Brooklyn Center Announces 2009/2010 Season

Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts

2009-2010 Performance Calendar

Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts at Brooklyn College announces its 55th season of music, dance, theater, and family programming reflecting the multicultural diversity of Brooklyn. The outstanding line-up features performances from Jamaica, Cuba, Israel, and Ukraine as well as the United States, and includes both Brooklyn premieres and returning favorites.

"Like all Brooklyn Center seasons, 2009-2010 offers something for everyone," says Brooklyn Center Managing Director Frank Sonntag. "There are fantastic jazz artists on the season, and plenty for Brooklyn's Jewish, Ukrainian, Caribbean, and African-American communities. We are bringing back a major international orchestra for the first time in many years, and our family programs are always popular. We strive to bring an astounding variety of stellar artists that reflect the tremendous diversity of our Borough at prices that are within reach for most families. This year, in particular, I believe we have succeeded spectacularly."

Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts' 2009-2010 season includes:
* I Love a Piano
* The Adventures of Harold and the Purple Crayon
* Luna Negra Dance Theater with the Turtle Island Quartet and Paquito D'Rivera
* Virsky Ukrainian National Dance Company
* Of Mice and Men
* The Colonial Nutcracker
* The Clark Sisters
* Hairspray
* The Israel Ballet - Don Quixote
* National Dance Theater Company of Jamaica
* Odessa Philharmonic
* David Gonzalez's Sleeping Beauty
* Poncho Sanchez Latin Jazz Band
* David Broza in concert
* In the Mood
* Dirty Sock Funtime Band
* Chinese Acrobats of Hebei
* Tap Kids
* United States Air Force Band of Liberty

I Love a Piano - September 13, 2009 at 3pm
Showcasing the music of legendary songwriter Irving Berlin, this musical captures the spirit of America from the Ragtime rhythms of the early 20th century through the innocent optimism of the 1950s. Including timeless classics such as "White Christmas," "God Bless America," "Puttin' On the Ritz," and "There's No Business Like Show Business," I Love a Piano does more than define the music of a generation - it defines the music of our country.
Tickets $25

The Adventures of Harold and the Purple Crayon - October 11, 2009 at 2pm
Enchantment Theatre Company returns to Brooklyn Center with a new theatrical adaptation of Crockett Johnson's beloved children's classic. Using life-size puppets, masks, magic and music, this family musical tells the story of Harold, a brave and resourceful little boy who creates the world he wants to explore using only a big purple crayon and his sky's-the-limit imagination.
Tickets $6

Luna Negra Dance Theater with the Turtle Island Quartet and Paquito D'Rivera - October 25, 2009 at 2pm
Dedicated to the works of Latino choreographers, Luna Negra Dance Theater celebrates its 10th anniversary by teaming up with the bold Turtle Island Quartet and legendary jazz musician Paquito D'Rivera, both multiple Grammy Award winners, in a celebration of the rich music and dance traditions of Cuba with their newest work entitled Danzˆ„n.
Tickets $30

Virsky Ukrainian National Dance Company - November 8, 2009 at 2pm
Direct from Kiev, this spectacular company of 65 dancers and musicians combines brilliant ballet techniques with traditional folk dance in a tribute to the culture, beauty and spirit of the Ukraine.
Tickets $35, $25

Of Mice and Men - November 22, 2009 at 3pm
John Steinbeck's literary masterpiece about a unique friendship between two migrant workers and their quest for the American Dream is brought to life by the Tony® Award-winning Barter Theatre.
Tickets $25

The Colonial Nutcracker - December 13, 2009 at 2pm
An annual holiday favorite at Brooklyn Center, Dance Theatre in Westchester performs an abridged, narrated version of Tchaikovsky's classic ballet set in wintry colonial Yorktown.
Tickets $6

The Clark Sisters - January 23, 2010 at 8pm
One of the top female gospel groups in the country, the Clark Sisters have pioneered contemporary gospel music for the past three decades. They bring their Grammy-winning harmonies and inspirational message to Brooklyn in an uplifting evening of music and praise.
Tickets $40, $30

Hairspray - January 24, 2010 at 3pm
Pleasantly plump Tracy Turnblad has only one desire - to dance on the "Corny Collins Show." But she's got obstacles to overcome - all without denting her 'do! Don't miss Broadway's musical comedy phenomenon that inspired a major motion picture and won eight Tony® Awards, including Best Musical.
Tickets $40, $30

The Israel Ballet - Don Quixote - February 21, 2010 at 2pm
Making their first U.S. tour in 25 years, the acclaimed Israel Ballet performs one of the most beloved full-length ballets in the classical repertoire, Don Quixote, featuring choreography by the legendary Russian Imperial Ballet Master Marius Petipa.
Tickets $30, $20

National Dance Theater Company of Jamaica - March 6, 2010 at 8pm and March 7, 2010 at 2pm
Always a Brooklyn Center favorite, this jewel of the Caribbean blends the lore, music and dance of Jamaica, Africa, and the American south with modern and classical forms. Under the direction of Professor Rex Nettleford, they will present two programs combining new works with favorites from their extensive repertoire.
Tickets $40, $30

Odessa Philharmonic - March 13, 2010 at 8pm
Directed by maestro Hobart Earle, the brilliant Odessa Philharmonic returns to the United States for the first time in ten years with a program including Shubert's Ninth Symphony (Unfinished), Beethoven's Seventh Symphony, and Saint Saˆ´ns' cello concerto featuring soloist William DeRosa.
Tickets $35, $25

David Gonzalez's Sleeping Beauty - March 14, 2010 at 2pm
Master storyteller David Gonzalez puts a new spin on the classic fairy tale, using live and electronic music, dance, image projections, and exquisite lighting to create a magical multimedia world in which a beautiful princess is awakened by true love's kiss.
Tickets $6

