Musical Insights 2024-2025

A National Award-Winning, Four-Part Music Awareness Series Presented by The Friends of the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra, featuring the Friends’ traditional hospitality, with wine and light bites, in an intimate setting. Except for the first program, all programs take place in the Palmer Room at the Plaza Live. The first program will take place in Judson’s Live at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.

This season’s Musical Insights programs are described below and consist of:

  • Tuesday, November 19, 2024  •  Benjamin Hochman at Judson’s Live  •  Internationally Acclaimed Pianist and Conductor  •  “Classical music doesn’t get any better than this.” – NYTimes.
  • Monday, January 27, 2025  •  Eric Jacobsen  • The Cello – Not All White Tie and Tails  • Discover the timeless allure of this gorgeous instrument through the words and music of a true virtuoso.
  • Tuesday, March 4, 2025  • Alejandro Gómez Guillén  • Anatomy of a Program  • The “art behind the art” honoring tradition while embracing innovation.
  • Monday, April 14, 2025  • Mark Fischer  • The Music of John Williams – Star Wars and Beyond  • From the silver screen to a cherished part of our cultural landscape.

Prior reservations are required for all programs. Reservations can be made as follows:

  • Full Series – entrance to all programs – $175 per person • $135 for Friends members
  • Mini-Series – entrance to 3 programs of your choice – $155 per person • $115 for Friends members
  • Individual – entrance to any one program of your choice – $55 per person. (Available Starting October 8, 2024)

Note: Seating capacity at Judson’s Live is limited so we ask if you are signing up for a Mini-Series that you respond to the question on the form as to whether you plan on attending the “Benjamin Hochman at Judson’s Live” program.


Benjamin Hochman at Judson’s LiveInternationally Acclaimed Pianist and Conductor • “Classical music doesn’t get any better than this.” (NYTimes)November 19, 2024 – 4:00PM

Join Benjamin Hochman as he offers us a window into the musical life of an international soloist and conductor. A musician of exceptional versatility,  he is known for his curiosity, focus and ability to communicate deeply with audiences. The NY Times describes his playing as having “stylistic insight, elegance and sparkle”.

Judson’s Live at Dr. Phillips Center
3:30PM – Judson’s menu service available for purchase. A complimentary glass of wine is included.
4:00PM – Program

Complementary parking included in the Administration Garage (click for map)
Premium reserved seating for subscribers
Single tickets available starting October 8, 2024


Eric Jacobsen – The Cello – Not All White Tie and Tails • Discover the timeless allure of this gorgeous instrument through the words and music of a true virtuoso. • January 27,2025 – 5:00PM

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of the cello as Maestro Jacobsen takes us on a captivating journey through its rich history. From the soulful strains of Bach to the modern melodies of today, discover the timeless allure of this beloved instrument through the words and music of a true virtuoso.

Plaza Live, Mary Palmer Room
4:30PM – Wine & Light Bites
5:00PM – 7:00PM – Program

Free parking at Plaza Live

Single tickets available starting October 8, 2024


Alejandro Gómez Guillén – Anatomy of a Program • The “art behind the art”- honoring tradition while embracing innovation • March 4, 2025 – 5:00PM

Based on the program of his March 8 & 9 concerts, Maestro Guillén shows us how he crafts a captivating musical journey. A thoughtful combination of works, by familiar composers Dvořák and Elgar and modern composers Montgomery and Akiho, offers fresh perspectives on the evolution of musical expression. As a bonus, enjoy a  performance with Maestro Guillén on violin, joined by members of the OPO.

Plaza Live, Mary Palmer Room
4:30PM – Wine & Light Bites
5:00PM – 7:00PM – Program

Free parking at Plaza Live

Single tickets available starting October 8, 2024


Mark Fischer – The Music of John Williams – Star Wars and Beyond • From the silver screen to a cherished part of our cultural landscape • April 14, 2025 – 5:00PM

From the iconic theme of Star Wars to the hauntingly beautiful strains of Schindler’s List, John Williams’ music has captivated audiences for generations, transcending the silver screen to become a cherished part of our cultural landscape. Our own Mark Fischer will relate the OPO’s experiences with the artistry and legacy of John Williams. Prepare to be transported to galaxies far, far away!

Plaza Live, Mary Palmer Room
4:30PM – Wine & Light Bites
5:00PM – 7:00PM – Program

Free parking at Plaza Live

Single tickets available starting October 8, 2024


You may make your reservation either by mailing a check or paying online.

To pay by check click the “Download Order Form” button below and follow the provided instructions.

Download Order Form


To pay online fill out and submit the form below.