The Catholic University of America Symphony Orchestra in Concert

On Sunday, November 15, at 4:00 PM, the St. Andrew the Apostle Concert Series proudly welcomes The Catholic University of America Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Maestro Simeone Tartaglione, for a free afternoon of orchestral masterworks.

Program

• Paul Dukas – The Sorcerer’s Apprentice
• Camille Saint-Saëns – Cello Concerto No. 1 in A minor
  Vasily Popov, cello
• Camille Saint-Saëns – Symphony No. 3 in C minor, “Organ Symphony”
  Michael Murphy, organ

The centerpiece is Saint-Saëns’ thrilling Organ Symphony, which integrates the pipe organ into two of its four movements for a powerful blend of orchestral color and majestic organ sound. Performing on the St. Andrew Pipe Organ of the Holy Archangels—a French Romantic instrument installed by the Peragallo Pipe Organ Company in 2020 (three manuals, 51 ranks, 2,891 pipes)—organist Michael Murphy will bring the work’s full intended glory to life.

The program opens with Dukas’ vivid symphonic poem, famously featured in Disney’s Fantasia, followed by one of the most beloved cello concertos of the 19th century.

This concert is ideal for anyone who appreciates masterful composition, virtuoso performance, and the transcendent beauty of live symphonic music in a sacred setting.

About the Conductor

Maestro Simeone Tartaglione is Associate Professor of Practice in Instrumental Music at The Catholic University of America’s Rome School of Performing Arts, where he serves as Conducting Area Head and conductor of the university orchestra. Trained in the European tradition at Rome’s Santa Cecilia Conservatory and with advanced degrees including a Doctorate in Philology, he has conducted across Europe, the United States, South Africa, and beyond. He currently serves as Music Director of the Newark Symphony Orchestra and Delaware Youth Symphony, among others. He is the recipient of the prestigious 2025 Telamone Prize.

About the Orchestra

The Catholic University of America Symphony Orchestra delivers exceptional performances showcasing the full richness and depth of its talented student musicians. The ensemble regularly performs symphonic concerts, collaborates on major works like Verdi’s Requiem, and presents the beloved Annual Christmas Concert for Charity broadcast on EWTN. Recent highlights include a performance at Carnegie Hall and appearances at the Kennedy Center.

Support the Arts

While the concert is free and open to the public, your generous donations help sustain the St. Andrew the Apostle Concert Series. A free-will offering will be collected during the performance, and credit card donations are welcome at the reception or online at www.st-andrew.org/concerts.

Following the concert, join us for a complimentary post-concert reception with light refreshments and the opportunity to meet the artists.

Location & More Information

St. Andrew the Apostle Catholic Church 6720 Union Mill Road, Clifton, Virginia For details, visit www.st-andrew.org/concerts or call 703-817-1770.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SenRE2GvgFw&list=RDSenRE2GvgFw&index=1