Norman Huynh, Music Director
Photography: Jimmy Michaels, Last Best Films
Cover Photo: April Cooper, Samantha Vetter, and Courtney Peres, Bass
. . . to Join Together
The Bozeman Symphony Orchestra and Symphonic Choir are excited to announce our highly anticipated 2025–26 Concert Season: Music that Moves Us... to Join Together. Prepare for a season that unites us through the transformative power of music.
Under the direction of Music Director Norman Huynh, this 58th season of the Bozeman Symphony promises to be the most dynamic yet. We will celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States with three Sounds of America programs. Experience a thrilling tribute to American composers and their bold, distinctive voices, together with timeless classics by some of the greatest composers of all time.
From Gershwin’s iconic bluesy jazz to Bernstein’s Broadway blockbuster, and from the vibrant innovation of Caroline Shaw and Morten Lauridsen to the sweeping landscapes of Copland, Marsalis, and Adams, this season highlights the richness of American music. We’ll traverse the country’s musical heritage—from Times Square to Hollywood, from the classics to contemporary music.
Join us for a powerful musical adventure that will stir your soul, ignite your spirit, and bring us all closer together. Don’t miss this extraordinary celebration of music, history, and community!
Daniel Wood, Principal Sarah Stoneback, and Jerry Makeever, Trumpet
Bozeman Symphonic Classical Series
Witness the power and passion of live music with our seven-concert Classical Series, where every performance showcases the heart and soul of our exceptional orchestra and choir. Music Director Norman Huynh has crafted this season with you in mind, bringing together timeless masterpieces by Beethoven, Schubert, and Mozart alongside the bold, modern voices of Gershwin, Copland, Adams, and Boyd. Featuring acclaimed guest artists, each concert promises to be an unforgettable experience—immersive, moving, and truly transformative.
Nathan Hallauer, Jodi Allison-Bunnell, Jake Kaminetzky, and Ashleigh Snider, Viola
PERFORMANCES
Classical Series 1
Opening Weekend Sounds of America I:
SEPTEMBER 20 & 21, 2025
Norman Huynh, conductor
Hannah Ji, violin
Wynton Marsalis
Marsalis & Rachmaninoff
Violin Concerto in D Major
Sergei Rachmaninoff Symphonic Dances
Celebrate the start of our new season with the vibrant spirit of American music! Be captivated by Marsalis’ Violin Concerto in D Major, performed by the talented violinist Hannah Ji. This dynamic work, inspired by the travels of renowned violinist and educator Nicola Benedetti, unfolds in four movements—each revealing a different facet of her dream, brought to life through Marsalis’ dazzling, storytellinginspired composition.
Then, surround yourself with the rich, evocative soundscapes of Rachmaninoff’s Symphonic Dances
As the only piece Rachmaninoff composed entirely in the United States, Symphonic Dances is a powerful blend of mystery, nostalgia, and exhilarating energy. This dramatic orchestral suite brims with hauntingly beautiful melodies, mysterious waltzes, and electrifying rhythms, culminating in a triumphant, virtuosic finale.
Hannah Ji
Classical Series 2 Nature’s Wonders: Beethoven’s Pastoral Symphony
OCTOBER 11 & 12, 2025
Norman Huynh, conductor
Stephanie Ann Boyd
Ludwig van Beethoven
Be transported by Beethoven’s Symphony No. 6, a heartfelt tribute to the beauty of the great outdoors. Let the music guide you through a pastoral landscape filled with babbling brooks, joyful birdsong, and the warmth of country life—all briefly interrupted by a dramatic summer storm. A timeless masterpiece, this symphony was memorably featured in Disney’s Fantasia.
Then, discover the voices of 13 unique species brought to life through the orchestra in the premiere of Boyd’s Carnival of the Nearly Extinct Animals This vibrant and evocative work weaves the songs and environments of animals on the brink of extinction into a mesmerizing musical tapestry. Highlighting the urgent threats of pollution, habitat loss, and climate change, the piece is both a celebration of nature’s wonders and a call to protect them.
Carnival of the Nearly Extinct Animals (Co-commissioned by the Bozeman Symphony)
Symphony No. 6 in F Major, “Pastoral”
Stephanie Ann Boyd
Artwork by Sasha Parfenova
Classical Series 3
Masters of Melody: Mozart, Copland, & Haydn
JANUARY 24 & 25, 2026
Norman Huynh, conductor
Madeleine Folkerts, horn
Elizabeth Schmidt, horn
Wendy Bickford, clarinet
Joseph Haydn Concerto for 2 Horns and Orchestra in E-flat Major
Aaron Copland Clarinet Concerto
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Enjoy the sophistication and charm of Mozart’s Symphony No. 38. One of Mozart’s final orchestral masterpieces, this symphony opens with a dramatic, slow introduction before bursting into a spirited main theme—one that foreshadows the beloved Overture to The Magic Flute. The middle movement offers a moment of deep beauty and reflection, leading to a lively finale.
