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“Only in America” will you find the great composers highlighted in the Symphony of Southeast Texas’ (SOST) next Classics Series concert at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 23 at the Julie Rogers Theatre. The concert features guest violinist Ryu Goto performing on the “1722 Stradivarius violin, Jupiter” on loan to him from Nippon Music Foundation.

“We feature true American masterpieces in this concert,” said SOST Music Director Chelsea Tipton. “The beautiful textures and stunning lyrical melodies of these pieces will provide a wonderful evening for all to enjoy.”

Ron Nelson’s “Savannah River Holiday” begins the evening with its two contrasting moods alternating between boisterous energy and quiet contemplation that represent the power and serenity of the Savannah River. The orchestra will also enchant the audience with Samuel Barber’s mysterious and beautiful Symphony No. 1, Op. 9. John Corigliano’s “Promenade Overture” further continues to show the unique and unmistakable talent of composers of our great nation.

Guest violinist Ryu Goto will perform Max Bruch’s Violin Concerto in g minor. Goto has established himself as a significant young artist in classical music with a large and growing public in Asia, North America and Europe. His career began at the age of seven when he made his debut at the Pacific Music Festival in Sapporo, Japan, playing Paganini’s Violin Concerto No.1. Since then, Ryu has appeared as a soloist with many of the world’s leading orchestras, including National Symphony Orchestra, London Philharmonic, Münchner Philharmoniker, Wiener Symphoniker, Sydney Symphony, Orchestre national de Lyon, Hamburger Symphoniker and Shanghai Symphony Orchestra.

“Ryu Goto is an artist that I have always wanted to work with and introduce to our community,” said Tipton.

“Only in America” is sponsored through the generous support of Rosine McFaddin Wilson; Mr. Goto’s appearance made possible by the Symphony League of Beaumont.

While in Beaumont, Goto will talk with area students at Odom Academy on what it’s like to be a professional musician.

On Jan. 21, he will also hold a master class at Lamar University for four promising violin students selected from the region.

Each will perform a solo for the master, receiving suggestions on how to understand their music along with helpful tips on playing their instrument with greater ease and enjoyment.

These classes are equally beneficial for teachers and students alike as the master teacher provides suggestions on playing their instrument or interpreting their music.

The master class is free and open to the public to observe.

All of the educational activities Goto presents are generously sponsored by the Symphony League of Beaumont.

Maestro Tipton will also host a pre-concert talk on Jan. 23 at 6:30 p.m. featuring special guests.

Single ticket prices range from $18 to $45; senior, student and group discounts are available. To purchase tickets or get more information, go to http://www.sost.org or contact the Symphony office at (409) 892-2257.

The Symphony of Southeast Texas continues its mission of presenting educational, entertaining, and culturally enriching programs of the highest artistic quality and, as always, promises to be “Good to the last note!”