Cambridge, MA, September 9, 2025
News Summary
The Kendall Square Orchestra kicks off its eighth season with a concert titled ‘The Wild and the Tame’ at Sanders Theatre, Harvard University. Conducted by Kristo Kondakçi, the concert explores the theme of instinct versus restraint through orchestral masterpieces including works by Gabriela Ortiz, Johannes Brahms, and Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. The event promises a rich blend of contemporary and classical music, featuring talented soloists and a chance for community engagement.
Cambridge, MA — The Kendall Square Orchestra will open its eighth season with a concert titled The Wild and the Tame on Friday, October 10, 2025, at 7:30 PM at Sanders Theatre, Harvard University. The program will examine the tension between instinct and restraint through three major orchestral works and will be conducted by David & Janet McCue Music Director Kristo Kondakçi.
What, when and where
The concert will begin at 7:30 PM on October 10, 2025 at Sanders Theatre, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA. The evening’s program is organized around a theme described by the conductor as exploring the paradox where freedom meets discipline and chaos collides with order.
Program highlights and performers
Works on the program
- Gabriela Ortiz — Kauyumari: A contemporary composition inspired by the Huichol people’s blue deer spirit guide.
- Johannes Brahms — Double Concerto in A minor: A concerto for violin and cello featuring soloists Sophia Szokolay (violin) and Alan Toda-Ambaras (cello).
- Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky — Symphony No. 6 “Pathétique”: One of the most profound works in the symphonic repertoire, concluding the concert.
Artistic leadership
Kristo Kondakçi will lead the orchestra for this concert. The program’s theme is intended to frame the three works as complementary explorations of instinct versus control, bringing together a contemporary piece, a chamber-concerto centerpiece, and a late-Romantic symphony.
About the orchestra
The Kendall Square Orchestra (often presented as K²O) was founded in 2018 with the stated goals of performing orchestral masterworks while supporting community causes and thematic programming. The ensemble is composed of nearly 100 musicians representing more than 70 science and technology institutions located in the Kendall Square area. The group also stages a biennial benefit called the Symphony for Science at Symphony Hall, which links musical performance with innovation and social impact initiatives.
Tickets and logistics
General ticket prices for the concert are listed in three tiers: $50 (A), $30 (B), and $10 for students, seniors, and obstructed-view seating. Tickets are available via the orchestra’s ticketing page at kendallsquareorchestra.org/concerts. The venue is Sanders Theatre; attendees should consult the theatre for information on seating, accessibility, and arrival times.
Context and significance
The program pairs a contemporary, culturally grounded work with classical and Romantic masterpieces to create a narrative arc from instinctual imagery to structured intimacy and finally to expansive emotional closure. The inclusion of Gabriela Ortiz’s Kauyumari reflects a recent trend among orchestras to incorporate contemporary composers and culturally specific material into standard concert programming. The double concerto provides an opportunity for chamber-like interplay between soloists and orchestra, and Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 6 is widely recognized for its emotional depth and orchestral demands.
Practical considerations for attendees
- Box office and ticketing hours may vary; patrons are advised to verify information ahead of time.
- Sanders Theatre is a historic venue; those with mobility needs should check the theatre’s accessibility details.
- Student and senior pricing is available for eligible purchasers at the listed $10 tier.
FAQ
When and where is the concert?
The concert is on Friday, October 10, 2025, at 7:30 PM at Sanders Theatre, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA.
What pieces will be performed?
The program includes Gabriela Ortiz’s Kauyumari, Brahms’ Double Concerto in A minor, and Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 6 “Pathétique.”
Who will conduct and who are the soloists?
Kristo Kondakçi will conduct. Soloists for the Brahms Double Concerto are violinist Sophia Szokolay and cellist Alan Toda-Ambaras.
How much do tickets cost and where can they be purchased?
Ticket tiers are $50 (A), $30 (B), and $10 (Students/Seniors/Obstructed View). Tickets can be purchased at kendallsquareorchestra.org/concerts.
What is the Kendall Square Orchestra?
Kendall Square Orchestra, founded in 2018, is an ensemble of nearly 100 musicians from over 70 science and technology institutions in the Kendall Square area. The group produces orchestral concerts and a biennial Symphony for Science benefit.
Event at a glance
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Date | Friday, October 10, 2025 |
| Time | 7:30 PM |
| Venue | Sanders Theatre, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA |
| Program | Ortiz: Kauyumari; Brahms: Double Concerto in A minor; Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 6 “Pathétique” |
| Conductor | Kristo Kondakçi |
| Soloists | Sophia Szokolay (violin), Alan Toda-Ambaras (cello) |
| Ticket prices | $50 (A); $30 (B); $10 (Students/Seniors/Obstructed View) |
| Tickets | kendallsquareorchestra.org/concerts |
| Orchestra | Kendall Square Orchestra (founded 2018), ~100 musicians from 70+ institutions |
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Additional Resources
- The New York Times: Off-Broadway Shows September
- Theater Mania: Broadway Magic Hour
- New York Theatre Guide: Exorcistic Review
- ABC7: NYC Broadway Week 2025
- NBC New York: NYC Broadway Week Tickets
- Wikipedia: Broadway
- Google Search: Broadway theater reviews
- Google Scholar: Broadway theater
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Broadway
- Google News: Broadway theater news
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