The Signature Symphony at TCC will present “Inspirations” on Jan. 27, a captivating concert that pushes the boundaries of classical music accompanied by the Tulsa Youth Symphony and musicians from the University of Tulsa.

The concert features an adaptation of Georges Bizet’s fiery Carmen by Rodion Shchedrin, where the opera is now transformed into ballet and features strings and percussion to convey this passionate work.

“While highly controversial at its origins, Bizet’s adaptation of the story of Carmen has risen to immense popularity since the setting of the music in 1875. Composer Rodion Shchedrin took an opera that was first considered “vulgar” and “contemptible” and transformed it into a powerful orchestration where the music is rediscovered with a completely new color palette found in the strings and percussion,” said Signature Symphony Maestro Scott Seaton.

The Tulsa Youth Symphony and musicians from the University of Tulsa join the Signature Symphony featuring the zesty rhythms of Astor Piazzolla and Ralph Vaughan Williams’ Fantasia on a Theme, a work that utilizes two string orchestras and a solo quartet to pay a mesmerizingly beautiful homage to English composer Thomas Tallis.

“Inspirations is not just about pieces that were inspired by another composer, work, or specific style. The most significant component of this concert is the incredible opportunity for mentorship and changing lives,” said Seaton. “In having musicians from the Tulsa Youth Symphony and University of Tulsa sit alongside their professional counterparts in the Signature Symphony, we hope to accomplish more than to create great music—we hope to cultivate relationships that inspire and change lives.”

Besides conducting the symphony, Seaton will also play the saxophone for the audience.

A free, open rehearsal will take place at Trinity Woods Senior Living on Jan. 25 at 6:30 p.m. and will provide a unique opportunity for the audience to experience the music from behind the scenes, as well as an opportunity to get to know Seaton and the musicians.

Seaton will also be available to chat at Maestro Mixer at Mother Road Market on Sunday, Jan. 21 from noon-1:30 p.m. This is a casual, free meet-and-greet event where music lovers can chat with Seaton about music, the upcoming concert, and hear him play the saxophone.

Signature Symphony will take the stage for Inspirations Jan. 27 at 7:30 p.m. at the TCC VanTrease Performing Arts Center for Education at 10300 E 81st St, Tulsa, OK 74133. Tickets are priced from $39-$79.