Poncho Sanchez Latin Jazz Band - March 20, 2010 at 8pm
Widely acknowledged as the most popular Latin jazz artist in the world today, Grammy Award winner Poncho Sanchez brings his explosive congas and legendary ensemble to Brooklyn for a sizzling hot evening of Afro-Cuban jazz, salsa, and vintage Latin soul.
Tickets $35, $25

David Broza - March 21, 2010 at 2pm
A superstar in his homeland of Israel, this multi-platinum selling singer/songwriter's unique compositions combine Middle Eastern pop and folk influences with flamenco and American country, rock and blues to create a true world music sound.
Tickets $25

In the Mood - March 28, 2010 at 2pm
Recall the music that moved a nation's spirit in this nostalgic 1940s revue. Featuring such favorites as "Sing, Sing, Sing," "Moonlight Serenade," and "Stardust," the sensational String of Pearls Big Band Orchestra and the talented cast of In the Mood take audiences on a sentimental journey in an afternoon of swing, jitterbug, and big band classics.
Tickets $25

Dirty Sock Funtime Band - April 11, 2010 at 2pm
Nominated Best Kid's Band by Time Out New York Kids, the Dirty Socks captivate children and parents alike with their high-energy concerts full of rockin' singalong jams and audience participation.
Tickets $6

Chinese Acrobats of Hebei - April 18, 2010 at 3pm
The world-class gymnasts, contortionists, and jugglers from Hebei combine gravity-defying acrobatics with the discipline of martial arts to create a spellbinding kaleidoscope of color, drama and skill for the whole family.
Tickets $30

Tap Kids - April 25, 2010 at 2pm
Eight of the nation's most talented young tap dancers take to the stage in this rousing, joyous celebration of American youth culture. Hip, contemporary and uplifting, this electrifying performance takes tap to dizzying new heights of passion and precision
Tickets $6

United States Air Force Band of Liberty - May 16, 2010 at 2pm
For the past 25 years, the United States Air Force Band of Liberty has served the nation with its inspirational repertoire ranging from symphonic band masterworks, to traditional military marches, to pops and jazz. Tickets to this event must be requested by sending a self-addressed, stamped envelope to Brooklyn Center, PO Box 100163, Brooklyn, NY 11210, attn: Air Force Band Tickets. No phone orders.
Tickets FREE

Brooklyn Center's 2009-2010 season ticket packages include Theater Subscriptions (I Love a Piano, Of Mice and Men, and Hairspray) for $75; Arts in the Afternoon Subscriptions (The Israel Ballet, David Broza, and In the Mood) for $60; and the WorldPack (a minimum of three performances from Brooklyn Center's World Stages series, priced $73-$165 depending on performances selected). All seats for all performances in Brooklyn Center's Target FamilyFun series are $6. Multibuy packages (three or more performances) save up to 15% off individual ticket prices. Multibuy discounts do not apply to Target FamilyFun performances. Discounts are available for seniors, students, Brooklyn College faculty/staff/ alumni, and groups of 15 or more.

About Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts
Founded in 1954, the mission of Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts is to present outstanding performing arts and arts education programs, reflective of Brooklyn's diverse communities, at affordable prices. Brooklyn Center's presentations explore both the classical traditions and the boldest contemporary performances, embracing the world culture that defines Brooklyn. Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts welcomes over 70,000 people to the 2,400 seat Walt Whitman Theatre each season, and boasts one of the largest arts education programs in the borough, serving schoolchildren from over 225 schools annually with its SchoolTime series.

Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts
Walt Whitman Theatre at Brooklyn College
2900 Campus Road, Brooklyn

Online orders: BrooklynCenterOnline.org
Box Office: (718) 951-4500, Tuesday - Saturday, 1PM - 6PM
Subscription Orders/Season Brochure Requests: (718) 951-4600, ext. 25
Groups of 15 or more: (718) 951-4600, ext. 22

Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts' programs are made possible in part with public funding from the City of New York Department of Cultural Affairs and the National Endowment for the Arts. Funding for Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts' 2009-2010 season is provided by: Target; JP Morgan Chase; Independence Community Foundation; Con Edison; National Grid; TD Bank; Macy's; The Harkness Foundation for Dance; Air Jamaica; the Carnegie Corporation of New York; and the Lila Acheson Wallace Theater Fund, established in the New York Community Trust by founders of The Reader's Digest Association. Additional support provided by Courier-Life Publications, The Brooklyn Eagle, The Brooklyn Paper, and WBGO.

Marriott New York LaGuardia Airport is the official hotel of Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts 2009-2010 season.

Backstage catering graciously provided by Bettina Harris of The Corn Bread Diner and by Applebee's.

Brooklyn Center gratefully acknowledges generous support from the Members of the Brooklyn Delegation to the New York State Assembly and Speaker Sheldon Silver; Members of the Brooklyn Delegation to the New York State Senate and Majority Leader Malcolm Smith; Members of the Brooklyn Delegation to the New York City Council and Speaker Christine C. Quinn; Cultural Affairs Committee Chairman Domenic M. Recchia, Jr. and Commissioner of Cultural Affairs Kate Levin.

JAZZ@MASSEY/09-10 season/Starting Aug 5!

Massey Hall presents

JAZZ @ MASSEY HALL 09/10

Single Tickets Now On Sale!

