Since the Mesabi Symphony Orchestra first performed in Moose Lake in 2018, residents have been asking: “When can we get them back?”

The answer is April 24. The orchestra will perform as part of the season finale presented by Agate Encores Community Concerts at 2 p.m. Sunday, April 24 in the Moose Lake Community School auditorium.

The 40-member community orchestra serves the Iron Range region and was founded in 1978. It will play the iconic and rousing piece “Finlandia” by Jean Sibelius. First performed in 1900, this powerful composition was a protest against increasing Russian censorship and much of the rugged and restless piece depicts the struggle of the Finnish people as they marched toward independence. Toward the end of the composition, the beautiful and calm “Finlandia Hymn” is played. The piece continues to ignite the independent spirit important today as it was 120 years ago.

The MSO will perform popular treasures from its symphonic repertoire.

There will also be a preview of next year’s Encores season with a one-time opportunity to buy discounted season tickets.

Tickets are available for the April 24 concert from any Agate Encores board member ($15, $5 student) or online at http://www.agateencores.org. There may be a limited number of tickets available at the door.

While current federal Covid-19 guidelines will be followed for this concert, masks are still strongly recommended. Those who are sick or have been exposed to the virus should stay home and get better.