2015 -16 SEASON This world is but a canvas to our imagination. ~Henry David Thoreau
REFLECTIONS: THE SPIRIT OF BOULDER
Welcome to the 2015-16 Season
Photo: Rene Palmer Cover Photo: Glenn Ross Photo
Dear friends, This is an exciting time for your Boulder Philharmonic—multiple live broadcasts on Colorado Public Radio, a prestigious grant from New Music USA, and an invitation to bring our unique approach to programming and community engagement to the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC, for the inaugural SHIFT Festival in 2017! We continue to embrace the spirit of what makes our community special in our 2015-16 season, Reflections: The Spirit of Boulder. Welcoming an unprecedented array of collaborative partners, we will explore the gamut of great music from Baroque masterpieces to world premieres. Featured guests include superstars like pianist Gabriela Montero and violinist Anne Akiko Meyers, along with our own Charles Wetherbee (in a concerto written especially for him), award-winning Colorado film composer Charles Denler and renowned photographer John Fielder. We celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Boulder Chorale and feature our colleagues at Boulder Ballet in a fully staged version of Copland’s Rodeo, in addition to our beloved annual Nutcracker performances. Our season reaches a stirring culmination with Boulder and Denver performances of Bach’s immortal St. Matthew Passion in a dramatic staged setting presented in collaboration with Central City Opera, Boulder Bach Festival and the CU College of Music Choruses. Cutting-edge composer Missy Mazzoli (“Brooklyn’s post-millennial Mozart”) joins us for a week-long residency, and we present the brilliant singer-guitarist Josh Ritter (“one of the 100 greatest living songwriters”) for a very special evening in October. The amazing acrobats of Cirque de la Symphonie bring their all-new show to Boulder for two performances in April, and Christmas with the Phil helps ring in the holidays for three performances in December. Anchoring the season are masterpieces by Rachmaninoff, Mendelssohn, Ravel, Brahms, Bernstein, Shostakovich, Tchaikovsky, Copland and Bach. All year long, we can count on our superb musicians to deliver polished and impassioned performances. We simply love what we do. Playing for enthusiastic audiences in a beautiful hall in one of the most remarkable communities in the country is a great privilege, and we thank you for making us your orchestra!
MICHAEL BUTTERMAN, MUSIC DIRECTOR
Opening Night SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2015 7 PM Macky Auditorium, Boulder Boulder Philharmonic Orchestra Michael Butterman, conductor
RAVEL Mother Goose Suite FUJIWARA The Storyteller Charles Wetherbee, violin RACHMANINOFF Piano Concerto No. 2 Gabriela Montero, piano For our opening concert, we begin with Ravel’s whimsical Mother Goose Suite. Then our concertmaster Chas Wetherbee plays Korine Fujiwara’s The Storyteller, a contemporary concerto based on Japanese folk tales, written for Chas by the composer. The evening culminates with Rachmaninoff’s spectacular Piano Concerto No. 2, one of the most popular works in the classical music repertoire. Pianist Gabriela Montero is known for her visionary interpretations and unique improvisational gifts. This concert will be broadcast live on Colorado Public Radio, 88.1 FM and 99.9 FM in Boulder. Listen online at www.cpr.org.
“There are not many artists about whom it can truly be said that their talent borders on genius...” ~ConcertoNet
“Montero’s playing has everything: crackling rhythmic brio, subtle shadings, steely power in climactic moments, soulful lyricism in the ruminative passages and, best of all, unsentimental expressivity.” ~The New York Times Special preview concert on Sept. 12 in Highlands Ranch. See program at www.BoulderPhil.org.
EVEN T O F N O TE
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An intimate house recital with Gabriela Montero on Sept. 10, see Events of Note page
Photo: Shelley Mosman
Josh Ritter Special Add-On Event
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2015 7:30 PM Macky Auditorium, Boulder Boulder Philharmonic Orchestra Gary Lewis, principal guest conductor
We are pleased to present American singer-songwriter Josh Ritter and the Royal City Band, accompanied by the Boulder Phil.
“He sets out to carry a world of ideas on a few basic chords... there is no limit to the depth and ambition of his songs.” ~The New York Times
“How refreshing and inspiring it is to encounter a young artist whose achievements match his ambitions.” ~Washington Post
Josh Ritter has released several critically-acclaimed studio albums and has recently been named one of the 100 greatest living songwriters by Paste Magazine, alongside Dylan, Springsteen, and Neil Young. He and his band have performed sold out concerts with the backing of the Boston Pops, New York Pops and others. This concert with the Phil marks the first time Ritter has performed with a symphony orchestra in the western part of the United States—a rare and special event.