¬… Lang Lang & Herbie Hancock ’Äì Wednesday, August 5, 2009 8pm

¬… Ornette Coleman ’Äì Thursday, September 24, 2009 8pm

¬… Brad Mehldau Trio ’Äì Saturday, April 10, 2010 8pm

Single Tickets On Sale to FriendsFirst members: 10 am, Wed April 22, 2009

Single Tickets On Sale to Public: 12 Noon, Sat April 25, 2009

Subscriptions (3 Concerts) Still Available

Call 416-872-4255 or online at www.masseyhall.com or www.roythomson.com

Or visit the Roy Thomson Hall Box Office

JAZZ @ MASSEY HALL 2009-2010 Season (Series of 3 concerts)

Massey Hall presents its 2^nd spectacular season of Jazz @ Massey Hall ’Äì a three-concert series featuring a stellar lineup of internationally acclaimed artists with three very distinct perspectives on jazz. The lines are blurred between classical and jazz; contemporary popular music is re-worked as jazz standards; and uncharted territory is explored through improvisation. Toronto audiences will be treated to the extraordinary partnership of piano greats Lang Lang and Herbie Hancock, the inimitable genius of saxophonist Ornette Coleman, and the incomparable stylings of the Brad Mehldau Trio ’Äì all on the stage of Massey Hall, Canada’Äôs historic concert venue long recognized internationally as one of the great halls for jazz.

Subscriptions (3 concerts) Still Available: $295 - $145

1) LANG LANG & HERBIE HANCOCK with ORCHESTRA

Wednesday, August 5, 2009 at 8 PM Massey Hall

Single Tickets: $199.50 - $69.50

Pianists Lang Lang and Herbie Hancock reunite after their thrilling, dueling-keys performance of Gershwin's Rhapsody in Blue at the 50th Grammy Awards in 2008. The hottest artist on the classical music planet and the legendary jazz pianist join forces to perform a variety of solos, duets and concertos for two pianos, with orchestra, by such masters as Gershwin, Bernstein, Ravel, and others.

"...a genre-crossing revamp of George Gershwin's ''Rhapsody in Blue'' was the perfect showcase for these two hugely talented ivory tinklers." -- Entertainment Weekly on 50th Grammy Awards performance

2) ORNETTE COLEMAN

Thursday, September 24, 2009 at 8 PM Massey Hall

Single Tickets: $89.50 - $69.50

Fifty years ago, saxophonist Ornette Coleman shook up the world of jazz with The Shape Of Jazz To Come, a groundbreaking album whose influence has been felt by virtually every jazz musician. Coleman has always sought that most prized quality in jazz: freedom. His profound artistry was recognized in 2007 with both a Pulitzer Prize and a Grammy Award for Lifetime Achievement. We have heard first hand how powerfully his music continues to resonate, thanks to his deeply memorable concert at Massey Hall in 2005. ’ÄúThere are concerts in the world of jazz, plenty of concerts, and then there are events. Ornette Coleman’Äôs appearance in Toronto was both.’Äù --The Globe & Mail

3) BRAD MEHLDAU TRIO

Saturday, April 10, 2010 at 8 PM Massey Hall

Single Tickets: $69.50 - $49.50

Universally admired as one of the most adventurous pianists on the jazz scene today, Brad Mehldau pushes boundaries to blend musical genres and blaze trails into new musical territory. His hauntingly beautiful melody lines and stunning improvisations reveal his deeply intelligent musicianship. Mehldau has recorded and performed around the world since the mid 1990s as a soloist and in collaboration with Pat Metheny, Joshua Redman, Wayne Shorter, and many others. His acclaimed trio includes bassist Larry Grenadier and drummer Jeff Ballard. ’ÄúThe elliptical lines, volatile rhythmic figures and unexpected bursts of color and dissonance’Ķ prove that Mehldau writes as cleverly as he plays.’Äù --The Chicago Tribune

Jazz @ Massey Hall is sponsored by TD Canada Trust

Portland Symphony Announces 2009-10 Season

Portland Symphony Orchestra Announces 2009-10
85th Anniversary Season, 30th Anniversary of Magic of Christmas

• Concerts include actors, dancers, and multimedia components
• Two programs with vocal soloists and full chorus
• Guest artists include Dame Evelyn Glennie, Yuja Wang, and mandolin phenom Chris Thile

PORTLAND, Maine ’Äì For the Portland Symphony Orchestra's 85th anniversary, Music Director Robert Moody guides Maine's premier orchestra through the 2009-10 concert season filled with traditional and new works of classical repertoire, internationally celebrated guest artists and an entertaining variety of Pops and contemporary musical offerings. The PSO's 2009-10 season is sponsored by IDEXX Laboratories.

Among the many guests visiting Merrill Auditorium are Dame Evelyn Glennie in her first PSO appearance in 15 years; mandolin legend Chris Thile; pianist Yuja Wang; Byron Stripling on trumpet; and vocalists Natalie Fagnan, Mary Phillips, Lisa Saffer, John McVeigh and Timothy Jones. Guest ensembles include members of the Portland Stage Company, Choral Art Society, Cirque de la Symphonie, and Maine's very own Motor Booty Affair. Guest conductors include Matthew Fritz, Conductor of the Oklahoma City Philharmonic's "Discovery" Series; Alfred Savia, Music Director of the Evansville Philharmonic; Scott Terrell, Resident Conductor at Charleston Symphony; and Matthew Troy, Assistant Conductor at the Winston-Salem Symphony Orchestra.

The PSO performs two premieres: the New England premiere of Concerto for Mandolin, a new work by Chris Thile co-commissioned by the PSO; and the Maine premiere of Chasing Light’Ķ by Joseph Schwantner, part of Ford Made in America Consortium, a partnership program of the League of American Orchestras and Meet the Composer.

