The Orchestra of the Southern Finger Lakes (OSFL) will unite internationally acclaimed soloists, a massed chorus, and full orchestra for a landmark performance of The Creation on Saturday, May 2, 2026. The concert begins at 7:00 p.m. at The Park Church, offering audiences in the Southern Tier a rare opportunity to experience one of classical music’s most celebrated choral-orchestral works live.
Composed by Joseph Haydn, The Creation stands as a towering achievement of the Classical era. Inspired in part by the oratorios of George Frideric Handel, the work traces the biblical story of creation—from primordial chaos to the triumphant emergence of light — through vivid orchestration, dramatic word painting, and radiant choral writing. Its themes of harmony, nature, and enlightenment-era optimism have secured its place as a cornerstone of the repertoire.
The performance features three distinguished soloists with deep ties to both the international stage and the region. Soprano Rachel Schutz brings a globally recognized career spanning opera, concert, and recital work, with appearances at venues such as Carnegie Hall and festivals including Tanglewood and Ravinia. Tenor Jonathan Boyd, a native of Corning, returns home following an international career that includes performances with major opera houses like Opéra de Reims and Teatro Colón, as well as appearances with the New York Philharmonic. Bass Marc Webster, a longtime faculty member at Ithaca College, is widely respected as both a performer and educator, with credits including the Philadelphia Orchestra and Glimmerglass Opera.
Enhancing the scale of the production, the Chorus of the Southern Finger Lakes will be joined by the Cantata Singers, forming a powerful combined chorus that underscores the grandeur of Haydn’s score. The collaboration reflects OSFL’s commitment to fostering artistic partnerships across the region.
Under the direction of Music Director Toshiyuki Shimada, the performance aims to transcend the traditional concert experience. “The Creation is a work that invites both performers and audiences into something truly expansive,” Shimada said. “With the combined voices of our chorus, the Cantata singers, and the extraordinary talent of our soloists, this performance becomes not just a concert, but a shared experience rooted in community.”
Large-scale productions like The Creation require significant artistic forces, and this concert highlights OSFL’s ongoing mission to present world-class performances in the Southern Tier. By bringing together international talent alongside regional artists, the orchestra continues to expand access to high-caliber classical music.
Tickets are available now through the orchestra’s website. Adult tickets start at $29, with college student tickets priced at $15. Admission is free for children under 18 when accompanied by a ticketed adult.
As the region’s only year-round professional symphony, the Orchestra of the Southern Finger Lakes presents a full season of orchestral and chamber music, alongside a community chorus and youth education programs. Through collaborations with regional partners and the leadership of Maestro Shimada, OSFL remains dedicated to enriching the cultural life of the Elmira-Corning area.
Experience the wonder of Haydn’s The Creation on May 2—an evening where global artistry and local talent converge.
Comments are closed.