Introducing
George Hanson, Executive Director It is an honor and a privilege for me to join the remarkable team at ASO as Executive Director. My family and I have moved to Alexandria and are enjoying becoming part of this beautiful community, with its rich history and diverse cultural life. I have been fortunate to have spent much of my career in the American symphonic world. I can say this with confidence: There is no such thing as a great American city without a great American orchestra! And Alexandria has one in the ASO. In our country’s history, the orchestra has served as the musical and cultural centerpiece for American cities and towns. And most importantly, each American city chooses for itself what sort of cultural life it will have. It is extraordinary that Alexandria has chosen to support an outstanding orchestra for 75 consecutive years. Our ASO serves Alexandria in remarkable ways, bringing a rich repertoire of great music from all cultures and backgrounds to our various venues. ASO’s Sympatico program reaches young students, lifting their creative spirits (not to mention improving attendance and grades!) and opening their minds to the arts as a high form of human expression. And the ASO’s Music Director James Ross is truly a creative force to be reckoned with! His vision is compelling and new. You see it in our programming and activities around the community. ASO has an outstanding staff, and a wonderful board of trustees and supporters. Our sponsors and supporters are truly members of the ASO family; they make our very existence possible. The musicians are among the very best in the D.C. metro area. So it is with pride that I join this extraordinary organization. I look forward to getting to know our audiences, and I hope to hear from you. Thank you for joining us, and please enjoy the season!
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