We're performing these three Beethoven pieces in 2026

If you’re a Beethoven enthusiast—or simply love powerful, timeless music—this season with the Omaha Symphony is not to be missed. We’re celebrating the genius of Ludwig van Beethoven with three thrilling performances that showcase his evolution as a composer and his enduring impact on classical music.

It begins on January 11 in the elegant Witherspoon Hall at the Joslyn Art Museum, where the Symphony performs Beethoven’s Symphony No. 1. Though it was his first foray into the symphonic form, this piece brims with boldness and wit, hinting at the revolutionary spirit that would define his later works.

Then, on March 15, also at Witherspoon Hall, we present the Egmont Overture—a dramatic and emotionally charged work that captures Beethoven’s deep commitment to freedom and justice. Originally composed for Goethe’s play Egmont, the overture has become a powerful standalone concert favorite.

Finally, on April 24 and 25, the Symphony takes the stage at the Holland Performing Arts Center for one of the most iconic pieces in all of classical music: Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5. From its instantly recognizable four-note motif to its triumphant finale, this symphony is a testament to Beethoven’s genius and resilience.