CONCERT SEASON
2026-2027
Experience four unforgettable musical journeys with the Wallingford Symphony Orchestra. From the vibrant rhythms of Herb Alpert and Sergio Mendes, to the warmth of the holiday season, the timeless brilliance of Beethoven, and a spectacular outdoor Pops concert, our 2026–2027 season offers something for every music lover.
Whether you enjoy classical masterworks, holiday traditions, Latin-inspired favorites, or popular music from television and film, you'll discover inspiring performances presented by exceptional musicians in a welcoming atmosphere. Join us as we continue our tradition of bringing outstanding live orchestral music to the Wallingford community.
A Tribute to Herb Alpert & Sergio Mendes
Kick off the Wallingford Symphony Orchestra’s 2026-2027 season with an energetic afternoon honoring two legendary musical icons – Herb Alpert and Sergio Mendes.
Featuring acclaimed trumpeter Rob Zappulla and his outstanding Orchestra, this exciting performance celebrates the unforgettable sounds that blended traditional Mariachi with pop and jazz grooves, along with Brazilian rhythms into music loved around the world. From the sounds of Herb Alpert and The Tijuana Brass to his solo career to the sounds of Sergio Mendes, you’ll experience the music that defined an era.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering these classics for the first time, this concert promises an afternoon filled with rhythm, nostalgia, and exceptional live entertainment.
What You'll Experience
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Live performances by Rob Zappulla and his orchestra
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Iconic Herb Alpert & Sergio Mendes favorites
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Mariachi, pop, jazz, and Brazilian rhythms
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A fun, energetic concert perfect for audiences of all ages
10.25.2026
A Tribute to Herb Alpert & Sergio Mendes | Ann and George Colony Hall | Sunday, 2:00 pm
ROB ZAPPULLA
TRUMPETER
Rob Zappulla is an acclaimed vocalist, trumpeter, and bandleader whose distinguished career has entertained audiences for more than 40 years. From 2001–2009, he was the featured vocalist with the legendary Tommy Dorsey Orchestra under the direction of Buddy Morrow, touring internationally and performing at the 2005 Presidential Inaugural Ball in Washington, D.C.
A Connecticut native, Rob began studying trumpet in elementary school and pursued his musical education at the Hartt School of Music and Central Connecticut State University. His passion and talent led him to perform throughout Europe as a member of the Ambassadors of Music, launching a career that would take him to renowned concert halls, jazz clubs, casinos, and symphony stages across the country.
Rob has performed with artists and ensembles including The Nelson Riddle Orchestra, The Box Tops, Lesley Gore, Bobby Rydell, Deana Martin, and the United States Military Academy's West Point Jazz Knights. In 1996, he founded the Rob Zappulla Big Band Jazz Ensemble, and has released two acclaimed recordings showcasing his love of jazz, swing, and classic American popular music.
With his rich baritone voice, exceptional trumpet artistry, and engaging stage presence, Rob continues to delight audiences through performances that celebrate the timeless music of the Great American Songbook, jazz, Latin classics, and popular favorites. For the Wallingford Symphony Orchestra's A Tribute to Herb Alpert & Sergio Mendes, Rob brings his signature style and musicianship to an unforgettable afternoon of classic hits and vibrant Latin rhythms.
ROB ZAPPULLA
and his Orchestra
Rob Zappulla brings together an exceptional ensemble of accomplished vocalists and instrumentalists whose careers span jazz, classical music, Broadway, television, recording, and symphonic performance.
The ensemble features vocalists Leala Cyr, a Berklee College of Music alumna who toured and performed with Esperanza Spalding and has appeared on The Late Show, The Tonight Show, The View, and Jimmy Kimmel Live; and Atla DeChamplain, an acclaimed jazz vocalist who has performed with artists including Jon Hendricks, Kurt Elling, and José Feliciano.
The instrumental lineup includes Don Clough on trumpet; Evan Gray on trombone; keyboardists Dylan Rowland and Aidan Slate; guitarist and University of Hartford faculty member Rich Goldstein; bassist Scott Chaurette; percussionist Michael Blancaflor; and veteran drummer Tom Devino, who has performed with Rob Zappulla for more than 20 years.
Collectively, Rob and members of his ensemble have performed with or alongside some of the most respected names and organizations in entertainment, including Delfeayo Marsalis, Kurt Elling, José Feliciano, The Temptations, Tower of Power, The Count Basie Orchestra, Little Anthony and the Imperials, Clark Terry, Lou Marini, Petula Clark, and many others.
Their experience extends from major jazz clubs such as Birdland in New York City to symphony orchestras and jazz festivals across the country, Broadway and theatrical productions, and national television appearances including The David Letterman Show, The Tonight Show, and Jimmy Kimmel Live.
