Beethoven’s Fifth September 27, 2026 at 5pm Rudder Theatre
Table of Contents Brazos Valley Symphony Orchestra Symphony Experience President’s Letter Symphony Board of Directors Symphony Management & Staff Marcelo Bussiki, Music Director Concert Program Guest Artist Biographies Concert Roster Program Notes
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Support & Giving Annual Fund Permanent Endowment Friends Association of the Symphony Orchestra Derby Day – Fund a Season 2026 Corporate, Foundation & Community Support
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Symphony Experience CONCERT COURTESY We strive to provide the best possible listening experience. Please silence all phones and electronic devices before the performance begins. Cough drops, candy wrappers, and other noises can be distracting to musicians and fellow patrons. Multi-movement works, such as symphonies and concertos, are best appreciated uninterrupted. It is customary to hold applause until the conclusion of the complete work — but if you are truly moved by the performance, don’t be afraid to show it! FOOD & DRINK POLICY Food and drinks are not permitted inside the performance hall. Water is allowed, but please avoid plastic bottles or other containers that may cause noise during the performance. LOST & FOUND For concerts at the Rudder Theatre Complex, lost items may be claimed through the Rudder Theatre Complex office.
to help you locate your seat. Our Holiday Concert at Christ Church is general admission, with seating available on a first-come, first-served basis. TICKETS Tickets are non-refundable and nonexchangeable. If you are unable to attend, extra tickets may be left with the MSC Box Office to be given to Texas A&M students. PARKING For concerts at the Rudder Theatre Complex, patrons may park in the University Center Garage (UCG), located directly across from the Rudder Theatre Complex, free of charge. Take a ticket from the machine upon entry. After the concert, the garage gates will be open for exit. If the gates are closed, press the help button at the exit kiosk, let them know you attended the Symphony, and the gates will be opened for you.
ACCESSIBILITY Wheelchair seating and accessibility accommodations are available. Please speak with an usher or contact us prior to the performance if assistance is needed.
PRE-CONCERT RECEPTIONS Join us before each performance at the Rudder Theatre Complex for a complimentary pre-concert reception. Enjoy light refreshments, a cash bar, and the chance to mingle with fellow patrons before the concert.
SEATING All concerts at the Rudder Theatre Complex have assigned seating. Please sit in the seat indicated on your ticket. Ushers are available
CONTACT US For questions or assistance, please contact the Symphony Office at 979-696-6100 or services@bvso.org.
Thank You to Our Title Sponsors
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Mike Connor BVSS Board President
Howdy and welcome to Season 45 of the Brazos Valley Symphony Orchestra! Maestro Marcelo Bussiki has once again assembled a first-in-class program of concerts this season. From an incredible mashup of iconic classical music with dynamic hip-hop dance to traveling a long time ago in a galaxy far, far away, there is something for all fans of symphonic music. Of course, there are the traditional classical concerts with amazing guest artists, including our own Andrew Wheeler and Penny Zent! In addition to the always-popular Holiday Concert, the BVSO is once again joining forces with Ballet Brazos to present The Nutcracker. A very special thanks to our season sponsors - College Station Hyundai, Mercedes-Benz of College Station, BMW of College Station, College Station Ford, Aggieland Chevrolet, and College Station Nissan. For the third year, this partnership continues to be a critical part of this season’s success. We are also grateful to the Friends Association of the Symphony Orchestra, the Ham Family Trust, the Eugene Edge Charitable Trust, The Plass Arts Foundation, the Plass Charitable Trust, Becky and B. Don Russell, the Nina Astin Winkler Charitable Trust, and Amarillo National Bank for their generous support of individual concerts. The wonderful Youth Concerto Competition continues to be endowed by Tracy and Tamara Carter. This year, not only are we celebrating the BVSO’s 45th season, but we are also celebrating its 30th season under the direction of Marcelo Bussiki! Since 1996, Marcelo has led the BVSO and has grown it from a small community orchestra to one of the well-respected regional symphonies in the state. Musicians from across Texas now come to Bryan/College Station to play the challenging repertoire for which the BVSO is known. Be sure and save the date, May 1, 2027, for BVSO’s annual Derby Day Gala. Celebrate the Kentucky Derby with dinner, live entertainment, auctions, and festive Derby traditions while supporting the BVSO. You will not want to miss this always fun event. More details to come! Finally, a heartfelt thanks to you, our patrons, for your continued support of the BVSO. Whether this is your first time to attend a BVSO concert or you are a long-time season ticket holder, we appreciate your investment in this Brazos Valley treasure. Now just sit back, relax, and enjoy the performance!
