STEVENS POINT — Central Wisconsin Symphony Orchestra will begin its 70th season with two concerts commemorating its own legacy, as well as notable historic anniversaries, in October.

The Oct. 13 and 14 concerts will begin by honoring the 150th anniversary of the composer Gioachino Rossini’s death in a performance of “Overture to Barber of Seville.” This overture has been featured in a Bugs Bunny cartoon, in the Beatles film, “Help” and in an episode of the NBC sitcom “Seinfeld.”

In celebration of 70 years of music-making, CWSO commissioned Stacey Berk, principal oboist, to compose a piece to honor the musicians, staff and central Wisconsin community that have supported the orchestra through the years. The piece, “Reflections,” is colorful and contemplative, alluding to earlier master works while showcasing modern instrumentation and compositional ideas. Berk holds the title of professor of oboe and music theory at the University of Wisconsin- Stevens Point, where she was awarded the 2009 University Excellence in Teaching Award.

CWSO then takes the listener through the ecstasy and turmoil of “Romeo and Juliet” in observance of the 125th anniversary of Tchaikovsky’s death. Tchaikovsky brought Shakespeare’s most famous tragedy to life evoking fiery fight scenes and a haunting love theme.

The concert concludes with Leonard Bernstein’s “Symphonic Sketches” from “West Side Story” to celebrate the centennial of his birth. “West Side Story” is an adaptation of “Romeo and Juliet,” set in 1950s working class New York.

CWSO also will hold a sealed envelope auction in the lobby of the theater during the concert weekend. Bidding will take place before the concert, during intermission and after the concert. Visit the lobby to bid on an array of items, including artwork, jewelry and concert tickets.

The concerts will take place in Sentry Theater, 1800 North Point Ave., Stevens Point. Saturday’s performance is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. and Sunday’s is at 4 p.m.

Concert tickets are available online at cwso.org/tickets, the CWSO office, in the Smith Scarabocchio Art Museum, 800 Main St., or at the door. Tickets can also be purchased by calling the CWSO office at 715-345-7726.

For more information about the CWSO, call 715-345-7726 or visit cwso.org