Together, these outstanding musicians bring an extraordinary combination of jazz artistry, orchestral sophistication, and decades of professional performance experience to the stage with Rob Zappulla & His Orchestra.
CONCERT SEASON
2025-2026
This season brings four unforgettable concerts — from the timeless beauty of Cherished Orchestral Masterworks to the festive sparkle of Holiday Harmonies, the vibrant spirit of Voices of Hungary, and the grand outdoor 250th Anniversary Patriotic Pops Concert. Each program showcases world-class soloists, beloved masterpieces, and thrilling new discoveries that celebrate music’s power to inspire and connect. Plus, Wallingford children can enjoy a special free children’s concert, making this season a true celebration for the whole community.
10.19.2025
Cherished Orchestral Masterworks | Ann and George Colony Hall | Sunday, 2:00 pm
Cherished Orchestral Masterworks
Join the Wallingford Symphony Orchestra for an unforgettable afternoon of music as we present “Cherished Orchestral Masterworks,” a program celebrating some of the greatest treasures of the symphonic repertoire.
The concert opens with Antonín Dvořák’s Scherzo Capriccioso, Op. 66, a lively and imaginative work brimming with Bohemian charm and energetic rhythms. This spirited piece showcases Dvořák’s gift for melodic invention and sets a joyful tone for the afternoon.
Next, the orchestra welcomes violinist Nina Crothers and violist Suzanne Corey-Sahlin for Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s Sinfonia Concertante for Violin and Viola in E-flat Major, K. 364. This Classical masterpiece is a radiant dialogue between soloists and orchestra. From its majestic opening Allegro maestoso, through the tender and lyrical Andante, to the sparkling Presto finale, the Sinfonia Concertante highlights Mozart’s brilliance and the virtuosity of our guest artists.
After intermission, we travel to the Czech countryside with Bedřich Smetana’s Má Vlast (My Country): “Vltava” (The Moldau). One of the most beloved symphonic poems ever written, The Moldau paints an evocative portrait of the river flowing from its bubbling springs to its majestic journey past forests, meadows, and historic castles.
The program then shifts to America with Aaron Copland’s Appalachian Spring: Variations on a Shaker Melody. This iconic work captures the hopeful, openhearted spirit of rural America, with the familiar “Simple Gifts” theme unfolding in a series of tender variations.
The concert concludes with a thrilling finale — Maurice Ravel’s Boléro. Famous for its hypnotic rhythm and gradually intensifying orchestration, Boléro builds from a single whispering snare drum to a breathtaking full-orchestra climax, offering a mesmerizing close to an extraordinary program.
11.30.2025
Holiday Harmonies | Ann and George Colony Hall | Sunday, 2:00 pm
Holiday Harmonies
Celebrate the magic of the season with the Wallingford Symphony Orchestra’s festive Holiday Concert — an enchanting evening of beloved holiday classics and timeless favorites.
This heartwarming concert will fill the hall with timeless carols, joyful anthems, and treasured seasonal music that capture the true spirit of the holidays. From familiar melodies that stir childhood memories to uplifting choral works that inspire peace and goodwill, this festive program promises something for all ages to enjoy.
Enjoy special arrangements like It’s Christmastime with beloved tunes such as “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” “Santa Claus is Coming to Town,” and “Silver Bells.” Relive the magic of the season with Christmas at the Movies, featuring memorable music from holiday film favorites including Home Alone, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, Miracle on 34th Street, The Polar Express, and The Nightmare Before Christmas. The celebration also embraces the season’s many traditions with the uplifting Festive Sounds of Hanukkah, adding even more warmth and joy to this unforgettable evening.
Gather your family and friends and join us for this beautiful holiday tradition — a night of music, community, and celebration that will leave you filled with cheer and ready to welcome the season with joy.
03.15.2026
Voices of Hungary | Ann and George Colony Hall | Sunday, 2:00 pm
Voices of Hungary
Step into a vibrant celebration of Hungarian musical heritage with Voices of Hungary, an afternoon that brings together national tradition, folk-inspired rhythms, and virtuosic artistry.
The concert opens with Ferenc Erkel’s Himnusz, Hungary’s national anthem, setting a proud and ceremonial tone. Hungarian folk traditions come to life through a selection of iconic dance-inspired works, including Béla Bartók’s Transylvanian Dances, Johannes Brahms’ Hungarian Dances, and Franz Lehár’s elegant Gold and Silver Waltz, each capturing the spirit, rhythm, and character of Central European musical life.
Pianist Tóth Péter takes center stage with Ernő von Dohnányi’s Variations on a Nursery Tune, a brilliant and playful masterpiece that blends humor, lyricism, and dazzling technique. The first half also highlights emerging talent through the Mitchell Family String Concerto Competition First Prize Winner, showcasing the next generation of exceptional musicians.
