Virginia Symphony Orchestra 2017-2018 Season by Virginia Symphony Orchestra

David Beloff Photography

2017- 18 Season 2017- 18 Season Catalog

JoAnn Falletta, Music Director

WELCOME TO THE 2017-18 SEASON! One of lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s greatest thrills is to experience live music passionately performed by an extraordinary orchestra in an exceptional concert hall.

Once again, we invite you to hear the brilliant artistry of the Virginia Symphony Orchestra as we bring you the music you love and offer you the chance to discover new works to adore. From Bach to Elvis, treat yourself to our 97th season of energizing and inspiring music!

WHY SUBSCRIBE?

For You.

Savings, discounts, guaranteed seating and flexible exchangesâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;all the reasons you need to subscribe today. Plus, we offer a wide range of subscription packages designed to fit any schedule!

For the Music. Under the leadership of Grammy Award-winning Music Director JoAnn Falletta, the VSO is one of the finest orchestras in America and is the only full-time professional orchestra in all of Southeastern Virginia.

For the Community and the Future. We strive to create and provide transformational experiences that will last a lifetime. From electrifying mainstage concerts to a variety of educational activities, the VSO positively affects the lives of more than 100,000 concert goers and 45,000 students and lifelong learners each year.

Welcome SUBSCRIBER BENEFITS

With a subscription to the Virginia Symphony Orchestra, you’ll enjoy a range of valuable subscriber-only benefits, including:

GREAT SAVINGS Receive the best savings on season tickets. Plus, save 10% on additional ticket purchases to other concerts.

PRIORITY AND GUARANTEED SEATING Your seats are guaranteed. Each season you’re given the first option to renew or upgrade your current seats. You’ll get the best-available seats for every concert—even concerts that are sold out!

FREE TICKET EXCHANGES Can’t make the show? Don’t worry! Subscribers can exchange tickets for another concert during the current season. Simply call our Patron Services team 48 hours in advance of the performance. Certain restrictions may apply.

EXCLUSIVE PRE-SALE OPPORTUNITIES As a subscriber, you’ll receive priority access to special concerts before they go on sale to the general public.

SUBSCRIBE EASILY Choose the option that’s best for you! CALL: 757.892.6366 for the VSO Box Office CLICK: www.virginiasymphony.org/subscriptions VISIT: Come to the VSO Box Office anytime Monday–Friday from 9AM–4:30PM

DONORS MAKE A DIFFERENCE DONATE TODAY! Please indicate the amount of your contribution when you make a ticket purchase, give online at virginiasymphony.org/donate or call our development office at 757.213.1417.

or stop by the VSO table in the lobby during your next concert.

For groups of 10+, call 757-213-1436.

David Beloff Photography

CLASSICS

8-CONCERT SERIES | NEWPORT NEWS NORFOLK | VIRGINIA BEACH

FROM A FIVE-TIME GRAMMY WINNER TO HOLST’S THE PLANETS!

Fri., Sept. 22, 2017 | 8PM | Ferguson Center for the Arts, Newport News Sat., Sept. 23, 2017 | 8PM | Chrysler Hall, Norfolk Sun., Sept. 24, 2017 | 2:30PM | Sandler Center for the Performing Arts, Virginia Beach

Under the leadership of GRAMMY-winning Music Director, JoAnn Falletta, the Virginia Symphony Orchestra is Virginia’s pre-eminent professional symphony orchestra with a mission of inspiring, educating and connecting audiences of all ages, reaching more than 100,000 concert-goers every year. The VSO impacts 45,000 students and lifelong learners annually. The VSO has performed at Carnegie Hall and the Kennedy Center and is the cornerstone of the performing arts in Virginia. Enhance your experience with

BEHIND THE NOTES

JoAnn Falletta, conductor Victor Wooten, bass Women of the VSO Chorus Robert Shoup, chorusmaster

Five-time Grammy award-winning bassist and a graduate of Denbigh High in Newport News, Victor Wooten performs The Bass Whisperer, co-written by Conni Ellisor and Victor Wooten. Named one of the “Top 10 Bassists of All Time” by Rolling Stone, Wooten has been the bassist for Béla Fleck and the Flecktones since the group’s formation in 1988. From the mighty Mars to the cinematic Jupiter, Holst’s The Planets has inspired sci-fi movie music for generations! In celebration of NASA Langley’s 100th anniversary, join the Virginia Symphony Orchestra as we take a dazzling trip through the galaxy.

Meet the artists and discover the orchestra experience from a new perspective during Behind the Notes, a pre-concert talk hosted by Music Director JoAnn Falletta or guest conductor. These casual presentations give you a special look at the music of the day as well as the music-makers themselves. An informative way to learn about the music before your orchestral experience. One hour before each Classics Concert.

