RIDGEFIELD — Ridgefield Symphony Orchestra will conclude its 1999-2000 season on April 8 with a concert called “Fresh Talent, Familiar Favorites.”

Beethoven’s work will provide the centerpiece for the enticing program with his mighty Piano Concerto No. 5, “Emperor,” which will be performed by the enormously promising 16-year-old Chinese-born pianist, Rui Shi.

Last year at age 15 Shi auditioned for the college division at the prestigious Juilliard School and was admitted with the highest score ever given. In 1997 she won the music school’s Concerto Competition of the pre-college division and the only full scholarship in the same division.

The exotic Scheherazade, derived from the classic tale Thousand and One Nights, and Schumann’s “Overture” to Hermann und Dorothea will also be performed by RSO.

The performance will begin at 8 pm in the Anne S. Richardson Auditorium at Ridgefield High School, on Route 116. Seating is reserved and tickets ($25, $30 and $35) can be purchased at Ridgefield Music Store or by calling Ridgefield Symphony Orchestra at 203/438-3889.