South Florida Symphony Orchestra: Sibelius & Ravel

A richly textured orchestral program brings Northern grandeur and French sparkle to the New World Center, pairing sweeping symphonic power with rhythmic wit and lyricism.

Led by music director Sebrina María Alfonso, the South Florida Symphony Orchestra opens the evening with Ralph Vaughan Williams’ Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis, a luminous work rooted in a 16th-century melody and known for its haunting, reverent atmosphere. Pianist Svetlana Smolina then takes center stage for Maurice Ravel’s Piano Concerto in G major, a work infused with jazz-tinged rhythms, bluesy harmonies, and playful brilliance. The program culminates with Jean Sibelius’ Symphony No. 2, a monumental score celebrated for its windswept intensity and emotional sweep.

A free pre-concert chat with Dr. Alan Mason takes place 30 minutes before the performance, offering insight into the composers and works featured on the program.

South Florida Symphony Orchestra: Sibelius’ Symphony No. 2 & Ravel’s Piano Concerto in G major takes place Thursday, January 22, at the New World Center on Miami Beach. Tickets start at $35.