NPR's Christopher O'Riley performs Beethoven's Piano Concerto #4

COURTESY PHOTO Chris O'Riley The Southwest Florida Symphony presents The Genius of B's Dec. 7 and 8 at 8 p.m. at the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall.

Award winning pianist Christopher O'Riley performs Beethoven's beloved

Piano Concerto #4. Conducted by Music Director Michael Hall. The orchestra will also perform the youthful works of

Britten's high spirited Simple Symphony,

Barber's heartfelt lyricism of Adagio for

Strings, and Bizet's Symphony #1 in C.

From his groundbreaking transcriptions of Radiohead to his unforgettable interpretations of classic and new repertoire, pianist O'Riley has redefined the possibilities of classical music. As host of NPR's 'From the Top', O'Riley works and performs with the next generation of brilliant young musicians. As an interpreter and arranger, he has brought forth some of the most important contemporary rock music of our time. As a performer, he has been honored with many awards at the Leeds, Van Cliburn, Busoni and Montreal competitions.

COURTESY PHOTO Michael Hall Piano Concerto #4 is the final piece in the genre Beethoven wrote for himself as a soloist. It presented a sharp contrast to the music of the time with its lyrical yet intense presentation with the essence of tranquility throughout. "Concerto #4's poetic and improvisatory nature is a perfect match for Christopher O'Riley," explains Hall. "The piece places many musical demands on the soloist."

Single tickets are $15 - $50. Flex packages are available for 3 and 4 concerts. Call the Symphony Box Office at 418- 1500 for additional information or to order tickets.