Music Director Robert Moody said, "Our commitment to the greatest masterworks in our repertory is unbending. At the same time, we are also exploring works which are not yet part of the canon, but perhaps will be one day. I will always try to pair music that might challenge us a bit with "tried and true" music from the repertory. Pairing Brett Dietz's Headcase with Ravel and Mozart is an example of that approach. None of us will be here in 100 years to know for sure which works survive and thrive, but it is an immense privilege, and great responsibility, to be part of that initial journey."

Another first for the PSO this year will be two performances of Mahler's Symphony No. 2, "Resurrection," which will close both the Tuesday Classical and Sunday Classical series. Executive Director Ari Solotoff explains: "Performing a work as powerful and momentous as Mahler's Resurrection Symphony is something that many orchestras aspire to. However it's a very expensive program, requiring chorus, soloists, and many more musicians than we usually have onstage. Having this program close both of our classical series makes it possible for more people to experience this incredible music. It is also a great example of the kind of efficient and strategic thinking we are using during these economically challenging times, as two performances of the same program can be more cost-effective than one."

"We've enjoyed 85 years of incredible music making with the PSO, but this year will be transformative," added Gordon Gayer, President of the PSO Board of Trustees. "At the same time the PSO continues to provide quality programming and educational activities in an economically sustainable way, our 2009-10 season promises to reinforce why the PSO is such an integral part of Portland's community and culture."

Music Director Moody adds, "I have always looked to music as an outlet and a celebration of all that life has to offer, especially during times of challenge. This season is all about experiences that are energetic, 'electric,' poignant, evolving, inspiring, entertaining, and moving. If we do our job right, people should still be recovering from the goose-bumps, and remembering this 85th anniversary season, for a long time to come."

Tuesday Classical:
Six concerts on Tuesdays at 7:30 PM

Tuesday, October 6, 2009: Heroes and the American Dream
Robert Moody, conductor
Actors from Portland Stage Company

• Beethoven: Symphony No. 3, "Eroica"
• Boyer: Ellis Island: The Dream of America

Celebrates the American immigrant experience and the American dream. Brings elements of theatre and multimedia into the concert hall, employing actors and projected historical images from the Ellis Island archives.

Tuesday, October 27, 2009: It Is Enough
Robert Moody, conductor
Charles Dimmick, violin

• Brahms: Academic Festival Overture
• Berg: Violin Concerto
• Sibelius: Symphony No. 2

Tuesday, February 16, 2010: Rach and Romance
Robert Moody, conductor
Yuja Wang, piano

• John Adams: The Chairman Dances
• Hanson: Symphony No. 2, "Romantic"
• Rachmaninoff: Piano Concerto No. 2

Tuesday, March 9, 2010: Life, Death, Transfiguration
Robert Moody, conductor
Natalie Fagnan, soprano; John McVeigh, tenor; boy soprano tba
Choral Art Society

• Theofanidis: Rainbow Body
• Richard Strauss: Tod und Verklˆ§rung ("Death and Transfiguration")
• Andrew Lloyd Webber: Requiem

Tuesday, April 6, 2010: Sounds and Light
Alfred Savia, guest conductor
Evelyn Glennie, percussion
Sponsored by Verrill Dana, LLP

• Schwantner: Chasing Light’Ķ (Maine premiere)
• Beethoven: Symphony No. 8
• Masson: Snare drum Concerto
• Joe Duddell: Snowblind for solo percussion and strings
• Ravel: Bolero

The Portland Symphony PSO's performance of Joseph Schwantner's Chasing Light’Ķis part of Ford Made in America, a partnership program of the League of American Orchestras and Meet The Composer.

Ford Made in America is made possible by Ford Motor Company Fund, the philanthropic arm of Ford Motor Company.

Major support is also provided by the National Endowment for the Arts, with additional funding from The Aaron Copland Fund for Music, Francis Goelet Charitable Lead Trusts, and The Amphion Foundation.

Tuesday, May 4, 2010: Mighty Mahler
Robert Moody, conductor
Lisa Saffer, soprano; Mary Phillips, mezzo soprano
Choral Art Society

• Mahler: Symphony No. 2, "Resurrection"

Sunday Classical:
Four concerts on Sundays at 2:30 PM

Sunday, November 8, 2009: Great Stories to Tell!
Robert Moody, conductor
Narrator, dancers tba

• Respighi: Ancient Airs and Dances, Suite 1
• Mendelssohn: Selections from A Midsummer Night's Dream
• Stravinsky: L'histoire du Soldat ("A Soldier's Tale")

Sunday, January 24, 2010: Head and Heart
Robert Moody, conductor
Timothy Jones, baritone

• Ravel: Pavane pour une infante defunte ("Pavane for a dead princess")
• Mozart: Symphony No. 25, "Little G minor"
• Dietz: Headcase

A musical journey through a major stroke that the composer suffered when he was 29. Incorporates voice, electronic sounds, and projected images.

Sunday, March 28, 2010: Chris Thile in Concert with the PSO
Scott Terrell, guest conductor
Chris Thile, mandolin

• Copland: Appalachian Spring (Original Version)
• Schoenberg: Verklˆ§rte nacht ("Transfigured Night ")
• Thile: Concerto for Mandolin (PSO co-commission, New England premiere)

Sunday, May 2, 2010: Mighty Mahler
Robert Moody, conductor
Lisa Saffer, soprano; Mary Phillips, mezzo soprano
Choral Art Society

• Mahler: Symphony No. 2, "Resurrection"

PSO Pops!:
Four concerts on Saturdays at 7:30 PM
Four concerts on Sundays at 2:30 PM

October 24 - 25, 2009: Cirque de la Symphonie
Robert Moody, conductor
Sponsored by L.L. Bean

• Ring juggling, magic, contortionists, aerial artistry on silk fabrics etc. to dramatic light classical music (no amplification) like Bizet's Carmen, Khatchaturian Sabre Dance, Tchaikovsky Swan Lake. It's like Cirque du Soleil backed by a full symphony orchestra.