Free to all ticket holders!

virginiasymphony.org 757.892.6366

Randall Svane: Quantum Flight Conni Ellisor: The Bass Whisperer Holst: The Planets

Victor Wooten

Classics Simone Dinnerstein

FROM THE MUSIC OF BACH TO THE REFORMATION SYMPHONY

Fri., Nov. 3, 2017 | 8PM | Ferguson Center for the Arts, Newport News Sat., Nov. 4, 2017 | 8PM | Chrysler Hall, Norfolk Sun., Nov. 5, 2017 | 2:30PM | Sandler Center for the Performing Arts, Virginia Beach Benjamin Rous, conductor Simone Dinnerstein, piano Virginia Symphony Orchestra Chorus Robert Shoup, chorusmaster

Bach: Cantata No. 80 (Ein feste Burg ist unser Gott) Bach: Keyboard Concerto No. 1 Bach/Webern: A Musical Offering (Ricercare) Mendelssohn: Reformation Symphony

We mark the 500th Anniversary of the Reformation by presenting one of Mendelssohn’s grandest symphonies, one written “to celebrate the Church Revolution,” together with the piece that inspired it – Bach’s Cantata No. 80. We will hear a wonderful keyboard concerto from Bach’s hand, performed by the renowned international star and best-selling pianist Simone Dinnerstein in her first performances ever in Hampton Roads.

HANDEL’S MESSIAH David Beloff Photography

THE BEST OF WAGNER’S RING CYCLE Fri., Oct. 20, 2017 | 8PM | Ferguson Center for the Arts, Newport News Sat., Oct. 21, 2017 | 8PM | Chrysler Hall, Norfolk Sun., Oct. 22, 2017 | 2:30PM | Sandler Center for the Performing Arts, Virginia Beach JoAnn Falletta, conductor

Wagner: The Ring

Wagner’s 15-hour Ring Cycle is to opera what The Lord of the Rings is to literature and film! The Ring includes some of the most scintillating music ever written – join us as JoAnn Falletta and a special guest narrator weave this timeless fairy tale into a single magical evening of love, greed, revenge and jealousy in both the human and godly realms!

Fri., Dec. 15, 2017 | 8PM

First Baptist Church, Newport News

Sat., Dec. 16, 2017 | 8PM Harrison Opera House, Norfolk

Sponsored by Adam Turner, conductor Virginia Symphony Orchestra Chorus Robert Shoup, chorusmaster Handel: Messiah

Adam Turner conducts the Virginia Symphony Orchestra for the timehonored Christmas tradition of George Frideric Handel’s revered oratorio, Messiah. Get in the spirit of the season with this distinguished performance of Handel’s sacred masterpiece that presents the austere and dramatic narrative of the Messiah. From Isaiah’s prophecies to the Hallelujah Chorus, you will be brought to your feet in the Messiah performance of the season. * Programs, artists, dates, venues and prices are subject to change.

CLASSICS

Cla

8-CONCERT SERIES | NEWPORT NEWS | NORFOLK | VIRGINIA BEACH

A ROMAN HOLIDAY

Fri., Jan. 19, 2018 | 8PM | Ferguson Center for the Arts, Newport News Sat., Jan. 20, 2018 | 8PM | Chrysler Hall, Norfolk Sun., Jan. 21, 2018 | 2:30PM | Sandler Center for the Performing Arts, Virginia Beach JoAnn Falletta, conductor Tianwa Yang, violin

Gabrieli: Canzon à 12 Beethoven: Violin Concerto in D Major Mascagni: Intermezzo from Cavalleria Rusticana Respighi: Roman Festivals

Share the warmth of the seven hills of Rome as the Orchestra features Respighi’s powerful Roman Festivals, the third in his popular “Roman Trilogy” of orchestral favorites. This enchanting concert includes Beethoven’s beloved Violin Concerto performed by soloist Tianwa Yang, and the beautiful Intermezzo from Cavelleria Rusticana is one of those timeless pieces you never forget.

Prisca Benoît

CLASSICS FROM CHOPIN AND BRAHMS Fri., Feb. 23, 2018 | 8PM | Ferguson Center for the Arts, Newport News Sat., Feb. 24, 2018 | 8PM | Chrysler Hall, Norfolk Sun., Feb. 25, 2018 | 2:30PM | Sandler Centerfor thePerformingArts, VirginiaBeach JoAnn Falletta, conductor Prisca Benoît, piano

Stravinsky: Funeral Song Chopin: Piano Concerto No. 2 Brahms: Symphony No. 1

Concert Sponser

“The best of my works before The Firebird,” is how Stravinsky remembered Funeral Song. Join JoAnn Falletta and the Orchestra for Stravinsky’s Funeral Song, rediscovered in 2015 at the St. Petersburg Conservatory, and Brahms’ magnificent Symphony No. 1. Chopin’s moving and inspired Piano Concerto No. 2 rounds out the program while highlighting the talents of French pianist Prisca Benoît, known for her refined touch and powerful sound. 6

Tianwa Yang

assics Michael Laubach & Robert Cross

SCHEHERAZADE AND A PHILIP GLASS FANTASY

Fri., March 9, 2018 | 8PM | Ferguson Center for the Arts, Newport News Sat., March 10, 2018 | 8PM | L. Douglas Wilder Performing Arts Center, Norfolk Sun., March 11, 2018 | 2:30PM | Sandler Center for the Performing Arts, Virginia Beach Barber: Adagio for Strings Philip Glass: Concerto Fantasy for Two Timpanists and Orchestra Rimsky-Korsakov: Scheherazade

Eric Jacobsen, conductor Michael Laubach, timpani Robert Cross, timpani

Join guest conductor Eric Jacobsen (conductor and co-founder of the out-ofthe-box orchestral ensemble The Knights) for a contemporary masterwork by Philip Glass, featuring two of the VSO’s beloved principal players, Michael Laubach and Robert Cross. This performance will thrill audiences in substance and style with its fantasy for two timpanists. Scheherazade is the musical portrayal of a story from One Thousand and One Nights in which the Persian queen Scheherazade saves her own life through cunning story-telling.

