Issuu

2026-2027

Vivaldi’s

Four Seasons

THE 35TH ANNIVERSARY SEASON

rediscovered

Passion. Period.

NEW ALBUM RELEASE! Apollo’s Fire commits an epic masterpiece to disc...

Bach MASS in B Minor “TRANSCENDENT… easily one of the most memorable musical evenings in recent years.” – CHICAGO CLASSICAL REVIEW

GRAMMY® Award-winners Apollo’s Fire and Jeannette Sorrell offer an intimate and intense new take on Bach’s masterpiece. Recorded at the stunning Trinity Cathedral in Cleveland, this luminous recording is full of grace, intimacy, and drama. Visit our CD Gift Shop in the lobby, order online or call 216.320.0012 or 800.314.2535. Also available digitally on Amazon, Apple Music, and Spotify. A complete listing of CDs can be found at apollosfire.org.

Vivaldi’s

Four Seasons

rediscovered

Welcome From the President & Board Chair

From the Managing Director

Program

The Sonnets

Notes on the Program

Soloist Profile

Jeannette Sorrell

About Apollo’s Fire

Musician Roster

Musician Profiles

Individual Support

Foundations & Government Support

Apollo's Fire Administration

Board of Directors

Performing on historical instruments, Apollo’s Fire brings to life music of the past for audiences of today — with Passion. Period. ON THE COVER: Primavera (c. 1482) by Sandro Botticelli (1445-1510) / Uffizi Gallery, Florence

From the President & Chairman of the Board Dear Friends, Welcome to Vivaldi’s Four Seasons Rediscovered!, a beloved masterpieces brilliantly brought to life with the imagination, virtuosity, and unmistakable spirit of Apollo’s Fire. Under the direction of Jeannette Sorrell, and featuring violinist Alan Choo, tonight’s performance invites us to experience Vivaldi’s familiar masterpiece with new ears. Through vivid storytelling and breathtaking musicianship, we are transported into a world of gathering storms, birdsong, summer heat, and winter frost, discovering anew the power of music to awaken our imaginations. For 35 years, Apollo’s Fire has made it a hallmark of its artistry to breathe new life into the music of centuries past. What better way to celebrate our 35th Anniversary Season than with The Four Seasons, which has captivated audiences across the country and reminded us that even the most familiar music can astonish us when heard through fresh ears. And the celebrations of this remarkable anniversary season extends beyond tonight’s performance. On November 12, we are especially honored to welcome the internationally acclaimed soprano Jeanine De Bique for Echoes Across the Atlantic, an extraordinary musical journey exploring the connections between 18th-century Europe and the Caribbean. In just a few short days, our musicians will carry that program to Carnegie Hall, then across the Atlantic to Paris, London, Lisbon, Düsseldorf, and Brussels. It is a remarkable moment for Apollo’s Fire – one that speaks to something much larger than a concert tour.

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When Apollo’s Fire takes the international stage, our musicians carry more than their instruments. They carry the imagination, ambition, and artistic spirit of the communities we call home. They are ambassadors for Cleveland, Akron, and Chicago, sharing with the world the same artistry and storytelling that have inspired audiences here for 35 years. Every performance abroad strengthens Apollo’s Fire’s place among the world’s great ensembles. Your generosity and steadfast belief in the power of music are what makes it possible for Apollo’s Fire to share its artistry with the world, reminding us that great music is never merely a relic of the past, but a living, breathing force that continues to inspire, astonish, and bring us together. Thank you for being part of the Apollo’s Fire family, and for helping write the next chapter of our extraordinary story. Warmly,

Michael J. Meehan President & Chairman of the Board

Vivaldi’s

Four Seasons

rediscovered

Jeannette Sorrell, harpsichord & direction Alan Choo, violin soloist

Friday, November 6, 7:30pm Friday, November 13, 7:30pm

The Bath Church (UCC) Lakewood United Methodist

From the Managing Director Dear Apollo's Fire Community, It is my tremendous pleasure to welcome you to this concert, and an equally great joy to be writing to you in my new role as Managing Director of Apollo’s Fire! Returning to Apollo’s Fire feels very much like coming home. I previously spent eight wonderful years as part of the organization’s leadership team, working alongside remarkable musicians, colleagues, and supporters who share a deep belief in the power of music to inspire and connect us. I am thrilled to return in this new role as we celebrate Apollo’s Fire’s 35th Anniversary Season. I imagine that many of the things you love about Apollo’s Fire are the same things that brought me back: the extraordinary talent of our musicians, the creativity and passion that Jeannette Sorrell brings to every performance, and the sense of connection we share through the music. These are the things that make Apollo’s Fire such a special organization, and I feel fortunate to be part of it once again. Most of all, I look forward to reconnecting with familiar faces and meeting new friends throughout the Apollo’s Fire community. I hope you’ll say hello at a concert or reach out in the weeks ahead! Thank you for being part of this extraordinary community and for helping make 35 remarkable years of music possible. I am so glad to be here, and I cannot wait to see what we accomplish together. With warmest regards,

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Allison Richards Managing Director

Program M A R C O U C C E L L I N I ( c . 1 603-1680 ) / a rr. Sorre ll La Bergamasca

M A R I N M A R A I S ( 165 6-1 728 ) Suite from Alcyone Chaconne | Tempest | Marche des Matelots

A N T O N I O V I VA L D I ( 167 8 -1741 ) La Primavera (Spring), Op. 8 no. 1 Allegro | Largo | Allegro Alan Choo, violin L’Estate (Summer), Op. 8 no. 2 Allegro non molto – Allegro | Adagio e piano Presto: Tempo impetuoso d’estate Alan Choo, violin –

Intermission –

E VA R I S TO F ELIC E DALL'AB AC O (1675-1742) Concerto à più Istrumenti in E minor, Op. 5 No. 3 Allegro | Adagio cantabile | Passepieds I-II Kathie Stewart, traverso | Kathryn Montoya, recorder

V I VA L D I L’Autunno (Autumn), Op. 8 no. 3 Allegro | Adagio molto | Allegro Alan Choo, violin L’Inverno (Winter), Op. 8 no. 4 Allegro non molto | Largo | Allegro Alan Choo, violin

CD Release Party! On November 13, join the musicians to celebrate our new Bach B Minor Mass CD with sweet treats, sparkling drinks, and get your CD signed! Open to all.

The Sonnets

La Primavera e Spring Allegro Giunt’ è la Primavera e festosetti La Salutan gl’ Augei con lieto canto, E i fonti allo Spirar de’ Zeffiretti Con dolce mormorio Scorrono intanto. Vengon’ coprendo l’ aer di nero amant E Lampi, e tuoni ad annuntiarla eletti Indi tacendo questi, gl’ Augelletti; Tornan’ di nuovo al lor canoro incanto.

Allegro Springtime is here! The birds celebrate with festive song, And breezes caress The murmuring streams. Thunder and lightning, those heralds of Spring, Cast their dark shadow over heaven; Then they die away to silence, and the birds Take up their charming songs again.

Largo E quindi sul fiorito ameno prato Al caro mormorio di fronde e piante Dorme ‘l Caprar col fido can’ à lato.

Largo On the flower-strewn meadow, With leafy branches rustling overhead, Sleeps the goat-herd, his faithful dog at his side.

Allegro Di pastoral Zampogna al suon festante Danzan Ninfe e Pastor nel tetto amato Di primavera all’ apparir brilliante.

Allegro Led by the festive sound of rustic bagpipes, Nymphs and shepherds dance Beneath the brilliant canopy of spring.

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L’ Estate 4 Summer Allegro non molto – Allegro Sotto dura Staggion dal Sole accesa Langue l’ huom, langue ‘l gregge, ed arde il Pino; Scioglie il Cucco la Voce, e tosto intesa Canta la Tortorella e ‘l gardelino. Zeffiro dolce Spira, mà contesa Muove Borea improviso al Suo vicino; E piange il Pastorel, perche sospesa Teme fiera borasca, e ‘l suo destino.

Allegro non molto – Allegro During the harsh season of the sun, Humans and sheep languish, And the pine trees burn. We hear the cuckoo’s voice, Then sweet songs of turtledove and goldfinch. Soft breezes stir the air, but the threatening North Wind sweeps them suddenly aside. The shepherd trembles, Fearing violent storms and his fate.

Adagio e piano – Presto e forte Toglie alle membra lasse il Suo riposo Il timore de’ Lampi, e tuoni fieri E de mosche, e mossoni il Stuol furioso!

