Autumn’s arrival brings a vibrant mix of classical music across our region—grand orchestral premieres, intimate chamber recitals, choral meditations, and even a video game soundtrack brought to life. Whether you're seeking timeless masterpieces or unexpected musical journeys, there's something for everyone this week.
Spotlight: Marin Alsop & Yunchan Lim — Friday through Sunday, Marian Anderson Hall
At just 21, Yunchan Lim has captivated the classical world with not only his astonishing technique but a depth of expression far beyond his years. The youngest-ever winner of the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition reunites with conductor Marin Alsop to perform Bartók’s Piano Concerto No. 3—a work of luminous lyricism and rhythmic vitality, written near the end of the composer’s life. The contrast between a young artist at the start of his career and a masterwork composed in a final creative burst makes this performance especially compelling.
The program continues to explore the intersection of past and future with the world premiere of The Rock You Stand On by Pulitzer Prize-winner John Adams, commissioned by The Philadelphia Orchestra. Finally, selections from Prokofiev’s Romeo and Juliet bring Shakespeare’s tragedy to life in bold musical strokes, capturing every shade of passion, conflict, and heartbreak.
Oct. 3 and 5 at 2 p.m., Oct. 4 at 8 p.m., Marian Anderson Hall, Kimmel Centerfor the Performing Arts, 300 South Broad Street, $29-$228; tickets and information.
Stardew Valley: Symphony of Seasons — Thursday, Marian Anderson Hall
A unique fusion of gaming and orchestral music: a 35‑piece orchestra performs beloved pieces from Stardew Valley, paired with gameplay footage and exclusive visual content. Experience Pelican Town, Skull Cavern, Ginger Island and more through the seasons — set to a soundtrack many have come to love.
Oct. 2 at 8 p.m., Marian Anderson Hall, Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, 300 South Broad Street, $65-$191; tickets and information.
Recital: New World Recorders — Friday through Sunday, Various Locations
Step back in time with Tempesta di Mare co-director Gwyn Roberts and an ensemble of recorders as they explore the elegant English fantasias and dances of the Restoration era. Featuring works by Purcell, Jenkins, Locke, and others, this intimate concert invites you to experience the sounds of 17th-century England.
Oct. 3 at 7 p.m., Christ Church Christiana Hundred, 505 Buck Road, Wilmington, DE;
Oct. 4 at 5 p.m., Presbyterian Church of Chestnut Hill, 8855 Germantown Avenue;
Oct. 5 at 3 p.m., Museum of the American Revolution, 101 South 3rd Street; $30, tickets and information.
Sphinx Virtuosi — Friday, Lehigh University, Bethlehem
The dynamic, self-conducted Sphinx Virtuosi is renowned for electrifying performances and socially conscious programming. The ensemble champions works by composers of color alongside classical masterworks, reshaping the concert experience for the 21st century. This program features José White’s La Bella Cubana, William Grant Still’s Suite for Cello (with cellist Sterling Elliott), and Prokofiev’s Sonata No. 7 “Stalingrad.”
Oct. 3 at 7:30 p.m. Baker Hall, Zoellner Arts Center, 420 East Packer Avenue, Bethlehem, $25, Lehigh University students free; tickets and information.
From This Time Forth — Saturday, Church of the Holy Trinity, Rittenhouse
Choral Arts opens its season with a program of beauty and comfort, anchored by Requiems from Renaissance master Tomás Luis de Victoria and 20th-century composer Herbert Howells. Woven between them is Robert Lucas Pearsall’s serene Lay a Garland—a Romantic-era choral gem of quiet reflection.
Oct. 4 at 4 p.m., Church of the Holy Trinity, Rittenhouse, 1904 Walnut Street, $17-$52; tickets and information.
Giargiari Bel Canto Competition — Saturday, Perelman Theater, Kimmel Center
Hear tomorrow’s opera stars today as AVA’s singers take the stage in the Giargiari Bel Canto Competition, performing dazzling arias in this beloved annual event. Be part of the excitement by casting your vote for the coveted Audience Choice Award.
Oct. 4 at 7:30 p.m., Perelman Theater, Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, 300 South Broad Street, $63-$102; tickets and information.
Music at Bunker Hill – Brahms Piano Quintet — Sunday, Bunker Hill Presbyterian Church
An intimate afternoon of chamber music that features Schubert’s majestic and enchanting Impromptu Op. 90, No. 1, Haydn’s playful String Quartet in E-flat major, Op. 33, No. 2 (nicknamed “The Joke”), and Brahms’ deeply expressive Piano Quintet in F minor.
Oct. 5 at 3 p.m., Bunker Hill Presbyterian Church, 330 Greentree Road, Sewell, NJ, $30; tickets and information.
Delaware County Symphony – Delco Arts Week Chamber Concert — Sunday, Meagher Theater
The Delaware County Symphony opens its season with a chamber program featuring classical works by Pleyel, Offenbach, and Boccherini, capped by “meadowhouse,” a cutting-edge blend of strings and electronic music by Aviv Jackson and Joe Lorini. The second half showcases the Rose Tree Pops Jazz Combo with lively jazz standards and improvisation.
Oct. 5 at 3 p.m., Meagher Theatre, Neumann University, 1 Neumann Drive, Aston, $20-$25; more information.