November 14 - 15, 2009: Tribute to Louis Armstrong
Matthew Fritz, guest conductor
Byron Stripling, trumpet and vocals
Sponsored by Holiday Inn By the Bay and New England Coffee

• Singing and playing in the legendary style of Louis "Satchmo" Armstrong, world-renowned trumpet virtuoso Byron Stripling lights up the stage!

February 20 ’Äì 21, 2010: Isn't It Romantic?
Matthew Troy, guest conductor

• The most romantic love duets from Broadway shows throughout the ages.

April 24 - 25: Play that Funky Music, PSO!
Robert Moody, conductor
Motor Booty Affair, guest ensemble

• Is that Robert Moody in a white Saturday Night Fever leisure suit? PSO pays tribute to the music of the 70's.

Magic of Christmas:
Eleven performances
Sponsored by Hannaford Supermarkets, IDEXX Laboratories, Northeast Delta Dental

December 11 ’Äì 20, 2009: 30th Anniversary Season
Robert Moody, conductor

• Celebrating 30 years of Magic! Guest artists and program details to be announced in May 2009.

Pricing and Ticket Information:

• Tuesday Classical subscription prices: $114 - $351
• Sunday Classical subscription prices: $52 - $168
• PSO Pops! subscription prices: $68 - $218
• Magic of Christmas ticket prices: $25 - $55

Special pricing is available for students, seniors, and groups of 10 or more.

Subscriptions and Magic of Christmas tickets now on sale. Single tickets for all series concerts on sale beginning September 1, 2009. Order through PortTix at 207-842-0800 or visit www.portlandsymphony.com.

The Edmonton Symphony Orchestra announces 2009/2010 season

Listen’Ķ Your ESO is Playing!

The Edmonton Symphony Orchestra 2009-2010 Season

Edmonton, AB ’Ķ The Edmonton Symphony Orchestra (ESO) and Music Director William Eddins today announced exciting details of the upcoming 2009-2010 season. Audiences are invited to experience the inspiration and indulge in the celebration of the new season which will feature rousing concerts, acclaimed conductors, and renowned guest artists. Leading the ESO into their 58^th season, and his fifth as Music Director, Bill Eddins will conduct concerts in every series including the Classic Landmarks Masters, Sunday Showcase, Robbins Lighter Classics, Midweek Classics, Robbins Pops, Symphony for Kids, and ESO Specials.

"In this uncertain time that we find ourselves living, it is comforting to know that some things do not change - great soloists, a great hall, and the fabulous Edmonton Symphony Orchestra back for another year of music to delight and surprise you with. Come join us as we hold the torch of civilization high and remind our community that these are still wonderful times to enjoy classic music, and that there are even better times ahead." ~ Bill Eddins

Internationally renowned artists Dmitri Hvorostovsky, Dawn Upshaw, Manuel Barrueco, Karen Gomyo, and Marc-Andrˆ© Hamelin are just a few of the very special guests who will grace the Winspear stage with the ESO throughout the 2009-2010 season.

While Mr. Eddins will conduct over 30 programs this upcoming season, the ESO will also be led by returning guest conductors and audience favourites Robert Bernhardt, Jacques Lacombe, Jean-Marie Zeitouni, Giancarlo Guerrero, Bruce Hangen, Jack Everly, Erich Kunzel, and Steven Reineke. Making their conducting debuts with the ESO this season are Eri Klas and Alondra de la Parra.

Beginning his first season with the ESO will be new Resident Conductor, Lucas Waldin. He will begin his tenure with the ESO at the start of the 2009-2010 season, under the mentorship of Music Director Bill Eddins. This is a two-year appointment, funded in part by the Canada Council for the Arts.

Musicians of the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra will take centre stage in a variety of series this coming season. Charles Pilon (Assistant Principal Viola) and Colin Ryan (Principal Cello) will be featured in the Classic Landmarks Masters series. Lidia Khaner (Principal Oboe) and Robin Doyon (Principal Trumpet) perform in both the Classic Landmarks Masters and Midweek Classics series. John McPherson (Principal Trombone) and Robin Doyon are both featured in the Sunday Showcase series, Nora Bumanis (Principal Harp) makes an appearance in both Sunday Showcase and Robbins Lighter Classics, and Elizabeth Koch (Principal Flute) appears in the Robbins Lighter Classic series.

The 2009-2010 season begins on September 14^th, 2009, as the ESO welcomes one of the great voices of the century, internationally acclaimed baritone Dmitri Hvorostovsky, for a special Gala performance with conductor Bill Eddins. In this spectacular orchestral event, ESO patrons have a rare opportunity to hear the expansive, refined, and powerful voice of this world-renowned Russian opera singer. This will be Mr. Hvorostovsky’Äôs debut with the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra.

Many ESO Specials highlight next season’Äôs calendar. The orchestra and conductor Bob Bernhardt proudly present the Canadian debut of Sonnenschein Express in Oktoberfest!, a family friendly event showcasing the lively tradition of Bavarian alpine music. Beloved Canadian tenor John McDermott will offer a heartfelt salute to those who have bravely served their country in Lest We Forget, while jubilant Christian artist Sandi Patty sings timeless hymns and inspirational classics about the struggles, joys, and moments of peace in our life’Äôs journey. And finally, it will be a potent panoply of piano pleasures in a tuneful evening of solos, duets, and excerpts from concerti. Piano Spectacular will present an unforgettable evening of enjoyment with pianists Angela Cheng, Jon Kimura Parker, Michael Massey, and Bill Eddins.