Adagio e piano – Presto e forte The fear of lightning and fierce thunder Prevents him from resting his tired limbs, As gnats and flies buzz furiously around him!

Presto Ah che pur troppo i Suo timor Son veri Tuona e fulmina il Ciel e grandinoso Tronca il capo alle Spiche e a’ grani alteri.

Presto Ah, his fears were justified – The Heavens thunder and roar with hail, Cutting the heads off the tall stalks of wheat.

Vivaldi's FOUR SEASONS rediscovered

L’ Autunno d Autumn Allegro Celebra il Vilanel con balli e Canti, Del felice raccolto il bel piacere. E del liquor de Bacco accesi tanti, Finiscono col Sonno il lor godere.

Allegro Peasants celebrate with songs and dances, The joy of a bountiful harvest. And fired up by Bacchus’ liquor, Many end their revelry in sleep.

Adagio molto Fà ch’ ogn’ uno tralasci e balli e canti L’ aria che temperata dà piacere, E la Staggion ch’ invita tanti e tanti D’ un dolcissimo Sonno al bel godere.

Adagio molto After much singing and dancing The mood is quietly happy. It is the time that invites so many To the enjoyment of sweet slumber.

Allegro I cacciator alla nov’ alba à caccia Con corni, Schioppi, e canni escono fuore. Fugge la belua, e Seguono la traccia; Già Sbigottita, e lassa al gran rumore De’ Schioppi e canni, ferita minaccia Languida di fuggir, mà oppressa muore.

Allegro At dawn the hunters are off to the hunt With horns, rifles, and dogs. They follow the trail of the wild beast. Frightened and fatigued by the noise Of rifles and dogs, the wounded beast Tries to flee; but overcome, it dies.

L’ Inverno , Winter Allegro non molto Shivering in the frosty snow, In biting, stinging winds; Stamping our feet to stay warm, Our teeth chatter in the bitter chill.

Largo Passar al foco i di quieti e contenti Mentre la pioggia fuor bagna ben cento.

Largo We rest contentedly beside the fireplace, While the rain pours down outside.

Allegro Caminar sopra ‘l giaccio, e à passo lento Per timor di cader gersene intenti; Gir forte sdruzziolar, cader à terra Di nuove ir sopra 'l giaccio e correr forte Sin ch' il giaccio si rompe, e si disserra; Sentir uscir dalle ferrate porte Sirocco Borea, e tutti i Venti in guerra Quest' è l’inverno, mà tal, che gioia apporte.

Allegro We tread the icy path slowly and cautiously, For fear of falling. Then turning abruptly, we slip to the ground. Rising, we hasten across the ice Worried that it may break. We feel the chill north winds course through The house despite bolted doors... This is winter, but even so, what joy it brings!

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Allegro non molto Aggiacciato tremar trà nevi algenti Al severo spirar d' orrido Vento, Correr battendo i piedi ogni momento; E pel soverchio gel batter i denti;

Notes on the Program A Storms, Tempests, and Revolutionary Music by Jeannette Sorrell For 300 years, the portrayal of storms and tempests has inspired composers to some of their most imaginative orchestral writing. From the famous hailstorm in Vivaldi’s Summer Concerto, to the tempest scenes of French baroque operas, where “wind machines” added to the fray… composers loved to prove that music has the power to convey intense drama and evoke the powers of Mother Nature. Our program brings together three composers who broke new ground as they put the orchestra in the service of storytelling.

I. A Revolutionary Experiment

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One day when Vivaldi (the Redhead Priest) was saying Mass, a musical theme came into his mind. He at once left the altar where he was officiating and repaired to the sacristy to write out his theme, then he came back to finish the Mass. He was reported to the Inquisition, which luckily looked on him as a musician, that is, AS A MADMAN, and merely forbade him to say Mass from that time forward. –P. L. de Boisgelou, 1800

In 1725 Antonio Vivaldi published a collection of twelve concertos titled Il Cimento dell’Armonia e dell’Inventione – The Contest Between Harmony and Invention. With this curious title, he unleashed a revolutionary question: should music simply be about harmony, or could it serve to illustrate inventive ideas, events, moods, natural scenes, and so forth? Vivaldi set out to prove that it could do both. The first four concertos of the collection, titled Le Quattro Stagioni (The Four Seasons), are virtuoso demonstrations of music in the service of storytelling – in this case, the story of Nature and her various moods. The role of the performer as an animated storyteller was fundamental to baroque performance, and especially to Vivaldi’s music. Though Vivaldi had written music in imitation of Nature before, he took the art to new heights this time, supplying sonnets to clarify the meaning of the music. Scholars generally believe that the sonnets were composed by Vivaldi himself, as they do not seem to be the work of a trained poet. In the first publication (1725 in Amsterdam), the lines of the sonnets are labeled A, B, C, D, E, etc. These letters are also placed at the corresponding points in the score, so that the performer can understand which lines of poetry correspond to which passages in the music. However, Vivaldi also provided many more specific indications directly in the score, telling the performer exactly what each phrase is depicting. This level of

Vivaldi's FOUR SEASONS rediscovered detail is often lost today’s performances. Vivaldi was also the great developer of ritornello form – the form that became the model for concerto-writing by all European composers of the century, including J.S. Bach. The Italian word “ritornello” means something that returns. The same word is used to mean the refrain in popular music – and indeed, Vivaldi’s ritornellos convey the bold and driving sense of rhythm and melody that is commonly associated with pop music. Like many pop music composers today, he was writing for teenagers as well as adults. So he imbued his concertos with the same sense of driving rhythm and earthy harmonies that we all respond to in rock music. I think of him as the rock-n’-roll composer of the 18th century. Here follows a description of Vivaldi's story, as told through specific indications in the score.

La Primavera e Spring

In the first movement, a joyful chirping theme tells us that spring has come. A trio of birds (solo violins) sings in canon, and then flies away. The little brook that was frozen all winter now babbles merrily. A brief spring shower with thunder and lightning does not disturb the joyful mood. In the second movement, we meet the shepherd boy (solo violin), who naps peacefully on a hillside while watched by his famous “barking dog” (the insistent violas). The third movement is a delightful peasant dance using a drone in the bass to suggest the musettes or bagpipes associated with outdoor festivities.

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The Spring concerto, 1st edition, 1725

Notes on the Program (continued)

L’ Estate 4 Summer

The first movement is a brilliant evocation of hot summer days in Italy. The opening two-note sighing figure evokes the peasants wilting in the heat. A lively cuckoo springs into action, followed by a gentle turtledove. A chilly North Wind hints of an approaching storm. Our shepherd boy fears the storm, and we sense his anxiety in some tearful music. In the slow movement, the shepherd boy tries to take another siesta, but this time is tormented by buzzing flies and wasps. His frayed nerves are not helped by the intermittent rumbling thunder, growing louder as the storm approaches.

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The third movement is a stunning depiction of a thunderstorm. Anyone who has been in Italy during a summer storm will appreciate how the torrent of cascading violin scales evokes the deluge that comes when the clouds burst.

An 18th century manuscript copy, but not in Vivaldi’s hand

L’ Autunno d Autumn

The first movement concerns the cheerful gatherings of peasants celebrating the harvest – including a fair amount of drinking. We meet an intoxicated farmer who staggers merrily. The farmers get progressively more tipsy until they fall asleep towards the end of the first movement. In the second movement, the dreams of the slumbering farmers ebb and flow. Vivaldi indicates that the harpsichord should play continuous arpeggios. In the third movement we are invited to join a hunting party, complete with galloping rhythms and horn-calls. Animal lovers, be warned: this movement includes gun-shots and the squeals of a desperate animal. The poor creature

Vivaldi's FOUR SEASONS rediscovered finally gives up his spirit in a lightly floating violin arpeggio, immediately followed by the return of the jolly hunting theme.

The Autumn concerto, 1st edition, 1725

L’ Inverno , Winter

With static repeated notes in the strings, we begin stiff with cold. Then the howling wind arises together with the famous chattering teeth (violins playing staccato repeated notes, very high and fast). In the second movement we experience a more typical Venetian winter: drizzling rain on the rooftop, brought to life by pizzicato violins.

The Winter concerto, 1st edition, 1725

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The third movement begins with slipping and sliding on the ice, and suddenly the orchestra interrupts with jagged intervals, signaling that the ice has broken right in front of us. A quick series of descending arpeggios in the violin conveys attempts to get up from the ice and walk, with plenty of stumbling. A brief gentle spring breeze arrives in the upper strings, soon interrupted with the return of the fierce North Wind.