Warmest regards,
Mike Connor BVSS Board President
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Symphony Society Board EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Mike Connor
Martha Vilas
Penny Zent
Andrew Wheeler
Bruce Hamilton
Renee Knox†
Don Hellriegel
Marcelo Bussiki†
President
Executive Vice President First Vice President
Sue Lee
Secretary Treasurer
Orchestra Chair Executive Director
Music Director
Sue & J.C. Lee Music Director Chair
Second Vice President
Ryan Becker
Cameron House
Scott Shafer
Karen Bonarrigo
Tai Lee
Rod Thornton
Mark Browning
Cathy Loving
Wanda Watson
Pierce Cantrell
Adam Mikeal
Gaines West
Joe Cook†
Orchestra Representative
Communications Director
Suzzane Neuberger
Letty Fuentes
Nicole Ozerova
Orchestra Representative
Chuck Hermann
Anne Prescott FASO President
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Caitlin Zimmerman† Bush Board Fellow
† Ex-Officio
Symphony Management & Staff
Renee Knox,
Joe Cook,
Executive Director
Communications Director
Rosalee McShane,
Deanna Harris,
Office and Patron Services Coordinator
Bookkeeper
Sandra Castañon,
Grants and Administrative Services Manager
Letty Fuentes,
Personnel Manager & Librarian
Todd Quinlan,
Operations Manager
BRAZOS VALLEY SYMPHONY SOCIETY OFFICE HOURS: M-F 9AM - 5PM
PHONE: 979-696-6100 WEBSITE: www.bvso.org EMAIL: services@bvso.org
MAILING ADDRESS: P.O. Box 3524 Bryan, TX 77805
OFFICE ADDRESS: 4030 Hwy 6 South, Suite 230 College Station, TX 77845
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Marcelo Bussiki Music Director Sue & J.C. Lee Music Director Chair
Marcelo Bussiki celebrates his 30th season as Music Director and Conductor of the Brazos Valley Symphony Orchestra during the 2026–27 season, marking three decades of artistic leadership with the orchestra. Since taking the podium in 1996, Bussiki has played an integral role in the BVSO’s artistic growth and its presence in the Brazos Valley community. In addition to his musical career, Bussiki had a distinguished career in higher education, most recently serving as Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs at Blinn College before retiring from the position in January 2026. Born in Cuiabá, capital of Mato Grosso State in Brazil, Bussiki discovered his passion for music at an early age. At 14, he left home to study at the Brazilian Conservatory of Music in Rio de Janeiro. He continued his conducting studies under Maestro Roberto Duarte at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro. Upon graduation, he was named music director of the orchestra of the Federal University of Mato Grosso, a position he held for six years. In recognition of his pioneering work in cultural expansion and music education, Bussiki was awarded knighthood in the Ordem de Mérito de Mato Grosso. He received the title of Oficial, the highest honor the executive power can confer upon an artist in Brazil. Bussiki came to the United States in 1992 on a scholarship from the Brazilian government and studied at the Moores School of Music at the University of Houston. From 1994 to 1996, he directed the university’s New Music Ensemble, developing an extensive repertoire of modern and contemporary music. He received a Doctor of Musical Arts in conducting from the University of Houston in 1998. During his tenure with the Brazos Valley Symphony Orchestra, Bussiki has been in demand as a guest conductor in Texas and beyond. In 2002, he returned to his native Brazil under the sponsorship of the Brazilian National Bank in Rio de Janeiro to conduct 15 performances of Gaetano Donizetti’s opera Viva la Mamma, as well as symphonic concerts in Rio de Janeiro and Brasília. In 2001, he conducted a premiere performance of the Organ Concerto by American composer Lou Harrison, featuring organist John Walker and the Carnegie Mellon Percussion Ensemble in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Bussiki has also conducted numerous concerts at the International Festival Institute at Round Top, Texas, and served as conductor for the International Guitar Festival in 2005, 2006, and 2016. In 2014, he was named Artist of the Year by The Arts Council.
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BRAZOS VALLEY SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
September 27
B E E T H OV E N ’ S F I F T H
Beethoven’s iconic Fifth Symphony anchors a powerful program of his greatest works, featuring Monarch Chamber Players in his Triple Concerto.
October 25
FRENCH MASTERS & BOLÉRO
Celebrate the beauty of French music with Ravel’s Boléro, saxophonist Andrew Wheeler performing Ibert’s Concertino da camera for saxophone, and other beloved French masterworks.
December 13
A H O L I DAY C O N C E RT
Celebrate the season with festive favorites and holiday classics for the whole family. Featuring local choirs, BVSO Brass and Percussion, and organ.
January 24
BREAKIN’ CLASSICAL
A high-energy program that breaks the mold by bringing classical music to life through the electrifying choreography of hip-hop dance.
February 21
ˇ Á K TO J O H N W I LL I A M S D VO R
Discover the beauty and versatility of the string orchestra in a program of timeless works. Featuring beloved classics alongside rarely performed gems.
March 21
S TA R WA R S : A N E W H O P E I N C O N C E RT
Experience the full film live on screen while the BVSO performs John Williams’ legendary score note-for-note.
April 25
SCHEHERAZADE
A sweeping season finale celebrating storytelling through music. From the mighty rivers of America to the legendary tales of One Thousand and One Nights.