CARMINA BURANA PLUS A WORLD PREMIERE! Fri., April 6, 2018 | 8PM

Ferguson Center for the Arts, Newport News

Sat., April 7, 2018 | 8PM Chrysler Hall, Norfolk

Sun., April 8, 2018 | 2:30PM

Sandler Center for the Performing Arts, Virginia Beach JoAnn Falletta, conductor Virginia Symphony Orchestra Chorus Robert Shoup, chorusmaster The ODU Diehn Chorale Virginia Children’s Chorus

Michael Daugherty: Concerto for Orchestra (World premiere) Orff: Carmina Burana

The VSO’s Classics season closes with one of the most recognizable works of all time – Carmina Burana. Based on 24 of the poems found in the medieval collection Carmina Burana, this 20th-century choral masterpiece has been heard countless times in film, television and even at professional sporting events. Also on this dynamic program is a world premiere of Michael Daugherty’s Concerto for Orchestra, commissioned by Susan and David Goode and inspired by the steam locomotive photography of O. Winston Link. Our partners for this production include the Virginia Museum of Transportation and the O. Winston Link Museum in Roanoke.

Norfolk Classics Series Sponsor

Package Dates Newport News

Ferguson Center for the Arts – All concerts at 8PM Friday, September 22, 2017 Friday, October 20, 2017 Friday, November 3, 2017 Friday, December 15, 2017 – First Baptist Church of Newport News Friday, January 19, 2018 Friday, February 23, 2018 Friday, March 9, 2018 Friday, April 6, 2018

Norfolk

Chrysler Hall – All concerts at 8PM Saturday, September 23, 2017 Saturday, October 21, 2017 Saturday, November 4, 2017 Saturday, December 16, 2017 – Harrison Opera House Saturday, January 20, 2018 Saturday, February 24, 2018 Saturday, March 10, 2018 – L. Douglas Wilder Performing Arts Center Saturday, April 7, 2018

Virginia Beach

Sandler Center for the Performing Arts – All concerts at 2:30PM Sunday, September 24, 2017 Sunday, October 22, 2017 Sunday, November 5, 2017 Sunday, December 10, 2017 – HOLIDAY POPS at 7PM Sunday, January 21, 2018 Sunday, February 25, 2018 Sunday, March 11, 2018 Sunday, April 8, 2018

Subscription Packages

Individual Tickets

Pricing Box A B C D

$765* $531 $404 $310 $176

Box A B C D

$110* $76 $59 $42 $25

*Box seats are not available at the Sandler Center for the Performing Arts. Subscription prices include fees. Individual ticket fees are applied at the time of purchase.

virginiasymphony.org | 757.892.6366 Programs, artists, dates, venues and prices are subject to change.

REGENT UNIVERSITY CLASSICS SERIES

Sponsored by

Regent University Classics Series 4-Concert Package Subscription Pricing A $156 B $90 Individual Tickets A $45 B $25

Williamsburg Classics Series 4-Concert Package Subscription Pricing A $221 B $156 C $90 Individual Tickets A $65 B $45 C $25 Subscription prices include fees. Individual ticket fees are applied at the time of purchase.

COPLAND’S CLARINET CONCERTO Sat., Oct. 14, 2017 | 8PM

Regent University, Virginia Beach JoAnn Falletta, conductor Michael Byerly, clarinet Respighi: Botticelli Triptych Copland: Clarinet Concerto Brahms: Serenade No. 2 in A Major

BEETHOVEN’S SYMPHONY NO. 2 Sat., Nov. 11, 2017 | 8PM

Regent University, Virginia Beach JoAnn Falletta, conductor Aundi Marie Moore, soprano Kodály: Dances of Galanta Barber: Knoxville, Summer of 1915 Beethoven: Symphony No. 2 in D Major

HANDEL’S MESSIAH

Thurs., Dec. 14, 2017 | 8PM Regent University, Virginia Beach

Adam Turner, conductor Virginia Symphony Orchestra Chorus Robert Shoup, chorusmaster Handel: Messiah

MUSICAL GENIUS “SQUARED” Fri., May 18, 2018 | 8PM

Regent University, Virginia Beach Benjamin Rous, conductor

virginiasymphony.org 757.892.6366

Mozart: Overture to Don Giovanni Mozart: Symphony No. 35, Haffner Copland: Appalachian Spring Copland: “Hoe-Down” from Rodeo

The 2017-18 Regent Classics series opens with Respighi’s Botticelli Triptych, a marvelous and colorful piece inspired by Italian artist Sandro Botticelli’s Early Renaissance paintings. Hear Principal Clarinet Michael Byerly’s VSO solo debut in a dreamy concerto from America’s most beloved native composer, Aaron Copland. Commissioned by Benny Goodman, Copland’s Clarinet Concerto was influenced by Brazilian folk music he heard on his travels through South America. The Concerto is languid yet expressive in its first movement and becomes restive and audacious in its second. The concert concludes with Brahms’s mellow and airy Serenade No. 2.

