The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra is heading back to Deep Creek, Md., for two more concerts at the Wisp Resort Lodge and presented by the Garrett Lakes Arts Festival -- but it may not be long before the ensemble plays in a more acoustically conducive space.

Garrett County is moving ever closer to building an approximately $20 million performing-arts center that many groups, including the PSO and the Garrett Lakes Arts Festival, would use.

"Before, we were 25 percent hopeful; now we are 50 percent hopeful," said Charlie Ross, president of the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce. "Garrett County went to the state for authorization to go to the bond market for $21 million for capital improvement projects. None of it has been earmarked for specific projects, [but] the county budget was just approved."

The PSO, for one, is willing to be patient.

"The Pittsburgh Symphony is still talking to the [Garrett Lakes Arts Festival] board about a long-term relationship and is very excited about the performing-arts center," said Michael Bielski, PSO senior vice president. "They are headed in the right direction but need more support from more people."

Principal pops conductor Marvin Hamlisch will conduct a sold-out pops concert at 7:30 p.m. Friday at Wisp Resort, while associate conductor Lawrence Loh will lead the orchestra in a classical program there at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, including works by Berlioz, Prokofiev and Dvorak. Tickets are $7 to $30; 1-301-387-3082.

-- Andrew Druckenbrod, Post-Gazette classical music critic

First Published: July 16, 2008, 4:00 a.m.