and Modest Mussorgsky.
Rainbow Body, a work by American composer Christopher Theofanidis, will lead off the concert. It weaves ancient and modern worlds together to take listeners on a journey. Inspired by Ave Maria, the piece reimagines her melodies in lush, cinematic orchestration.
Haydn’s Cello Concerto No. 2 follows. It is a showcase of elegance and virtuosity, brought to life by Alban Gerhardt in his fifth appearance with the Madison Symphony Orchestra.
The concert will wrap up with Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition, orchestrated by Maurice Ravel. Each movement captures a visual scene, from the playful “Ballet of the Unhatched Chicks” to the majestic “Great Gate of Kiev.”
As part of this concert weekend in the spirit of Pictures at an Exhibition, UW-Madison’s Department of Art History will be featured in the Overture Center lobby, with a table display that includes a 35-mm slide art giveaway of paintings that are from their collection. A “Great Gate of Kiev” poster and picture frames will be part of the lobby experience for audience photo opportunities.
After the concert on Saturday, Nov. 22, participants are invited to attend MSO After Dark: Fall Crafting Festival. The $40 package includes a discounted price level 3 seat to the concert as well as event access. For those who already have a concert ticket, access to the event only is $20. Concertgoers can enjoy fall crafts, treats, a cider bar and a pumpkin painting contest with prizes. Those interested in attending should RSVP by Saturday, November 22nd. https://madisonsymphony.org/event/after-dark-nov-2025/
About Robert Moody
Moody is celebrated for his dynamic leadership and engaging performances with orchestras across the U.S. and abroad. Known for his clarity, charisma and passion for connecting audiences with music, Moody is the first of four guest conductors to appear during the MSO’s 25-26 season leading the Madison Symphony Orchestra.
About Alban Gerhardt
Gerhardt has earned international acclaim for his technical mastery and deep musical expression. A favorite with MSO musicians and audiences alike, Gerhardt’s performances are marked by precision, emotional depth and artistry.
Single tickets for all concerts and events can be purchased through the Overture Center Box Office or online https://madisonsymphony.org/event/radiance/.
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 “Primal Light” is Rosemarie and Fred Blancke. Major funding is provided by Marilyn Ebben, in memory of Jim Ebben, Larry and Jan Phelps, Martha and Charles Casey, and Robert and Linda Graebner. Additional funding is provided by Margaret Murphy, in memory of Howard Kidd, Rodney Schreiner and Mark Blank, 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. The Overture Concert Organ is the gift of Pleasant T. Rowland.
Contact: Peter Rodgers, Director of Marketing
Phone: (608) 260-8680 x226 • Mobile: (415) 713-0235
Email: prodgers@madisonsymphony.org
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