Also savor the timeless beauty of Copland’s Clarinet Concerto, a work commissioned by jazz legend Benny Goodman and performed by our principal clarinetist. The concerto opens with one of Copland’s most lyrical and heartfelt melodies before transforming into an electrifying, jazz-infused finale—complete with glissandos and smears.
The brilliance of our horn section will be showcased as they take center stage in Haydn’s Concerto for Two Horns and Orchestra—a captivating
Symphony No. 38 in D Major, “Prague”
Associate Principal Horn Elizabeth Schmidt, Principal Clarinet Wendy Bickford, and Principal Horn Madeleine Folkerts
work that stands as a landmark in brass repertoire. With its exhilarating runs and elegant melodies, this piece showcases the horn’s remarkable virtuosity and expressive range.
Classical Series 4
Romantic Splendor: Schumann & Schubert
MARCH 21 & 22, 2026
Norman Huynh, conductor
Jonathan Swensen, cello
Robert Schumann Cello Concerto in A Minor
Franz Schubert
Symphony No. 9 in C Major, “The Great”
Rising star of the cello, Jonathan Swensen, will take center stage with Schumann’s Cello Concerto in A Minor, a work as enigmatic as it is expressive. Unlike traditional concertos, Schumann seamlessly weaves its three movements into a continuous flow, creating a dreamlike narrative. The opening unfolds with a transcendent, almost improvisatory quality, leading into a second movement of profound lyricism.
Schubert’s final completed symphony, the monumental Symphony No. 9 in C Major, aptly nicknamed “The Great,” stands as a testament to his admiration for Beethoven. Unusually expansive for its time, this symphony unfolds over an hour, brimming with rhythmic vitality and sweeping melodic lines. Midway through, Schubert pays homage to his predecessor, subtly echoing themes from Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9.
Jonathan Swensen
Classical Series 5 Lyrical Landscapes: Mahler, Walton, & Claire de lune
APRIL 25 & 26, 2026
Norman Huynh, conductor
Lester Lynch, baritone
Bozeman Symphonic Choir
Claude Debussy (orch. Stokowski) Claire de lune
Gustav Mahler Rückert-Lieder
William Walton Belshazzar’s Feast
Enjoy the gentle beauty of Clair de Lune —French for “moonlight”—one of the most recognizable pieces in Debussy’s repertoire. This work will immerse you in a dreamlike atmosphere, using open harmonies, unconventional scales, and fluid melodic lines. Just as Impressionist painters captured the fleeting play of light rather than rigid details, the music evokes shifting moods and delicate soundscapes.
Next, we present Mahler’s RückertLieder, performed by one of the most electrifying opera singers of the 21st century, baritone Lester Lynch. The poignant song cycle is based on the poetry of Romantic German poet Friedrich Rückert. As in much of Mahler’s music, melody takes center stage. These five deeply expressive songs journey from the fragrant promise of spring to meditations on solitude and, ultimately, a profound contemplation of the soul’s darkest hour.
Lester Lynch
The program concludes with Lynch and the Bozeman Symphonic Choir performing Walton’s Belshazzar’s Feast. This dramatic oratorio, drawn from biblical texts, tells the story of the Jews’ exile in Babylon. During a grand feast, King Belshazzar desecrates sacred Jewish vessels in praise of heathen gods—only to meet a sudden and divine downfall. With the king’s fall, the Babylonian kingdom crumbles, and the Jewish people triumphantly regain their freedom.
Classical Series 6
Sounds of America II: Rhapsody in Blue & West Side Story
MAY 16 & 17, 2026
Norman Huynh, conductor
Michelle Cann, piano
Florence Price
George Gershwin
Caroline Shaw
Leonard Bernstein
Experience one of Gershwin’s most iconic works, Rhapsody in Blue—a 1924 tour de force that helped define the Jazz Age. Originally written for solo piano and jazz band, this exhilarating piece fuses classical structure with the infectious energy of jazz. With its bold rhythms, sweeping melodies, and dazzling improvisatory spirit, Rhapsody in Blue remains a testament to Gershwin’s genius in bridging musical traditions.
Continuing this seamless blend of styles, Bernstein’s Symphonic Dances from West Side Story offers a thrilling orchestral suite adapted from his legendary musical. Spanning nine movements, the Symphonic Dances capture the raw emotion and dramatic intensity of West Side Story, weaving together classical techniques with jazz rhythms, Latin dance styles, and electrifying syncopations.
