Windham Festival Chamber Orchestra returns to Orpheum

TANNERSVILLE—The Catskill Mountain Foundation will welcome the Windham Festival Chamber Orchestra to the Orpheum Performing Arts Center on Saturday, November 28, for an evening of classical music featuring works by Wagner, Barber, Bach and Foote.

The concert, titled "American Romantics," will begin at 7 p.m. under the direction of conductor Alexander Platt, with a special performance by Canadian pianist Carter Johnson, a finalist in the prestigious Van Cliburn International Piano Competition.

The program will include Wagner's Prelude from Tristan and Isolde, arranged by the late Robert Manno; Samuel Barber's Adagio for Strings; J.S. Bach's Piano Concerto in A Major, BWV 1055; and Arthur Foote's Suite in E Major for String Orchestra.

The Windham Festival Chamber Orchestra brings together accomplished musicians from around the world for performances in the Catskills.

Platt, recently honored by the Illinois Council of Orchestras, returns for his second appearance as conductor of the Windham Festival Chamber Orchestra. He succeeded Manno, who had designated him for the position before his death.

Platt has built a career spanning symphonic, chamber and operatic music. He currently serves as music director of the La Crosse Symphony Orchestra, Waukegan Symphony Orchestra and Wisconsin Philharmonic. He also leads Maverick Concerts in Woodstock, recognized as the oldest summer chamber music festival in the United States.

Johnson, known for his expressive performances and engaging stage presence, has appeared with major orchestras and at prominent concert venues. His 2026-27 season includes recitals at Carnegie Hall's Weill Recital Hall, Spivey Hall and Merkin Hall, along with performances with the Montréal, Omaha and Toronto symphony orchestras.

The Thanksgiving weekend concert will take place at the Orpheum Performing Arts Center, 6050 Main St., Tannersville.

Tickets and additional information are available at www.catskillmtn.org.