Notes on the Program (continued) While Vivaldi was composing storms and tempests in Italy, his slightly older colleague Marin Marais wrote a bold tempest scene in France. Marais’ opera Alcione premiered in 1706 in Paris and is admired today for its inventive orchestral writing. The graceful Chaconne harks back to the influence of Marais’ teacher, Lully. The Act IV tempest scene is one of the earliest portrayals of a storm in opera. The Marche des Matelots (Sailor’s March) from Act III draws its tune from an ancient French carol, known today most widely as “Masters in This Hall.” The composer Evaristo Felice Dall’Abaco (1675-1742) takes an interesting place in today’s program of Italian and French music. He was born in Italy - the son of a renowned guitarist – but spent time in France. His Concerto à piu strumenti (“concerto for multiple instruments”) beautifully blends the French and Italian styles. The piece begins with an Italian concerto-style opening movement, but concludes with a lively pair of Passepieds (a French dance). Dall’Abaco’s use of traversos in this piece provides fun possibilities for “call and response” with the orchestra. ©2024 Jeannette Sorrell | Cleveland, OH

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A Beautiful CD Album Featuring Alan Choo - On Sale in the Lobby or Online BIBER Mystery Sonatas Die Rosenkranz-Sonaten

Debuted at #2 on Billboard Classical Chart “"Expressive fervour and exuberance" BBC MUSIC MAGAZINE (5-STAR REVIEW)

Soloist Profile

Vivaldi FOUR SEASONS

Concertmaster & Associate Artistic Director ALAN CHOO, whose performances have been described by The Straits Times Singapore as “an intoxicating brew of poetry and dare-devilry,” appears on the global stage as a leading soloist, chamber musician and historical specialist. He made his solo debut with Apollo’s Fire at the Tanglewood and Ravinia Music Festivals in 2017, and released his solo album of Heinrich Biber’s complete Mystery Sonatas with Apollo’s Fire in March 2024, on AVIE Records. The album debuted at #2 on the Billboard Classical chart, earning a double 5-star review from BBC Music Magazine, and receiving rave reviews from multiple publications such as The Strad (UK), Classica Magazine (France) and Stringendo (Australia). Alan is also Founder and Artistic Director of Red Dot Baroque, Singapore’s first professional period ensemble and Ensemble-in-Residence at the Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music. Globally, he has also appeared as a soloist with the FVG Orchestra (Italy), St. Petersburg Symphony Orchestra, Tafelmusik Winter Institute Orchestra (Canada), Bach Society of Minnesota, Shanghai Camerata, Singapore Symphony Orchestra, Singapore Chinese Orchestra, and more.

Alan holds a Doctorate in Historical Performance from Case Western Reserve University, as well as degrees from the Peabody Conservatory and the Yong Siew Toh Conservatory. His teachers include Julie Andrijeski, Risa Browder, Victor Danchenko and Alexander Souptel.

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In 2024, Alan was conferred the Young Artist Award by the National Arts Council Singapore – Singapore’s highest accolade for outstanding young artists. He was also the recipient of the Early Music Award 2016 from Peabody Conservatory, the Paul Abisheganaden Grant for Artistic Excellence 2015, the Goh Soon Tioe Centenary Award 2014, the Grace Clagett Ranney Prize in Chamber Music 2014 and 1st prize in the Singapore National Piano and Violin Competition 2011, Artist Category. He has also given masterclasses in violin performance, performance practice and stage presence to college students at the Cleveland Institute of Music, Michigan State University, Baldwin-Wallace College, Bowling Green State University, Yong Siew Toh Conservatory and Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts.

Jeannette Sorrell, Artistic Director

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“Sorrell is an absolute dynamo onstage and a pleasure to see conduct… a force to be reckoned with.” –SAN FRANCISCO CLASSICAL VOICE GRAMMY®-winning conductor Jeannette Sorrell is recognized internationally as one of today’s finest interpreters of Baroque and Classical repertoire. She is the subject of Oscar-winning director Allan Miller’s documentary, PLAYING WITH FIRE: Jeannette Sorrell and the Mysteries of Conducting, commercially released in 2023. Bridging the period-instrument and symphonic worlds from a young age, she studied conducting under Leonard Bernstein, Roger Norrington and Robert Spano at the Tanglewood and Aspen music festivals; and studied harpsichord with Gustav Leonhardt in Amsterdam. She won First Prize in the Spivey International Harpsichord Competition, competing against over 70 harpsichordists from four continents. As a guest conductor, Sorrell has repeatedly led the New York Philharmonic, Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, Detroit Symphony, St Paul Chamber Orchestra, Seattle Symphony, Utah Symphony, Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra, Indianapolis Symphony, the Florida Orchestra, Philharmonia Baroque in San Francisco, and New World Symphony. She has also led the Philadelphia Orchestra, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, Royal Liverpool Philharmonic, Hallé Orchestra Manchester, Baltimore Symphony, the National Symphony at the Kennedy Center, Oregon Symphony, New Jersey Symphony, National Arts Center Orchestra (Ottawa), and Houston Symphony, among others. This season she returns to the New York Philharmonic and New World Symphony, and makes debuts with the Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin and the Kansas City Symphony, among others. As founder and conductor of APOLLO’S FIRE, she has led the renowned ensemble at London’s BBC Proms, Carnegie Hall, Tanglewood, and many international venues. Sorrell and Apollo’s Fire have released 34 commercial CDs, including 13 bestsellers on the Billboard classical chart and a 2019 GRAMMY® winner. Her CD recordings of the Bach St. John Passion and Vivaldi’s Four Seasons have been chosen as best in the field by the Sunday Times of London (2020 and 2021). Her Monteverdi Vespers recording was chosen by BBC Music Magazine as one of “30 Must-Have Recordings for Our Lifetime” (2022). Sorrell has attracted national attention and awards for creative programming. She was nominated for a second GRAMMY® award in 2025. In 2026 she received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the American Sephardì Federation for her work in Sephardic music; as well as the Distinguished Alumni Achievement Award from Oberlin College. She also holds an Honorary Doctorate from Case Western Reserve University.

Apollo's Fire Baroque Orchestra “Sorrell and her dazzling period band… are incandescent” – THE SUNDAY TIMES, London

GRAMMY®-winning ensemble Apollo’s Fire is praised as “the USA’s hottest baroque band” (Classical Music Magazine, UK). Led by award-winning harpsichordist and conductor Jeannette Sorrell, the period-instrument orchestra is dedicated to the baroque concept of moving the passions of the listeners. As America’s most active touring baroque orchestra, Apollo’s Fire has performed seven European tours, with sold-out concerts at the BBC Proms in London, Madrid’s Royal Theatre, Bordeaux’s Grand Théàtre de l’Opéra, St. Martin-inthe-Fields, the Heidelberg Spring Festival, the National Concert Hall of Ireland, and venues in Germany, France, Italy, Austria, and Portugal. AF’s 2026 London residency at St. Martin-in-the-Fields garnered a 5-star review in The Arts Desk, hailed by the critic as “a unique and memorable event that quickened the mind and ravished the ear… a magical mix. A banquet to relish and remember…” North American tour engagements include regular appearances at Carnegie Hall and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City; and the Tanglewood, Ravinia, and Caramoor festivals; as well as performing at the Boston Early Music Festival series, the Library of Congress, the Aspen Music Festival, and major venues in Toronto, Los Angeles and San Francisco. Apollo’s Singers have twice performed with the New York Philharmonic under the baton of Jeannette Sorrell, receiving rave reviews. At home in Cleveland and Chicago, Apollo’s Fire enjoys sold-out performances for its subscription series, which has drawn national attention for creative programming.

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With over 26 million views of its YouTube videos, Apollo’s Fire has gained worldwide popularity releasing 34 CDs and winning a GRAMMY® award in 2019 for the album Songs of Orpheus with tenor Karim Sulayman. Thirteen of the ensemble's CD releases have become best-sellers on the classical Billboard chart, including Bach’s Coffeehouse, Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, Monteverdi Vespers, Bach's Brandenburg Concertos, and Sorrell’s crossover programs including Sacrum Mysterium – A Celtic Christmas Vespers; Sugarloaf Mountain – An Appalachian Gathering; Sephardic Journey – Wanderings of the Spanish Jews; and Christmas on Sugarloaf Mountain.

MORE WAYS TO GIVE Own stock that's grown in value? Consider giving the stock, not the cash.

