WCO's Family Series is a free program designed to provide an engaging exploration of music for families with children of all ages, offering an opportunity to explore classical music together. The shows will be March 10 at 2:00 PM and 3:00 PM on the Rotunda Stage in the Overture Center for the Arts.
The format is purposefully different from a typical concert, so moving around and making noise is welcomed and encouraged. In 'Three Little Pigs Answer Beethoven Five,' the WCO presents a one-of-a-kind rendition of the classic tale, merging the timeless story of the three little pigs facing the big bad wolf with the powerful notes of Ludwig van Beethoven's Symphony No. 5 in C minor. The iconic opening notes of Beethoven's Fifth Symphony set the stage for a captivating narrative as the narrator unfolds the fate of the wolf and the resilient little pigs, all against the backdrop of Beethoven's renowned composition. This unique fusion of storytelling and classical music promises an unforgettable experience for audiences of all ages.
In between shows, children are invited to participate in hands-on activities at the craft station and explore the instrument petting zoo, featuring the string instruments showcased in the performance. This interactive opportunity allows young attendees to get up close and personal with the instruments and sparks their curiosity about the world of classical music. The concert will feature Whitney Derendinger as narrator, and a talented ensemble of musicians, including: Violin I: Leanne Kelso (Concertmaster) Violin II: Wes Luke (Principal) Viola: Diedre Buckley (Principal) Cello: Tim Archbold (Principal) "We are excited to bring this unique and family-friendly performance to the community," says Maestro Andrew Sewell. "
The combination of Beethoven's timeless masterpiece and the beloved tale of the three little pigs creates a magical experience that will delight audiences of all ages." Admission is free, and doors open 30 minutes prior to each show. For more information about the Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra and its Family Series, see wcoconcerts.org/familyseries.
About the Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra: Maestro Andrew Sewell and the musicians of the Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra (WCO) bring national caliber music to more than 250,000 music lovers annually. No other arts organization in Wisconsin performs free for more people each year. Founded in 1960, the WCO is one of Madison’s gems, a national-caliber chamber orchestra behind the now four-decade summer tradition of Concerts on the Square. The WCO also presents the classical Masterworks series at the Overture Center, the annually soldold Messiah, and education concerts for families and children. In 2021, the WCO launched its first Composer in Residence program, bringing in acclaimed composer, author, musician, and professor Dr. Bill Banfield to write major works while in residence. While headquartered in Madison, the orchestra has played around the state. To learn more about the Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra visit wcoconcerts.org.
