Andrew Crust

Joiningthe Vermont Symphony Orchestra (VSO) with an impressive resume, Andrew rust will direct his first show as music director on Sept. 30. He joins the VSO as its fifth music director.

am over oyed and deeply grateful to the musicians, staff, and board of the Vermont ymphony Orchestra for choosing me to be the orchestra’s next musical leader in its 89th season,” Crust said. “I want to also recognize the immense impact of outgoing Music irector Jamie Laredo, whose artistic vision shaped this orchestra over two decades and paved the way for e citing new growth in the future.

rust first performed with the V O in February and said he was impressed by the orchestra s artistic uality, sense of pride, and willingness to explore and adapt to the modern world. am very much looking forward to the impactful and transformative work we will do together in the coming seasons,” he said.

lthough much of the current season has been planned, rust is e cited to map out the VSO’s 90th season in 2024/2025. He will play a key role in choosing programming and eshing out V O s artistic vision. This includes diverse programming and collaborations with local creative professionals, world-class guest artists, and young local talent. e plans to offer audiences a healthy dose of the ever-relevant classics while also celebrating and cultivating the work of living composers.

lise Brunelle, e ecutive director of V O, said she knew rust was a great match for the VSO when he came as guest conductor in February. m convinced of his knowledge and confidence as a conductor and communicator, and his understanding of musicians needs and e perience. ndrew has a wealth of inspiring ideas to take us forward, is enthusiastic about music education and our statewide role, and has a true love of Vermont.

The merican anadian conductor is known for his versatile international career as a conductor of orchestral, opera, ballet, film, pops, and choral programs. Crust has conducted several symphonies, including Vancouver, an iego, Memphis, artford, ova cotia, and others. e has collaborated with soloists such as Tracy ilverman, eorge i, harles ang, Rufus ainwright, Michael Bolton, and more. reviously, he was associate conductor of the Vancouver and Memphis symphonies and the ational outh Orchestra conductor of the Memphis outh ymphony rogram and music director of the ima ymphony.

Crust has composed orchestral arrangements of several prominent composers as well as educational programs. He also has earned several pri es and residencies for his work.

If you’re a pup parent who also is a fan of live music, food trucks, lawn games, and themed parties—or you just love being outside with other fun people—then check out Dog Days of Summer at Switchback Brewery in Burlington.

This dog and family-friendly summer festival is held July 11, 18, and 25 from 5:30pm to 7pm, no tickets required. Going into its third summer, this event features pet industry booths, local artists and musicians, local DJs, and more. It’s a fun way to spend a Tuesday evening.

Did you know that cat puzzles exist? Like, puzzles for cats? Well, they do, and they’re getting rave reviews from cat owners everywhere. They’re also referred to as slow feeders because they make the cat work for their treats or food. These puzzles will keep your kitty entertained for hours. They are great for curious indoor cats and will keep them busy!