Schenectady-Saratoga Symphony Orchestra *

SSSO’s 92nd season inspired from literature

“In Other Words” brings new dimensions to programming 

SCHENECTADY— Experience a new perspective on musical storytelling as the Schenectady-Saratoga Symphony Orchestra opens its 92nd season, “In Other Words.” This evocative theme, curated by Artistic Director and Conductor Glen Cortese, turns sound into language, and every note carries meaning beyond words.

This season offers listeners an invitation to hear differently, to feel more deeply, and to connect with music in new, unexpected ways.

“All of the works on the program are inspired by famous texts written by Shakespeare, Martin Luther King Jr., or by W.H. Aden. Words are the inspiration for the composers who wrote these pieces of music. That’s where the idea came from,” Cortese said.

Leonard Bernstein’s “Symphony No. 2: The Age of Anxiety,” inspired by Auden’s iconic poem is a piano concerto in form, but its soul is structured around the poem’s narrative. Also featured is John Corigliano’s “Mr. Tambourine Man,” where Bob Dylan’s lyrics inspired an orchestral piece—entirely reimagined, with new melodies and musical interpretation.

The season will also see the debut of a brand-new opera by Cortese himself, based on the legendary characters of Sherlock Holmes. “I’ve always loved Holmes,” Cortese shared. “We created an original story that draws on Conan Doyle’s universe but stands on its own.”

While new works shine brightly, audiences can also expect beloved classics like Richard Strauss’ “Macbeth,” deeply rooted in Shakespeare’s timeless tragedy, though the piece itself contains no words.

“Every piece is something I find inspiring. I’m especially excited about sharing the opera, but everything this season brings something unique to the table,” Cortese said.

With an ambitious blend of music and text, the SSSO’s 92nd season promises a journey that’s as literary as it is lyrical. For more information about the programming visit sssony.org. Subscriptions are on sale now; visit the Box Office at Proctors in-person or via phone at (518) 346-6204 Tuesday-Saturday 12 -6 p.m.