A concert of majestic melodies designed to lure and captivate you as we start our journey with Tchaikovsky’s March Slave, fall in love with Rachmaninoff’s Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini performed by Ocala’s favorite pianist Michael Wittenburg, explore new territories with John Williams’ The Cowboys Overture, indulge in Samuel Barber’s First Essay and voyage east with Maurice Jarre’s music from the classic Lawrence of Arabia.

      The glory of glories, this familiar and beloved masterpiece for orchestra and choir comes to Ocala this Christmas season in its entire splendor – Matthew Wardell leading orchestra, full community choir and guest soloists in Frederick Handel’s best-known work culminating with the overpowering Hallelujah Chorus. Originally created in just a week, Messiah remains a timeless treasure to be enjoyed, embraced and never to be forgotten.

      If you’re not in the seasonal spirit, get ready! Our holiday pops program includes Victor Herbert’s March of the Toys and a trio of Sleigh Rides by Leopold Mozart, Florida’s own Claude Delius and the ever-popular Leroy Anderson. When you’re done dashing through the snow, dance to Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker, enjoy the festive sounds of Hanukkah and exercise your vocal chords during our traditional Holiday Sing-A-Long!

      The OSO brings 200-year-old Franz Liszt’s awe-inspiring tone poem Les Preludes to the stage followed by Arnold Irchai’s performance of a magical Bassoon Concerto composed by 100-year-old Nina Rota of Godfather fame. Dare we throw in melodies memorialized by the late, great Bobby Darrin and conclude with another gift to music, Bernstein’s Symphonic Dances from West Side Story? Yes!

      Join the excitement as we select the winners of the 20th Annual Young Artist Competition LIVE! This recital allows you to become a part of the action as you support the finalists competing on stage for the chance to perform with the OSO at the final subscription concert series and a $1,000 prize. Will you guess who the judges choose?

      Witness the dawn of a new day as the winners of the Young Artist Competition present their talents to you at the cusp of their musical careers. Then, allow the OSO to offer you a stirring performance of the revered Brahms’ Symphony No. 4. Top it all off with a special surprise piece selected by a vote of the OSO donors celebrating the culmination of another fantastic concert season.

      Join us as we celebrate the warmth of the Holiday Season under the beautiful lights of Ocala’s Historic Downtown Square. This concert is fee to the community and sponsored by Jenkins Acura, Hyundai & Mazda, the musicians of the Ocala Symphony Orchestra and the City of Ocala. Please bring your own seating.