RACHMANINOFF& SIBELIUS

James Lowe, guest conductor Michelle Cann, piano PROGRAM Jimmy Lopez | Aino Rachmaninoff | Piano Concerto No. 2 Sibelius | Symphony No. Journey across landscapes and emotional worlds in a concert that traces the search for musical identity and expression. At the heart of the program is Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2 featuring GRAMMY Award winning pianist Michelle Cann, who last appeared with the PSO in 2021. Cann brings her signature expressive artistry to perform one of the most beloved works in the piano repertoire. Balancing breathtaking virtuosity with moments of remarkable tenderness, it’s a powerful statement of renewal and confidence. Beginning the program is Jimmy Lopez’s “Aino,” inspired by his days in Finland as a young student and the country’s national epic, the Kalevala, which Lopez was first drawn to thanks to the works of Sibelius. Telling the tragic story of a young maiden, the mesmerizing tone poem blends vivid orchestral color with lyrical beauty. Rounding out the concert is Sibelius’s unhibited Symphony No. 1. From its melancholy opening melody to the long passionate lines of its finale, it is expansive and moving, full of lush, unabashed Romanticism. RUN TIME: approximately 2 hrs including intermission ADULT and CHILD & STUDENT prices are available online for this event. GROUP 10+ is available via phone & in-person only. Per ticket service fee is based on a percentage of the ticket price. Tuesday, March 16, 2027 7PM $99 / $88 / $75 / $58 / $42 / $29 *before fees A beautifully restored 1,900-seat performance venue, this majestic hall is one of the gems of Portland’s downtown Arts District and close to plenty of restaurants to grab a bite before the show. Merrill Auditorium is owned and operated by the City of Portland. Merrill Auditorium 20 Myrtle Street Portland, ME 04101 Portland Symphony Orchestra Subscription Tuesday Evening Concerts at 7:00pm Portland Symphony Orchestra Subscription Tuesday Evening Concerts at 7:00pm and Sunday Afternoon Concerts at 2:30pm Portland Symphony Orchestra Subscription Flexible Package of 3 of more PSO Events Experience the joy of live performances with your friends and family. Groups of 10+ receive a discount on tickets and flexible reservation options.