SALISBURY — As the Salisbury Symphony Orchestra embarks on the culmination of its search for a new music director, the spotlight falls on Daniel Wiley, the fifth and final candidate in a season filled with musical brilliance and anticipation.

Throughout the search season, Salisbury Symphony has welcomed a diverse array of talented conductors, each bringing their unique style and vision to the podium. From performances to pre-concert talks, audiences have been treated to a kaleidoscope of musical experiences.

Now, as the season draws to a close, Wiley takes center stage in the orchestra’s highly anticipated Hope & Lifting concert at Keppel Auditorium on May 18. With a program designed to inspire and uplift, Wiley leads the orchestra through a journey of resilience and hope, featuring works by Omar Thomas, Felix Mendelssohn and Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. The evening will begin with a pre-concert talk which begins at 6:30 p.m. in Peeler Crystal Lounge followed by the concert start at 7:30 p.m.

The program opens with Omar Thomas’ tribute, Of Our New Day Begun, honoring the memory of those lost to tragedy with its stirring melodies and heartfelt expression. World-class violinist Andrew Sords then takes the stage to perform Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto.

Finally, Tchaikovsky’s “Symphony No. 4” brings the concert to a close.

Reflecting on the season’s journey, Hunter Scott Safrit, executive director of the Salisbury Symphony Orchestra, expressed excitement for what lies ahead.

“This season has been an incredible journey, filled with exceptional talent and musical inspiration,” Safrit said. “As we prepare to welcome our next musical leader, we are grateful for the enriching experiences and diverse perspectives that have shaped our search.”

Tickets for Hope & Lifting concert and additional information about the Salisbury Symphony Orchestra’s programs can be found at salisburysymphony.org. Don’t miss this final opportunity to experience the magic of live orchestral music and witness the conclusion of a chapter in Salisbury Symphony’s storied history.