The second installment of the series begins with Hungarian composer Zoltán Kodály’s Dances of Galanta. Kodály based the piece on the folk music of Galanta, a small town in western Slovakia, and it bears an evocative, fervent quality that ignites glowing orchestral sonorities. Celebrated soprano and Chesapeake, VA native Aundi Marie Moore will join the VSO for Barber’s lush, richly textured Knoxville: Summer of 1915. The concert concludes with Beethoven’s Symphony No. 2, one of the final works of his “early period.”

Join the Virginia Symphony Orchestra for the time-honored Christmas tradition of George Frideric Handel’s revered oratorio, Messiah. Get in the spirit of the season with this distinguished performance of Handel’s sacred masterpiece that presents the austere and dramatic narrative of the Messiah. From Isaiah’s prophecies to the Hallelujah Chorus, you will be brought to your feet in the Messiah performance of the season. Concert Sponsor

This remarkable performance will feature signature works by two musical icons – Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, arguably the greatest composer of all time, and “America’s foremost composer,” Aaron Copland. Mozart’s Haffner Symphony is one of his most famous, and like many of his works, it has a backstory nearly as interesting as the music itself. Copland’s Appalachian Spring was a commission by famed dancer Martha Graham and, throughout the years, has become an American anthem as important to our national heritage as apple pie.

Classics WILLIAMSBURG CLASSICS SERIES

COPLAND’S CLARINET CONCERTO Thurs., Oct. 12, 2017 | 8PM Phi Beta Kappa Hall

JoAnn Falletta, conductor Michael Byerly, clarinet

Respighi: Botticelli Triptych Copland: Clarinet Concerto Brahms: Serenade No. 2 in A Major

BEETHOVEN’S SYMPHONY NO. 2 Thurs., Nov. 9, 2017 | 8PM Crosswalk Community Church JoAnn Falletta, conductor Aundi Marie Moore, soprano Kodály: Dances of Galanta Barber: Knoxville, Summer of 1915 Beethoven: Symphony No. 2 in D Major

The 2017-18 Williamsburg Classics series opens with Respighi’s Botticelli Triptych, a marvelous and colorful piece inspired by Italian artist Sandro Botticelli’s Early Renaissance paintings. Hear Principal Clarinet Michael Byerly’s VSO solo debut in a dreamy concerto from America’s most beloved native composer, Aaron Copland. Commissioned by Benny Goodman, Copland’s Clarinet Concerto was influenced by Brazilian folk music he heard on his travels through South America. The Concerto is languid yet expressive in its first movement and becomes restive and audacious in its second. The concert concludes with Brahms’s mellow and airy Serenade No. 2.

David Beloff Photography

HOLIDAY BRASS

Fri., Dec. 15, 2017 | 8PM Saint Bede Catholic Church Paul Bhasin, conductor

MOZART’S HAFFNER SYMPHONY Fri., March 23, 2018 | 8PM Crosswalk Community Church Benjamin Rous, conductor Andrew Gonzalez, viola Mozart: Overture to Don Giovanni Walton: Viola Concerto Mozart: Symphony No. 35, Haffner

The bold sounds of the Virginia Symphony brass section ring in the holidays with a blast! Experience the festive sounds of the season in a concert filled with wit, virtuosity, and the glorious music of the holidays—featuring the VSO brass and percussion sections. You’ll enjoy music from a variety of styles that make this concert one holiday delight you won’t want to miss!

The final Williamsburg Classics program opens with an overture from one of Mozart’s most popular operas, Don Giovanni. William Walton’s viola concerto, featuring Juilliard graduate and Chesapeake, VA native Andrew Gonzalez, is an emotionally gripping piece and is arguably the first great viola concerto of the 20th century. The performance concludes with Mozart’s Symphony No. 35. Also called the Haffner Symphony, the work has a spirited first movement that is, Mozart said, to be played with fire, followed by an unhurried, graceful second movement, a bright, atmospheric third, and ending in a fervid finale that Mozart advised be played “as fast as possible.”

POPS!

5-CONCERT SERIES | NEWPORT NEWS | NORFOLK

Newport News POPS! Series Sponsor

Newport News Ferguson Center 4-Concert Package All concerts at 8PM

Thursday, September 28, 2017 Friday, October 27, 2017 Friday, December 8, 2017 Thursday, February 1, 2018

Subscription Pricing Box $328 A $251 B $197 C $158 D $88 Individual Tickets Box $100 A $76 B $59 C $47 D $25

Norfolk Chrysler Hall 5-Concert Package All concerts at 8PM Saturday, September 30, 2017 Saturday, October 28, 2017 Saturday, December 9, 2017 Saturday, February 3, 2018 Saturday, March 24, 2018

Subscription Pricing Box $433 A $331 B $259 C $208 D $114 Individual Tickets Box $100 A $76 B $59 C $47 D $25 Subscription prices include fees. Individual ticket fees are applied at the time of purchase.

virginiasymphony.org | 757.892.6366 Programs, artists, dates, venues and prices are subject to change.