Piano Concerto in One Movement
Rhapsody in Blue
The Observatory
Symphonic Dances from West Side Story
Bridging past and present, Grammy Award-winning pianist Michelle Cann joins us for Price’s Piano Concerto in One Movement, a masterpiece of rich, late-Romantic lyricism that seamlessly blends tradition with innovation. And Grammy Award-winning composer Shaw’s The Observatory offers a kaleidoscopic, filmic journey. Premiered by the Los Angeles Philharmonic in 2019, the piece is named after the Griffith Observatory overlooking Los Angeles.
Michelle Cann
Classical Series 7 Season Finale Sounds of America III: Appalachian Spring
JUNE 13 & 14, 2026
Norman Huynh, conductor
Aaron Copland
John Adams
Appalachian Spring
Harmonielehre
Feel the first warm, aromatic breezes of spring with Copland’s beloved Appalachian Spring, an orchestral arrangement of his iconic ballet partnership with choreographer Martha Graham. This timeless work tells the story of a young frontier couple on their wedding day, capturing the hopes, dreams, and pioneering spirit of a nation envisioning a brighter future.
Next, revel in Adams’ Harmonielehre, a breathtaking fusion of romanticism, post-minimalism, and symphonic grandeur—a bold statement on the enduring power of tonality. Inspired by a vivid dream in which an oil tanker on San Francisco Bay suddenly turned upright and launched into the sky like a Saturn V rocket, this electrifying piece marked the end of a creative block Adams had been experiencing for 18 months, propelling him into a new era of composition.
Norman Huynh
Bozeman Symphony Presents Series
Experience the Bozeman Symphony Presents Series—where this season the orchestra and symphonic choir unite to create unforgettable musical moments for our growing audience. Featuring an exciting mix of popular genres and beloved classical works, this series has something for everyone to enjoy. Don’t miss this season’s two must-see concerts, filled with joy, energy, and extraordinary music!
Holiday Spectacular 2024
PERFORMANCES
Bozeman Symphony Presents Series 1
Holiday Spectacular
DECEMBER 12, 13, & 14, 2025
Norman Huynh, conductor
Terrence Chin-Loy, tenor
Bozeman Symphonic Choir
Embrace the magic of the season at our most popular concert of the year! The Holiday Spectacular returns for its fifth year, featuring the warm, expressive voice of tenor Terrence Chin-Loy and a heartwarming program of holiday favorites.
Celebrate the true spirit of the holidays with Ave Maria, the Hallelujah Chorus from Messiah, Sleigh Ride, Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming, and our beloved Christmas Carol Sing-Along.
Make lifelong memories with family and friends at this cherished tradition. Don’t miss this joyous concert that will fill your heart with peace and holiday cheer!
Terrence Chin-Loy
Bozeman Symphony Presents Series 2
Cinematic Legends: The Music of Hans Zimmer
FEBRUARY 13, 14, & 15, 2026
Norman Huynh, conductor
Bozeman Symphonic Choir
& Ennio Morricone
Immerse yourself in the magic of the silver screen like never before as the Bozeman Symphony brings to life the unforgettable music of legendary film composers Zimmer and Morricone. From sweeping melodies to pulsepounding themes, this thrilling concert will transport you straight into the heart of your favorite films. Hear the iconic scores from The Lion King, Inception, The Good, the Bad and the Ugly, The Thing, and The Dark Knight Suite—performed live by a full symphony orchestra and choir.
Bozeman Symphonic Choir Series
Delight in the music of the Bozeman Symphonic Choir Series, where the power of choral music comes to life through our dynamic 100-member choir. The choir will perform in two locations, with the symphony at the Willson Auditorium and the intimacy of Hope Lutheran Church, delivering breathtaking performances that captivate audiences and inspire the soul. This season, immerse yourself in an extraordinary program featuring contemplative repertoire that promises to move you emotionally and spiritually.
Soprano Gayatri Sabne, Alto Christa Merzdorf, Soprano Carole McClean, Alto Eliese Besemer, and Harpist Angela Espinosa
Bozeman Symphonic Choir Series Night & Light: The Music of Lauridsen & Shaw
NOVEMBER 13, 14 & 15, 2025
HOPE LUTHERAN CHURCH
Norman Huynh, conductor
Bozeman Symphonic Choir
Morten Lauridsen Nocturnes
Caroline Shaw and the swallow
Morten Lauridsen Lux Aeterna
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Lauridsen’s Nocturnes, a choral masterpiece that delves into the mystery and allure of the night. Through a stunning blend of languages and poetic influences, Lauridsen weaves lush harmonies and expressive phrasing, showcasing his gift for creating music that resonates deeply within the soul.