Clarinetist Sallai Noémi brings expressive energy and virtuosity to the program with Carl Maria von Weber’s Andante e Rondo Ungarese, a spirited work infused with Hungarian-style flair.
In the second half, internationally acclaimed violinist Nyári Bernadett captivates audiences with a curated Hungarian Violin Medley, featuring operetta favorites and fiery dance melodies by Kálmán Imre, including selections from Csárdáskirálynő. The program culminates in a powerful finale: Tüzes Tánc (Fiery Dance) by Suha B. József, followed by Franz Liszt’s triumphant Rákóczi March, a patriotic and exhilarating conclusion that has thrilled audiences for generations.
Running approximately 90 minutes, Voices of Hungary offers a richly textured musical journey—honoring history, celebrating folk traditions, and bringing Hungarian musical identity vividly to life through today’s outstanding performers.
Following the concert, audiences are warmly invited to continue the celebration with a post-concert dinner at the Hungarian Community Club. This special evening features a traditional Hungarian meal and a brief community celebration honoring Hungary’s National Day, March 15, 1848, offering a festive and welcoming way to extend the experience beyond the concert hall. Dinner tickets are sold separately, with a limited number available.
06.21.2026
Patriotic Pops | Choate Rosemary Hall Chapel Lawn | June 21, 2026
250th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence
Patriotic Pops Concert
Join us as we commemorate the 250th anniversary of America’s Declaration of Independence with a joyful and spirited evening of music that celebrates the enduring spirit, resilience, and boundless creativity of our nation.
This festive outdoor concert brings together iconic American marches, beloved folk songs, timeless movie themes, and dazzling Broadway and jazz standards — all woven together in a vibrant salute to our shared history and culture.
The evening marches proudly forward with the unmistakable sounds of John Philip Sousa, whose rousing patriotic anthems like Stars and Stripes Forever and You’re a Grand Old Flag continue to inspire generations. Classics like Yankee Doodle arranged by Morton Gould and the powerful American Salute remind us of the enduring strength and unity that bind our nation together.
Journey through the American landscape with *Calvin Custer’s The American Frontier, a sweeping tribute to the spirit of adventure that shaped our country, featuring folk favorites like The Girl I Left Behind Me, Chester, Shenandoah, O Susannah, and America the Beautiful.
Celebrate America’s playful side with delightful selections like Raymond Scott’s whimsical Powerhouse and classic Looney Tunes string arrangements. Nostalgic film moments come alive with the romantic themes of Gone with the Wind by Max Steiner, A Summer Place, and *Henry Mancini’s Pink Panther and dreamy Moon River.
Broadway and jazz fans will delight in a tribute to George Gershwin, with favorites like Embraceable You, I Got Rhythm, Someone to Watch Over Me, Shall We Dance, Stiff Upper Lip, and I’ll Build a Stairway to Paradise — timeless songs that capture the sophisticated sparkle of the American Songbook.
The concert also features gems like *Don Gillis’s January, February, March and the exuberant Grand Tarantelle for piano and orchestra by Louis Moreau Gottschalk, whose Souvenir de Porto Rico and Columbia Caprice Américain add 19th-century flair to the celebration.
Audiences will be treated to unforgettable melodies from *Stephen Sondheim’s A Little Night Music, the lush romance of *Johnny Mandel’s The Shadow of Your Smile, and the dreamy beauty of *Michel Legrand’s The Windmills of Your Mind, Pieces of Dreams, Sweet Gingerbread Man, and What Are You Doing the Rest of Your Life.
We honor those who have served with a heartfelt Armed Forces Salute by Bob Lowden, and moving arrangements like Bring Him Home from Les Misérables. The evening builds to a thrilling conclusion with stirring selections from *Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture and a grand finale of beloved patriotic standards including God Bless America, I’m a Yankee Doodle Dandy, and more.
Bring your family, your friends, your picnic blankets, and your patriotic spirit — and celebrate this historic milestone with an unforgettable night of music under the summer sky!
Spotlight on WSO Performers
2025-26 concert season
Cherished Orchestral Masterworks
October 19, 2025 - Sunday @ 2 PM
Ann & George Colony Hall, Wallingford, CT
Featured Soloist
NINA CROTHERS
Violinist
Concertmaster of the Wallingford Symphony Orchestra since 1988, she first appeared as soloist in Beethoven’s Triple Concerto and later performed Vivaldi’s Spring and Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto.
A native of Northford, CT, she studied at the Neighborhood Music School under Jeanne Switzer, former WSO concertmaster, and at Choate Rosemary Hall under Philip Ventre. She earned degrees from Yale University (magna cum laude), the Juilliard School, and the Manhattan School of Music.
