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By NOAH WORTHAM | Staff Writer

COLUMBIANA – The Alabama Symphony Orchestra is set to soon perform in Alabaster with a holiday concert and a specially arranged piece written for Thompson High School’s Bösendorfer Imperial Grand Piano.

The Alabama Symphony Orchestra will perform a holiday concert at Thompson High School’s Performing Arts Center on Sunday, Dec. 3 at 2:30 p.m.

“It’s a dream come true to provide an event like this in Alabaster,” said Jamie Cole, Alabaster Arts Council vice president and Alabaster councilmember. “Our entire goal in supporting the arts is to bring cultural events to our city. ASO exemplifies what we’re trying to do, and we are beyond excited to host them.”

This year’s edition of the concert is planned to feature a diverse program for its holiday concert in Alabaster, with some familiar pieces and some that are new, including J.S. Bach’s “Brandenburg Concerto No. 6,” Arcangelo Corelli’s “Christmas Concerto, Op. 6, No. 8;” Engelbert Humperdinck’s “Hansel & Gretel Suite” for Christmas Brass and “Brassabama Christmas,” arranged by Carlos Izcaray.

The final piece of music for the concert was specially arranged by ASO Music Director Maestro Carlos Izcaray for the Performing Arts Center’s Bösendorfer piano.

“I remember the very first day the Bösendorfer piano arrived in Alabaster, and I was privileged to play it,” Cole said. “There is absolutely nothing like it. From pop artists like Tori Amos to major symphonies that record with the instrument, it’s world-renowned as the best of the best. That Maestro Izcaray chose to arrange his holiday piece especially for the instrument just adds to the excitement of this event.”

According to Michael Giddens, technical director at the Performing Arts Center, the Bösendorfer Imperial Grand Piano is one of the most incredible piano instruments available.

“Musicians value the Bösendorfer for its sound which many describe as darker and richer than your average piano,” he said.

The final piece during the concert will also feature ASO’s brass section during the performance.

“The ASO is proud to feature a world-class brass section that lights up any room or space where it is heard,” Izcaray said. “I’m thus looking forward to sharing my original composition ‘Brassabama Christmas’ with our beloved audience, eager to kindle our Alabamian Christmas spirit.”

According to Cole, this year’s program was carefully selected to entrain and move audiences while also introducing new music.

“The city of Alabaster is proud to support the arts and specifically events like this, for which our residents would normally have to leave the city,” Cole said.

Cole also noted the key sponsors for the event this year which are Central State Bank, Coca-Cola, the city of Alabaster and Discover Shelby.

“We are proud of our Performing Arts Center and our unique piano, and we are excited for the community to visit for the holidays,” said Adam Moseley, president of the Alabaster City Schools Board of Education.

Remaining tickets may be available the day of the event, but those planning to attend are advised that concert seating is reserved and tickets may sell out. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for students 18 and under. Tickets are available at Alabamasymphony.org/events.