The ESO’Äôs flagship series, the Classic Landmarks Masters, features a diverse blend of great classics and captivating discoveries. From time-honoured masterpieces including Beethoven’Äôs Ninth Symphony, Vivaldi’Äôs Guitar Concerto, and Bartˆ„k’Äôs Violin Rhapsody, plus music by Brahms, Mahler, Mozart, Respighi, and Schubert, this series continues to serve as the core of the 2009-2010 season. Among a number of Edmonton Symphony Orchestra premieres is a titan of the opera repertoire, Wagner’Äôs glorious Die Meistersinger, arranged as a lush 50-minute orchestral tone poem and given its first Canadian performance.

Some of the most lauded musicians in the world today appear with the ESO in The Classic Landmarks Masters series lineup next season. Jacques Lacombe, Jean-Marie Zeitouni, Giancarlo Guererro, Eri Klas, and of course Bill Eddins, all take to the podium to the lead the orchestra, while George Gao (erhu), cellist Julie Albers, violinists Karen Gomyo and Lara St. John, guitarist Manuel Barrueco, pianists Marc-Andrˆ© Hamelin and Katherine Chi, sopranos Dawn Upshaw, Laura Whalen and Lyne Fortin, and the Richard Eaton Singers all make guest appearances.

Audiences are invited to try something different next season. Late Night with Bill Eddins is all about being able to enjoy great music in a relaxed atmosphere. Taking place on two (2) Friday evenings at 9:30 pm, audiences can hear music of the masters in these spontaneous, intermission-free concerts. Following an evening celebrating Beethoven, and a springtime journey featuring the music of France, guests are also welcome to relax after the concert with some live music and cocktails in the lobby.

The ESO Presents is another new addition to the season lineup that will certainly appeal to all audiences. Working with some of today’Äôs brightest young musicians, the ESO will bring future stars on their way to the top right to the Winspear stage. These two (2) special concerts will feature debut artists in performance with the ESO in the first half, then in solo recitals in the second half. Dazzling pianist Gabriela Montero, who recently performed with former ESO Gala artist Yo-Yo Ma at the inauguration ceremony for President Barack Obama, will first perform Rachmaninoff’Äôs Piano Concerto No.2, then proceed to connect to her audience in a completely unique and powerful way through improvisational performance. Cameron Carpenter will make his brilliant Canadian debut in a performance you’Äôll have to see to believe, with breathtaking performances on the Davis Concert Organ.

Meet a soloist from the ESO and a young, imminent musician in our Sunday Showcase performances which blend timeless masterpieces and new discoveries. Sparkling suites, medieval magic, tango tradition, and an enchanting fusion of ballet and salon music, are all highlights of this series’Äô rich music programming. Mexican conductor Alondra de la Parra, renowned for her orchestral leadership and founding of the Philharmonic Orchestra of the Americas, will be joined by marimbist Pius Cheung. Young Canadian violinist Maia Cabeza and pianist Daniel Fung join conductor Bill Eddins.

The Midweek Classics series returns for its fourth season, as a sanctuary of beloved music from the heart of the baroque and classical repertoire. Providing audiences a refuge in the midst of their busy weeks, these four vibrant concerts interspersed throughout the season will feature soloists from the ESO, plus special guests including pianist Stewart Goodyear, soprano Simone Osborne and Edmonton organist Jeremy Spurgeon, performing a dramatic baroque concerto on the Davis Concert Organ. Jean-Marie Zeitouni, Lucas Waldin, and Bill Eddins all conduct colourful, inspiring, and groundbreaking showpieces, including Schubert’Äôs Unfinished Symphony and Mozart’Äôs Oboe Concerto in the Midweek Classics.

Accessibility continues to be the premise of the Robbins Lighter Classics series, as some of music’Äôs ’Äúgreatest hits’Äù are presented live on stage by the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra. These six Thursday evening themed concerts are hosted by engaging conductors including Bob Bernhardt, Bill Eddins, and Steven Reineke. Whether delving into the breadth of Celtic music, the treasure trove of Mozart, tapping into a rich vein of holiday sentiment, or celebrating athletic excellence through musical exuberance, this series will be an unforgettable musical journey for concertgoers. The ESO will be joined by soprano Jolaine Kerley, pianist Michael Massey, organist Jeremy Spurgeon, baritone Nathan Berg, pianist Sarah Ho, the Richard Eaton Singers, and the Knock School of Irish Dance.

The ESO is once again offering a remarkable lineup of Robbins Pops concerts. Pops master Jack Everly and an all-star cast of singers and dancers will kick-off this spectacular series with Disco Days and Boogie Nights, a tribute to the 70s featuring disco anthems, monster rock hits and classic ballads. Returning for a ghoulish evening of spine-tingling music is Bruce Hangen conducting Halloween: The Concert, while the ˆíran and Kokopelli Choirs join American pops legend Erich Kunzel to lead audiences down The Great White Way with Broadway’Äôs most recent hits. The excitement continues as violinist Roby Lakatos takes the passionate, hot-blooded tradition of gypsy music and creates musical fireworks as the ’Äúdevil’Äôs fiddler’Äù in an Eastern European feast for the senses. Rounding out this dazzling series will be the return of Edmonton-favourite Jack Everly with the Richard Eaton Singers performing a choral of classical and operatic treats, and Bill Eddins spending A Night at the Oscars, celebrating timeless cinematic music as film scenes are projected on a screen above the Winspear stage.