Denzal Sinclaire

UNFORGETTABLE: THE MUSIC OF NAT KING COLE

Thurs., Sept. 28, 2017 | 8PM | Ferguson Center for the Arts, Newport News Sat., Sept. 30, 2017 | 8PM | Chrysler Hall, Norfolk Denzal Sinclaire, vocals

Unforgettable is the music of Nat King Cole. The baritone crooner, a paragon of America’s jazz and big band heyday, swooned listeners with hits like “Straighten Up and Fly Right,” “Route 66,” “Nature Boy,” and his signature song, “Unforgettable.” Joined by one of Canada’s favorite jazz vocalists, Juno Award-nominee Denzal Sinclaire, the Virginia Symphony Orchestra will perform a tribute to Cole with “Unforgettable: The Music of Nat King Cole.”

FAITHFULLY:A SYMPHONIC TRIBUTE TO THE MUSIC OF JOURNEY AND CLASSIC ROCK Fri., Oct. 27, 2017 | 8PM | Ferguson Center for the Arts, Newport News Sat., Oct. 28, 2017 | 8PM | Chrysler Hall, Norfolk

Forever yours. Faithfully. For decades, Journey has been one of the world’s most revered rock bands of all time. With 25 gold and platinum albums, and 19 Top 40 singles, this year the world celebrates their influence with the band’s induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Join Benjamin Rous and the Virginia Symphony Orchestra for its own celebration of the band that never stopped believing. Faithfully: The Music of Journey boasts all the beloved rock ballads and hits like “Don’t Stop Believin’,” “Open Arms,” “Lights,” and, of course, “Faithfully.””

Pops ELVIS: THE KING’S SONGBOOK Thurs., Feb. 1, 2018 | 8PM | Ferguson Center for the Arts, Newport News Sat., Feb. 3, 2018 | 8PM | Chrysler Hall, Norfolk Michael Krajewski,conductor Allison Blackwell, vocalist

Dave Bennett, vocalist Tad Weed, piano

Shelly Berger, bass Pete Siers, drums

All hail The King! Elvis Presley reigned supreme as The King of Rock n’ Roll in the ‘50s. His energetic style and wanton stage presence evoked controversial reactions, with one local Wisconsin newspaper calling Presley a “definite danger to the security of the United States.” Nonetheless, Elvis topped charts with infectious ballads well into the ‘70s. With hits like “Heartbreak Hotel,” “Hound Dog,” “Blue Suede Shoes,” and “All Shook Up,” Elvis took the world by storm and sparked an evolution in popular music like never before. Join the Virginia Symphony Orchestra and Michael Krajewski, music director of the Philly Pops, for a rockin’ good time.

David Beloff Photography

HOLIDAY POPS! Fri., Dec. 8, 2017 | 8PM | Ferguson Center for the Arts, Newport News Sat., Dec. 9, 2017 | 8PM | Chrysler Hall, Norfolk Sun., Dec. 10, 2017 | 7PM | Sandler Centerfor thePerformingArts,VirginiaBeach Robert Shoup, conductor Virginia Symphony Orchestra Chorus

Join us for the must-see holiday tradition of the season – Holiday Pops! There’s no better way to lift your spirits than with seasonal songs and traditional carols delivered in full sound and spectacle by the Virginia Symphony, the inspirational voices of Virginia Symphony Orchestra Chorus and special guests. Led by conductor Robert Shoup, Holiday Pops will have all the magical elements you’ve come to expect —high energy, familiar carols and lots of holiday warmth! And we’ll even throw in a surprise or two! We can’t wait to celebrate the season with all of you!

THE MUSIC OF JOHN WILLIAMS Sat., March 24, 2018 | 8PM | Chrysler Hall, Norfolk Benjamin Rous, conductor

With a career spanning over six decades, John Williams has composed some of the most popular and recognizable film scores in the history of cinema, including Indiana Jones, Schindler’s List, Jurassic Park, and most notably Star Wars, which was selected by the American Film Institute as the greatest American film score of all time. Williams, who holds the record for most Oscar nominations (50) for a living person, transports audiences to new worlds through heart-pounding, awe-inspiring musical adventures. 11

#VSOatROPER

Educational Partner TIDEWATER COMMUNITY COLLEGE

TCC ROPER PERFORMING ARTS CENTER | NORFOLK PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

Come see --and hear-- what all the buzz is about! The unique format of our “VSO at Roper” Series has gained an enthusiastic following in its first two seasons. Stories of human experience told through music, engaging the audience in a real-time dialogue in person and via social media. A different experience at every show! Collaborations with visual artists, storytellers, and academics bring community conversations on topics of widespread interest to life. Often surprising, sometimes challenging, always illuminating!

VOICES OF VETERANS

Fri., Oct. 6, 2017 | 7:30PM

TCC Roper Performing Arts Center, Norfolk Benjamin Rous, conductor

Discover. Listen. Be Inspired.

#VSOatROPER Series 4-Concert Package Subscription Pricing A $188 B $99 C $44 Individual Tickets A $50 B $25 C $9 Subscription prices include fees. Individual ticket fees are applied at the time of purchase.

One of the leading conductors of her generation in a field historically dominated by men, Grammy-winning music director JoAnn Falletta Thurs., Nov. 16, 2017 | 7:30PM explores the incredible contributions of women in music, both modern TCC Roper Performing Arts Center, Norfolk and throughout history. While some composed in the shadows of their more famous brothers or husbands, some were respected as JoAnn Falletta, conductor geniouses in their day but had been since neglected by history. More recently, the shift toward the inclusion and recognition of women’s achievements in the fields of fine and performing arts offers a rich heritage for exploration, discussion and an opportunity to discover new favorites. As one of the early champions of the cause of new music including pieces composed and popularized by women, JoAnn leads the Orchestra in a performance which will both entertain and inspire.

