Knoxville TN, October 3, 2025
News Summary
The Knoxville Symphony Orchestra (KSO) has successfully introduced four out of five performance series, including the recently debuted Concertmaster Series. The latest concert, themed ‘Spanish Vices,’ featured KSO Concertmaster William Shaub and pianist Kevin Class performing a selection of vibrant Spanish pieces. The series aims to enrich the cultural landscape, with plans to celebrate KSO’s 90th season through the commissioning of new works. Upcoming performances will include classic pieces, aimed at engaging younger audiences.
Knoxville
The Knoxville Symphony Orchestra (KSO) has successfully launched four of its five performance series in the past two weeks, with a fifth series set to debut shortly. The most recent addition to the lineup was part of the Concertmaster Series, a program featuring three concerts over the course of the season, held in October, February, and April.
This unique series is hosted and performed by KSO Concertmaster William Shaub, with pianist Kevin Class assisting. The latest concert, themed “Spanish Vices,” took place at the Knoxville Museum of Art, bringing together a rich selection of pieces that explored various aspects of what is described as “Spanish flavor.”
Concert Highlights
During the performance, Shaub presented a program containing four significant works that contributed to the essence of the Spanish theme. The first half of the concert kicked off with the renowned piece, Tango por Una Cabeza, arranged by John Williams. This was followed by a performance of Introduction and Tarantella by Pablo de Sarasate, further showcasing the brilliance of the duo.
Additionally, the first half included Spanish Dance from De Falla’s opera La Vida Breve, and concluded with Corta Jaca by Brazilian composer Chiquinha Gonzaga, offering the audience a taste of virtuosic appetizers combined with vibrant cultural flavors.
As the concert proceeded into its second half, Shaub was joined by KSO Principal Flute Devan Jaquez. This part of the performance highlighted two trios specifically composed for flute, violin, and piano: Bohuslav Martinů’s Sonata for Flute, Violin, and Piano, and Nino Rota’s Trio for Flute, Violin, and Piano. The Martinů piece was noted for evoking a tension reminiscent of French composers from the 1930s, while the Rota piece brought forward a gentle theatricality.
Next Performance and KSO Initiatives
The Concertmaster Series concert was slated to have one additional performance on Thursday evening at 7:00 PM at the Knoxville Museum of Art.
The KSO’s Concertmaster Series aims to emphasize immersive themes and personalized musical experiences curated by William Shaub. Looking ahead, KSO is gearing up to celebrate its 90th season through the “9 for 90” initiative, which involves commissioning nine new works from a variety of composers. The inaugural commissioned piece is titled “XC Blast,” composed by Jennifer Higdon, which will be performed on September 18 and 19, 2025. Higdon is an acclaimed composer, recognized with three Grammys and a Pulitzer Prize. The piece, described as an energetic fanfare, is designed to celebrate the orchestra’s landmark anniversary.
The season will continue with performances featuring Aaron Copland’s Old American Songs and Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony, with emphasis on engaging younger audiences through educational initiatives like the KSO’s Youth Orchestra program.
Conclusion
With a diverse range of performances lined up and a commitment to cultural enrichment, the KSO continues to play a vital role in Knoxville’s artistic community.
FAQ
What is the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra’s recent initiative?
The Knoxville Symphony Orchestra (KSO) has launched four of its five performance series in the past two weeks, with a fifth series opening soon.
What is the theme of the recent Concertmaster Series concert?
The theme of the recent concert was “Spanish Vices.”
Who hosts and performs in the Concertmaster Series?
The Concertmaster Series is hosted and performed by KSO Concertmaster William Shaub, with pianist Kevin Class assisting.
When is the next performance in the Concertmaster Series?
The concert had one additional performance scheduled for Thursday evening at 7:00 PM at the Knoxville Museum of Art.
What is the significance of the “9 for 90” initiative?
The KSO will mark its 90th season with the “9 for 90” initiative, commissioning nine new works from various composers.
Who composed the first commissioned work for the KSO’s 90th season?
The first commissioned work for the series, “XC Blast,” by composer Jennifer Higdon, will be performed on September 18 and 19, 2025.
Key Features of the Concertmaster Series
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Series Launch | Four of five performance series launched recently. |
| Concert Theme | “Spanish Vices” explored through various musical pieces. |
| Host and Performer | William Shaub, KSO Concertmaster, with pianist Kevin Class. |
| Next Concert | One additional performance on Thursday at 7:00 PM. |
| 90th Season Initiative | “9 for 90” to commission nine new works. |
| First Commission | “XC Blast” by Jennifer Higdon, scheduled for 2025. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Knoxville Symphony Orchestra Launches 90th Season with New Works
Knoxville Symphony Orchestra Launches 90th Season with World Premiere
Maryville Prepares for Third Thursday Celebration of the Arts
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Additional Resources
- Arts Knoxville: KSO Concertmaster Series Opens With Vices and Virtues
- Inside Knoxville: 9 for 90 and Beyond – A Preview of KSO’s 90th Season
- Violinist: Castadiva’s Blog Post
- Knox News: The Violin Means Everything to KSO Concertmaster
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Knoxville Symphony Orchestra
- Wikipedia: Knoxville Symphony Orchestra
Author: STAFF HERE KNOXVILLE WRITER
The KNOXVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKnoxville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Knoxville, Knox County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Dogwood Arts Festival, Big Ears Festival, and Knoxville Asian Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Knoxville Area Chamber Partnership and United Way of Greater Knoxville, plus leading businesses in healthcare, education, and energy that power the local economy such as Covenant Health, University of Tennessee, and Tennessee Valley Authority. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