Donating appreciated stocks, bonds, or mutual funds directly to Apollo's Fire can be a taxsmart way to make your generosity go further. By donating securities you’ve held for more than one year, you may be able to avoid capital-gains taxes and receive a charitable income-tax deduction, subject to applicable IRS rules. Your generosity makes extraordinary artistry possible. As we celebrate our 35th Season and look ahead to our 8th international tour, we are reminded that every performance, every artistic collaboration, and every opportunity to share this music begins with the generosity of people like you. Your support makes the music possible at home and around the world. To learn more about making a gift of appreciated securities, email Rees Taylor Roberts, Development Manager, at RRoberts@apollosfire.org Apollo’s Fire does not provide tax or legal advice. Please consult your professional advisor regarding your individual circumstances.

Apollo's Fire VIOLIN I Alan Choo, concertmaster Susanna Perry Gilmore, associate concertmaster Freya Creech Andrew Fouts VIOLIN II Emi Tanabe, principal Carrie Krause Hanna Bingham* VIOLA Elizabeth Holzman Hagen, principal Yaël Senamaud CELLO René Schiffer, principal Rebecca Landell (11/6) Sarah Stone (11/13)

CONTRABASS Sue Yelanjian TRAVERSO & PICCOLO Kathie Stewart RECORDER Kathryn Montoya LUTE, THEORBO, GUITAR William Simms Brandon Acker PERCUSSION Pedro Segundo HARPSICHORD Jeannette Sorrell *Young Artist Fellow

TAKE THE MUSIC HOME WITH YOU!

Vivaldi's FOUR SEASONS

“Fullana and Sorrell’s brilliant baroque band from Cleveland reveals Vivaldi’s most popular work in spring-cleaned colours, like the restoration of an old master...rarely evoked as graphically and intelligently as here.” THE TIMES, London (“Best 10 Classical Albums of 2021”)

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Debuted at #2 on Billboard Classical Chart

THE APOLLO'S FIRE 35th

Whether you are in Northeast Ohio or Grea Indulge your addiction to AF’s “joyou OCTOBER: OHIO 15-18

IN PARIS In this festive season opener, we explore Ben Franklin’s musical adventures in Paris during his 9-year stay. Conductor Jeannette Sorrell leads 35 musicians in Mozart's thrilling Paris Symphony and colorful music of Bologne and Rameau.

NOVEMBER: OHIO 6 & 13

Vivaldi’s

Four Seasons rediscovered

Apollo’s Fire and violinist Alan Choo bring the storyline of Vivaldi’s masterpiece to life with joy and surprises! Each concerto is preceded by a quick and polished “tour” of the sound effects to come.

NOVEMBER: CHICAGO 7 & 8 | OHIO 12

Echoes

ACROSS THE ATLANTIC

Legendary Trinidadian soprano Jeanine De Bique joins AF to explore the historical connections between Europe and the Caribbean colonies in the 18th century. Catch this program before it heads out on an international tour to Carnegie Hall, London, Paris, Brussels, Lisbon, and more…!

DECEMBER: OHIO 4-6 & 19-20 | CHICAGO 15-17

Handel's MESSIAH Sound the Trumpet! On period instruments, Apollo’s Fire and Jeannette Sorrell take Handel’s masterpiece back to its roots as a dramatic and uplifting entertainment. The soloists become “visionary storytellers” in this acclaimed interpretation.

TICKETS & SUBSCRIPTIONS ARE ON SALE NOW! CA

ANNIVERSARY SEASON

ater Chicago become a subscriber and save! us spontaneity” (THE NEW YORKER). JANUARY/FEBRUARY: OHIO 29-2 | CHICAGO 5 & 6

Fiddle Virtuosity from the Pubs of London Virtuoso violinist Alan Choo and friends invite you on a delightful romp through John Playford’s fiddle variations, alongside music of Dowland, Eccles, and Purcell.

Bach 's ST. MATTHEW PASSION

MARCH: OHIO 12 & 20 | CHICAGO 14 & 15

Apollo’s Fire and Jeannette Sorrell are thrilled to return to Bach’s legendary masterpiece on the 300th anniversary of its premiere. Acclaimed British tenor Ed Lyon makes his AF debut as the Evangelist in this dramatic presentation.

APRIL: CHICAGO 9-12

Primavera! A Vivaldi Celebration

Celebrate spring with Vivaldi’s beloved “Primavera” (springtime) concerto from the Four Seasons. Internationally acclaimed Spanish violinist Francisco Fullana returns to Apollo’s Fire for this joyful dive into Vivaldimania! Choose between 2 versions of the program, or go to both!

APRIL: OHIO 15-18

VIVALDI ON

Fi re!

Spanish violinist Francisco Fullana and the AF band set sparks flying with virtuoso concertos, including the famous “Il Grosso Mogul” violin concerto and Vivaldi’s stormy Concerto for Two Cellos. Come and hear why Jeannette calls Vivaldi the “rock-n-roll” composer of the 18th century.

ALL 216.320.0012/800.314.2535 or VISIT apollosfire.org

Musician Profiles BRANDON ACKER, theorbo & guitar, is a specialist in early plucked instruments and a leading voice in early music education. Early Music America described him as “among the leading early music educators on the planet.” His YouTube channel has more than 700,000 subscribers and 85 million views. Acker’s career spans rock, classical, and early music, and he has performed and toured extensively throughout Europe, the UK, Canada, and the United States.

22 s Vivaldi's FOUR SEASONS rediscovered

HANNA BINGHAM, violin, is based in the greater Chicago area. Raised in Dekalb, Illinois, Bingham holds a Bachelor of Music in violin performance from Northern Illinois University and earned her master’s degree in string performance from Northwestern University’s Bienen School of Music. Bingham gained a strong love for early music from her time at Northwestern, where she studied with David Douglas of the Newberry Consort and Stephen Alltop. Bingham is currently an Apollo’s Fire Young Artist fellow. In addition to Apollo’s Fire, Hanna performs with other early music ensembles such as Newberry Consort, Bella Voce, and Twisted Pearl. FREYA CREECH, violin, performs widely across North America and her native UK. This season’s highlights include appearances as concertmaster of Washington Bach Consort, and performances with Apollo’s Fire, Handel & Haydn Society, and the Smithsonian Chamber Academy on their renowned collection of Strads. Creech collaborates regularly with True Concord, earning a GRAMMY® nomination (2025), and she has self-produced two albums of little-known solo violin music. Creech recently established Ensemble Valshamr, aiming to bring high-quality, zero-cost performances to her community in DC.

ANDREW FOUTS, violin, has been noted for his “mellifluous sound and sensitive style” (The Washington Post). In 2008, he won the American Bach Soloists’ International Baroque Violin Competition. He is co-artistic director of Pittsburgh’s Chatham Baroque and a frequent concertmaster of the Washington Bach Consort. Andrew performs regularly with Apollo’s Fire, Opera Lafayette, Four Nations Ensemble, and Ars Lyrica. His teachers included Charles Castleman at the Eastman School of Music and Stanley Ritchie at Indiana University Jacobs School of Music. ELIZABETH HAGEN, viola, is a graduate of Northwestern University and now enjoys an active career performing on modern and baroque violas in Chicago. She is principal violist of Music of the Baroque, Haymarket Opera and The Callipygian Players. She has performed with Lyric Opera of Chicago, Rembrandt Chamber Players, Chicago Opera Theatre, The Joffrey Ballet, The Newberry Consort and The Chicago Philharmonic. For the past nine summers, she has played with The Grant Park Symphony. CARRIE KRAUSE, violin, is concertmaster of the Bozeman Symphony and founder of Baroque Music Montana, which presents 50 concerts a year with an international cast of musicians. Carrie performs with ensembles across the country and on international series, including as concertmaster and soloist with Seattle Baroque, Juilliard 415, New Trinity Baroque, Pacific Baroque, and the San Francisco Bach Choir, as well as principal with The Thirteen in D.C., Oregon Bach Festival, and Spire in Kansas City. She holds degrees from Carnegie Mellon, Cleveland Institute of Music, and The Juilliard School. REBECCA LANDELL, cello, has been praised for her “luminous” (Cleveland. com) and “notable” (The New York

Vivaldi's FOUR SEASONS rediscovered Times) sound which elicits a range of expression “from classically evocative to Hitchcock horrifying” (Washingtonian). Her solo appearances include performances with Apollo’s Fire, Les Delices, Atlanta Baroque, Columbus Symphony, and Batzdorfer Hofkapelle. She pursues a variety of educational opportunities including working with the faculty at Oberlin Conservatory, where she teaches baroque cello and viola da gamba. KATHRYN MONTOYA, recorder, appears with a variety of orchestral and chamber music ensembles including the Boston Early Music Festival Orchestra, Tafelmusik, and Handel & Haydn. She enjoys a varied musical career including performances on two GRAMMY® award-winning recordings with BEMF, and the Globe's Tony award-winning production of Twelfth Night on Broadway. Montoya teaches historical oboes and recorder at Oberlin Conservatory and can often be found in Hereford, England with her husband, James, and six hens.

