The Palisades Symphony, under the direction of Dr. Maxim Kuzin, invites you to Voices and Symphonies — an inspiring evening where orchestra and voice unite in a celebration of beauty, passion, and renewal. With guest conductor Andrew Karatay, baritone Matthew Peterson, and soprano Emma Berggren, the program journeys from Beethoven’s joyful humor to Brahms’s profound intensity.

Beethoven’s Symphony No. 8 sparkles with wit and vitality — a joyful declaration of life. Grieg’s Holberg Suite dances with Nordic elegance and warmth. Verdi’s operatic masterpieces bring the human voice center stage: baritone Matthew Peterson delivers gripping performances of “Cortigiani” from Rigoletto and “Eri tu” from Un Ballo in Maschera, while soprano Emma Berggren, under the baton of guest conductor Andrew Karatay, brings radiant serenity to Agathe’s aria, “Leise, leise,” from Weber’s Der Freischütz.

The program also features Nikolla Zoraqi’s Kaba for Orchestra — a 20th-century masterpiece by the Albanian composer and conductor, inspired by the centuries-old kaba lament tradition. The work unfolds as a dialogue between mournful lyricism and exhilarating motion, transforming ancient sorrow into a fast-paced celebration of resilience and hope. The evening culminates in Brahms’s Symphony No. 4, whose soaring finale embodies strength, struggle, and transcendence.

Dr. Maxim Kuzin, Ukrainian-born and internationally acclaimed, is celebrated for his passionate, expressive musicianship and for shaping concerts that move both heart and mind. As Music Director of the Palisades Symphony, he leads with a vision that unites artistry, community, and the belief that music can restore what hardship has taken away.

Admission is free, and all are welcome. Donations are gratefully accepted to support the Palisades Symphony’s recovery after the recent fires.

Join us for a night where every note speaks of hope — and music becomes the voice of renewal.