T I C K E TS & I N FO R M AT I O N
MSC BOX OFFICE
VI S I T BVS O.O R G
In Person or Phone 979-845-1234
View Concerts & Learn More
2026-27 Season | 9
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2026-27 Season | 11
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Concert Sponsor:
The Ham Family Trust
Beethoven’s Fifth
Sunday, September 27, 2026 · 5:00pm Rudder Theatre Marcelo Bussiki, conductor Sue & J.C. Lee Music Director Chair
Sam Park, violin David Dietz, cello Yvonne Chen, piano
5′ Coriolan Overture, Op. 62 35′ Concerto for Violin, Cello, Piano and Orchestra in C major, Opus 56 (Triple)
Beethoven Beethoven
I. Allegro II. Largo III. Rondo alla polacca
INTERMISSION
31′ Symphony No. 5 in C minor, Opus 67
Beethoven
I. Allegro con brio II. Andante con moto III. Scherzo: Allegro IV. Allegro – Presto
*Times listed are approximate This program made possible through the support of the Texas Commission on the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts Please note: audio and video recordings and flash photography by audience members are prohibited. Thank you for your cooperation. Program subject to change. 2026-27 Season | 13
Guest Bios Monarch Chamber Players Monarch Chamber Players is a collective of Houston-based professional musicians committed to taking classical chamber music out of the concert hall and into accessible community spaces. Founded in October 2020 as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Monarch is a member of the Texas Touring Roster and currently presents over 50 concerts annually. The ensemble has brought classical music to over 25 Houston neighborhoods, performing at a variety of venues including parks, churches, farms, gas stations, traditional indoor venues, and front porches. Monarch has also been featured on many traditional concert series, including the Cypress Creek FACE Promenade Series, the Houston Methodist Center for the Performing Arts Crain Garden Series, and the Bayou City Art Festival, and has performed at many of Houston’s prominent concert venues such as POST Houston, Zilkha Hall at the Hobby Center, and the Museum of Fine Arts Houston. Past seasons have included collaborations with the Houston-based ensembles WindSync, Houston Chamber Choir, and Kinetic Ensemble. All of Monarch’s classical programs feature diverse and historically underrepresented composers. Monarch’s seasonal programming celebrates the holidays with “Neighborhood Nutcracker,” an original production of Tchaikovsky’s score arranged for wind quintet and percussion accompanied by a video projection of the ballet, as well as special programs for Halloween, Hispanic Heritage Month, Women’s History Month, Memorial Day, and more. Composed of musicians who perform around the world with top professional orchestras and who hold degrees from the country’s most prestigious conservatories, Monarch offers a flexible configuration from its core roster of winds, strings, harp, and percussion. Available ensembles include wind quintet, string trio, harp trio, woodwind trio, and other unique ensembles ranging from 2-15 musicians.
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Sam Park, violin Samuel Park is an enthusiastic and devoted chamber musician based in Houston, Texas. He has collaborated with notable artists such as Gil Shaham, the Escher and New Orford String Quartets, David and Phillip Ying, Desmond Hoebig, and Brinton Smith. He is currently a core member of the Kinetic Ensemble and the Monarch Chamber Players in Houston. Samuel has also performed as a chamber musician in concert venues around the world, including in Germany, Japan, and South Korea. Samuel served as concertmaster and held principal roles for numerous orchestras, including the Tanglewood Music Center Orchestra, the Rice University Shepherd School Symphony Orchestra, the Cleveland Institute of Music Orchestra, and the Juilliard Opera Orchestra. He also participated in prestigious orchestra festivals, such as the New York String Orchestra Seminar, Music Academy of the West, Pacific Music Festival, and the Tanglewood Music Center. He served as guest concertmaster of El Paso Symphony Orchestra and is a current contracted section violinist at the Houston Symphony. A native of Arizona, Samuel Park made his solo debut with the Phoenix Symphony Orchestra at the age of 15. He holds degrees from Rice University, the Juilliard School and the Cleveland Institute of Music. His primary teachers include Joel Smirnoff, Joan Kwuon, Catherine Cho, Paul Kantor, and Jonathan Swartz.
Guest Bios education’s ability to lift up communities and build a more compassionate society. He regularly appears in Houston classrooms to perform and speak about classical music, and has recently given masterclasses at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, American Festival of the Arts, and Opus 1 Chamber Music School. David serves as Adjunct Instructor of Cello at Lone Star College-University Park and maintains a private studio.
David Dietz, cello Cellist David Dietz has performed across North America, Europe and Asia and is comfortable in a wide range of settings as a performer and educator. His belief in classical music’s ability to strengthen communities and bring people together has driven his involvement in many creative projects spanning from kindergarten classrooms to concert halls. Recent season highlights include a series of community concerts in the Houston Public Library system with Trio Menil and recitals at the Chinese University of Hong Kong and Beijing’s Central Conservatory of Music. Chamber music is the heart of David’s artistic practice. He is the co-founder and Artistic Director of the Houston Music Festival, which reimagines chamber music through interdisciplinary collaboration. Now in its third season, HMF has produced innovative concerts in spaces throughout Houston and features internationally renowned artists such as pianist Jon Kimura Parker, poet Outspoken Bean, and artist Xuan Films. David is also a founding member of Trio Menil, a piano trio that performs extensively throughout the United States and was the Grand Prizewinner at the 2023 Plowman Chamber Music Competition. Upcoming performance highlights include recitals in Texas and Indiana with Jonathan Mak, a piano trio tour with violinist Mary Grace Johnson and pianist Chelsea de Souza, and a performance with Brooklyn Rider. David was raised by two public school music teachers and firmly believes in music
Yvonne Chen, piano As a solo recitalist and creative director, pianist Yvonne has created compelling programs such as Murakami Music, Murder Mystery Madness, Music in Darkness, and Bach/Berio at the Silos. An enthusiastic chamber musician, she has collaborated with Kaleidoscope Chamber Orchestra, WindSync, Performing Arts Houston, Music in Context, DACAMERA, and Houston Chamber Choir. Yvonne also performs as an orchestral keyboardist, most recently with the Grand Teton Music Festival Orchestra and River Oaks Chamber Orchestra. With organist Yuri McCoy, Yvonne is part of Pipe and Key, a piano-organ duo specializing in bringing orchestral works to the community. A graduate of the Juilliard School, Yvonne has since made Houston her home, having been on the piano faculty of St. John’s School since 2017 and receiving her doctoral degree in piano performance from Rice University’s Shepherd School of Music in December 2019. She serves on the executive boards of Houston Music Teachers Association (HMTA) and Kinetic Ensemble, and is Managing Director of WindSync.