Her teaching experience includes positions at Fairfield University, the Luzerne Music Center, and the Turtle Bay Music School in New York, where she chaired the String and Theory Departments. She currently serves as assistant concertmaster of the Greater Bridgeport and Waterbury Symphonies and principal second violin of the Norwalk Symphony.
SUZANNE COREY-SAHLIN
Violist
Principal Violist of the Ridgefield and Norwalk Symphonies, she has also appeared as a soloist with both ensembles. Her performances include collaborations with the Delaware, Greenwich, Waterbury, and Wallingford Symphonies, as well as the Berkshire Opera Company and Connecticut Grand Opera.
A former member of the Rondo Chamber Orchestra, she toured with Albert and Alex Markov, including a Carnegie Hall appearance. She later spent eight years with the Tourmaline String Quartet and now performs with the Ridgefield Symphony Quartet.
She frequently appears with her husband, cellist Gunnar Sahlin, as Duetto Viello, performing in the U.S. and abroad. In addition to performing, she teaches privately in Ridgefield and formerly conducted the Western Connecticut Youth Orchestra String Ensemble.
Holiday Harmonies
November30, 2025 - Sunday @ 2 PM
Ann & George Colony Hall, Wallingford, CT
Featured Guest Artist
MIGUEL ÁNGEL VÁSQUEZ
Baritone
Miguel Angel Vasquez, an internationally acclaimed Afro-Latino Baritone, is celebrated for his "Golden voice," "ardent baritone," and "strong dramatic presence." Known for his versatility, he shines in Musical Theater, Jazz, and Opera, performing regionally and Off-Broadway. Career highlights include solo performances at Carnegie Hall, appearances at Lincoln Center and the Met Museum, and contributions to the Grammy-nominated recording of X: The Life and Times of Malcolm X. Most recently, he starred Off-Broadway in the premiere of Watch Night at the Perelman Performing Arts Center and participated in the revival of Evita at A.R.T.
Miguel is also a dedicated Teaching Artist with a vocal studio in NYC. He leads masterclasses on "Vocal Technique" and "Acting through Singing" at institutions such as Berklee College of Music and the National Children’s Chorus. With experience teaching Pre-K through 12th grade, he integrates arts disciplines such as Percussion, Rhythm, Modern Dance, Costume Design, Backstage Bootcamp, Folktales, Film, Music Videos, and Shakespeare into his curriculum.
Voices of Hungary
March 15, 2026 - Sunday @ 2 PM
Ann & George Colony Hall, Wallingford, CT
Featured Soloist
NOEMI SALLAI
Clarinetist
Hungarian clarinetist Noémi Sallai is an acclaimed soloist and chamber musician who was selected as the sole clarinet fellow of Carnegie Hall’s Ensemble Connect program for the 2018–2020 season. She has appeared as a soloist with leading orchestras and concert series in the U.S. and abroad, including performances with the Budapest Festival Orchestra under Iván Fischer, the Orpheus Chamber Orchestra, and at Alice Tully Hall.
A prizewinner of numerous national and international competitions, Sallai won the PRISMA Concerto Competition in Canada and has premiered new clarinet works at The Juilliard School’s Focus! Festival. She has toured extensively throughout Europe, Asia, and Cuba, and performed repertoire ranging from classical masterworks to contemporary, folk, and klezmer music.
Ms. Sallai holds a Master of Music degree from The Juilliard School and dual Bachelor’s degrees from Bard College, where she was a concerto competition winner. Her principal teachers include Anthony McGill, Jon Manasse, David Krakauer, and Laura Flax.
BERNADETT NYARI
Acoustic Violinist
Internationally acclaimed violinist Bernadett Nyári, recipient of Hungary’s Bronze Cross of Merit, is celebrated for her genre-defying artistry spanning Classical, Pop, and EDM crossover. By age 30, she had performed at Carnegie Hall and in over 90 countries, captivating audiences worldwide with her virtuosity and magnetic stage presence.
Trained under Professor Silvia Marcovici in Graz, Austria, Nyári debuted in Italy at age 13 and has since released multiple chart-topping works. Her album Miles of Styles highlights her versatility and Hungarian roots, while her singles Rebirth and Redemption reached No. 1 on the U.K. and U.S. iTunes Classical Charts. Her 2025 album Heart of Diamonds, featuring original compositions, debuted with two Top-10 iTunes Classical hits.
A 2025 invitee to the Recording Academy (Grammy Awards), Nyári has been featured on FOX5 DC, NBC 6, and The CW Miami, with FOX5 calling her “one of the best violinists on the planet.” Beyond the stage, she is a passionate mental-health advocate and philanthropist, using her platform to inspire resilience, creativity, and positive change.
