OCALA, FL (352today.com) – The Ocala Symphony Orchestra has announced its 2026-2027 season, featuring a mix of classical masterworks, contemporary compositions and large-scale collaborations at the Reilly Arts Center.
The season begins Jun. 27-28 with “Red, White, and OSO Blue: 250 Years,” a patriotic celebration marking America’s 250th anniversary. Subscription concerts follow beginning in October, with six performances scheduled through April 2027.
Music Director and Conductor Matthew Wardell said the upcoming season reflects a balance of tradition and innovation. “For me, that means creating programs that reflect the curiosity, passion and spirit of this community – music that honors where we’ve been, embraces where we are now and invites every listener to feel a genuine sense of connection and ownership.”
Highlights of the subscription series include “Pictures at an Exhibition: From Dali to Mussorgsky” Oct. 24-25, a holiday-themed program “Pops! Goes the Holidays” Dec. 5-6 and “Fate Awakens” Mar. 20-21, featuring Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony alongside contemporary works. The season concludes Apr. 17-18 with “Famous Last Words,” anchored by Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 6, “Pathetique.”
In addition to the core concert series, the orchestra will present several signature events throughout the season. These include “Disney’s Aladdin in Concert” Nov. 7-8, the annual “Symphony Under the Lights” at Tuscawilla Park on Dec. 4 and a live-orchestra performance of “The Nutcracker” Dec. 11-12 in collaboration with Dance Alive National Ballet.
A symphonic collaboration with Steeln’ Peaches, celebrating the music of the Allman Brothers Band, is also scheduled for Apr. 3 2027.
The orchestra will continue its Ocala Symphony Chorus performances, including “Handel’s Messiah” on Nov. 22, as well as its Music Box Series, a chamber music lineup held in the NOMA Black Box Theatre from August 2026 to May 2027.
Season subscriptions are currently available for renewal through the Reilly Arts Center box office. New subscriptions go on sale Jul. 1, with single tickets for subscription concerts available starting Aug. 1.
The orchestra will also offer open rehearsals with “Coffee/Cocktails with the Conductor” events, giving audiences a behind-the-scenes look at the performance process.
Most performances will take place at the Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE 9th St. in Ocala. For more information on tickets and the full season lineup, visit the Reilly Arts Center website.