'Beethoven to The Beatles' celebrates musical innovations

Thursday, April 10, 2014

Composer Ludwig van Beethoven may not seem to have much in common with four musicians named John, Paul, George and Ringo, but a concert on Saturday will bring them all together for a fun musical time. The Anthracite Philharmonic will present "Beethoven to The Beatles" at 7 p.m. Saturday at First United Methodist Church, 330 W. Market St., Pottsville.

The concert is under the direction of Mark P. Thomas, artistic director, conductor and one of the founders of the orchestra. Tickets are $10 for adults and $8 for seniors and students. The first part of the concert features Beethoven's Symphony No. 5 in C minor, usually referred to as his "Fifth Symphony" and recognized by its opening notes. The second half involves a mixture of Beatles classics from all stages of the band's career. "We wanted to make the symphony more friendly-oriented with music that people would recognize," Thomas said. "People recognize The Beatles. People recognize Beethoven, especially the Fifth Symphony.