FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 23, 2025
Cathedral Bluffs Symphony Orchestra Presents:
Pictures at an Exhibition
Saturday, May 24, 2025 | 8:00 PM
P.C. Ho Theatre | 5183 Sheppard Ave. East, Scarborough
Martin MacDonald, conductor
Samir Abd-Elmessih, French horn
Toronto, ON — The Cathedral Bluffs Symphony Orchestra (CBSO) invites you to an unforgettable evening of orchestral brilliance as it closes its 2024–2025 season with Pictures at an Exhibition on Saturday, May 24 at 8:00 PM at the P.C. Ho Theatre.
Under the baton of acclaimed conductor Martin MacDonald, the program begins with Tableau Vivant by Canadian composer Ian Cusson, a contemporary gem brimming with vivid soundscapes and emotional depth. Rising star Samir Abd-Elmessih takes center stage with Reinhold Glière’s Horn Concerto, a lyrical and virtuosic showpiece that highlights the expressive power of the French horn.
The evening culminates in Modest Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition, masterfully orchestrated by Maurice Ravel—a sweeping musical tour through an art gallery of unforgettable sonic images.
Join CBSO for this season finale celebration—a spectacular fusion of Canadian creativity, solo brilliance, and timeless orchestral storytelling.
Program:
- Ian Cusson – Tableau Vivant (2018)
- Reinhold Glière – Horn Concerto
- Modest Mussorgsky / Maurice Ravel – Pictures at an Exhibition
About the Soloist
Samir Abd-Elmessih, French Horn
Samir Abd-Elmessih is proud to take the spotlight as soloist in this evening’s performance. A dedicated and versatile musician, Samir has served as Principal Horn of the Cathedral Bluffs Symphony Orchestra for the past nine seasons.
An active performer throughout the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area, Samir has appeared with numerous orchestras, including the Hamilton Philharmonic, Ontario Philharmonic, Windsor Symphony, Niagara Symphony, and Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestras. His rich, expressive playing and musicality have made him a valued contributor to many ensembles across Ontario.
Samir holds degrees from both McGill University’s Schulich School of Music and The Glenn Gould School at the Royal Conservatory of Music. His horn studies were shaped by some of the country’s and continent’s finest teachers, including John Zirbel, Denys Derome, Jean Gaudreault, David Wakefield, Chris Gongos, and Martin Hackleman. He is also an alumnus of prestigious programs such as the Aspen Music Festival and School, the National Academy Orchestra, and the National Youth Orchestra of Canada.
Outside of the concert hall, Samir brings his passion for learning to the classroom as an elementary school teacher with the Toronto District School Board. He is also a proud father of two young children, balancing his musical career with family life and education.
🎟 Tickets and Info: www.cathedralbluffs.com
🎫 Children 12 and under attend free with an adult.
📍 Accessible venue. Free parking available.