Photo: Laura Wilson
ORDER TICKETS NOW! www.BoulderPhil.org 303.449.1343 ext. 2
It’s not what you look at that matters, it’s what you see. ~Thoreau
Portraits in Season SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2015 7:30 PM Macky Auditorium, Boulder Boulder Philharmonic Orchestra Michael Butterman, conductor BRAHMS
Schicksalslied (“Song of Destiny”) Boulder Chorale, in celebration of its 50th anniversary
DENLER
Portraits in Season WORLD PREMIERE Charles Denler, piano based on poetry and essays by Henry David Thoreau, with projected images by nature photographer John Fielder
BRAHMS
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Photo: John Fielder
Symphony No. 2
Though they never met, Brahms and Thoreau were surely kindred spirits. The composer and the philosopher-poet were both inspired by the natural world and mankind’s relationship to it. This concert’s centerpiece is a world premiere by Emmy Award-winning composer Charles Denler based on Thoreau’s naturalist writings and featuring the iconic photography of the legendary John Fielder. We also celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Boulder Chorale with Brahms’s Song of Destiny and conclude with the composer’s life-affirming Symphony No. 2.
The Nutcracker with Boulder Ballet Special Add-On Event
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 2015—2 PM SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2015—2 PM and 7 PM SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2015—2 PM Macky Auditorium, Boulder Boulder Philharmonic Orchestra Gary Lewis, principal guest conductor
This Thanksgiving weekend, the curtain rises on a brand-new look for America’s favorite ballet, brought to life by Boulder Ballet and the Boulder Phil, with special guests, the Boulder Children’s Chorale. Make your plans now for this thrilling and heart-warming spectacle, all performed to Tchaikovsky’s masterful score.
All new scenery in 2015! Photo: Sue Daniels
Christmas with the Phil Special Add-On Event
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2015—2 PM
Mountain View United Methodist Church, Boulder
MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2015—6:30 PM Vilar Performing Arts Center, Beaver Creek
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2015—7:30 PM Lone Tree Arts Center
Boulder Philharmonic Orchestra Gary Lewis, principal guest conductor
BERLIOZ ARR. BY DAVIS MANFREDINI HANDEL
Overture to L’enfance du Christ Stille Nacht and Bring a Torch, Jeannette, Isabella (from Manheim Steamroller) Concerto Grosso in C Major, “Pastorale per il Santissimo Natale” Messiah (Christmas section) Jennifer Bird-Arvidsson, soprano; Abigail Nims, alto; Michael Hoffman, tenor; Ashraf Sewailam, bass Boulder Bach Festival Chorus Zachary Carrettin, music director
ORDER TICKETS NOW! www.BoulderPhil.org 303.449.1343 ext. 2
Photo: Glenn Ross Photo
Dance, American Style
SATURDAY, JANUARY 16, 2016—7:30 PM
Macky Auditorium, Boulder Boulder Philharmonic Orchestra, Michael Butterman, conductor
A collaborative performance with Boulder Ballet
Photo: Keith Bobo
SCHUMAN BERNSTEIN COPLAND COPLAND
New England Triptych Symphonic Dances from West Side Story Prairie Night, Waltz and Celebration Dance from Billy the Kid Rodeo (complete ballet)
East meets West in this celebration of Americana. First, William Schuman channels colonial-era composer William Billings in the haunting New England Triptych and Leonard Bernstein embraces the cultural melting pot of New York City in his Symphonic Dances from West Side Story. After intermission, we hear Aaron Copland’s take on the legendary outlaw Billy the Kid and see his evocation of life in the rural West as Boulder Ballet brings us a fully-staged version of his iconic ballet, Rodeo.
Spheres of Influence FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2016 7:30 PM
EVEN T O F N O TE
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Luncheon with Anne Akiko Meyers and Missy Mazzoli on Feb. 11, see Events of Note page
Macky Auditorium, Boulder Boulder Philharmonic Orchestra Michael Butterman, conductor
MISSY MAZZOLI Sinfonia (for Orbiting Spheres) a Music Alive Composer Residency SHOSTAKOVICH Symphony No. 9 TCHAIKOVSKY Mozartiana MENDELSSOHN Violin Concerto
Anne Akiko Meyers, violin
Every creation is indebted to the works that precede it. In this concert, we explore influential forebears as we hear music of Tchaikovsky based on his idol, Mozart, and music of Shostakovich with a Haydnesque flair. Missy Mazzoli’s Sinfonia (for Orbiting Spheres) pays homage to Baroque techniques, and superstar violinist Anne Akiko Meyers offers her take on Mendelssohn’s beloved Violin Concerto—an early Romantic work steeped in Classical period tradition.