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Concert Roster Marcelo Bussiki Music Director
Sue & J.C. Lee Music Director’s Chair
FIRST VIOLIN
Javier Chaparro, Concertmaster Creighton Miller Concertmaster Chair Matthew Chan Ryan Choppin Naomi Frausto Letty Fuentes Ning-chih Hsu Eddy Marcano Amanda Schubert Jisu Shin Darren Tidwell Oscar Vera Yuan Wu
SECOND VIOLIN
Adam Mikeal, Principal Penelope Kosztolnyik and Joe Ham Violin II Chair Heather Davis Claudia Font Jarred Kennedy Ethan Lammayot Grace Liu-Anderson Luis Osorio-Betancourt Lucina Reyes Alejandro San Miguel James Ximenez
VIOLA
Luis Perez, Principal Paul Duston John Holguin Sam Lee Gregory Mata Noah White-Tellez
CELLO
Elizabeth Lee, Principal Ward and Diane Wells Cello Chair Enn Rene Diaz Cony Knight Alex Lammayot Sam Linzan Brady Meyer
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BASS
Gaven Krase, Principal The Jacob and Cooper Appelt Bass Chair Sabrina Behrens Daniel Chan Ray Fisher Andy Moritz
FLUTE
Penny Zent, Principal The Hermann Family Flute Chair Jessica Borski-Owens Daniel Pardo
OBOE
Rebecca Fairweather Haskins, Principal Amy Burgess
CLARINET
Carmen Borregales, Acting Principal Wendy and Grant Wolfe Clarinet Chair Roberto Guzman
BASSOON
Luis De la Garza, Acting Principal Dennis Beaver Dmytro Savitski
HORN
Esteban Garcia, Acting Principal John Craig Hubbard
TRUMPET
Phil Scoles, Principal Wesley Miller
TROMBONE
Brian Logan, Principal Steven Vogel
BASS TROMBONE Michael Johnson
TIMPANI
Todd Quinlan, Principal
Program Notes Ludwig van Beethoven Ludwig van Beethoven was born in Bonn, Germany, probably on December 16, 1770 (he was baptized on December 17); and he died March 26, 1827, in Vienna, Austria. The three works in tonight’s concert were all written between 1803 and 1808, during Beethoven’s middle or “heroic” period, when the classicism of his youth gave way to the bolder and more expansive mature style. It was during this period that Beethoven, having resolved to continue his work despite his growing deafness, began cultivating themes of triumph over struggle.
Coriolan Overture, Op. 62 Ludwig van Beethoven Beethoven composed this Overture in 1807 as incidental music for Coriolan, a play the dramatist Heinrich Joseph von Collin (1771-1811) had written a few years earlier, based on Shakespeare’s Coriolanus. Gaius Marcius Coriolanus was a Roman general who once bravely defended his city against the neighboring Volsci but, due to his arrogance towards his fellow citizens, turns traitor and leads his former enemies in an attack on Rome, while his influential mother, Volumnia, and his wife beg him to call it off. He stops the attack at the last minute; now doubly deceitful, he falls on his own sword. The Overture opens with short, tempestuous chords in the key of C minor (not unlike the beginning of the Fifth Symphony). The moodiness of this theme, reflecting Coriolan’s warlike nature, is offset by a gentle theme recalling Volumnia’s pleading. Beethoven dedicated the work to Collin; his patron, Prince Joseph Franz Lobkowitz, hosted its premiere in his home in March 1807.