The Edmonton Symphony Orchestra prides itself on offering innovative programs for young audiences. The ESO’Äôs family series Symphony for Kids will offer four eclectic and interactive orchestral matinees, best enjoyed by children aged 5 ’Äì 12. Families are first invited to haunt the hall in their Halloween costumes for Spooktacular with conductor Bruce Hangen, then bring the wee lads and lasses back to embark on A Celtic Adventure with Bill Eddins. Families will need to help the orchestra restore the musical silence that has plagued the hometown of a little girl who loves to sing, in Dandi Productions’Äô The Mysterious Maestro, adapted from the 2003 Governor General’Äôs Award-nominated book The Maestro. Conductor Lucas Waldin and the ESO bring Mozart to life through his stories and most famous classical works, with a guest appearance by the genius himself!

However you celebrate the holiday season, the ESO presents the perfect blend of festive music to add that extra sparkle to one of the most magical times of the year. Our perennially popular performances of Handel’Äôs Messiah will feature four young Canadian singers and two of Edmonton’Äôs finest chamber choirs, University of Alberta Madrigal Singers and i Coristi Chamber Choir. In one of the most anticipated performances of the season, lustrous baritone Tyler Hamilton, along with the Greenwood Singers will create A Very Merry Pops with conductor Steven Reineke. Mr. Reineke and the ESO will also tap into a rich vein of holiday sentiment and memory with A Lightly Classical Christmas, and they will be joined by conductor Lucas Waldin and special guests in A Family Christmas Concert. The incredibly powerful and diverse voices of the Canadian Tenors will return to the Winspear Stage for an evening of holiday favourites.

Concluding the summer festival season in Edmonton is Sobeys Symphony Under the Sky. Taking place Labour Day weekend, September 4^th ’Äì 7^th, 2009, this annual festival is sure to delight concert-goers of all ages, by bringing the invigorating sounds of the ESO to the beautiful river valley setting of Hawrelak Park. Conductor Bob Bernhardt returns to lead the ESO in five outdoor concerts, showcasing classical masterpieces, operatic classics, and Hollywood favourites. Not to mention a tribute show to Old Blue Eyes himself, Frank Sinatra. Tchaikovsky’Äôs 1812 Overture, featuring the the guns and members of the Royal Canadian Artillery, will wrap up the festival in this tradition of grand proportions. Soprano Kathleen Brett, vocalist Steve Lippia, hometown favourite trumpeter Jens Lindemann, and Bill Eddins on piano are all part of the stellar lineup celebrating our festival’Äôs 15^th anniversary.

Purchasers of ESO subscription packages can save up to 36% percent off single ticket prices, depending on the series and the seating. Subscribers also have the opportunity to purchase single tickets to ESO concerts before they go on sale to the general public. Subscription prices have not been raised for the upcoming season.

Once again, the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra’Äôs innovative 2 for 1 New Subscriber Promotion will be offered for the upcoming season. This fantastic offer gives every new subscriber household the opportunity to purchase 2 subscriptions for the price of 1 in their first year. More subscriber information is available online at www.edmontonsymphony.com. The 2 for 1 subscription campaign is generously sponsored by Maclab Enterprises.

Subscription packages for the 2009-2010 season are on sale now.

Subscriber Single Tickets on sale & Sampler Pass redemption begins August 11^th.

Single tickets for the season go on sale to the general public on August 18^th.

For a full listing of the 2009-2010 season, please visit www.edmontonsymphony.com.

Victoria Symphony announces 2009-2010 season

Grammy-award winner James Ehnes headlines Victoria Symphony's 09/10 season!

Victoria, BC ’Äì On Friday, March 27, Music Director Tania Miller unveiled the Victoria Symphony’Äôs new season of concerts for 2009/10. Highlights include performances by acclaimed violinist James Ehnes and jazz vocalist Michael Kaeshammer and of masterworks such as Holst’Äôs The Planets, Bach’Äôs Magnificat and Rachmaninoff’Äôs Piano Concerto no. 3.

In front of an enthusiastic crowd of over 500 Victoria Symphony supporters, media and members of the arts community at the Royal Theatre, Maestra Miller, Conductor in Residence Giuseppe Pietraroia, trombonist Marcus Hissen and Concertmaster Terence Tam, presented personal highlights for the season.

The biggest announcement of the evening was that the Grammy-award winning violinist James Ehnes would appear with the Victoria Symphony in December and perform Beethoven’Äôs powerful Violin Concerto.

The return of the Canadian College of Performing Arts and the Victoria debut of renowned pops specialists Five By Design in the Beltone Pops series was met with much excitement. In addition, the orchestral debut performance of jazz pianist and vocalist Michael Kaeshammer with the Victoria Symphony is set to be one much anticipated concert in the season, as well as Charlie Chaplin’Äôs silent film City Lights which will be screened with orchestral accompaniment.

Maestra Tania Miller comments, ’ÄúWe are very proud of the series we’Äôve assembled this year and we will continue to connect and engage our audience. Many of our series show great strength in the music and the special guests we have this season. I’Äôm very excited that artists such as James Ehnes, Five By Design and the students of the CCPA will be joining us, as well as again working with homegrown talent such as the Victoria Choral Society and Nikki Chooi.’Äù

This season launch marks the Victoria Symphony’Äôs 69^th year and Tania Miller’Äôs 7^th year as Music Director. Conductors Alain Trudel, Giuseppe Pietraroia and Brian Jackson join Maestra Miller as the Victoria Symphony’Äôs artistic leaders.

The Victoria Symphony is Vancouver Island’Äôs largest and most active arts organization. It is committed to producing high quality live music, fostering new music and encouraging community involvement through music education. The 2009/10 season offers a diverse and exciting line-up of over 50 concerts led Tania Miller, its vibrant Music Director.

