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Scottsdale Symphonic Orchestra | Dreams of Freedom: The American Experience

May 10, 2026 / 4:00 p.m.

Member Pricing
Price A
$42.00
$37.50
Price B
$35.00
$32.10
Price C
$31.00
$28.50
Price D
$20.00
$18.50

Virginia G. Piper Theater | Center For The Performing Arts
7380 E 2nd St, Scottsdale, AZ 85251

Celebrate the triumph of American musical identity and the diverse influences shaping the nation.

Scottsdale Symphonic Orchestra’s six-part journey through the United States of America's 250 years of spirit, struggle, and triumph concludes with Dreams of Freedom, a sweeping orchestral celebration of America’s complex and vibrant identity. 

At its heart is Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue, a bold fusion of classical and jazz traditions that captures the energy, diversity, and innovation of the American spirit. Alongside it, works by Beethoven, Copland, and Daugherty trace the arc of struggle, progress, and creative freedom that has shaped the nation’s story. Barber’s Adagio for Strings offers a moment of solemn reflection, honoring sacrifice and resilience in times of national hardship. Together, these works form a powerful musical narrative—one that embraces both the joy and the gravity of the American experience. Dreams of Freedom invites audiences to reflect on the past 250 years through music that inspires, challenges, and unites. 

Program

Ludwig van Beethoven: Leonore Overture no. 3 

George Gershwin: Rhapsody in Blue 

Jose Salazar, Piano Soloist 

– Intermission 

Aaron Copland: An Outdoor Overture 

Samuel Barber: Adagio for Strings 

Michael Daugherty: Night Owl   

Dates for Scottsdale Symphonic

Sunday, Nov. 23, 2025: Scottsdale Symphonic Orchestra | Legends and Legacy

Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025: Scottsdale Symphonic Orchestra | A Season of Light

Sunday, Feb. 15, 2026: Scottsdale Symphonic Orchestra | Voices of Courage

Sunday, Mar. 22, 2026: Scottsdale Symphonic Orchestra | The Wayfarer's Hope



Associated Event 

Join Scottsdale Symphonic Orchestra for Behind the Baton preceding the concert at 3:15 p.m. as Artistic Director Desmond Siu shares the stories behind the music. Behind the Baton is included in the price of your ticket and is open seating. 

Scottsdale Symphonic Orchestra | Dreams of Freedom: The American Experience

May 10, 2026 / 4:00 p.m.

Member Pricing
Price A
$42.00
$37.50
Price B
$35.00
$32.10
Price C
$31.00
$28.50
Price D
$20.00
$18.50

Virginia G. Piper Theater | Center For The Performing Arts
7380 E 2nd St, Scottsdale, AZ 85251