Windsor Symphony Orchestra kicks off season with Gershwin and tribute to WSO Maestro Robert Franz

The Capitol Theatre in downtown Windsor is the home of the WSO. (Gary Archibald/CTV News Windsor)

The Windsor Symphony Orchestra (WSO) kicks off a new season Saturday night at the Capitol Theatre. It will be a special night that will pay tribute to the late WSO maestro Robert Franz who passed on Sept. 2, 2025.

“We lost our shining star - Robert was the real light of the Windsor Symphony,” said Patti Lauzon as, the new executive director. “And the wonderful thing is that we have the honor of being able to continue his artistic vision. What a gift for all of us.”

The evening will feature the artistry of George Gershwin’s piano concerto which turns one hundred years old.

In addition, the legendary Don Juan will grace the stage with Strauss’s iconic tone poem. The piece erupts with line after line of drama and angst – a high-energy musical exhibition of dynamic power.

The guest conductor is Carl Topilow with pianist Kevin Cole.

Most importantly, the program features Edvard Grieg’s Holberg Suite - this piece will be performed as a special tribute to honour Maestro Robert Franz.