A MESSAGE FROM DR. MARY C. MCKIEL, PH.D.

The Annapolis Symphony Orchestra offers exceptional, inspiring, traditional, innovative, fun, intriguing, exciting, and even magical music - just for you. With your ticket in hand, all you have to do is come, listen, and let the music do the rest. Let me tell you a bit about our wonderful ASO.

Some of the finest musicians in the United States play for the Annapolis Symphony Orchestra, coming together under the direction of our acclaimed Maestro, José-Luis Novo. The Orchestra celebrated its 61st year in 2022. In that same year, in addition to their musical offerings in Annapolis, they played to enthusiastic audiences in Spain, and received accolades exceeding those given to even some Spanish orchestras. With each concert at the Symphony’s home, Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts in Annapolis and Music Center at Strathmore in Bethesda, the Orchestra delivers music that inevitably pleases, satisfies, and draws people back for more. Throughout the year, ASO plays rousing tunes at outdoor Parks, offers a variety of Community concerts, sparkles with holiday treats, and creates fun family events. But there is more. Through the Annapolis Symphony Academy, the ASO embraces a deep sense of purpose to educate and nurture talented young musicians from diverse backgrounds. These young people, some starting at 4 and

5 years of age, have classroom and concert experiences and are trained by ASO professional musicians. Maestro Novo trains and conducts young musicians in our Orion Youth Orchestra, an elite-level and tuition-free group. Many of the students are given full or partial scholarships to the Academy so their musical gifts can grow unimpeded. That’s not all. Our ASO musicians volunteer to bring their gifts of music to many who cannot attend regular concerts. These are the infirmed and elderly and those confined to hospitals and care centers throughout the area. The musicians do this because they understand, and choose to share, the inherently healing and uplifting nature of music. There is so much more to say about our Annapolis Symphony Orchestra and how it is an essential part of our community. I hope you are one of those discerning people who love, enjoy and support this amazing gem we have in our own backyard.

Mary McKiel, Ph.D., Board Chair Annapolis Symphony Orchestra