MIS S Y MAZZOLI
“One of the more consistently inventive, surprising composers now working in New York” ~The New York Times
“Violinist Anne Akiko Meyers is one of the most adventurous soloists on the international scene today.” ~Chicago Classical Inset Photo: Steven Taylor Main Photo: Molina Visuals
Cirque de la Symphonie part of a 6-concert package
SATURDAY, APRIL 2, 2016 2 PM AND 7:30 PM Macky Auditorium, Boulder Boulder Philharmonic Orchestra Michael Butterman, conductor
The magic of the circus returns with fresh, new acts by aerial fliers, strongmen, acrobats, jugglers and contortionists sharing the stage with the Boulder Phil. This was an extremely popular, sold-out event when Cirque de la Symphonie last appeared with the Boulder Phil. Adults and children alike greatly enjoy this visual entertainment extravaganza featuring high-energy classical music.
ORDER TICKETS NOW! www.BoulderPhil.org 303.449.1343 ext. 2
“A unique human achievement, a synthesis of art and athleticism” “A breath-taking display of agility and incomparable beauty”
Season Finale: St. Matthew Passion SATURDAY, APRIL 23, 2016 7 PM Macky Auditorium, Boulder
SUNDAY, APRIL 24, 2016 2 PM
Central Presbyterian Church, Denver
Boulder Philharmonic Orchestra Michael Butterman, conductor
A SEMI-STAGED PRODUCTION WITH CENTRAL CITY OPERA, BOULDER BACH FESTIVAL AND CU COLLEGE OF MUSIC CHORUSES
J.S. BACH St. Matthew Passion Bach never wrote an opera, yet his St. Matthew Passion is as theatrical and dramatically paced as anything ever presented on an operatic stage. In an unprecedented collaboration, the Boulder Phil, along with Central City Opera, Boulder Bach Festival and the CU College of Music present a semi-staged realization of this masterpiece—a very human drama that examines core matters of faith, spirituality and life itself.
“The contrapuntal combination of the three different choruses is thrilling. There is nothing like it in all music." ~Leonard Bernstein
NEW SUBSCRIBERS (5 OR 6 CONCERTS) GET 50% OFF SINGLE TICKET PRICES! SAVE 10% WITH 3- OR 4-CONCERT CREATE-YOUR-OWN PACKAGES!
Photo: Glenn Ross Photo
Experience More with the Phil CAFÉ PHIL FREE OPEN REHEARSALS
Dairy Center of the Arts 2590 Walnut Street, Boulder Watch up-close as Music Director Michael Butterman works with the professional musicians of the Boulder Phil to bring the music MICHAEL YOPP, PRINCIPAL HORN to life! Drinks are available for purchase and may be brought into the Performance Space with you. Come and go as you please! Please note: open rehearsals feature the orchestra only; guest soloists are not present on these evenings.
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9—7:30-10 PM WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11—7:30-10 PM TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9—7:30-10 PM On Feb. 9, see the newly renovated Dairy unveiled—with special guest, Music Alive Composer-in-Residence Missy Mazzoli.
Photos: Glenn Ross Photo
CafÉ phill
PRE-CONCERT TALKS AT MACKY
FREE insights on the evening’s program with a variety of speakers, including our guest artists and Music Director Michael Butterman. For the 2015-16 season, pre-concert talks will be held at Macky prior to the performances on: SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13—6 PM SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14—6:30 PM SATURDAY, JANUARY 16—6:30 PM FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 12—6:30 PM SATURDAY, APRIL 23—6 PM Macky Auditorium is located on the CU-Boulder campus at 17th St. and University Ave. For directions and parking info, visit www.BoulderPhil.org. Watch for details on more FREE events, including our subscriber appreciation party and season announcement event in the spring!
Events of Note e BOULDER PHIL FANFARE 2015
Portraits in Season THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2015 6-9 PM Rembrandt Yard, Downtown Boulder Our signature annual gala event will feature fresh, local, farm-to-table cuisine from Arugula Ristorante, Black Cat Farm~Table~Bistro, Escoffier School of Culinary Arts, Riffs Urban Fare, Sage & Savory Catering, Shine Restaurant & Gathering Place and Spruce Farm & Fish. Liquor Mart and Vodka 14 are providing fine wine and spirits. Entertainment to include a musical performance by Boulder Phil Concertmaster Chas Wetherbee and special guests. Tickets are $150/person. All proceeds to support the artistic and education programs of the Boulder Philharmonic.
These fun, musical evenings are quickly becoming the talk of the town, and they usually do sell out! These special occasions bring together music lovers and our acclaimed guest artists, all while supporting the Phil’s artistic and education programs. House Recital with Pianist Gabriela Montero Thursday, September 10, 7-9 PM at a private home in Boulder $75/person, a portion of which is tax-deductible Luncheon with Violinist Anne Akiko Meyers and Composer Missy Mazzoli Thursday, February 11 (details TBA) Tickets for Fanfare and Events of Note can be purchased online at www.BoulderPhil.org or by calling 303.449.1343 x2.
