The West Virginia University Symphony Orchestra begins its season at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 28 at the Creative Arts Center.

An award-winning ensemble comprised of students in WVU’s School of Music, WVUSO will feature Beethoven’s famous Symphony No. 5 in C Minor.

“Beethoven’s great symphony has served as touchstone since its composition,” said Mitchell Arnold, conductor and WVU’s director of orchestral activities. “It balances intimations of terror with calm beauty and repose.  It has a narrative arc that carries us from the very first, famous notes to the very last chord of the triumphant finale.”

Hope Koehler, associate professor of voice, will join the orchestra for a performance of five songs by Richard Strauss. The concert begins with Norwegian composer Edvard Grieg’s “Symphonic Dances.”

As with all concerts from WVU’s premiere ensembles, WVU students receive free admission with their student IDs. For tickets, contact the WVU Box Office at 304-293-SHOW or visit Ticketmaster.com.