WOMEN IN MUSIC

HOLIDAY BRASS

Thurs., Dec. 14, 2017 | 7:30PM

TCC Roper Performing Arts Center, Norfolk Paul Bhasin, conductor

SONGS OF FREEDOM

Fri., Feb. 2, 2018 | 7:30PM

TCC Roper Performing Arts Center, Norfolk Benjamin Rous, conductor

virginiasymphony.org 757.892.6366 12

The VSO honors our region’s remarkable military community with music inspired by the valor and sacrifice of the men and women of the nation’s armed forces. We will feature the work of composers and artists who used their creativity to process their own experiences of war. The program will include engaging community conversations about the challenges armed forces personnel and their families face, both in the line of duty and in their civilian lives.

Songs of Freedom explores how communities along the Underground Railroad used spirituals to communicate and inspire hope in the pursuit of freedom. Though primarily expressions of faith, these spirituals may have served as disguised protests. A source of comfort and strength, these songs imagined a life of freedom and created a sense of unity and broader community among slaves. This program will draw on the work of Dr. Maureen Elgersman Lee and Dr. Cassandra Newby-Alexander, of Hampton University and Norfolk State University, respectively. Both will lend their insights as part of the evening.

Family

Series Sponsor

Performing Arts, Virginia Beach 4-Concert Series |Sandler Center for the

For kids of all ages! Pre-Concert Activities

n When you bring your children or grandchildre will only to a family concert with the VSO, not of live you experience the beauty and excitement of fun lot a symphonic music, but you’ll also have before it even begins! lobby Starting one hour prior to each concert, the gned to buzzes with music, crafts and activities desi and the enhance the experience for both the young young-at-heart. Perfect for ages 3-10. Artists, programs, dates and locations subject to change. All sales final.

Subscription Pricing Adult $63 Child $46 (includes all 4 concerts)

Individual Tickets Adult $16 Child $11

Subscription prices include fees. Individual ticket fees are applied at the time of purchase.

Halloween SpooktacPMular

Sun., oct. 29, 2017 |3:00 conductor Robert Shoup, en n ups! Dress up in your favorite Hallowe

Kids and grow the VSO for a costume and join Robert Shoup and The Orchestra will ghoulish afternoon of monstrous fun! ever written. But perform some of the spookiest music TREAT than TRICK! don’t be afraid – this concert is more

m jingle bell201ja 7 | 3:00 PM SUN., DEC. 10,

tor Robert Shoup, contoduc town and he’s stopping by to be a

Santa Claus is coming Bell Jam! Celebrate the part of the VSO’s ever-popular Jingle n that showcases the magic of the season with an afternoo best talent in Hampton music of the holidays performed by the jolly concert! Get Roads. You won’t want to miss this holly to sell out! sure is your tickets early– this family favorite

super heroEs

Sat., jan. 27, 2018 | 3:00 PM

conductor JoAnn Falletta, suit for a super epic adventure!

Put on your super Youth Symphony The VSO, side-by-side with the Bay r favorite superhero Orchestra, will perform music from you erman and more! movies like Superman, Batman, Spid flying high! This high-energy concert will have you

Composer is Dead Lemony Snicket’s The 3:00 PM

Sun., May 20, 2018 |

Jeff Phelps, conductor

the culprit lurking? In The composer is dead! But where is dwinds? Young the strings? The lower brass? The woo mystery in a concert of music-loving sleuths can unravel the how all the instruments wit, wonder and whimsy! Experience story to life! of the symphony combine to bring the

Holid

SPECIAL PERFORMANCES HARRY POTTER & THE SORCERER’S STONE™

- In Concert Featuring the Virginia Symphony Orchestra

Sat., Nov. 25, 2017 | 7:30PM Chrysler Hall, Norfolk

The Harry Potter™ film series is one of those once-in-a-lifetime cultural phenomena that continues to delight millions of fans around the world. The concert will feature the Virginia Symphony Orchestra performing every note from Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone™. Audiences will be able to relive the magic of the film in high-definition on a giant screen while hearing the orchestra perform John Williams’ unforgettable score. Presale Offer– use code SYMPHONY to purchase tickets before the general public. Presale runs July 31 – August 10. Tickets on sale August 11.

HARRY POTTER characters, names and related indicia are © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. J.K. ROWLING`S WIZARDING WORLD™ J.K. Rowling and Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Publishing Rights © JKR. (s17)

Richmond Ballet presents

THE NUTCRACKER

with the Virginia Symphony Orchestra Fri., Dec. 1, 2017 | 7PM Sat., Dec. 2, 2017 | 2PM & 7PM Sun., Dec. 3, 2017 | 2PM Chrysler Hall, Norfolk

HOLIDAY POPS!

