Cool Sounds & Sultry Summer Nights - Candlelit Atmospheric Concerts Offer Soothing Sounds In An Intimate Setting

“We’re delighted to keep the music flowing year-round through our Summer with the Symphony chamber series, which allows listeners to experience the beauty of classical music in an up-close and personal way,” said Jacqueline Lorber, President and CEO of South Florida Symphony Orchestra. “Set in candlelit, picturesque atmospheres, these programs pair cherished masterworks with elegant discoveries, offering a rich and intimate concert experience. Whether it’s date night, a night out with friends, or family time, we’re proud to be part of South Florida’s vibrant summer cultural landscape.”

May’s “Whispering Waters” shimmer with warmth and light. Take in Hummel’s radiant Piano Quintet, Op. 87 and Schubert’s beloved Piano Quintet in A major, “Trout” featuring luminous textures, playful exchanges, and melodies that float, making for a breezy evening that glows from within. The concert features musicians Huifang Chen (violin), Brandon Wu (viola), Claudio Jaffe (cello), Amy Nickler (bass), and Tao Lin (piano) who will perform at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 14th, 2026 at Coral Gables Congregational United Church of Christ, located at 3010 De Soto Boulevard, Coral Gables, Florida 33134, and at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, May 15th, 2026 at Center for Spiritual Living Fort Lauderdale, located at 4849 North Dixie Highway, Oakland Park, Florida 33334.

June’s program continues the luminosity with its “Sparkle & Charm” theme. Delight in Farrenc’s elegant Piano Trio No. 2, Op. 34 and Pejacevic’s brilliant Piano Trio, Op. 29 as they glisten with undeniable charm. Catherine Lan’s piano, Huifang Chen’s violin, and Christopher Glansdorp’s cello mingle in a playful exchange of musical ingenuity. The concerts will take place on Thursday, June 25th, 2026 at the Coral Cables Museum, located at 285 Aragon Avenue, Coral Gables, Florida 33134 with an after party at Books & Books and on Friday, June 26th, 2026 at the Center for Spiritual Living Fort Lauderdale.

July bids a delightful farewell to the summer series with a “Sweet Serenade.” Dohnanyi’s tender Serenade for String Trio and Dvorak’s spirited Piano Quartet No. 2, Op. 87 unfolds with exquisite lyricism and heartfelt expression, creating a joyous finale. Musicians Huifang Chen (violin), Brando Wu (viola), Claudio Jaffe (cello), and Catherine Lan (piano) will perform at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, July 23rd, 2026 at the Sanctuary of the Arts, and at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, July 24th, 2026 at Center for Spiritual Living Fort Lauderdale.

From sold-out masterworks performances to accompanying today’s musicians such as Natalie Merchant and Arrival from Sweden: The Music of ABBA to performing modern musical scores including Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas and Back to the Future, featuring the iconic films screened live with audio and musical accompaniment, South Florida’s largest symphonic orchestra is continuing its journey of excellence inspiring audiences of all ages and musical genres.

The series is presented under the artistic direction of Sebrina Maria Alfonso, Music Director of South Florida Symphony Orchestra and curated by SFSO pianist Catherine Lan. Summer with the Symphony 2026 is presented with the support of the City of Coral Gables, Lenore Nolan Ryan World Class Catering & Cooking School, OutClique (Media Sponsor), Robert Smith, and The Windfall Fund.

General admission tickets for each program are $40; a three-concert package is $99 ($21 savings). Limited student tickets are $20 (50% Off). Tickets are available to purchase by calling: (954) 522-8445. Or by visiting: https://southfloridasymphony.org/summer-with-the-symphony.

For additional information, visit: https://southfloridasymphony.org/summer-with-the-symphony. Call: (954) 522-8445. Or email: info@southfloridasymphony.org.

About South Florida Symphony Orchestra (SFSO)

Founded in 1997 in Key West by Music Director Maestra Sebrina María Alfonso, the Fort Lauderdale-based South Florida Symphony Orchestra (SFSO) recently celebrated its 28th season. SFSO is dedicated to providing enriching cultural music experiences to residents and visitors in Monroe, Miami-Dade and Broward Counties. Guided by the belief that music is pivotal to thriving communities, SFSO brings vibrancy and engagement with the arts via innovative programming and transformative educational initiatives. A pioneer in its commitment to symphonic music for underserved communities, its Symphony in the Schools program has touched the lives of over 160,000 students since its inception in 1997. SFSO was recently named the first Partner in the Arts for The Parker by the Broward Center for the Performing Arts and has been recognized by the Broward County Cultural Division as a “Major Cultural Institution,” one of only a handful of organizations to be so honored. For a performance schedule and season tickets, call: (954) 522-8445. Or visit: https://southfloridasymphony.org.