RENÉ SCHIFFER, cello, is praised for this "interpretive imagination and patrician command of the cello" (Cleveland Plain Dealer). A native of Holland, he toured internationally with Sigiswald Kuijken's La Petite Bande for 16 years. He has also performed and

PEDRO SEGUNDO, percussion, raised in Portugal, Segundo was reared on an eclectic blend of gospel, classical, jazz, and world music and now makes every object he touches a channel for his incredible musical energy. Classically trained at Guildhall School, Segundo’s career spans being house drummer at London’s Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club to recording film scores at Abbey Road including Spiderman and Wonka, to touring interdisciplinarily from Royal Albert Hall to Carnegie Hall, with regular collaborations in New Orleans. YAËL SENAMAUD, viola, is a versatile historical string specialist and modern orchestral leader based in Wichita. An expert in Historically Informed Performance Practice, she performs on baroque viola, violin and viola d’amore as a core member of Apollo’s Fire and the Indianapolis Baroque. Senamaud balances this with her role as Principal Viola of the South Carolina Philharmonic and the Jackson Symphony. A Paris Conservatory graduate, she previously held permanent chairs with the Orchestre de Chambre de Paris and de la Comunitat Valenciana. WILLIAM SIMMS, theorbo & guitar, appears regularly with Apollo’s Fire, The Thirteen, Heartland Baroque, Indianapolis Baroque, The Arcadia Players, and The Washington Bach Consort. He has performed numerous operas and oratorios with such ensembles as The Washington National Opera, Opera Philadelphia, and American Opera Theater. Venues include Carnegie Hall, The Kennedy Center, The Barns of Wolf Trap, Tanglewood, and

Vivaldi's FOUR SEASONS rediscovered s 23

SUSANNA PERRY GILMORE, violin, enjoys a multifaceted career as a solo artist, chamber musician, and orchestral leader. Performing on both modern and period instruments and in diverse styles, she has been a frequent soloist and principal with Apollo’s Fire since 2014 and is the fiddler on their best-selling recordings Sugarloaf Mountain and Sephardic Journey. She resides in Omaha, where she is the concertmaster of the Omaha Symphony. She holds degrees from Oxford University and New England Conservatory.

recorded with the Amsterdam Baroque Orchestra, the Netherlands Bach Society and Tafelmusik. As a concerto soloist, he has performed at Carnegie Hall and many international venues. His solo recording of Bach's Cello Suites was released in June of this year.

Musician Profiles (continued) the National Cathedral. He performed on the GRAMMY®-winning Songs of Orpheus with Apollo’s Fire and Karim Sulayman. KATHIE STEWART, traverso, is Adjunct Lecturer in Baroque Flute at Indiana University’s Jacobs School of Music. She is a founding member and principal flutist of Apollo’s Fire, and has performed with ensembles including The Cleveland Orchestra, Tafelmusik, Portland Baroque, Philharmonia Baroque and the Washington Bach Consort. She is also Assistant Director of the Seattle Baroque Flute Workshop. Stewart is an avid proponent of Celtic music, playing Irish flute and whistle on several Apollo’s Fire recordings.

24 s Vivaldi's FOUR SEASONS rediscovered

SARAH STONE, cello, is drawn to the cultural history of the music she plays. She performs with Apollo’s Fire, Tafelmusik, Handel and Hayden, Seraphic Fire, The Sebastians, New York Baroque Incorporated, The Staunton Music Festival, and the Trinity Baroque Orchestra. Stone is Executive Director of the chamber ensemble Repast Baroque and Artistic Director of Bitterroot Baroque, a community baroque orchestra in Hamilton, Montana. She

holds degrees from the Juilliard School, San Francisco Conservatory of Music, and Rice University. EMI TANABE, violin, enjoys a multifaceted career as a baroque violinist and a solo crossover artist. In addition to her work with Apollo's Fire, she performs with Haymarket Opera in Chicago. Her facility with improvisation has led to many solo performances with world music, Latin, and jazz ensembles across the country, including the renowned Surabhi Ensemble, children’s music band Wendy & DB, and Teatro ZinZanni. She holds degrees in violin performance from the University of North Texas and Roosevelt University. SUE YELANJIAN, contrabass, has performed with many of the leading North American baroque orchestras, including Relic, Tafelmusik, the Handel & Haydn Society, and Chatham Baroque. She has performed at the Carmel Bach Festival, Tanglewood, and Ravinia, as well as the Sturm und Drang Festival in Germany. She attended Oberlin Conservatory and received degrees from the Cleveland Institute of Music and Boston University.

Did you know that Apollo's Fire has over 26 million views of its YouTube videos? Check out our YouTube channel — apollosfirebaroque

2026-2027 SEASON at EJ Thomas Hall

Sphinx Virtuosi with mezzo-soprano

J’Nai Bridges

American Brass Quintet February 9 7:30 p.m.

October 20 7:30 p.m.

James (Zijian) Wei,

piano

November 17 7:30 p.m.

Audra McDonald April 17 7:30 p.m.

Itzhak Perlman A Chanticleer Christmas November 28 and friends 3 p.m.

Emanuel Ax, Jean-Yves Thibaudet, Juilliard String Quartet

May 4, 7:30 p.m.

330-761-3460 • tuesdaymusical.org

Lysander Piano Trio

NOV 17, 2026 7:30 pm Disciples Church, Cleveland Heights

Preconcert talk with Emily Laurance, 6:30 pm GRIEG: Andante con moto NDODANA-BREEN: Two Nguni Dances (2008) AMANDA MEIER: Piano Trio in E-flat major DVOŘÁK: Piano Trio in F minor, Op. 65 216.291.2777

ClevelandChamberMusic.org

S AT U R D AY, M A R C H 1 3

ASCENDANCE Bizet: Symphony No. 1 in C Major Brahms: Violin Concerto

Amy Lee, violin Encore Performance Sunday, March 14 Lake Erie College, Morley Music Hall

S AT U R D AY, M A 7 8

RENEWAL Garrop: Penelope Waits Mozart: Concerto No. 22 in E-flat Major, K. 482

Evren Ozel, piano Prokofiev: Classical Symphony

Church of the Covenant, University Circle Daniel Meyer | Artistic Director & Conductor

Reserve pay-whatyou-wish tickets at:

BLUEWATERORCHESTRA.COM

Thank you to our Generous Supporters Your contributions make it possible every year to engage world-class musicians and guest soloists, deliver innovative programming, and serve our community through the Community Access Initiative. This list recognizes donations given in the last year. Every effort has been made to ensure its accuracy. Please contact Rees Taylor Roberts at RRoberts@apollosfire.org or 216.320.0012 x 3 with any updates. APOLLO’S CIRCLE ($100,000 & above) Anonymous Cuyahoga Arts and Culture Janice L. Greene† Walder Foundation HELIOS CIRCLE ($50,000 - $99,999) Paul M. Angell Family Foundation The George Gund Foundation William Lawlor John P. Murphy Foundation Alexander & Jennifer Ogan Ohio Arts Council Herb & Jody Wainer

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CONDUCTOR’S CIRCLE ($25,000 - $49,999) Anonymous Jeff & Jamie Barnett Chuck & Christy Bittenbender Joyce Chelberg Cleveland Foundation Patricia Costante & Stephanie Champi Kulas Foundation Marie Rowley Astri Seidenfeld Tim & Jennifer Smucker Robert A. & Judith M. Weiss MOUNT OLYMPUS CIRCLE ($10,000 – $24,999) Anonymous Akron Community Foundation Bonnie M. Baker Mary & Fred Behm Douglas Bletcher Michael & Susan Delahanty Ann Fairhurst & Mark Cipra Hyster-Yale Materials Handling, Inc. Illinois Arts Council Martha Holden Jennings Foundation Cynthia Knight Dr. & Mrs. Richard J. Lederman Gina Leonetti George I. Litman, M.D. In honor of Barbara Feld Daniel McCroskey In memory of Jane McCroskey