PETER TOTH
Pianist
Hungarian pianist Péter Tóth has performed extensively throughout Europe, Asia, Australia, and the Americas, appearing in countries across Europe as well as Japan, South Korea, China, Australia, and the United States. His Carnegie Hall solo debut was praised by New York Concert Review as “music-making of true passion and intelligence.”
A prizewinner at major international competitions—including the American Paderewski Piano Competition and the Franz Liszt International Piano Competitions in Budapest and Weimar—Tóth’s debut recording received the Grand Prize of the Hungarian Liszt Society. Since retiring from competitions in 2013, he has devoted himself fully to an international performing career.
A frequent guest at festivals in Europe and a regular jury member at piano competitions, Tóth is a devoted interpreter of Franz Liszt, while maintaining a broad repertoire from Bach to contemporary works, with special emphasis on Beethoven, Schubert, Chopin, and Brahms. He holds a Doctor of Musical Arts degree from the University of Texas at Austin and serves on the piano faculty at Fairleigh Dickinson University in New Jersey.
First Prize Winner
2026 Mitchell Family Fund
String Concerto Competition
KAZUHO YASUNO (age 14) is a ninth-grade student at Amity Regional High School in Connecticut. Inspired to play the cello at age two after watching 2Cellos, he began formal studies at age five. He was a member of the Greater Connecticut Youth Orchestra for four years and, since September 2025, has studied at the Manhattan School of Music Precollege Program under Ole Akahoshi.
From 2022 to 2024, Kazuho participated in the Kirishima International Music Festival in Japan as its youngest masterclass student, studying with Tsuyoshi Tsutsumi and composing his own cadenza for Haydn’s Cello Concerto No. 1. In 2025, he won both the GCTYO and American Chamber Orchestra concerto competitions and performed as a soloist with each ensemble.
Kazuho gave his first solo recital in 2024 and is currently organizing the first cello orchestra at his high school. Outside of music, he enjoys reading, writing, playing shogi, and running.
CONCERT SEASON
2024-2025
Join us as we celebrate 50 years of musical excellence with the Wallingford Symphony Orchestra!
From mesmerizing classics to innovative contemporary compositions, our upcoming season promises to be a feast for your ears and an unforgettable experience. Mark your calendars and be part of our anniversary celebration as we continue to make history together. Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime musical journey.
10.27.2024
Golden Moments - Magical Memories | Ann and George Colony Hall | Sunday, 2:00 pm
Join us for a spectacular evening as the Wallingford Symphony Orchestra celebrates its 50th Anniversary! This concert is a musical journey through time, marking the 200th Anniversary of Johann Strauss II and the 60th Anniversary of The Beatles' worldwide impact. Enjoy a diverse program featuring John Williams' "Sound the Bells," Charles Ives' "Hymn," and Aaron Copland's "Our Town," along with a Beatles tribute like no other! Revel in timeless hits such as "I Want to Hold Your Hand," "Yesterday," "Come Together," "Hey Jude," and many more, performed with a unique twist by the Frantic City Rock Band and Wallingford's rising star, Lauren Wiedenmann. Don't miss the special appearance by Wallingford Mayor Vincent Cervoni on guitar.
Celebrate 50 years of music with us and be part of this extraordinary night!
12.01.2024
Golden Bells | Ann and George Colony Hall | Sunday, 2:00 pm
Celebrate the season with the Wallingford Symphony Orchestra's festive Holiday Concert! Enjoy a magical evening filled with holiday favorites and timeless classics, featuring arrangements like "It’s Christmastime" with beloved tunes such as "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas," "Santa Claus is Coming to Town," and "Silver Bells." Relive the magic of the season with "Christmas at the Movies," featuring memorable pieces from Home Alone, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, Miracle on 34th Street, The Polar Express, and Nightmare Before Christmas. Delight in the harmonious sounds of "Festive Sounds of Hanukah" and a special performance by Harmony On The Sound, led by Master Director Karen Sweeters, including "The Holly and the Ivy," "O Holy Night," and "Joy to the World." Wallingford's rising star, Lauren Wiedenmann, will also join us for a special vocal performance.
Don't miss this joyous celebration and experience the warmth and wonder of the holidays with us!
04.26.2025
Golden Sounds - Magical Night | Ann and George Colony Hall | Saturday, 5:00 pm
Wallingford Symphony Orchestra’s 50th Anniversary Celebration Concert
Join the Wallingford Symphony Orchestra for a spectacular evening of music, celebrating 50 years of extraordinary performances! This milestone concert will feature an exciting lineup of classical masterworks, Broadway favorites, jazz legends, and cinematic hits, brought to life by our talented musicians and special guest artists.