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Program Notes Concerto for Violin, Cello and Piano in C major, Op. 56 “Triple Concerto” Ludwig van Beethoven Allegro Largo Rondo alla polacca During the 18th century, “concertante” pieces were popular, especially in France. These are works featuring two or more solo instruments, or even a small ensemble acting as a solo group against the larger orchestra. Even Mozart had composed a Symphonie concertante. This type of composition had waned by Beethoven’s lifetime, however, making this “Triple Concerto” unusual for its era. The piano trio is the star throughout the work; the orchestra’s role is mainly accompaniment. Thus, we have an orchestral piece with some of the intimacy of chamber music. Beethoven composed it in 18031804, about the same time he was working on his Symphony no. 3 (the “Eroica”), but he did not publish it until 1808. The first public performance of the Triple Concerto was given in the Augartensaal in Vienna in May 1808, in a concert organized by the violinist Ignaz Schuppanzigh. Although he might have originally written the concerto for his pupil, Archduke Rudolf, Beethoven dedicated it to a friend, Prince Joseph Franz Lobkowitz. The first theme begins with the cellos. After the orchestra’s exposition of the themes, the solo instruments come in one at a time, beginning with the cello and ending with the piano. The piano part sounds impressive, but the string parts require more technical virtuosity. There is a lengthy development section, followed by what seems to be a recapitulation, but instead turns out to be another development section. Beethoven probably used this secondary development in lieu of a cadenza, or free improvisation by the soloists. The short second movement, in the distant key of A flat major, is slow and lyrical. It leads directly into a lively rondo “in Polish style,” or polonaise, in which the orchestra contributes more.
Symphony No. 5 in C minor, Op. 67 Ludwig van Beethoven Allegro con brio (Fast, with exuberance) Andante con moto (Walking speed, with motion) Allegro (Scherzo); Trio (Fast) Allegro (Fast) Bom-bom-bom-BOM! This terse yet mighty four-note motif reminds us that something small can announce or lead to something greater. Musicians often consider this symphony to be Beethoven’s best example of making the most of a little thematic material. Some writers interpret it as an expression of man’s triumph over fate; in fact, it is sometimes called the “Fate” Symphony. The motif appears throughout the first movement, almost intruding on the sections featuring the more lyrical second theme. Towards the end of the movement even the second theme takes on a more militant sound. The second movement starts quietly, but then it gives way to a triumphant 18 | Brazos Valley Symphony Orchestra
Program Notes theme; variations of these two ideas alternate until the end of the movement. A slightly altered version of the four-note motif of the first movement returns in the Scherzo. A bridge passage leads from C minor into C major and into the fourth movement. The triumphant theme of the second movement returns in the fourth, briefly interrupted by the four-note motif, but winning out in the end. During the bridge passage Beethoven calls for trombones, piccolo, and contrabassoon, the first time these instruments were used in a symphony. (Gluck and Mozart had used them earlier in operas.) With this expansion and enrichment of the orchestra in the wind sections, we get a foretaste of the large orchestras that became dominant in the Romantic era. Beethoven directed the first performance of his Symphony no. 5 at the Theater an der Wien in Vienna on December 22, 1808. – Program notes by Felicia Piscitelli
French Masters & Boléro Oct. 25, 2026 | 5 PM Journey through the colors of French orchestral music with Debussy, Dukas, Ibert, and Ravel. BVSO Principal Saxophonist Andrew Wheeler takes the spotlight in Ibert’s Concertino da camera before Ravel’s mesmerizing Boléro builds to a thrilling finale.
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YOUR ANNUAL FUND SUPPORT
Makes the Music Possible ANNUAL FUND GIVING LEVELS & DONOR BENEFITS
Every gift to the Brazos Valley Symphony Orchestra helps bring world-class performances, educational outreach, and musical experiences to the Brazos Valley. Thank you for helping to keep live orchestral and classical music thriving in our community.
Levels & Benefits
Visionary Circle Our highest level of support
Backstage & Behind-the-Scenes Tour An exclusive backstage tour and a private meet & greet with Fly Dance Co. at our January Concert.
Wine Tasting with the Maestro
A VIP wine tasting and conversation with Maestro Marcelo Bussiki.
Sit with the Symphony
Enjoy an unforgettable performance from two on-stage seats at a select performance.
MAKE YOUR GIFT TODAY SCAN TO DONATE ONLINE bvso.org/annual-fund It’s quick, easy, and secure!
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A lifetime f service. world of history. 1000 George Bush Drive West College Station, Texas 77845
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Brazos Valley Symphony Annual Fund The Brazos Valley Symphony Society gratefully acknowledges the individuals whose generous financial commitments and unique forms of support make possible the continued growth of the Symphony’s artists, programs, and services. Gifts to the BVSO Annual Fund provide the vital operating support that sustains our concerts, guest artists, and community outreach each season. These contributions bridge the gap between ticket sales and the true cost of presenting live symphonic music, ensuring that world-class performances, innovative education programs, and meaningful cultural experiences remain available to our community. The following list recognizes those who have contributed to the Annual Fund as of September 23, 2026, in support of the Orchestra’s 45th season.