Fri., Dec. 8, 2017 | 8PM | Ferguson Center for the Arts, Newport News Sat., Dec. 9, 2017 | 8PM | Chrysler Hall, Norfolk Sun., Dec. 10, 2017 | 7PM | Sandler Centerfor thePerformingArts,VirginiaBeach

Tchaikovsky’s brilliant ballet score comes to life for this magical collaboration between the Virginia Symphony Orchestra and The State Ballet of Virginia, Richmond Ballet! Heralded as “perfect” by The New York Times, Stoner Winslett’s production of The Nutcracker returns for the 5th consecutive year to Chrysler Hall as one of the highlights of the 2017 holiday season! Join the Russian Bear, Chinese Dragon and the Mouse King as they celebrate the magic of the holidays with Richmond Ballet and your VSO!

Holiday POPS!

Robert Shoup, conductor Virginia Symphony Orchestra Chorus

Join us for the must-see holiday tradition of the season – Holiday Pops! There’s no better way to lift your spirits than with seasonal songs and traditional carols delivered in full sound and spectacle by the Virginia Symphony, the inspirational voices of Virginia Symphony Orchestra Chorus and special guests. Led by conductor Robert Shoup, Holiday Pops and will have all the magical elements you’ve come to expect Holiday Pops—high energy, familiar carols and lots of holiday warmth! And we’ll even throw in a surprise or two! We can’t wait to celebrate the season with all of you!

David Beloff Photography

days JINGLE BELL JAM

Sun, Dec. 10, 2017 | 3:00 PM

Sandler Centerfor thePerformingArts,VirginiaBeach Robert Shoup, conductor

Santa Claus is coming to town and he’s stopping by to be a part of the VSO’s ever-popular Jingle Bell Jam! Celebrate the magic of the season with an afternoon that showcases the music of the holidays performed by the best talent in Hampton Roads. You won’t want to miss this holly jolly concert! Get your tickets early– this family favorite is sure to sell out!

Messiah

JINGLE BELL JAM HANDEL’S MESSIAH Thurs., Dec. 14, 2017 | 8PM | Regent University, Virginia Beach Fri., Dec. 15, 2017 | 8PM | First Baptist Church, Newport News Sat., Dec. 16, 2017 | 8PM | Harrison Opera House, Norfolk Adam Turner, conductor Virginia Symphony Orchestra Chorus Robert Shoup, chorusmaster

Handel: Messiah

Concert Sponsor

HOLIDAY BRASS Fri., Dec. 15, 2017 | 8PM | Saint Bede Catholic Church, Williamsburg Paul Bhasin, conductor

HOLIDAY BRASS

NEWPORT NEWS PERFORMANCES 8-CONCERT CLASSICS AT THE FERGUSON CENTER FOR THE ARTS | 8PM NEWPORT NEWS Ferguson Center

DRESS CIRCLE

GRAND TIER

PARTERRE

ORCHESTRA

Holst’s The Planets! | Fri., Sept. 22, 2017 The Best of Wagner’s Ring Cycle | Fri., Oct. 20, 2017 Reformation Symphony | Fri., Nov. 3, 2017 Handel’s Messiah | Fri., Dec. 15, 2017 – First Baptist Church of Newport News A Roman Holiday Fri., Jan. 19, 2018 Classics from Chopin and Brahms | Fri., Feb. 23, 2018 Scheherazade, and a Philip Glass Fantasy | Fri., March 9, 2018 Carmina Burana PLUS a World Premiere! | Fri., April 6, 2018 Subscription Pricing

Box $765 | A $531 | B $404 | C $310 | D $176

Individual Tickets

Box $110 | A $76 | B $59 | C $42 | D $25 For more detailed concert information, refer to pages 4-7.

4-CONCERT POPS! AT THE FERGUSON CENTER FOR THE ARTS | 8PM

Education and Community Engagement

NEWPORT NEWPORT NEWS NEWS Ferguson Center Center POPS! POPS! Unforgettable: The Music of Nat King Cole | Thurs., Sept. 28, 2017 Ferguson Faithfully: The Music of Journey | Fri., Oct. 27, 2017 DRESS CIRCLE DRESS CIRCLE Holiday POPS! | Fri., Dec. 8, 2017 Elvis: The King’s Songbook | Thurs., Feb. 1, 2018 GRAND GRAND TIER TIER

Young People’s Concerts

25,000 elementary-school students experience their first full orchestra concert

SOAR (School/Orchestra

Artistic Residency) Long-term partnerships and coaching in local schools

Side-By-Side Concerts

VSO combines forces with youth orchestras

Subscription Pricing Box $328 | A $251 | B $197 | C $158 | D $88 Individual Tickets Box $100 | A $76 | B $59 | C $47 | D $25

ORCHESTRA ORCHESTRA

For more detailed concert information, refer to pages 10-11.

WILLIAMSBURG PERFORMANCES WILLIAMSBURG Crosswalk Community Church

HeartStrings

Salvation Army partnership: 1st-3rd grade string music instruction

WILLIAMSBURG

Phi Beta Kappa Hall BALCONY

ORCHESTRA

Master Classes

Acclaimed artists offer aspiring musicians instruction and career advice

Subscription Pricing A $221 | B $156 | C $90 Individual Tickets A $65 | B $45 | C $25

For more detailed concert information, refer to page 9.

PARTERRE PARTERRE

4-CONCERT CLASSICS | 8PM Copland’s Clarinet Concerto Thurs., Oct. 12, 2017 Beethoven’s Symphony No. 2 Thurs., Nov. 9, 2017 Holiday Brass Fri., Dec. 15, 2017 – Saint Bede Catholic Church Mozart’s Haffner Symphony Fri., Mar. 23, 2018

Artists, programs, dates, prices and locations subject to change.

