Noted violinist Benjamin Beilman will perform Sibelius’ evocative Violin Concerto with the Whatcom Symphony Orchestra as they open their 42nd season on  Sunday, October 8 at 3:00 p.m. at the Mount Baker Theatre in Bellingham.

“The Sibelius Concerto is arguably one of the most difficult in the repertoire,” says Music Director Yaniv Attar. “We are very proud to have Benjamin Beilman opening our 42nd season; his richness of tone combined with poetic expression is  a perfect fit with this piece.”

The New York Times praised his “handsome technique, burnished sound, and quiet confidence which showed why he has come so far so fast.” Following his First Prize win at the Montreal Competition, the Strad described his performance of the Sibelius Violin Concerto as “pure poetry.”

The afternoon will conclude with Felix Mendelssohn’s Scottish Symphony (Symphony No. 3).

Sunday, October 8, at 3 p.m. at Mount Baker Theatre. Tickets start at $15. For details, call the Mount Baker Theatre Box Office at (360) 734-6080 or visit the WSO website at whatcomsymphony.com.

A pre-concert lecture by Dr. Ryan Dudenbostel will take place before the concert at 2:15 (please note new time).  Admission is free, but seating is limited.