Maestro Peter Rubardt conducts the Meridian Symphony Orchestra on Saturday, Jan. 24 at 7 p.m. in a concert featuring the Violin Concerto of Tchaikovsky along with Sibelius’  Symphony No. 2.  Guest artist is violinist Hye-Jin Kim, winner of multiple awards, including the prestigious 2009 Concert Artists Guild Competition.

    The opening for the program is Glinka’s Ruslan and Ludmilla Overture.

    “This concert will be a special treat for those who love the beautiful music of Tchaikovsky, as the violinist is tested for talent and skill in the amazingly difficult Violin Concerto,” an MSO press release states. “Jean Sibelius, best known for his Finlandia wrote this grandiose Second Symphony in 1901 when his native Finland was under the thumb of the Russian Czar. The finale paints one of the most inspiring passages in classical music literature.”

    On the heels of a packed house for December’s Peppermint Pops Concert, the Orchestra is primed for its spring series: this weekend’s Violin Concerto; Classical Mystery Tour (Beatles Concert) on Feb. 21;  Symphony Doo-Dah April 17; and the season finale, Beethoven & Blue Jeans on May 2.

    Pre- Concert notes at 6 p.m.

    Tickets are available at the MSU Riley Center Box Office (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.). Call 601-696-2200. Adult-$35; Active Military- $30; Student (all ages) and Retired Military- $10.

    For additional information, contact Meridian Symphony at 601-693-2224.