NORFOLK PERFORMANCES 8-CONCERT CLASSICS AT CHRYSLER HALL | 8PM NORFOLK Chrysler Hall BALCONY

Holst’s The Planets! | Sat., Sept. 23, 2017 The Best of Wagner’s Ring Cycle | Sat., Oct. 21, 2017 Reformation Symphony | Sat., Nov. 4, 2017 Handel’s Messiah | Sat., Dec. 16, 2017 – Harrison Opera House A Roman Holiday | Sat., Jan. 20, 2018 Classics from Chopin and Brahms | Sat., Feb. 24, 2018 Scheherazade, and a Philip Glass Fantasy | Sat., March 10, 2018 – L. Douglas Wilder Performing Arts Center, Norfolk Carmina Burana PLUS a World Premiere! | Sat., April 7, 2018 Subscription Pricing

Box $765 | A $531 | B $404 | C $310 | D $176

Individual Tickets

Box $110 | A $76 | B $59 | C $42 | D $25 For more detailed concert information, refer to pages 4-7.

Education and Community Engagement

NORFOLK NORFOLK Chrysler HallHall POPS! Chrysler POPS! BALCONY BALCONY

Professional Development VSO musicians help music educators hone their instrumental skills

Subscription Pricing Box $433 | A $331 | B $259 | C $208 | D $114

Total Quality Music ticket program

Individual Tickets Box $100 | A $76 | B $59 | C $47 | D $25

Provides 1,000 free VSO concert tickets to Norfolk youth

For more detailed concert information, refer to pages 10-11.

Harmony Project

TCC Roper Performing Arts Center MEZZANINE

B OX

ORCHESTRA

Partnership with minority populations in their houses of worship

Student Showcase

Lobby concerts featuring local young musicians B OX

Free community concert series, and more!

virginiasymphony.org 757.892.6366 17

VIRGINIA BEACH PERFORMANCES

8-CONCERT CLASSICS AT SANDLER CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS | 2:30PM

VIRGINIA BEACH Sandler Center

BALCONY

MEZZANINE

UPPER ORCHESTRA

A $531 | B $404 | C $310 | D $176 ORCHESTRA

Individual Tickets

A $76 | B $59 | C $42 | D $25 For more detailed concert information, refer to pages 4-7.

4-CONCERT PB&J FAMILY SERIES AT THE SANDLER CENTER FOR VIRGINIA BEACH THE PERFORMING ARTS | 3 PM Sandler Center Halloween Spooktacular | Sun., Oct. 29, 2017 Jingle Bell Jam | Sun., Dec. 10, 2017 Super Heroes! | Sat., Jan. 27, 2018 Lemony Snicket’s The Composer is Dead | Sun., May 20, 2018 Subscription Pricing Adult $63 | Child $46 Individual Tickets Adult $16 | Child $11

BALCONY

MEZZANINE

UPPER ORCHESTRA

ORCHESTRA

For more detailed concert information, refer to page 13.

4-CONCERT CLASSICS AT REGENT UNIVERSITY | 8 PM VIRGINIA BEACH

Regent University BALCONY

BOX

ORCHESTRA

Copland’s Clarinet Concerto | Sat., Oct. 14, 2017 Beethoven’s Symphony No. 2 | Sat., Nov. 11, 2017 Handel’s Messiah | Thurs., Dec. 14, 2017 Musical Genius “Squared” | Fri., May 18, 2018 Subscription Pricing A $156 | B $90 Individual Tickets A $45 | B $25 For more detailed concert information, refer to page 8.

virginiasymphony.org 757.892.6366

Artists, programs, dates, prices and locations subject to change.

ThankYou SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS

The Virginia Symphony Orchestra gratefully acknowledges the support received from our sponsors who have helped to make the VSOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s world-class concerts and highly impactful educational programs possible in the 2016-17 and/or 2017-18 season as of May 30, 2017. A complete list of all our wonderful sponsors, partners and funders is available on our website. The Stradivarius Society

The JoAnn Falletta and Crescendo Societies

The Camp Foundation Maihs Foundation The Treble and Symphony Societies Ruth Camp and Henry Campbell Foundation Franklin Southampton Charities

Ann and Gordon Getty Foundation

The Pruden Foundation

Rouse-Bottom Foundation

Sponsorship of the VSO is a great way to raise awareness about your company, bolster your brand and strengthen your organizationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s commitment to the communities you serve through active philanthropy. We welcome the opportunity to discuss the possibilities sponsorship can provide your organization and how we can customize our benefits to best meet your needs. For more information about sponsoring the VSO, please call Brittany Lavalleur at 757.213.1412.

GOVERNMENT SUPPORT

The VSO is partially sponsored by the Virginia Commission for the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts. Additional support has been received by the following cities and/or their Arts and Humanities Commissions in the 2016-17 and/or 2017-18 seasons: Chesapeake, James City County, Newport News, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Suffolk, Virginia Beach, and Williamsburg. 19

Nonprofit Org. US Postage

PA I D Norfolk, VA Permit #177

150 Boush Street, Suite 201 Norfolk, VA 23510

SUBSCRIBE NOW for THE GREATEST SAVINGS and BENEFITS.

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