VISIONARY CIRCLE Annual Fund donors of $10,000 or more GOLD ($25,000+) Don Hellriegel The Ham Family Trust
SILVER ($15,000 - $24,999) Friends Association of the Symphony Orchestra
BRONZE ($10,000 - $14,999) Becky & B. Don Russell
MAESTRO ($5,000 - $9,999) Sue Lee
Gaines & Susan West
Parten Wakefield
CONCERTMASTER ($2,500 - $4,999) Brett & Jill Giroir
Bobby & Nita Smith
Bill & Jan Johnson
Andrew & Terri Wheeler
PRINCIPAL ($1,000 - $2,499) Steve & Lisa Aldrich
Pierce Cantrell
Dorothy Anderson
David & Joanne Claridge
Marcelo Bussiki
Mike & Sheila Connor
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Sam Creswell in Memory of Bert Loudon Laura De Asarta
PRINCIPAL ($1,000 - $2,499) Terrance & Stacy Dill
John & Elouise Junkins
Robert & Katherine Thomas
Jane Flaherty
Jerry & Cathy Loving
Jerry Gaston
John & Carol Nichols
Harvey Tucker in Memory of Sandy Tucker
Madeline Giroir
Michael & Karen Pilant
Marybelle S. Hamilton
David & Lou Ellen Ruesink
Charles Hermann & Lorraine Eden
Jim Singleton & Stephanie Sale
Dorothy & Dan Wichern Grant & Wendy Wolfe David Woodcock in Memory of Valerie Woodcock
VIRTUOSO ($500 - $999) Robert and Blanche Brick
Murat Russell
Dr. Michael J. King & Ms. Robin L. Altholz
Mark & Carol Sadoski
Becky & B. Don Russell
Martha Vilas
Scott & Debe Shafer in Honor of Peggy Shafer
IN HONOR OF BERT LOUDON
The Brazos Valley Symphony gratefully recognizes these Annual Fund donors who gave in honor of Bert Loudon. Sam Creswell
Brenda Rottinghaus
Laura Dague & Enrique Pinzon
Eric Stratton
Robin Page
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A Holiday Concert Dec. 13, 2026 | 5 PM Celebrate the joy of the season with a festive evening of holiday favorites featuring brass, organ, choir, handbells, and the warm traditions that make this annual concert a family favorite!
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Brazos Valley Symphony Endowment A strong endowment provides lasting support for the Brazos Valley Symphony Orchestra, ensuring world-class performances, music education, and cultural enrichment for generations to come. Endowments grow over time, creating a legacy of artistic excellence while extending the impact of generosity beyond a lifetime. Contributions to the BVSO Permanent Endowment provide stability for the Orchestra. Chair Endowments help the Symphony engage and support exceptional musicians, sustaining the artistry that defines every performance. A chair may be endowed for a five-year term (starting at $25,000) or in perpetuity (starting at $50,000), and can be named in honor of a family member, friend, or admired individual or organization, making this a meaningful way to invest in the Symphony’s future. For more information about supporting the Brazos Valley Symphony Orchestra Endowment, whether through a planned or lifetime gift, please contact Renee Knox, Executive Director, at renee@bvso.org or 979-696-6100. Pledged or received as of September 14, 2026
FOUNDERS ($100,000+) Ruth Clearfield Memorial Fund
Gary and Lynn Martin
Charles and Cindy Still
Larry and Mary Koeninger
Creighton Miller Concertmaster Chair
Rose P. VanArsdel
Bert and Mary Loudon
Creighton and Jeannie Miller
Ward and Diane Wells
Sue and J.C. Lee Music Director Chair
Bookman and Florence Peters
DIAMOND ($50,000 - $99,999) The Jacob and Cooper Appelt Bass Chair Tracy and Tamara Carter Taylor and Cindy Craigen The Hermann Family Flute Chair
Penelope Kosztolnyik and Joe Ham Violin II Chair Gary Martin Percussion Chair Carolyn McDaniel
Wendy and Grant Wolfe Clarinet Chair in honor of Dr. Arthur Wolfe Anonymous
Ward and Diane Wells Cello Chair
PLATINUM ($25,000 - $49,999) In Memory of Evelyn and Fred Anderholm
Penelope Kosztolnyik and Joe Ham
Susan and Gaines West
Stephanie Sale and Jim Singleton
Linda and Dick Witherite
Maestro Marcelo Bussiki
Jan and Bill Johnson
Karen and Michael Pilant
Carol and Pierce Cantrell
Cathy and Jerry Loving
Valerie and David Woodcock
Chrissie and Jay Granberry
Joann Monroe
Rodney and Penny Zent
Lorraine and Chuck Hermann
John and Carol Nichols
Anonymous (2)
The Coulter and Lily Rush Hoppess Foundation, Inc.
Joyce Nies and Peter Witt
GOLD ($10,000 - $24,999)
SILVER ($5,000 - $9,999) Don and Pat Allen Rice
Gary and Judy Hart
Elizabeth and Bill Ward
David and Joanne Claridge
Carolyn McDaniel
Dorothy and Dean Wichern
Bonnie and Otway Denny
Linda and Paul Parrish
Cindy and Bruce Hamilton
Ellen and Penrod Thornton
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Bronze ($1,000 - $4,999) Steve and Lisa Aldrich
Jennifer Fredericks
John and Leslie Miller
Bob and Dorothy Anderson
Stephen A. Fulling
Andrew and Elizabeth Natsios
Jennifer and Chandler Arden in Memory of Valerie Woodcock
Phil and Zo Granberry
Carol Parzen
Alethea Bair-Sutherland
Gary and Judy Hart in Memory of Jeannie Miller
Joyce Perkins in Memory of Richard Perkins
Briaud Financial Advisors
Edward E. and Ruth Anne Hazen
Rhonda Raphael
Jo Berg
Alice and Clifford Hoelscher
Sheran Riley
Robert and Blanche Brick
Michael J. King and Robin L. Altholz
Jami and John Rudinger, Jr.