Next, lose yourself in Shaw’s poignant choral work, and the swallow, inspired by Psalm 84, which reflects themes of longing, refuge, and hope. The text, which speaks of the sparrow finding a home and the swallow nesting near the divine presence, comes to life through Shaw’s delicate textures, lush harmonies, and heartfelt phrasing, enveloping listeners in a meditative, emotionally rich atmosphere.
Finally, be swept away by one of Lauridsen’s most beloved compositions, Lux Aeterna. Renowned for its profound beauty and emotional
depth, this radiant choral work with chamber orchestra support offers a transformative reflection on light and transcendence. From the serene opening of Introitus to the soaring, ethereal lines of Agnus Dei, the choral cycle unfolds with warmth, solace, and spiritual reflection, offering a powerful source of comfort and inspiration.
Tenor Brian Smithers and Tenor Section Leader Jeff Abelin
Subscriber Benefits
• Prime Seating: Enjoy the best seats, reserved for you year after year.
• Exclusive Savings: Get over 10% off regular ticket prices.
• Flexible Ticketing: Exchange tickets at no cost for peace of mind.
• No Extra Fees: Skip the handling fees on all single-ticket purchases.
• Extra Savings: Receive a 10% discount on additional Classical ticket purchases throughout the season.
• Early Access: Get exclusive access and special discounts for our sought-after Bozeman Symphony Presents and Choir performances.
Violinists Megan McFadden, Amy Wright, and Jihye Sung and their children
Four Easy Ways to Subscribe
1. Online for new subscribers only: www.bozemansymphony.org/subscribe
2. Mail: Bozeman Symphony, 402 East Main St., Suite 202, Bozeman, MT 59715
3. Telephone: 406-585-9774
4. In-person: 402 East Main St., Suite 202, downtown Bozeman (M-F 9 AM-5 PM)
April Cooper, Max Johnson, Samantha Vetter, Scott Stebbins, Courtney Peres, and Tristyn Fleming, Bass
Principal Clarinet Wendy Bickford, Associate Principal Horn Elizabeth Schmidt, and Principal Horn Madeleine Folkerts
Ten-year-old Oliver Rast of Bozeman tried out the clarinet at the 2025 Instrument Petting Zoo, held alongside the Bozeman Symphony’s annual free Family Concert.
BALCONY
Cellist Charlie Martin and Music Director Norman Huynh entertain youth at Symphony Storytime
2025-26 Season at a Glance
Opening Weekend
Sounds of America I: Marsalis & Rachmaninoff
SEPTEMBER 20, 2025 @ 7:30 PM
SEPTEMBER 21, 2025 @ 2:30 PM
Nature’s Wonders: Beethoven’s Pastoral Symphony
OCTOBER 11, 2025 @ 7:30 PM
OCTOBER 12, 2025 @ 2:30 PM
Night & Light: The Music of Lauridsen & Shaw
NOVEMBER 13, 2025 @ 7:30 PM
NOVEMBER 14, 2025 @ 7:30 PM
NOVEMBER 15, 2025 @ 2:30 PM Hope Lutheran Church
Holiday Spectacular
DECEMBER 12, 2025 @ 7:30 PM
DECEMBER 13, 2025 @ 2:30 & 7:30 PM
DECEMBER 14, 2025 @ 2:30 PM
Masters of Melody: Mozart, Copland, & Haydn
JANUARY 24, 2026 @ 7:30 PM
JANUARY 25, 2026 @ 2:30 PM
Cinematic Legends: The Music of Hans Zimmer & Ennio Morricone
FEBRUARY 13, 2026 @ 7:30 PM
FEBRUARY 14, 2026 @ 7:30 PM
FEBRUARY 15, 2026 @ 2:30 PM
Romantic Splendor: Schumann & Schubert
MARCH 21, 2026 @ 7:30 PM
MARCH 22, 2026 @ 2:30 PM
Lyrical Landscapes: Mahler, Walton, & Claire de lune
APRIL 25, 2026 @ 7:30 PM
APRIL 26, 2026 @ 2:30 PM
Sounds of America II: Rhapsody in Blue & West Side Story
MAY 16, 2026 @ 7:30 PM May 17, 2026 @ 2:30 PM
Season Finale Sounds of America III: Appalachian Spring
JUNE 13, 2026 @ 7:30 PM
JUNE 14, 2026 @ 2:30 PM
Classical Series
Bozeman Symphony Presents Bozeman Symphonic Choir Series
All Classical Series and Bozeman Symphony Presents performances at Willson Auditorium
Principal Bassoon Nick Ober, Flutist Megan Makeever, Bassoonist Sam Macken, Principal Oboe Sandy Stimson, and Horn Player Michael Sgrecci