Master Violinist, Beach Gala to Launch Key West Symphony’s 2010-11 Season

KEY WEST, Florida Keys — The Key West Symphony, a unique gathering of professional symphonic musicians from around the United States, is to begin its 2010-11 season with a concert featuring world-renowned violinist Chee-Yun.

The curtain is to go up at 8 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 6, at the Tennessee Williams Theatre, 5901 College Road on the campus of Florida Keys Community College.

Renowned for her flawless technique, Chee-Yun has performed and toured with leading orchestras including the London Philharmonic, Haifa Symphony, Philadelphia Orchestra and Hong Kong Philharmonic. She has also appeared as a recitalist and released a number of critically acclaimed recordings, including the platinum–selling “Serenata Notturno.” A recipient of the prestigious Avery Fisher Career Grant earlier in her musical life, she also is an educator who gives master classes around the world.

The symphony’s October concert program is to include Johannes Brahms’ “Academic Festival Overture,” Ludwig van Beethoven’s “Violin Concerto” and Edward Elgar’s “Enigma Variations.”

For each concert in the symphony’s season, nationally recognized conductor Sebrina Maria Alfonso brings together a core group of skilled musicians from around the country. The group is supplemented with other leading musicians and soloists chosen to enhance each concert program.

Prior to the Oct. 6 performance, the unusual orchestra is to stage a season kickoff party titled “Sextet on the Beach.” Set for 5-7:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 3, the gala is to take place at the Southernmost Beach Café, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean at 1405 Duval St. Attractions are to include complimentary hors d’oeuvres, a cash bar and music by the symphony’s sextet.

Cost for the party is $25 per person in advance or $35 per person at the door. To order tickets, visit www.keystix.com or call 305-292-1774.

The symphony’s 2010-11 season also includes master concerts scheduled Dec. 1 with violinist Lara St. John, Jan. 28 with pianist Barry Douglas, March 2 with the Sima Trio and April 29 with pianist Adam Golka.

Tickets for each concert range from $25 to $60 per person depending on seat location. The ticket price includes a post-concert reception where attendees can meet the conductor, orchestra members and featured soloists.

Tickets can be purchased online at www.keystix.com or by calling the Tennessee Williams Theatre box office at 305-295-7676.  For more information about the Key West Symphony and its season, call 305-292-1774.

For lodging information in Key West, contact the Key West Chamber of Commerce at 1-800-LAST-KEY (800-527-8539) or visit the Keys website at www.fla-keys.com.

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