Taylor and Cindy Craigen
Randi and Averyt Knapp Celebrating Virginia and Russell Mays
Dave and Lou Ellen Ruesink
Terrance and Stacy Dill and Family Cydney Collier Donnell John and Naomi Fackler Warren and Mary Finch Rainer and Tami Fink Jan Folse
Karen Kubena Sue Lee Claire and John Lillie Marti Marberry and Thomas Roraff
Becky and B. Don Russell Carol and Mark Sadoski Thomas Sadoski and Amanda Seyfried in Honor of Carol and Mark Sadoski Jack Skinner
FRIEND (UP TO $999) Sara Alpern
Don and Rosemary Green
Kenneth and Kathi Appelt
Lisa Halperin and Jonathan Coopersmith
Pat and Sarah Ashburn Karen Bachman Leonard and Nancy Berry Carol and Doug Biggs Brett and Alisa Boatner Robert C. Borden Leonard L. Bowden Scott Ball and Janice Bradshaw Lorence and Zora Bravenec Karen Buck and Porscha Buck Jack and Mary Campbell Irwin and Claudia Carroll Dara and Judith Childs Charlotte Christman Robert H. Clearfield Franco and Sandra da Conturbia Olga and Brett Cooke Marian and Gus Cothran The Dangott Family Trust Mr. David Dellwo and Mrs. Nancy Inglis Ronald and Barbara Douglas Norma Dunn in Memory of Cindy Still Billie Elmendorf John Fackler in Memory of Jeannie and Creighton Miller Ann Fancher Chris and Sandra Farris Jack and Anita Friedman Gracie P. Graves Ivy V. Geiger
Matt and Toni Straley in Memory of Tom Roraff Barbara and Emil Straube
General Joe G. Hanover
Connie Swing Surrency
W.T. (Bill) Harper
Mrs. Dwayne (Carol) Suter
Tom and Linda Henry
Mrs. Ann W. Thompson
Susan and Rodney Hill
Milton Thompson
Susan Irza
Margaret E. Touchstone
Myong and Pedro Ledesma
Victor and Jo Ann Treat
Robert and Candace Leslie
Harvey and Sandy Tucker
Karon and Glenn Mathews
Randy and Mary Ulery
David and Jeanette McMahon in Memory of Tom Roraff
Brad and Pat Vinson
Dr. and Mrs. Glenn Miller
Barbara Buffington Walker
Jane Miller Jeannie Miller in Memory of Tom Roraff Leon and Junett Noack in Memory of Tom Roraff Dr. Ozden Ochoa Mohsen and Terri Pourahmadi Matthew and Merrilee Prochaska The Quackenbush Kids
Tom Vogel and Barbara Gastel Bob Warden and Eva Read-Warden Doris and Rand Watson Anne and Thomas Wehrly Gaines and Susan West in Memory of Lelia Bankston Gaines and Susan West in Memory of Bonnie Denny Gaines and Susan West in Memory of Jeannie Miller
Thomas and Liana Rike in Memory of Tom Roraff
Ann Wiatt
Larry and Jean Ringer
Lima and Joe Williams
The Family of Arthur and Rosalie Roraff in Memory of Tom Roraff Mary Frances Ross Schade Family Jay and Barbara Schleppenbach in Memory of Tom Roraff
Mary Jane Wiggins Dr. Arthur V. Wolfe Dr. and Mrs. Grant Wolfe William and Mary Young Anonymous (4)
Timothy Seubert Mary Sherwood in Memory of Tom Roraff
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1 & 2 Bedroom Apartment Homes & Cottages for those 55 & better
CadenceCreekMissionRanch.com
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Friends Association of the Symphony Orchestra For the past 40+ years, an auxiliary organization called FASO (Friends Association of the Symphony Orchestra) has provided the volunteer hours required to promote and stage the exciting Brazos Valley Symphony Orchestra concerts you enjoy each season. We invite you to become a member of FASO this year to help increase educational opportunities and appreciation for classical music in the Brazos Valley. Membership applications may be found on the symphony website: bvso.org/faso
2026-2027 FASO OFFICERS Anne Prescott President
Rebecca Irelane President Elect
Jennifer Wood Past President
Lana Wood
1st Vice President
Emily Keefe
Magan Cain
3rd Vice President – Projects
Colleen Holmes Treasurer
Jennifer and Lana Wood
Mary Blackburn† Becky Hall† Karen Melvin† † Member at Large
Secretary
Alice Hoelscher
TASO Representative
2nd Vice President – Ambassadors
SYMPHONY AMBASSADOR PROGRAM The Symphony Ambassadors Program for high school junior and senior students enables them to understand the behind-the-scenes production of the Symphony. The Ambassadors usher at concerts, provide refreshments and snacks for the musicians, and participate in community service activities. If you know a high school student who may be interested in joining, please scan the QR code or visit www.bvso.org/symphony-ambassadors/ for more information.
Scan here to find out more about being a Symphony Ambassador
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YOUR support is CRITICAL
Please consider a gift to the Brazos Valley Symphony Orchestra and make a difference by supporting artistic excellence, music education, and outreach in the community. Each year, ticket sales cover less than 25% of the Symphony’s costs. Help support your Symphony and the music you love!