Pre-Concert Reception
Join us for an elegant pre-concert reception from 5:00 to 6:45 PM, featuring live music, delicious hors d’oeuvres, and specialty drinks in the concert lobby. Sip on a Signature Lavender Limoncello Spritz or enjoy a selection of wine, beer, and coffee while savoring a variety of gourmet bites, including artisan cheeses, savory hors d’oeuvres, and decadent desserts.
As you mingle, take a walk down memory lane with a special display of vintage program booklets, posters, and articles celebrating the orchestra’s rich 50-year history. Enjoy archival concert recordings playing in the background, bringing past performances to life.
Celebration Concert – Begins at 7 PM
Featured Guest Artists
Kariné Poghosyan, Piano
Hayes Greenfield, CRH ’75, Tenor Saxophone
WSO Vocalist Susan Yankee
Wallingford’s Young “Star” Miguel Angel Vasquez
Performance by the 2025 First Prize Winner of the Mitchel Family Fund String Competition
A Grand Musical Journey
The program opens with two powerful fanfares—Aaron Copland’s Fanfare for the Common Man and Joan Tower’s Fanfare for the Uncommon Woman—setting the stage for an evening of bold and celebratory music. The energy continues with Shostakovich’s Festive Overture and the jubilant Golden Jubilee March by John Philip Sousa, leading into the lively Tritsch-Tratsch-Polka and the timeless beauty of On the Beautiful Blue Danube, celebrating Johann Strauss II’s 200th birthday.
The first half concludes with selections from two of Broadway’s most beloved musicals: The Lion King and Wicked. Audiences will be transported to the African savanna with Elton John’s unforgettable hits, including Circle of Life and Can You Feel the Love Tonight, followed by the spellbinding melodies of Wicked, featuring Defying Gravity and Popular.
Intermission
The second half of the concert shines a spotlight on Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue, a timeless masterpiece celebrating its 100th anniversary, performed by the brilliant pianist Kariné Poghosyan. This iconic piece, blending classical and jazz influences, remains one of the most beloved works in American music history.
The celebration continues with a tribute to the golden age of jazz, featuring Duke Ellington! A Medley for Orchestra, arranged by Calvin Custer. The WSO will bring Ellington’s sophisticated swing to life with favorites like Sophisticated Lady and It Don’t Mean a Thing (If It Ain’t Got That Swing).
Closing the concert in grand style, A Salute to the Big Bands will take us back to the swing era with classics such as Sing, Sing, Sing and Pennsylvania 6-5000, featuring a standout performance by Hayes Greenfield on tenor saxophone.
Don’t miss this unforgettable evening as we celebrate 50 years of the Wallingford Symphony Orchestra with a program that bridges classical brilliance, Broadway magic, and the electrifying sounds of jazz!
06.28.2025
Summer Pops | Choate Rosemary Hall Chapel Lawn | Saturday, 7 PM
Join us for a special tribute to Arthur Fiedler as the Wallingford Symphony Orchestra performs Boston Pops classics. Enjoy beloved tunes like “76 Trombones” from The Music Man, Leroy Anderson’s playful “The Typewriter,” and more. This concert captures the charm and energy that made Fiedler’s Boston Pops concerts an American favorite.
Expect a delightful evening filled with beloved tunes, including the rousing “76 Trombones” from The Music Man and the whimsical fun of Leroy Anderson’s “The Typewriter” and other favorites like "Syncopated Clock" and "Blue Tango." This concert will transport you back to the golden era of Fiedler’s leadership, celebrating the blend of classical and popular music that made his Boston Pops performances a cherished American tradition. Prepare to be entertained by an unforgettable program of spirited, feel-good music that’s sure to leave you smiling.
Spotlight on WSO Performers
2024-25 concert season
Golden Sounds - A Magical Night
April 26, 2025 - Saturday @ 5 PM - 9 PM
Ann & George Colony Hall, Wallingford, CT
Featured Guest Artists
KARINÉ POGHOSYAN
Award-Winning Pianist
Armenian-American pianist Kariné Poghosyan has captivated audiences worldwide with her masterful artistry and powerful performances. Since making her orchestral debut at 14, she has enchanted listeners with her exceptional talent, earning praise for her ability to bring music to life.
A Carnegie Hall favorite, Poghosyan has headlined sold-out recitals, including a CD release concert for Rachmaninoff and Stravinsky, which received critical acclaim from Gramophone Magazine and the American Record Guide.
Her passionate playing has been lauded by WWFM’s Jed Distler as “big piano playing” that is fully present and imaginative. Oscar-winning screenwriter Alex Dinelaris describes her performances as an unforgettable experience filled with life and energy.
