The first half of the program will showcase Rafael Fr�hbeck de Burgos, chief conductor and artistic director of the Dresden Philharmonic, leading The Philadelphia Orchestra in a program of masterpieces featuring guest tenor Juan Diego Fl�rez, a thrilling performer famous for his high C's. In 2008, Fl�rez became the first soloist to perform an encore at the Metropolitan Opera since Luciano Pavarotti in 1994. In February, Fl�rez will reprise his headline-grabbing Metropolitan Opera performance as Tonio in La Fille du R�giment.

Sting will be backed by the Orchestra and a versatile quartet comprised of Dominic Miller on guitar, David Sancious on piano, Vinnie Colaiuta on drums, and Christian McBride on bass, performing notable songs from the Police repertoire and his solo career, in original orchestrations.

Sting first became interested in classical music while it permeated his home as a child and has always carried that music with him throughout his enduring career.

"I grew up listening to classical music, and remember being under the piano while my mother played Beethoven sonatas in our house," says Sting. "I always strive to challenge myself, and music allows me to constantly learn new things."

The gala champagne dinner and ball at the Park Hyatt Philadelphia at the Bellevue hotel follows the concert. Eight dance orchestras will be located throughout the facility. The gala is being chaired by Mrs. Fred L. Hudson III and Mr. Joseph A. Frick. For gala information, call the Academy of Music Restoration Fund Office at 215.893.1940.

Academy of Music 153rd Anniversary Concert
January 30, 2010, at 7:30 PM � Saturday evening � Academy of Music

The Philadelphia Orchestra
Rafael Fr�hbeck de Burgos, conductor
Juan Diego Fl�rez, tenor

With special guest Sting
David Hartley, conductor
Dominic Miller, guitar
David Sancious, piano
Christian McBride, bass
Vinnie Colaiuta, drums

Concert Program includes:
Mozart Overture to The Marriage of Figaro
Donizetti "Ah! mes amis," from The Daughter of the Regiment
Donizetti "Una furtive lagrima," from The Elixir of Love
Gim�nez Intermezzo, from The Wedding of Luis Alonso