The Emperor - Beethoven, Shostakovich, Bach

The season finale at the Meridian Arts Centre promises to be an unforgettable night of classical music. On May 2, 2026, join the ensemble for a program that explores the depth and power of some of history's greatest composers.

The Program The evening features the brilliant young Toronto pianist Vanessa Yu, who will take on the challenge of Beethoven's noble Piano Concerto No. 5, famously known as the "Emperor." This concerto is widely considered one of the most demanding and rewarding works in the piano repertoire.

Under the direction of Music Director Nurhan Arman, the orchestra will also perform Dmitri Shostakovich's poignant Chamber Symphony in C minor, Op. 110a. The concert will conclude with the powerful, structured reassurance of J.S. Bach's Contrapunctus 1 and 2, presented in beautifully transparent orchestral arrangements. It’s a program designed to showcase the full range of the ensemble's technical and emotional capabilities.

Getting There The concert takes place at the George Weston Recital Hall within the Meridian Arts Centre in North York. It is easily accessible by subway via the North York Centre station. The Meridian Arts Centre is a hub for culture in the north end of the city, and the George Weston Recital Hall is renowned for its excellent acoustics. Whether you are a classical music aficionado or looking to introduce someone to the genre, this season-ending performance is a must-see.