Beyond the stage, Poghosyan has reached global audiences through her 100-week livestream concert series and continues to inspire with her latest album, Folk Themes (Navona Records), now available on all major platforms.
HAYES GREENFIELD
Award-Winning Musician & Composer
Hayes Greenfield is a renowned musician, composer, sound artist, and educator who has been shaping the New York music scene since the late 1970s. With fourteen albums to his name, he has performed worldwide at festivals, concerts, and clubs.
Founder of Creative Sound Play, Greenfield pioneers early childhood education through sound exploration. His acclaimed Jazz-A-Ma-Tazz program has reached over 300,000 young people, and his book Creative Sound Play for Young Learners is a key resource for educators.
A celebrated film composer, Greenfield has scored Emmy-winning documentaries and projects on legendary artists and architects. He proudly endorses Yamaha saxophones, Eventide pedals, and Vandoren reeds.
SUSAN YANKEE
Mezzo-Soprano
Susan Yankee, hailed by The Capital as “velvet-toned” and praised by the Baltimore Sun for her “large and lustrous voice,” has performed Soprano and Mezzo-soprano repertoire across the country, including two solo appearances at Carnegie Hall. She debuted at Carnegie Hall as a soloist in Beethoven's Mass in C and Mozart's Requiem, conducted by Jerald Ottley, and later performed in the world premiere of Imant Raminish’s Symphony of Psalms. Susan has appeared with renowned companies such as the Opera Theatre of Saint Louis, New York City Opera, Tulsa Opera, and Sarasota Opera. As a concert artist, she has performed with the Little Orchestra Society of New York, Memphis Symphony, Wallingford Symphony, and many others. A world finalist in the Luciano Pavarotti International Voice Competition, she has also won prestigious awards, including the Palm Beach Opera Competition and the Liederkranz Foundation Awards for Voice. Susan has taught at institutions like Centenary College, Florida Gulf Coast University, and the Yale School of Music. She is also a three-time National Endowment of the Arts grant recipient for her educational operas for children.
MIGUEL ÁNGEL VÁSQUEZ
Baritone
Miguel Angel Vasquez, an internationally acclaimed Afro-Latino Baritone, is celebrated for his "Golden voice," "ardent baritone," and "strong dramatic presence." Known for his versatility, he shines in Musical Theater, Jazz, and Opera, performing regionally and Off-Broadway. Career highlights include solo performances at Carnegie Hall, appearances at Lincoln Center and the Met Museum, and contributions to the Grammy-nominated recording of X: The Life and Times of Malcolm X. Most recently, he starred Off-Broadway in the premiere of Watch Night at the Perelman Performing Arts Center and participated in the revival of Evita at A.R.T.
Miguel is also a dedicated Teaching Artist with a vocal studio in NYC. He leads masterclasses on "Vocal Technique" and "Acting through Singing" at institutions such as Berklee College of Music and the National Children’s Chorus. With experience teaching Pre-K through 12th grade, he integrates arts disciplines such as Percussion, Rhythm, Modern Dance, Costume Design, Backstage Bootcamp, Folktales, Film, Music Videos, and Shakespeare into his curriculum.
First Prize Winner
2025 Mitchell Family Fund
String Concerto Competition
Ian Li is a violinist from Waterford, CT. He currently studies with Kyung Yu of the Yale School of Music, having previously studied with Jesse Holstein of Brown University. Ian has served as concertmaster at the 2024 CMEA All-State Orchestra. Not only was he the concertmaster of the 2024 Young Artists Orchestra at Boston University Tanglewood Institute (BUTI), but he also demonstrated excellence at BUTI in his string quartet, which featured in the Tanglewood on Parade festival.
Ian won the 2024 Hamden Symphony Orchestra Young Musicians Concerto Competition and the 2023 AACS National Fine Arts Competition for the small instrumental ensemble category. His other awards include second prize in the 2024 Wallingford Symphony Orchestra Mitchell Family Fund String Concerto Competition, first prize in the 2021 Connecticut MTNA Junior Performance String Competition, and third prize in the 2020 Bellagrande International Music Competition.
Ian is enthusiastic in serving his community with his musical talent by performing at senior centers, weddings, and churches, as well as teaching violin at the Southern Connecticut Chinese School. Aside from violin, Ian contributes to his school’s Science Bowl, math, and cross-country teams.