Marilyn & Tom McLaughlin Ellen & Mike Meehan Peg’s Foundation Dale Perram & Marcia Blum Bruce Raymer Drs. Jonathan & Elisa Ross Dr. Michael J. Seider The Rev. Dr. Sandra Selby Dr. & Mrs. James & Rita Sheinin David Simmons The Kelvin & Eleanor Smith Foundation Sonjia Smith Dr. Jeanne Sorrell Drs. Frederick & Elizabeth Specht In honor of Barbara Feld Karen & Richard Spector R. Thomas & Meg Stanton Elizabeth Walder Ed & Ellen Weber VERSAILLES CIRCLE ($5,000 – $9,999) Anonymous Michael Angell Kate & Ric Asbeck Drs. Stephen & Judy Bundra Catharina Caldwell Amy & Eric Carlson Homer Chisholm & Gertrude Kalnow Chisholm Tom & Karen Clark The Mary S. & David C. Corbin Foundation Mrs. Mary & Dr. George L. Demetros Charitable Trust Ralph Deskin Ann Fairhurst & Mark Cipra Barbara & Denis Feld Vivian & Malcolm Henoch The Hankins Foundation Jane Hubben Stephen & Maria Lans Dr. Miloslava Mervart Northern Trust Lori & Dan Nelson John & Linda Olejko Gary & Shay Olson Gertrude F. Orr Trust Advised Fund of the Akron Community Foundation John S. Perko Bill & Sandra Powel

Mrs. Alfred M. Rankin† Noha & Phil Ryder Albert G. & Olive H. Schlink Foundation Kenneth E. Shafer, M.D. Ryan Siebel The Sisler McFawn Foundation Sandra Smith Michael Taylor Carol Vandenberg Gregory Videtic, M.D. ESTERHAZY CIRCLE ($2,500 – $4,999) Anonymous Peter & Jane Anagnostos Baker Hostetler Donna Batson Karl & Amanda Bekeny Stephen & Jeanne Bucchieri Frances S. Buchholzer Cerity Partners LLC Chengelis Scientific Services LLC Michael & Susan Clark Bill Conway Douglas Cooper Frances G. & Lewis Allen Davies Ralph Deskin DLR Group Sarah & Robert Dresing Diane & Michael Ellis Feth Family Foundation Harry K. & Emma R. Fox Charitable Foundation Theodore & Teresa Good Jane Haylor & Mel Berger In memory of Sheldon & Marilyn MacLeod Byron G. Hays Dorothy & DuWayne Hanson Drs. Ka-Pi Hoh & Brian Perry Erin Horan Donna Jackson KPMG The Lehner Family Foundation Meng “Locky” Liu Fred & Pearl Livingstone Annette Lowe & Doug Dolch Lubrizol Susan McGill Patti & Hadley Morgenstern-Clarren David Nash

Brendan & Elizabeth Patterson Peggy M. Porter Chuck & Ilana Horowitz Ratner David Reimer & Raffaele DiLallo Phil & Noha Ryder Richard & Deborah Schroeder Patricia Skigen Lucy & Dan Sondles R. Thomas & Meg Stanton Sarah N. Steiner Rebecca K. Storey & Neal Simpson Synthomer Foundation Elizabeth & Michael Taipale Tucker Ellis Bradley Upham Libby & Ed Upton The Welty Family Foundation David & Judy Young

Elizabeth Osborne Don & Anne Palmer Tom & Deborah Park Jim & Kathy Pender Melodie Phillips In honor of Cynthia Knight and Rees Taylor Roberts James & Leslie Pickard Katrina Pipasts Thomas & Kate Pitrone Barbara Pittman William Plesec & Susan Stechschulte Sally & Derek Rance Fred Rasio Frank & Yolita Rausche The RDM Foundation Roger & Sally Read Roger F. Ream, D.D.S. Dr. Diana C. Reep Dr. Robert W. Reynolds Jane N. Richmond Melissa Richmond & Bill Watterson Charles E. & Mabel M. Ritchie Memorial Foundation Christine & Bill Robertson Margaret Robinson Rick & Alita Rogers Alan Rocke & Cristine Rom Diane & Todd Rosenberg Richard Rosenberg James Rosenthal & Annie Fullard Kasia G. & Douglas Rothenberg Nan & Peter Ryerson Richard & Tamara Rynearson Anthony Salem Betsy Sampliner Lynne F. & Ralph Schatz Paul Secunde Alice S. Sherman Frank Shoemaker Mike & Mary Anne Slattery Lloyd L. & Louise K. Smith Foundation Tom & Judy Spaulding Jane Peterson & Phil Star George Stark Allyson Stewart Terry & Jamie Stoller Jeffrey Strauss Susan Troia Anne Unverzagt John P. & Verna Vanderkooi Chuck Vergon Felix & Inna Vilinsky Sam Wainer Anne & Ed Wardwell Lucy & Chuck Weller Dr. Ann Williams

Apollo's Fire s 31

MEDICI CIRCLE ($1,000 – $2,499) Anonymous Bonnie & Chuck Abbey Joan Allgood Dave Mulligan & Kim Arnowitt Richard & Eleanor Aron Patricia Ashton Michael Bakes Stephen Ban Peter & Mindy Bartholomae James H. Bates Bath Community Fund Mark & Kathleen Binnig John & Susan Blackwell Mitch & Liz Blair Zeda Blau John & Claudia Boatright Arthur V. N. Brooks† In memoriam Mr. & Mrs. William D. Buss II James Calhoun Claudia Cash Judy & Bob Ciulla Fred & Kathryn Clarke Dr. Anne Clouser Herb & Ursula Cohrs Derek Cottier & Laura Tilly Harry Core Thomas M. & Janet S. Daniel The Deveny Family Henry C. Doll Dorris Donnelly Brian & Carol Duffy John J. Dyer, Jr. Keith Eggeman David & Marilyn Elk Lilly Eng John & Lee Ann Eyre Marilynne Felderman Susan P. Flowers

Casey Forbes & Signe Wrolstad-Forbes Bonnie Forkosh Dorothy & John Gardner William Gaskill & Kathleen Burke Margerita Gerborg Barbara Hawley & David Goodman Andrew Gordon-Seifert Bob Graf & Mia Zaper Graf Ann & Richard Gridley Marguerite & John Harkness Samuel & Kimberly Hartwell Sandra V. Hazra, M.D. Peter & Sunnie Hellman Paul Herman Martin & Maria Hoke Mr. Richard R. Hollington, Jr. Marsha G. & Thomas E. Hopkins Herbert J. Hoppe, Jr. Erica Hartman-Horvitz & Richard Horvitz Michael & Jane Horvitz Mrs. M. B. Humphrey* Melanie Ingalls Anne Juster Lori Kalberer In honor of Clara Rankin Walter Keith John & Linda Kelly Thomas Forrest Kelly, Ph.D. Janet Lowder & David Kinkaid Ilona Kisis Rabbi Roger C. Klein & Jacqueline Loewy Rick & Ellen Knapp In honor of Ed & Ellen Weber Raymond & Katharine Kolcaba Ursula Korneitchouk Rodger Kowall Marlene Krause Manning & John Kundtz Scott & Betsy Lassar Joan C. Long Karl & Anna Losely Rev. Richard Lutz Mary Ann Mahoney† Robert Toma & Christine Marsick Kevin Martin Dr. Susan McClary Robert Meisel Douglas Miller & Ellen Burke Marjorie Moskovitz & Joe Kanfer Deborah L. Neale Nordson Corporation Foundation Edward J. Olszewski Marilyn Orr

Thank you to our Generous Supporters (continued)

32 s Apollo's Fire

Robert C. & Emily C. Williams David & Kathleen Yonto Janice Young Richard & Mary Zigmond BRANDENBURG CIRCLE ($500 – $999) Anonymous Sue Aluzri Cynthia Ball Stephen Ban Carol Barnak Cheryl & Robert Barsan Bruce Baumberger & Ann Weatherhead Karl & Amanda Bekeny Erol & Laura Beytas Suzanne Bible Henry Billingsley & Karen Kidwell Dennis & Madeline Block Allayne & Douglas Wick Foundation Caroline Borrow Lisa & Ron Boyko Michael & Jacklyn Brennan Kelly & Doug Brill Leslie S. Brown Nancy E. Brown Paula Christ Monica & Edward Chuhna Michael Coleman Pam and David O’Halloran Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis Cassandra Crowley William D’Agostino Gary Davis & Jane Cooper Mark DelPrincipe Mary Dold Patricia Dorner Adrienne Dziak Barbara Eaton Dagmar Fellowes Timothy Fox Steven & Harriet Friedman Edie & Rich Gibbs Anne & Walter Ginn Peter & Francine Gray Rusty Greene Thomas Hoyt & Katharine Brooks Jones Family Fund Kurt Haas & Dierdre Pim Suzanne Hamilton & Char Ligo Merritt Harbert Jan Harding Nora Harmon-Bayer Dale Hedding Richard & Laurette Hershey Betty M. Hess Fred Heupler, M.D.

