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Description
The Vancouver Symphony Orchestra pairs two very different works in this Masterworks programme at the Orpheum: Liszt's virtuosic Piano Concerto No. 1 and Henryk Górecki's deeply moving Symphony No. 3, the "Symphony of Sorrowful Songs". VSO Music Director Otto Tausk conducts.
When and where
- Friday, November 13, 2026 at 7:30 pm
- Saturday, November 14, 2026 at 7:30 pm
- Venue: Orpheum, 601 Smithe Street, Vancouver
What to expect
Pianist Inon Barnatan, described by The New York Times as "one of the most admired pianists of his generation", is the soloist in the Liszt. Soprano Mireille Asselin, a frequent artist at the Metropolitan Opera, joins the orchestra for the Górecki, whose three slow movements set texts of lament and are known for their quiet, hypnotic power.
- Liszt: Piano Concerto No. 1
- Górecki: Symphony No. 3, "Symphony of Sorrowful Songs"
The concert runs about two hours, including one intermission. It is part of the VSO's Masterworks Gold series.
Liszt's First Concerto is compact and full of dazzling keyboard writing, played without breaks between its sections. Górecki's symphony, written in 1976, became an international bestseller on recording in the 1990s, bringing it to a wide audience well beyond the concert hall. Hearing the two side by side makes for an evening of real contrast, from showpiece brilliance to quiet reflection.
Tickets and prices
Tickets range from about $32 to $135 depending on seating. Book online through the VSO for Friday or Saturday, or call VSO Customer Service at 604-876-3434, which can also help with accessible seating.
Getting there
The Orpheum is at Smithe and Granville streets downtown. Granville SkyTrain station on the Expo Line and Vancouver City Centre station on the Canada Line are both a short walk away, and many buses run along Granville Street. Several paid parkades are nearby.
Tips
- The Orpheum is a 1927 heritage theatre; arrive a little early to take in the interior.
- The Górecki is quiet and contemplative, so settle in before the second half begins.
- Downtown can be busy on Friday and Saturday nights, so allow time for transit or parking.
Looking for more to do? Browse all upcoming Metro Vancouver events and our November events calendar.