Symphony Nova Scotia

Symphony Nova Scotia announces its 2009-10 season

Halifax, NS ’Äì Symphony Nova Scotia is delighted to announce its 2009-10 concert season! This season the orchestra brings you more of the music you love ’Äì more classical heavyweights, more Canadian and Maritime content, and more of Nova Scotia’Äôs best artists and bands.

’ÄúWe enter our next quarter-century of music-making with a bang, and what a bang ’Äì from the complete Midsummer Night’Äôs Dream by Mendelssohn to ABBA!’Äù says Music Director Bernhard Gueller.

’ÄúWe are proud to present exciting and celebrated soloists in exciting and celebrated works. Our 2009-10 concerts include the Dvo‰ôˆ°k Festival, where we’Äôll perform his cello and violin concertos with the Eighth and Ninth symphonies. We will also welcome back Anton Kuerti, along with Suzie LeBlanc, JoAnn Falletta, John McDermott, Jeanne Lamon, Ashley MacIsaac, and Howard Cable.’Äù

Subscriptions are available now for 2009-10. Highlights include:

CELEBRITY SERIES: nine incredible classical music concerts

• The 2009-10 season kicks off with Mendelssohn’Äôs A Midsummer Night’Äôs Dream ’Äì complete with narrator and expanded orchestra ’Äì on the 200^th anniversary of the composer’Äôs birth.
• Canadian pianist extraordinaire Anton Kuerti joins the orchestra to perform Mozart’Äôs Piano Concerto K. 271.
• Audiences will have a rare opportunity to hear Schubert’Äôs Death and the Maiden, one of Maestro Gueller’Äôs personal favourites, arranged for full orchestra and conducted by JoAnn Falletta.
• And then, the annual composer festival continues with the music of Dvo‰ôˆ°k. Symphony Nova Scotia performs some of this brilliant composer’Äôs greatest works, including the New World Symphony and the beautiful Cello Concerto.

POPS SERIES: eight lively Trad and Maritime Pops performances

• Maestro Gueller conducts the greatest hits of ABBA with six-piece Finnish ensemble Rajaton.
• One of Canada’Äôs most exciting and innovative violinists, Owen Pallett (a.k.a. Final Fantasy), joins the orchestra as part of the Halifax Pop Explosion.
• Howard Cable calls big band music the ’Äúmost memorable and evocative sounds of the 20^th century.’Äù He conducts a huge salute to the ’Äúswing years’Äù with Peter Appleyard in Symphonic Swing.
• Local favourites and ECMA-winners like Jenn Grant, David Myles, and MIR light up the Maritime Pops series.

BAROQUE SERIES: three exquisite concerts in an intimate venue, plus Handel’Äôs Dublin Messiah

• Tafelmusik’Äôs incomparable Jeanne Lamon joins the orchestra once again to perform selections from the Baroque masters, including Bach’Äôs Wedding Cantata and Handel’Äôs brilliant Concerto Grosso.
• Virtuoso violinist David Greenberg performs ’ÄúDelirium Amoris’Äù ’Äì a concert full of the most passionate Baroque music ever written.
• The orchestra performs Bach’Äôs magnificent Mass in b minor for the first time in more than a decade.
• Baroque specialist Kevin Mallon conducts Handel’Äôs Dublin Messiah. To honour the 250^th anniversary of Handel’Äôs death, the orchestra will perform the original version of Messiah.

SYMPHONY SUNDAYS: this matinee series returns with three encore performances

• Symphony Nova Scotia’Äôs principal oboist Suzanne Lemieux performs one of the most beautiful pieces in the oboe repertoire, Strauss’Äô Oboe Concerto.
• Irish tenor John McDermott will warm the heart with beloved favourites from years gone by.
• Hear a concert of contrasts as Janina Fialkowska joins the orchestra for a performance featuring both Chopin and Beethoven.

AND MORE’Ķ

• DRUM! comes to the Symphony this fall. Symphony Nova Scotia teams up with this incredible production to create a show-stopping DRUM! extravaganza.
• The All-Ages (formerly Family) concerts include our annual holiday hit The Nutcracker, along with Holly’Äôs Magic Brush, a very special multisensory concert for adults and children and everyone in between.
• The Nova Scotia Youth Orchestra joins Symphony Nova Scotia for a performance of three spectacular works by Rachmaninoff, Ravel, and Britten.

A brochure describing Symphony Nova Scotia’Äôs 2009-10 season is available by calling the box office at 494.3820 or 1.800.874.1669, or by visiting the Symphony Nova Scotia website at http://www.symphonynovascotia.ca/.

Single tickets for Symphony Nova Scotia’Äôs 2009-10 season go on sale August 1, 2009. Subscriptions ’Äì including U-Pick subscriptions ’Äì are available now.

Subscribers receive a host of rewards, including savings of up to 30%, the best available seats in the house, a free open rehearsal pass, free e-programs, and an exclusive subscriber rewards card. And if you're under 30, you can save even more ’Äì up to 60% ’Äì with the Symphony's Under-30 U-Pick.

To purchase a subscription, call 494.3820 or 1.800.874.1669 today!

About Symphony Nova Scotia
Symphony Nova Scotia is Nova Scotia’Äôs orchestra ’Äì and we play the music Nova Scotians love, from baroque and classical to pop and rock and folk. Each year our 37-member ensemble performs for more than 40,000 audience members (including 14,000 young music lovers) in communities across Nova Scotia. Under the inspirational leadership of Bernhard Gueller, Symphony Nova Scotia is recognized as one of the finest orchestras in the country. Join us in 2009-10!

Symphony Nova Scotia is grateful to the Canada Council for the Arts, Nova Scotia Tourism, Culture, and Heritage, and the Halifax Regional Municipality for their continued support.