Drs. Adrianna & Geoffrey Hewings Gale & Jim Jacobsohn Carol Jasin Geraldine Kiefer Lynne Killgore & David Michel Marlene Krause Ed Larson & Janice Radak Jody Lefort & Ken Gober Pam LeRose & Tim Nichols Lawrence & Susan Liden Maria & Jonathan Litt Dolores Bielecki & Stephen Lorton Kathryn Machado Charles & Susan Marston Virginia & James Meil Moran Family Fund Stephen & Celeste Myers Denise & Douglas Nash Patrick & Judith O’Hara Susan Owen Mr. Franklyn Perry Barbara Peskin Ed Ponce & Mary Ann Quinn Ponce Mark & Claire Purdy Fund Dr. Diana C. Reep Michael & Dawn Rickman Margaret Robinson Phillip Rowland-Seymour Joan Safford Mary Schafer Betty & Dave Schneider Janet & Larry Sheir Mr. & Mrs. James Simler Jane Peterson & Phil Star Jeffrey Talbert Rebecca & Jeffrey Talbert Helena Torres-Trejo Donald Treap Susan & Dave Turner Hon. & Mrs. William F. B. Vodrey Sarah Vradenburg Anne & Ed Wardwell Michael Warner Mr. & Mrs. Larry S. Weiss Alan Wilde & Stephanie Switzer BUCKINGHAM CIRCLE ($250 – $499) Anonymous Anonymous In memory of Adam Shea Hewett Atty. LuWayne Annos Patricia Ashton Julianna Baillis Andrew & Ilze Bekeny Victoria & James Bell

Roger Bielefeld Robert & Susan Boltz The Echle-Walters Family Fund Terry & Christine Bowman Gisela Brodin-Brosnan Tom & Mary Brooks Bill & Carol Bruml James & Judy Burghart James Burke Ruth Cantleberry & Bud Stern Michael & Kareen Caputo Cindy & Tim Carr Jim & Berni Cockey Mrs. Betty Dalzell Barbara Ann Davis Patricia Deems James Denton Amy & Michael Diamant Duesenberg Family Charitable Fund Elinore Evans & John N. Rampe George Faddoul Robert & Marcia Fein Thomas Frattare Ann Gillespie Daniel & Kathleen Gisser Susan & Jeffrey Gumbiner John Gundy Peter & Lee Haas Louise E. Hamel Michael Hayes James & Ina Heup John Hibshman Gary & Anne Hinton Edith F. Hirsch Carole F. Hoover Stephen Hotchkiss Hope Hungerford Anne Hunter Byron H. & Diane F. Jackson Delia Johnson Ronna Kaplan & David Biegel Catherine Keating & Charles King Joseph & Nancy Keithley Charles Keller & Gayle Comstock Eric & Sue Kisch Karen Knobloch Lisa Kohn Robert I. Kohn Family Giving Fund Melodee Kornacker Jim & Rhonda Kroeger Carolyn & Steve Kuerbitz Richard Kus Martha Jane Lavelle Alan Lettofsky Richard Lilley & Carmen Letelier Richelle Lincoln Sandy Lindahl

Elona K. Lucas, PhD Jimmy Madsen Elizabeth K. Mann Tony Marini Frederic Markowitz Timothy Minnis Carole & George Morris Ken Mountcastle John Mroczka Laszlo & Jenn Nagy Florence Nelson Charlene & Marv Nevans Judith & Alfred Nicely Richard & Joanne Prober Bill & Jan Resseger Dr. Clare M. Rimnac & Dr. Thomas M. Hering Rees Taylor Roberts

Bobbie Rudnick Bryan & Sarah Salisbury Martin I. Saltzman, M.D. Jeffrey & Marilyn Sands Suzanne Maris Santos Monica & Mark Schie Dr. Adrian M. Schnall Barbara Schwaderer & Craig McGirr David Sinclair Leslie Smith Juan Solana & Rosalind Jackson Mr. & Mrs. William Spatz Linda Sperry Kathleen St. John Mickey Stefanik Alan Steffen Eileen Stork

Susan Subak Richard Sullivan Dave & Reanetta Taylor Karen Trinkle Kok-Chi Tsim Richard Uza Susan H. Vonnegut Evelyn & Churchill Ward Ms. Jacqueline Weiner Lois S. Wolf Laura & Danno Wolkoff Sharon K. Yarnell Mary & Carl Yost John & Jane Zuzek †In memoriam

Innkeepers Apollo’s Fire thanks the following patrons who generously provide accommodations for our musicians. For information about becoming an Innkeeper, please contact Rees Roberts at RRoberts@apollosfire.org. Noha & Phil Ryder • Diane and Michael Ellis • Charlotte and Jack Newman Mark and Kathleen Binnig • Don Nash • Christine & Richard Elliott Anne Unverzagt • Deb & Gary Franke • Linda Sandhaus & Roland Philip Chuck & Christy Bittenbender • Jane Richmond • Judy & David Young Edward Weber • Terry Boyarsky • Alisa Warshay • Tony Wesley & Al Cowger Dr. Kandice Marchant • Stuart Hamilton • Linda Miller & Steven Forgerson Alex & Jenny Ogan • Bob Galivan & Myriam Ribenboim Kasia Gustaw & Douglas Rothenberg • Priscilla Kaczuk Jane Haylor & Mel Berger • Astri Seidenfeld • Mia Buchwald Gelles

Apollo's Fire s 33

Joe & Donna Pacchioni • Judith & Robert Weiss • Debbie & Cooper White

Foundations, Government, & Other Organizations Apollo's Fire is grateful to the following funders who have made this season possible:

$100,000 & above

$50,000-$99,999

$20,000-$49,999

$10,000-$19,999 Akron Community Foundation Hyster-Yale Materials Handling, Inc. Illinois Arts Council

Martha Holden Jennings Foundation Peg's Foundation

$5,000-$9,999 The Mary S. & David C. Corbin Foundation Mrs. Mary & Dr. George L. Demetros Charitable Trust

The Hankins Foundation The Sisler McFawn Foundation

$2,000-$4,999

34 s Apollo's Fire

BakerHostetler Bath Community Fund BNY Mellon Community Impact Program Feth Family Foundation Harry K. & Emma R. Fox Charitable Foundation KPMG International The Lehner Family Foundation

Lubrizol McMaster-Carr Supply Company Charles E. & Mabel M. Ritchie Memorial Foundation Synthomer Foundation Tucker Ellis Welty Family Foundation

Media Partners Ideastream Public Media

WFMT Radio Network

This project was supported in part by the Ohio Arts Council, which receives support from the State of Ohio and the National Endowment for the Arts.

Meet the Administration ALLISON RICHARDS Managing Director Allison returns to AF as Managing Director, having served as the organization's outstanding General Manager for eight years during 2013-2021. As General Manager, she led our concert operations both locally and on tour; excelled in budget management; won the hearts of our musicians; and secured significant contributed income. For the past five years, Allison has worked with nonprofit organizations across the country as a senior consultant at Grants Plus, a leading professional grant-seeking firm. She is also a 2025 graduate of the Cleveland Leadership Center’s Bridge Builders program and an accomplished violist. DAVID SANDS Senior Advancement Manager, Chicago David joined Apollo’s Fire in 2025 after 10 years at The People’s Music School, a non-profit program which provides tuition-free music education to over 800 children across Chicago, where he most recently served as Senior Manager of Artistic Engagement. He holds Bachelor’s and Master’s of Music degrees in cello performance from DePaul University, where he now serves as adjunct faculty for music education. REES TAYLOR ROBERTS Development Manager Rees Taylor Roberts joined Apollo’s Fire in 2023. He previously worked as an organist, staff singer, and director of music for churches across the U.S., and administratively with multiple music festivals, concert series, and performing arts organizations. He holds Bachelor's (Arizona State University) and Master’s (Indiana Univeristy) degrees in Organ Performance, and has performed extensively as a soloist and collaborator. WENDY PARKULO Director of Marketing & Community Engagement Apollo's Fire s 35

Wendy Parkulo joined Apollo’s Fire in 2025. Previously, she gained experience as an arts administrator and marketer at performing arts organizations such as Pittsburgh Opera, Steppenwolf Theatre Company, Quantum Theatre, and the Contemporary American Theater Festival. Wendy holds a Master of Arts Management degree from Carnegie Mellon University and bachelor’s degrees in Theatre and Marketing from Florida State University.

