International pianist Natasha Paremski joins MSO for season's first classical concert

On Monday at 7 p.m., Montgomery Symphony Orchestra’s first classical concert of the season will be different than the originally planned celebration of George Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue.”

Because MSO’s solo artist for the Gershwin music is unavailable, that’s been postponed until next season.

“We had to pivot rather quickly,” said Brian Reeves, MSO’s executive director.

The change led to a blessing for MSO, the chance to perform at Troy University’s Davis Theatre with international solo pianist Natasha Paremski, who is artistic director of the New York Piano Society.

“It’s a rare privilege to have a soloist of this stature perform with the orchestra,” said MSO conductor Jamie Reeves.

MSO is featuring pieces of contemporary American music. Monday’s performance will begin with Leonard Bernstein’s “Overture to Candide” and Jessie Montgomery’s “Hymn for Everyone.”

In the concert’s second half, Paremski joins MSO for Rachmaninov's Rhapsody on a theme of Paganini, which Jamie Reeves said is a signature piece for her.

“it’s one of the most virtuosic and beautiful piano concertos in the repertoire,” he said. “We’re thrilled that she’s able to bring it to Montgomery.”

“Each one of these pieces has different, unique and exciting challenges,” said Brian Reeves, who also plays trumpet for MSO.

Paremski, who was born in Moscow, Russia, has studied piano since she was four. She moved to the United States when she was eight and soon aftrer became a U.S. citizen. Today, she lives in New York.

Brian Reeves referred to Paremski as a rising star, and said the piece she’ll be performing is one she’s already recorded with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.

“I think this is going to be a highlight of my time in Montgomery so far,” said Jamie Reeves, who became the full-time MSO conductor in 2022.

He said the orchestra is doing well preparing for this season’s first classical concert. They’re already warmed up after a September concert MSO performed the music of “Star Wars: A New Hope.”

Prior to Monday’s concert, Jamie Reeves will offer a chat at 6:30 p.m. at Whitley Hall, next to Davis.

“It’s a great opportunity to learn a little bit more about the music before you hear it,” Brian Reeves said.

Look for more MSO concerts in November and December.

“We’re just getting things started,” Jamie Reeves said. “We have a lot to offer this season, and we’re looking forward to bringing live music to as many people in the region as possible.”

Get tickets to Monday’s MSO Masterworks concert

Tickets for Monday’s concert at Troy University’s Davis Theatre, 251 Montgomery St.,  range from $15 to $40, and are available online at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/mso-masterworks-i-opening-night-featuring-natasha-paremski-tickets-730334268457

Montgomery Advertiser reporter Shannon Heupel covers things to do in the River Region. Contact him at sheupel@gannett.com

This article originally appeared on Montgomery Advertiser: Natasha Paremski joins MSO for season's first classical concert