Golden Bells
December 1, 2024 - Sunday @ 2 PM
Ann & George Colony Hall, Wallingford, CT
Featured Guest Artists
HARMONY ON THE SOUND
Harmony on the Sound Chorus (HOTS), a chapter of Sweet Adelines International, was founded in 1964 and has evolved from informal gatherings of women in Stamford, Connecticut, into an established non-profit corporation dedicated to barbershop harmony. The chorus, part of Sweet Adelines Region #1, competes regionally and internationally, achieving multiple championships under Master Director Karen Sweeters, a certified judge in the Expression category. HOTS maintains a strong focus on education, providing vocal training, free music lessons, and educational events, all while staying true to Sweet Adelines’ mission of advancing barbershop harmony. The chorus engages with the community through performances, an annual fundraising show, and smaller ensembles that entertain at local events. Known for its vibrant, original musical plays, HOTS continues to be a dynamic presence, blending performance, education, and community involvement.
LAUREN WIEDENMANN
Lauren, a proud Wallingford, Connecticut native, is currently a junior at Emerson College, where she is pursuing a degree in Business of Creative Enterprises, Class of 2026. With an extensive background in jazz, Lauren has already performed in over 40 shows, captivating audiences with her rich vocals and authentic stage presence. Studying under the renowned Gary Durham in Boston, she continues to evolve her craft, gaining experience and depth in her artistry. Lauren's passion for music and dedication to her hometown community are evident in every note she sings, making each performance a heartfelt tribute to her roots and a step toward her promising future in the music industry.
Golden Moments - Magical Memories
October 27, 2024 - Sunday @ 2 PM
Ann & George Colony Hall, Wallingford, CT
Featured Guest Artists
VINNY CERVONI
Vinny’s performing career began in high school with roles in musicals like "Bye Bye Birdie" and "Anything Goes," while also playing guitar in local rock bands. He is a founding member of Bluzberry Pi and performs with other bands, including The Day Jobs and Peaches and Diesel. In addition to his music and acting roles, Vinny practices law part-time and if you visit Town Hall, don’t forget to greet his beloved Australian Shepherd, Hawkins!
LAUREN WIEDENMANN
Lauren, a Wallingford, Connecticut native, is a junior at Emerson College, pursuing a degree in Business of Creative Enterprises (Class of 2026). With a passion for jazz and over 40 performances under her belt, she continues to refine her artistry under the guidance of Gary Durham in Boston. Lauren's love for her hometown and dedication to music shine through in every performance.
FRANTIC CITY ROCK BAND
Frantic City was formed in 2002 by Chris and Stacy Reilly after the disbanding of their previous group, Magnetic Storm. Joined by bassist Remo Capello, the trio immediately found their musical chemistry and launched Frantic City, fusing elements from past projects with fresh rock energy. From their first jam sessions, it was clear they had something special, quickly moving from local shows to sharing the stage with national acts like Cheap Trick and Nazareth. Known for electrifying guitar solos, tight drumming, powerful basslines, and rich harmonies, Frantic City has been delivering high-energy performances for over 21 years, keeping the spirit of live, guitar-driven rock alive.
CONCERT SEASON
2023-2024
This year’s concert season 2023-2024 begins with the Spooktacular Halloween concert. WSO performs with the Frantic City Band ACDC’s Highway to Hell, Michael Jackson’s Thriller & Halloween Rock Classics. All performances except for the Summer Pops Concerts will take place in the newly built Ann and George Colony Hall on the beautiful campus of Choate Rosemary Hall. The new building is dedicated to music, dance, and voice; and constructed with acoustics that offer a rich atmosphere for symphony concerts.
10.22.2023
Spooktacular Halloween Concert | Ann and George Colony Hall | Sunday, 4:00 pm
Our WSO concert will feature the greatest classical and Hollywood Halloween/Horror film music. WSO will have a rock band, Frantic City Band, perform with them ACDC’s Highway to Hell, Michael Jackson’s Thriller & more Halloween Rock Classics.
12.17.2023
Holiday Concert | Ann and George Colony Hall | Sunday, 2:00 pm
Our Cherished Holiday Carols and Songs performed by 17 Time Regional Champions, Harmony on the Sound Women’s Chorus Sweet Adelines, including music from Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker and cherished holiday carols and songs, including beloved music from Broadway and Hollywood.
03.10.2024
Broadway Musical Concert | Ann and George Colony Hall | Sunday, 2:00 pm
WSO performs music from Phantom of the Opera, Chicago, The Lion King, Wicked & Cats.
Featuring music by America’s beloved composer Aaron Copland and a performance by the First Prize Winner of the WSO Mitchell Family String Competition.
06.30.2024
July 4th Weekend Pops | Choate Rosemary Hall Chapel Lawn | Sunday, 7:00pm
Our annual July 4th Pops features America’s Greatest Pops, Jazz, Broadway, and Hollywood Composers, featuring music by Leroy Anderson, Scott Joplin, Louis Armstrong, George Gershwin, Morton Gould, Ferde Grofé, Rodgers and
Hammerstein, Alan Menken and John Williams.