Education Programs The Boulder Philharmonic believes that live orchestral music is for everyone and is committed to providing a wide array of opportunities for people throughout our community to encounter the life-enriching power of classical music. We are one of 200 American orchestras to participate in a national effort to support in-school music education. We're committed to taking community-specific action to improve access to music education in schools through performances, partnerships and advocacy. • DISCOVERY CONCERTS introduce 4th and 5th graders throughout the Boulder Valley School District and beyond to live symphonic music. Using a tailored Curriculum Guide that complements their core music curriculum, educators prepare students for the 50-minute interactive performance at Macky Auditorium—an experience that many students describe as “the best field trip of the year!” • “MICHAEL BUTTERMAN GOES TO SCHOOL” VISITS are a key part of the Phil’s Discovery Concert program, as our music director visits classrooms to introduce students to musical concepts, instrument families, music appreciation skills, and more. • SIDE-BY-SIDE YOUTH CONCERTS feature talented young musicians from Greater Boulder Youth Orchestras alongside professional musicians from the Boulder Phil, who provide valuable mentorship to these students as they rehearse and perform together. • YOUNG ARTIST CONCERTO COMPETITION is open to all young musicians in Colorado, who compete for an opportunity to perform as a soloist with the Phil. • $5 STUDENT TICKETS to every Masterworks concert make attendance easy for young people, up to and including college students! Phone or walk-up sales only. For more info on how the Boulder Phil supports our community with these programs, visit www.BoulderPhil.org.
Musical Hikes City of Boulder Open Space & Mountain Parks (OSMP) and the Boulder Phil created an ongoing “Nature & Music” collaboration to connect community members with the natural world through music. This inventive partnership includes guided musical hikes designed to complement specific works to be performed by the Boulder Phil.
Visit www.BoulderPhil.org for details.
Ways to Support Us • DONATE NOW—The next time you enter Macky Auditorium to enjoy a Boulder Phil concert, take a moment to imagine what it takes to put on meaningful performances by talented professional musicians in a grand concert hall. Imagine that for every person you see who has bought a ticket, someone else needed to match that ticket purchase with a donation! Ticket sales cover only half of the cost of making the Boulder Phil a center of cultural vibrancy in our community. By making a donation in addition to the price of your concert tickets, you are making a significant contribution to the Phil’s overall success. • FRIENDS OF THE PHIL—Whether you have a passion for percussion or celebrate the strings, you know that the individual musicians that comprise the Boulder Phil are what make the organization shine. Highlight that connection and have a lasting impact on the Boulder Phil’s future by pledging to support a musician in the orchestra through our Friends of the Phil multi-year pledge initiative. • SPONSOR A BOULDER PHIL CONCERT OR EVENT—We offer an array of tailored sponsorship opportunities that provide exclusive benefits throughout the season. By partnering with the Boulder Phil, our sponsors enhance image and awareness, communicate key messages to a passionate audience, and leverage the orchestra’s close connection to its community. • PLANNED GIVING—Manage your assets while providing lasting financial support to the Phil’s mission through a bequest, charitable gift annuity or other options. • VOLUNTEER—We are in need of volunteers to help with a variety of ongoing opportunities both in the office and at events. • SHARE US ON FACEBOOK—Keep up with the Boulder Phil on Facebook (www.facebook.com/boulderphil), while helping us reach others in your circle through social media. For more information, contact Exec. Director Kevin Shuck at 303.449.1343 x3 or kshuck@boulderphil.org.
“The Boulder Phil delivers the beauty of live music and the arts, adding variety and providing meaning to the community.” ~A Boulder Phil patron
Photo: Glenn Ross Photo
Your Phil Goes to DC... The Boulder Philharmonic Orchestra has been chosen to participate in the new weeklong SHIFT Festival, taking place at the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC, from March 27 through April 2, 2017. This inaugural, high-profile music festival showcases four orchestras and provides a national platform to celebrate creativity and community engagement. The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, North Carolina Symphony, and the Brooklyn-based ensemble, The Knights, chosen from a pool of submissions from orchestras across North America, will also be participating. More details on the Boulder Phil’s involvement in this signature event will be forthcoming.
“I am thrilled and honored that we’ve been selected to perform in our nation’s capital alongside some of the finest orchestras in the country... By connecting people to orchestral music, the Boulder Phil strives to be an essential part of our community's cultural fabric. We couldn’t be more delighted to share what’s working so well in Boulder with those involved in the first SHIFT Festival.” ~Music Director Michael Butterman
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Photo: Glenn Ross Photo
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Photo: Glenn Ross Photo
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