October’s Best Bets

Frost Symphony Orchestra: Titans

Mahler’s First Symphony in D major, known as the “Titan,” was not initially well-received by the public. Now it is considered one of his best compositions – and for this performance by UM’s Frost Symphony Orchestra, it will be accompanied by Jennifer Higdon’s “Double Percussion Concerto.” Higdon is a highly sought-after composer who has won three Grammy Awards along with a Pulitzer Prize, and is one of America’s most frequently performed composers. Tickets for this special performance at Gusman Concert Hall Oct. 29 at 7:30 pm run from $15 to $30. Visit events.miami.edu for more information.

The Finals Concert: 31st National Voice Competition

On October 8, the Florida Grand Opera and Young Patronesses of the Opera will be presenting The Finals Concert of the 31st National Voice Competition at First United Methodist Church (536 Coral Way). The competition takes place every two years and is open to all opera singers in the U.S. And these aren’t rookies—many of the participating singers are students or graduates of leading voice programs throughout the world. Tickets are $30, with special group and student rates available. Visit ypo-miami.org/voice-competition for more information.

Ninth Annual Biltmore Halloween Party

Both members and guests are invited to the Biltmore’s 9th Annual Halloween Party on October 28 from 8 pm to 1 am. Celebrity judges will select winners in the costume contest for Best Couple, Most Creative (must be handmade), and Best Group (maximum six people). There will also be an open bar and buffet dinner. Tickets are $275 per person and must be purchased in advance. Visit biltmore- hotel.com/halloween to secure your reservation.

Frost Electroacoustic Ensemble

This concert by the Frost Electronic Music Ensemble explores an eclectic array of musical styles in creating electro-acoustic music and multimedia performances. These works engage everyday objects, toy instruments, and natural forces in live electronic processes like you’ve never seen before. The October 20 show at Clarke Recital Hall starts at 7:30 pm and is free and open to the public. For more information on this one-of-a-kind event, visit events.miami.edu.

“Heisenberg” at Gablestage

Beginning on October 29 and running through November 20 is “Heisenberg,” the newest play at GableStage. Amidst the bustle of a crowded London train station, Georgie spots Alex, a much older man, and plants a kiss on his neck. This electric encounter thrusts these two strangers into a fascinating and life-changing game. Directed by GableStage’s producing artistic director Bari Newport, “Heisenberg” tells a story of the uncertain and often comical sparring match that is human connection. Tickets run from $35 to $65.

Candlelight Concerts: a Haunted Evening of Halloween Classics

The appropriately named Candlelight Concerts allow you to revisit some of your favorite songs in classical form. For this special Halloween performance by the Listeso String Quartet, the setlist in- cludes favorites like “Thriller” by Michael Jackson and theme songs from “Stranger Things,” “The Addams Family,” and “Ghostbusters.” Come enjoy this eerie evening on October 27 at either 6:45 or 9:15 pm. Tickets range from $40 to $60 and can be found at feverup.com/m/114418.

Best Reason to Leave the Gables: Miami Jazz Co-op

On Mondays at 8 pm, the nonprofit Miami Jazz Cooperative puts on their Monday Night Rent Party in Glenvar Heights, a weekly jazz event with various live musicians that rivals Coral Gables’ own performances at The Globe (Saturday nights, if you can’t bring yourself to leave the Gables). The Miami Jazz Co-Op’s event is at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Miami (7701 SW 76th Ave), about a 15 to 20 minute drive from downtown Coral Gables. Parking is free and advance tickets start at $20. Visit miamijazz.org for tickets and more information.