Two Powerful Musical Worlds Meet in A Joyous Sound
May 16 at The Zeiterion Theatre
The New Bedford Symphony Orchestra presents A Joyous Sound on Saturday, May 16 at 7:30 PM at The Zeiterion Performing Arts Center—an evening that brings together bold new music and one of the most celebrated symphonies ever written.
Under the direction of Yaniv Dinur, the program explores striking contrasts in sound and style, while highlighting a shared sense of humanity and expression.
A Homecoming and a Landmark Work
The concert opens with Pedro da Silva’s Concerto for Portuguese Guitar and Orchestra, performed by the composer himself. A New Bedford native now based in New York City, da Silva returns home with a groundbreaking work—the first concerto ever written for Portuguese guitar and orchestra. Blending classical form with Iberian color, improvisation, and global rhythms, the piece introduces a distinctive and deeply expressive sound to the symphonic stage.
The program continues with Ludwig van Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9, a work of extraordinary scale and impact. From its dramatic opening to the iconic “Ode to Joy” finale, the symphony brings together the full force of the 64-member orchestra, an 80-member chorus, and four vocal soloists. Widely regarded as one of the most powerful achievements in classical music, it remains a profound expression of shared humanity and collective voice.
Guest artists for the Beethoven include:
- Chorus of Westerly
- Chelsea Basler-Aston, soprano
- Carrie Cheron, alto
- Matthew Anderson, tenor
- Thomas Cannon, bass
Pre-Concert Activities
Audience members are invited to arrive early and enjoy engaging pre-concert offerings:
- A calming reset at the Sangha Yoga studio across the street from The Z
- Pre-concert chat with Yaniv and Pedro in The Zeiterion Auditorium
- Drinks and socializing in the Baker Family Lounge
Free Open Rehearsal
Friday, May 15 | 4:00–6:30 PM | Zeiterion Auditorium
The public is invited to attend a free open rehearsal. Seating is general admission, and guests may come and go during the session.
Event Details
A Joyous Sound
Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 7:30 PM
The Zeiterion Performing Arts Center, New Bedford
Tickets and additional information: nbsymphony.org/2025-2026-season/a-joyous-sound
About the New Bedford Symphony Orchestra
The New Bedford Symphony Orchestra presents live orchestral performances for audiences across the South Coast, featuring a mix of classical masterworks, contemporary compositions, and community collaborations.
A Joyous Sound, May 16 at The Zeiterion
