

The Illinois Symphony Chamber Orchestra opens its season with two hour-long “Happy Hour” concerts on Friday, Dec. 13, at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church in downtown Springfield. The ISCO’s premiere includes Finzi’s pensive and elegant “Romance,” followed by the sounds of English string music in a performance of Britten’s “Serenade for Tenor, Horn and Strings,” featuring versatile tenor William Burden (pictured) and the ISO’s principal horn, Stephen Hanrahan. The evening ends with the virtuosic symphonic poem “Introduction and Allegro for Strings” by Edward Elgar. Burden has won esteem for his performances at opera houses throughout Europe and North America. His appearance in Springfield is sponsored by Phyllis H. Brissenden and Laura and Bob Reardon in memory of Vivian and Bob Reardon. Tickets may be purchased at the door beginning at 5 p.m. Additional information is at ilsymphony.org.