The Firelands Symphony Orchestra is inviting audiences on a musical journey to Italy with Intonations and Italia, an exciting and immersive concert celebrating the passionate, romantic and joyful sounds of Italian music, according to a news release.
The concert will feature the orchestra, under the direction of Carl Topilow, the Firelands Symphony Orchestra Chorale, under the direction of Michael Shirtz, and guest vocalists Jonathan Kaufman and Kirsten C. Kunkle.
The Firelands Symphony Orchestra under direction of Carl Topilow. (Courtesy of Doug Klein/Firelands Photography)
The concert will begin at 4 p.m. Feb. 15 at Sawmill Creek Convention Center, 400 Sawmill Creek Drive West in Huron.
Acclaimed tenor Kaufman will regale audiences with some of the most beloved Italian songs, including “O Sole Mio,” “Come Back to Sorrento” and the triumphant “Nessun Dorma,” the release said.
Jonathan Kaufman, tenor (Submitted)
Kaufman’s rich voice will be joined by soprano Kunkle and the Firelands Symphony Orchestra Chorale, adding rich, layered vocals to the program, according to the release.
Kirsten C. Kunkle, soprano (Submitted)
highlight of the afternoon will be a lively, audience-participation sing-along performance of “That’s Amore,” made famous by Ohio native Dean Martin, encouraging everyone to join in the fun, the release said.
Also, Topilow will perform a medley of Italian songs on custom green, white and red clarinets, inspired by the Italian flag.
In addition to vocal favorites, the orchestra will explore Italy’s lasting influence on great composers from around the world.
The program includes Tchaikovsky’s “Capriccio Italien,” a vibrant orchestral masterpiece inspired by the composer’s travels through Italy, and Mendelssohn’s “Saltarello from his Fourth (Italian) Symphony,” showcasing bright rhythms and spirited dance, the release said.
General admission tickets can be purchased online at firelandssymphony.com, by calling 419-621-4800 or at the door on the day of the concert.
This concert is made possible by support from the Randolph J. & Estelle M. Dorn Foundation, the Sidney Frohman Foundation, the Sam S. & Rose Stein Foundation, Darryl & Joyce Deering, Erie County Community Foundation, Mylander Foundation and Ohio Arts Council, the release said.