The Saint Joseph Symphony will celebrate French musical heritage and local talent in its upcoming concert, “Tour de France” at the Missouri Theatre on April 25.

The performance features the Midwestern premiere of a new concerto by St. Joseph native and internationally acclaimed guitarist Anthony Glise.

“This composition is about half classical and half rock,” Glise said.

Glise, who divides his time between St. Joseph and France, will perform his Concerto for Guitar and Orchestra, The Globe Rooms. The piece serves as a cultural bridge, marking a homecoming for the musician whose career has spanned several continents.

“‘Tour de France’ is more than a concert,” said Nancy Schmidt-Brunson, executive director of the Saint Joseph Symphony. “It’s a tribute to one of the greatest living musicians St. Joe has ever produced and a celebration of the sound world that French composers created—a culture that has deeply influenced Anthony’s work.”

The program also includes several cornerstones of French classical music:

• Claude Debussy: Selections showcasing the composer’s signature impressionism.
• Georges Bizet: Dramatic highlights from the opera Carmen.
• Maurice Ravel: The evening concludes with the rhythmic and hypnotic Boléro.

The performance aims to blend the sophistication of French masterworks with the virtuosity of a local icon, offering an evening that ranges from delicate elegance to fiery orchestral drama.

Tickets are available for purchase online at saintjosephsymphony.org. Patrons may also order by phone at 816-233-7701. The symphony office is open Tuesday through Friday, from 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.