$5,000+ Maestro
DONATIONS & FUNDRAISERS
Ticket Sales
20%
$2,500-$4,999 Concertmaster
57%
$1,000-$2,499 Principal
23%
$500-$999 Virtuoso $250-$499 Patron $100-$249 Friend
Grant Support Membership in the Brazos Valley Symphony Society begins at $50 per person. To donate and become a member please call 979-696-6100, visit our website at www.bvso.org or scan the QR code to donate today! 2026-27 Season | 33
34 | Brazos Valley Symphony Orchestra
Derby Day Gala 2026 – Fund a Season The Brazos Valley Symphony Orchestra gratefully acknowledges the generosity of those who supported our ‘Fund a Season’ initiative during Derby Day 2026. Their contributions help bring world-class performances, music education, and community engagement to the Brazos Valley throughout the 2026–27 season. We look forward to celebrating again at Derby Day 2027 on May 1 — visit bvso.org for updates as details become available.
Thank You to Our Supporters Susan C. Adams Robert and Blanche Brick Mark and Nancy Browning Marcelo Bussiki Pierce Cantrell Wanda and Bryan Cole Jerry Gaston Brett and Jill Giroir Madeline Giroir Cindy and Bruce Hamilton Don Hellriegel Charles and Lorraine Hermann
Joe Ham and Penelope Kosztolnyik Sue Lee Robin Page Murat Russell Jim Singleton and Stephanie Sale Stephanie A. Wells Ward and Diane Wells Gaines and Susan West Andrew and Terri Wheeler Michelle Dawn Williams David Woodcock
S AV E T H E DAT E F O R D E R BY DAY 2 0 2 7 M AY 1 , 2 0 2 7
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FRIENDS OF CHAMBER MUSIC 31st Concert Series
|
2026–2027
AMERICAN PATCHWORK QUARTET 2025 Grammy Nominee for the Best Folk Album
OCTOBER 9, 2026 | Friday, 7 PM A&M United Methodist Church
BUY TICKETS
ACADEMY OF ST. MARTIN IN THE FIELDS STRING ENSEMBLE “Their performances are nothing short of stunning.”
NOVEMBER 19, 2026 | Thursday, 7 PM A&M United Methodist Church
BUY TICKETS
APOLLO’S FIRE BAROQUE ORCHESTRA “The USA’s hottest Baroque band”
FEBRUARY 11, 2027 | Thursday, 7 PM A&M United Methodist Church
REGISTER FREE
AN EVENING WITH THE PIANO PUZZLER Known to millions as the Piano Puzzler on NPR’s Performance Today, Bruce Adolphe is “impossible to categorize. Pure genius.”
MARCH 2, 2027 | Tuesday, 7 PM The Ice House
BUY TICKETS
ERIC LU, piano Gold Winner of the International Chopin Piano Competition in Warsaw, 2025
APRIL 2, 2027 | Friday, 7 PM Annenberg Presidential Center
REGISTER FREE
HIMARI, violin Texas Debut: A rare violin prodigy , “once-in-ageneration talent”
MAY 6, 2027 | Thursday, 7 PM Annenberg Presidential Center
BUY TICKETS
All concerts take place in Bryan–College Station, TX Appelt Family Foundation Nina Heard Astin Charitable Trust
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Eugene Edge III Charitable Trust Rea Charitable Trust
Nina Astin Winkler Charitable Trust
fcmtx.org
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Corporate, Foundation & Community Support The Brazos Valley Symphony Orchestra gratefully acknowledges the generous support of our corporate sponsors, foundations, community partners, and in-kind contributors. Their commitment helps sustain our artistic excellence, enrich music education, and ensure that live symphonic music continues to thrive in the Brazos Valley.
IN-KIND SERVICES, CORPORATE, AND MEDIA PARTNERS
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Corporate, Foundation & Community Support GRANT, TRUST, AND COMMUNITY The Clearfield Family Eugene Edge, III Charitable Trust The Ham Family Trust Gilbert & Thyra Plass Charitable Trust
Plass Arts Foundation Union Pacific Nina Astin Winkler Charitable Trust Becky & B. Don Russell
This program made possible in part through Hotel Tax Revenue funded from the City of College Station through The Arts Center. This project is also supported in part by an award from the National Endowment for the Arts.
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Improving Lives. Building Community.
oices V unbound
arkitex.com
2026-27 Season
ROOTS AND RADIANCE
5pm, October 10, 2026
First Presbyterian Church, Bryan, T X
The season begins by celebrating the musical traditions that continue to inspire us today. Journeying from the timeless beauty of Renaissance masterworks to beloved spirituals and luminous contemporary choral music, Roots and Radiance explores how voices from every era continue to shape our shared musical heritage. As the opening chapter of our season, Voices Unbound, this program reminds us that great music connects generations, illuminating the past while inspiring the future.
Season Info & Tickets
bvchorale.org
Our program is made possible in part through Hotel Tax Revenue from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Texas Commission for the Arts, the Eugene Edge Charitable Trust, and the Plass Arts Foundation.
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St. Thomas Early Learning Center 979-696-1728 www.stthomaselc.org Ages 3 Through Kindergarten
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