Meet the Administration (continued) KARI FITTERER Director of Artistic Operations & Touring With nearly 20 years of experience in artistic planning, operations, touring, and education, Kari joined Apollo’s Fire in 2026. She has previously served as Director of Artistic Planning & Touring for the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center, and as a staff member of Carnegie Hall’s Weill Music Institute. Kari holds Bachelor’s degrees in Business Administration and Music from Valparaiso University, as well as a Master’s degree in Performing Arts Administration from New York University. NATALIE STEPANIAK Artistic Operations Associate Natalie Stepaniak joined Apollo’s Fire in 2026. Previously, she served as Program Manager at Kids’ Orchestra in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and Stage Manager for the Lakeside Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra. Her additional experience in arts administration includes roles with Louisiana State University’s ViolaLA! festival, Bowling Green State University’s College of Musical Arts, and Sonic Harvest Chamber Orchestra. As a professional violist and arts administrator, Natalie brings a musician’s perspective to the work behind the scenes. KELLY COSGROVE Patron Services Manager A native of both Cleveland and Chicago, Kelly earned her Bachelors of Fine Arts in Stage Management from Kent State University. After working at Porthouse Theatre and Playhouse Square, Kelly spent 11 years as a Stage Manager in Chicago before returning to Porthouse Theatre as a Production Stage Manager. Kelly closed her time in Chicago as Guest Services Supervisor for Hamilton: The Exhibition, where she welcomed thousands of guests daily.

36 s Apollo's Fire

GIGI KOKAI Box Office and Community Engagement Coordinator Gigi graduated from Robert Morris University with a bachelor’s in management, a human resource minor, and sales certification along with an MBA and Diversity and Inclusion certification. Before joining Apollo’s Fire, Gigi has worked with arts organizations throughout Pittsburgh and Cincinnati, as well as directing and growing a school theatre program. She is especially passionate about creating welcoming experiences for audiences and finding new ways to connect communities with the arts.

TOM FRATTARE Stage Production Manager Tom has been AF’s Stage Production Manager for over two decades, since 1999. He previously served as Stage Manager for the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra. He has a Master’s degree in playwriting. He handles AF’s stage logistics at home and on tour. MARTINS DAUKSS Finance Manager Martins joined Apollo’s Fire in 2009 as Production Assistant and presently serves as Finance Manager. He works in the area of production logistics and stage set-up for rehearsals, concerts and on tour, as well as handling CD merchandise sales on tour. He is a pianist and holds a degree in Music with Arts Management emphasis from Baldwin Wallace University.

Apollo's Fire s 37

3091 Mayfield Road, Suite 217 | Cleveland Heights, OH 44118 216.320.0012 | apollosfire.org

Board of Directors President & Chair Michael J. Meehan Chair Emeritus Charles A. Bittenbender Vice Presidents Elisa Ross Noha Ryder Treasurer Charles R. Abbey Secretary Karl A. Bekeny

Phillip Rowland-Seymour Ryan Siebel Jeannette Sorrell* Kathie Stewart** Rebecca Storey Herb Wainer Edward Weber, D.O. Apollo’s Fire Chicago Elisa Ross M.D., President Doug Miller, Vice President Patricia “Patti” Skigen, Secretary Shay Olson, Treasurer

Anthony Calanni Mike Angell Amy Carlson Claudia Boatright Claudia Cash John Boatright Thomas Clark* Stephanie Champi Nichole Divall** Blondean Davis, Ed.D. Arthur Gibbs Marietta McPike Andrew Gordon-Seifert Michael J. Meehan Ka-Pi Hoh, Ph.D. Florence Nelson Thomas Forrest Kelly, Ph.D. Allison Richards* Richard J. Lederman, M.D., Ph.D. Carlos Romero Kevin Martin Phillip Rowland-Seymour Shay Olson Marlon Rucker David Reimer James C. Sheinin, M.D. Allison Richards* Jeannette Sorrell* James B. Rosenthal Community Advisor Rodrigo Lara Alonso

Akron Advisory Board Thomas Clark, Chair Theron Brown Susan Delahanty Ashlee Foreman William Foster Walter Keith George Litman, M.D. The Rev. Dr. Sandra Selby Kenneth E. Shafer. M.D. Sandra R. Smith Libby Upton The Ambassadors Council Mitchell G. Blair Frances E. Buchholzer William E. Conway Samuel S. Hartwell Vivian Henoch Rabbi Roger C. Klein Annette Lowe Deborah H. Nash John Olejko Linda M. Olejko Robert Reynolds, M.D. Kasia G. Rothenberg, M.D. Sandra R. Smith Susan Troia Edward Weber, D.O. Allison Richards* *ex officio **Musicians’ Representative

Continuo Society

38 s Apollo's Fire

Apollo’s Fire recognizes and sends continued thanks to all former members of the Board of Directors who have so generously contributed their time, talents and financial resources over the years. Just as the continuo is the foundation of baroque music, these visionary individuals, through their service on the board, have been the foundation of Apollo’s Fire. Thomas S. Allen Bonnie Baker James Berlinski William P. Blair III† Christine Brez Arthur V. N. Brooks† Sally Brown† Richard Buffett Thomas Clark Nancy Bell Coe Ronald Crutcher T. Clifford Deveny, M.D. Clarence Drichta Ross W. Duffin James Ehrman Ann Fairhurst Suzanne Ferguson William J. Flemm

Mark Floyd Donald Laubacher John Gibbon William H. Lennon Robert C. Gilkeson, M.D. Fred J. Livingstone Scott Gonia David Love Joyce Graham Michael Lynn Paula Grooms Stephen A. Mahoney, M.D.† † Norman C. Harbert Polly Morganstern Russell Hardy Donald W. Morrison† Samuel Harris Clyde L. Nash, M.D.† Jonathan Hatch Charlotte Newman John D. Heavenrich Leroy B. Parks, Jr. Marguerite B. Humphrey† Brendan Patterson Conway Ivy Thomas F. Peterson, Jr.† Denise Jackson Jane Pickering Robert H. Jackson† Ronald Potts, M.D. Delia Jarantilla Sanford Reichart† Marjorie H. Kitchell† Robert Reynolds, M.D. Katherine Larson Shawn Riley

Richard Rodda Alex Sales, D.D.S. Sandra F. Selby William Sheldon, M.D. John Shelley Daniel Shoskes Carsten Sierck Kempton Smith Kathie Lynne Stewart Eugenia Strauss Susan Troia Robert Walcott Lee Warshawsky Carol Wipper Lynne Woodman Roger Wright Dave Young †

in memoriam

COMING IN DECEMBER

Handel’s

MESSIAH

On period instruments, Apollo’s Fire and Jeannette Sorrell take Handel’s masterpiece back to its roots as a dramatic and uplifting entertainment. The soloists become “visionary storytellers” in this acclaimed interpretation. You can also catch Jeannette and the singers performing Messiah with the New York Philharmonic in between the Cleveland performances. Friday, December 4, 7:00pm Saturday, December 5, 7:00pm Sunday, December 6, 3:30pm Saturday, December 19, 7:00pm Sunday, December 20, 4:00pm

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, AKRON First Baptist Church, SHAKER HEIGHTS Federated Church, CHAGRIN FALLS Trinity Cathedral, CLEVELAND St. Raphael Catholic Church, BAY VILLAGE

Tickets at 216.320.0012 | apollosfire.org

INVEST ENGAGE INNOVATE LEAD

Program Spotlight: POETRY OUT LOUD Cameron Goehring of Mount Healthy High School (Hamilton County) reciting a poem as part of a special Poetry Showcase during the Ohio State Fair. He participated in the 2022 Poetry Out Loud statewide competition.

Investing state and federal dollars, the Ohio Arts Council funds and supports quality arts experiences for all Ohioans to strengthen communities culturally, educationally, and economically. Learn more about our grant programs and resources, find your next arts experience, or connect: OAC.OHIO.GOV.