When it comes to classical music performances in Atlanta, The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra has a strong hold on this sector – not only for its own local symphony but for its lineup of amazing guest musicians and conductors. However, with a little energy to look elsewhere, other vendors such as The Ferst Center and Frederick J. Brown Amphitheater are attracting talented violinists. Plus, smaller orchestras such as The Georgia Symphony Orchestra offer those a little outside the perimeter wonderful nights of music and even some free performances as well. See what great classical music performances Atlanta has in store for you this fall.

Midori Plays Beethoven
Atlanta Symphony Hall
1280 Peachtree St NE
Atlanta, GA 30309
(404) 733-4900
atlantasymphony.org

Dates: October 4, 6 and 7

The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra opens its 68^th season with the special-guest violinist, Midori. These limited performances include a Beethoven menu along with Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 4. Featured artists will include Robert Spano as the music director, Midor on violin and the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra backing her musical talent. Plan to come early for ease with parking and check out nearby restaurants, TAB and Shout, for a full date night within walking distance.

Georgia Symphony Orchestra Jazz in the Park
Glover Park
50 Park Square
Marietta, GA 30060
(770) 429-7016
georgiasymphony.org

Date: August 25

Bring the family and friends and lay out the picnic blanket for a free performance with Georgia Symphony Orchestra. No ticket or advance reservation is required unless reserving a swanky table. This is a return performance to Glover Park, promising a soothing evening to great tunes in this outdoor event. Sam Skelton will be accompanied by his band to keep you entertained throughout the night.

Related: Best Organizations Giving Back To The Atlanta Arts

Halloween on Hogwarts
Atlanta Symphony Hall
1280 Peachtree St NE
Atlanta, GA 30309
(404) 733-4900
atlantasymphony.org

Date: October 21

The movie series may be over, but for all you “Harry Potter” fans, dust off your costumes for this Halloween treat. The orchestra will be preforming select numbers from the films and highly encourage dressing up in your favorite “Harry Potter” costume. Don the witch hat and draw on the lightning bolt because it’s time to bring magic alive with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra.

Keiko Matsui
Ferst Center for the Arts
349 Ferst Drive NW
Atlanta, GA 30332
(404) 894-9600
ferstcenter.gatech.edu

Date: October 5

This performer has been described an “an innovator and prodigious talent of such magnitude that cannot be fully understood until you see her perform live.” – All About Jazz.com. Pianist Keiko Matsui returns to her Atlanta fans at the Ferst Center for the Arts. Well known worldwide for her unique style of Japanese jazz, this petite woman brings a big sound on stage. Plus, you can’t beat that this venue offers free parking. Enjoy an evening of innovative, whimsical piano tunes from Keiko Matsui.

Ken Ford at The Smooth Jazz Cruise Peachtree City Jazz Series with Boney James
Frederick J. Brown Amphitheater
201 McIntosh Trail
Peachtree City, GA 30269
(770) 631-0630
kenford.net

Date: August 31

Atlanta-born Ken Ford is known for his electric violin performances. From jazz to blues, R&B to hip hop and more, Ford has shared the stage with legends such as Bruno Mars, Jill Scott, Wyclef Jean, Chaka Khan, Barry White, Cee-Lo Green and Erykah Badu. This evening performance with Boney James in the beautiful Frederick J. Brown Amphitheater is worth the hour or so trip down I-75. He will keep your feet tapping all night long.

Related: Best Budget Arts And Culture Events In Atlanta

Stacy Sheets is native to Atlanta. She is a graduate of the University of Georgia. Stacy is a freelance writer who enjoys keeping abreast on the best Atlanta has to offer. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.