From grand opera to intimate recitals, here are six concerts to consider for the cooler months
By Ray Mark Rinaldi | Sept 21, 2026
If there is one word to sum up the classical offerings coming Denver’s way this fall, it is this: variety.
There is big opera in the mix, and ballet, too, and a chance to hear one of the most sweeping compositions of the 20th century. At the same time, there are quiet solo recitals where music fans can get up close and personal with the talented musicians coming to town.
I picked a half-dozen offerings that look particularly promising.
Elgar Cello Concerto, Colorado Symphony, Nov. 20-22
The Colorado Symphony is selling this concert hard, and with good reason — Elgar’s Cello Concerto is one of the 20th century’s most-admired musical compositions. The composer was known for his showmanship until he produced this piece in 1919, shedding “the pomp of his earlier work in favor of introspection and quiet anguish, reflecting … his post-war disillusionment,” as the concert notes dramatically put it. It’s a great concerto, and part of a crowd-pleasing program that also includes a newer work, Vivian Fung’s “Dust Devils,” and a larger-than-life standard, Dvorák’s Symphony No. 7. It’s an all-star event wth guest soloist Johannes Moser, centerstage and the Colorado Symphony’s chief conductor Peter Oundjian on the podium. The concert will be performed Friday and Saturday nights and Sunday afternoon. I’ll be betting on the final show when all of the musicians have had a chance to feel the beats.