Bizet & Mendelssohn

This Nightlites program brings together two symphonies shaped by place, youth, and imagination. Led by Na'Zir McFadden, the evening opens with Georges Bizet’s Symphony No. 1, a vibrant and confident work written when the composer was just 17, brimming with melodic flair, rhythmic drive, and unmistakable charm. The program continues with Felix Mendelssohn’s Symphony No. 3, the “Scottish,” inspired by the composer’s travels and infused with sweeping landscapes, restless motion, and dramatic contrasts. Together, these works create a compelling Friday night experience that balances youthful brilliance with evocative storytelling, delivered at full orchestral scale in an intimate, end-of-week setting.
Due to popular demand, the beloved NightLites Series expands to five Friday evening performances at the Ogle Center at Indiana University Southeast, pairing iconic masterworks in vibrant, thoughtfully curated programs. Designed as a dynamic, one night experience, NightLites offers a high impact concert format that is perfect for longtime listeners and those discovering classical music for the first time.
Friday, November 20, 2026 at 7:30pm
Learn more at https://www.louisvilleorchestra.org/events/detail/bizet-mendelssohn-25739