The Scottsdale Philharmonic is excited to launch its 2023-2024 season with an opening concert at 4 p.m. on Sunday, October 15 at the Madison Center for the Arts, 5601 N. 16th St., Phoenix, Ariz. 85016. Performed by world-renowned pianist and Scottsdale Philharmonic Artist-in-Residence Vitaly Serebriakov and led by guest conductor Matthew Kasper, the concert will welcome back audiences with a program featuring “Piano Concerto No. 1, Movement No. 1” by Johannes Brahms, “Danzon No. 2” by Mexican composer Arturo Marquez and the iconic “American in Paris” by George Gershwin.

Described as a “thoughtful artist with a firm technique, a gorgeous tone, and a sensitive touch” (Fanfare Magazine), Vitaly Serebriakov is a critically acclaimed pianist, Yamaha Artist, teaching artist and recording engineer who has performed in leading venues around the world and has won prizes in numerous international piano competitions. His recent CD, “Infinitude” – a collection of piano music by Scriabin, Medtner and Prokofiev – has been highly praised by music critics. In addition to serving as Artist-in-Residence for the Scottsdale Philharmonic, Serebriakov is the co-founder and owner of Ostinato Conservatory of Music in Verrado and Artistic Director at Desert Hills Community School of Music in North Scottsdale. As a teaching artist, he previously served on the faculty of ASU School of Music and ASU Community Music School and taught at Interlochen Center for the Arts in Michigan. His recent highlights include performances of Tchaikovsky’s “First Piano Concerto” and Grieg’s “Piano Concerto.”

Known for his versatility and ability to create dynamic and sensitive performances, Matthew Kasper serves as Resident Conductor of the Phoenix Symphony and Artistic Director of the Phoenix Youth Symphony. Additionally, he was recently appointed Principal Conductor of Ballet Arizona after stepping in for a last-minute rehearsal and conducting two of the company’s productions, including Tchaikovsky’s “Nutcracker” and Prokofiev’s demanding “Romeo and Juliet,” during the 2021-22 season. Kasper has worked on numerous productions in the United States and abroad, and is frequently in demand as a guest conductor.

With the October 15 concert, the Scottsdale Philharmonic will usher in an exhilarating season that will include a special holiday celebration in December (featuring Santa greeting guests with candy canes and other festive treats!), a Beethoven tribute in May 2024, an Independence Day celebration in late June and much more. Since 2012, the Scottsdale Philharmonic has been striving to enrich the cultural landscape of the greater Phoenix area by providing a professional symphony orchestra that performs a diverse repertoire of classical music, making it accessible to audiences of all ages and backgrounds. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the organization is funded by contributions from the general public and the business community.

Tickets for the season opening concert are $20 for general admission and $35 for VIP. With music education and youth engagement integral to the Scottsdale Philharmonic’s mission, students are always invited to attend concerts for free. To learn more or to purchase tickets, visit https://www.scottsdalephilharmonic.com.