The American River College Orchestra brings one of Beethoven’s most uplifting symphonies and most optimistic piano concertos, featuring soloist Natsuki Fukasawa, to the ARC Theater.

“This concerto has been on my ‘bucket list’ for a while, and I’m really excited that I have the chance to perform it with Dr. Steven Thompson and ARC Orchestra,” Fukasawa said. “I’ve played most of Beethoven’s other piano concertos before, but I feel that No. 5 (“Emperor”) is the most concise, direct and confident.”

The orchestra is also excited to perform Beethoven’s 6th Symphony, a symphony that feels like a walk through the countryside, celebrating the beauty and solace that nature brings. If that sounds too mellow, have no fear, Beethoven also goes off. Nature's raw fury is unleashed in the thunderstorm in the Fourth movement.