October 17 & 18 KNIGHT THEATER
C O M M E M O R AT I V E P R O G R A M B O O K D I G I TA L P R O G R A M B O O K
Contents
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What’s Inside A Message from the President & CEO
3
Your Charlotte Symphony Experience
4
Concert Program
6
Artist Biographies
9
2025–26 Musician Roster
16
About the CSO
18
Musician Spotlight
19
Annual Fund Donors
20
Comprehensive Campaign
26
Corporate & Foundation Sponsors
28
Board of Directors & Trustees
30
Administration
31
join the musical dialogue What did you think of the performance?
@cltsymphony #cltsymphony
Welcome
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A Message from the President & CEO Welcome to the opening of our 2025–26 Pops Series! There’s no better way to begin than with the Charlotte Symphony bringing the Queen of Country’s beloved songs — and her musical journey — to life. This season, we’re exploring the meaning of “home” through music that welcomes us back to beloved classics while also introducing us to new voices and ideas. Sometimes home is a place of comfort; other times, curiosity leads us somewhere unexpected. I hope you’ll join us for the rest of the Pops Series, starting with Holiday Pops: A Carolina Christmas, December 12–14. We welcome you home for the holidays with this festive celebration of North Carolina’s rich musical heritage, led by Resident Conductor Christopher James Lees and featuring vocalists and instrumentalists performing all your favorite holiday songs, from “The Twelve Days of Christmas” to “Santa Claus is Coming to Town,” with the sounds of bluegrass, blues, and gospel woven throughout. Later in the season, enjoy The Music of Motown on January 23 & 24 and A Tribute to ABBA on February 27 & 28.
Our entire season is designed to spark curiosity and invite discovery — whether you’re returning to music you know and love or encountering something entirely new. However you choose to engage, I hope you’ll find a sense of home here with your Charlotte Symphony — through connection, inspiration, and the experience of sharing live music with others. Thank you for joining us tonight. We’re thrilled to share this new season with you!
David Fisk President & CEO
Your Charlotte Symphony Experience Whether this is your first concert or you’ve been enjoying the Symphony for years, we’re glad you’re here. Below are a few things to know to help you feel right at home.
Food & Drink A full bar, beverages, and snacks are available both before the concert and during intermission in the lobby.
Photography We welcome and encourage you to capture and share photos before and after the concert or during intermission. Feel free to use your cell phone for photography without flash during the performance, but please refrain from video or audio recording.
Applause You’ll notice that audiences applaud to welcome the concertmaster, conductor, and featured artists on stage. Some works may have several sections, or movements, separated by brief silent pauses. It is tradition to hold applause until after the last movement. If you are unsure, wait for the conductor to face the audience. But if you feel truly inspired, don’t be afraid to show your appreciation.
Need help or have questions? Our ushers and staff are happy to assist — just ask!
JUST ANNOUNCED:
Don’t miss this spectacular special event!
RUBEN STUDDARD
SINGS
LUTHER VANDROSS
Step into an evening of pure soul as famed American Idol winner, Ruben Studdard, brings to life the songs that shaped a generation. Feel the warmth and romance of Luther Vandross’s timeless songs — like “Here and Now,” “Dance with My Father,” and “A House Is Not a Home” — sung with Studdard’s signature velvet voice and backed by the power of the Charlotte Symphony.
November 21 & 22 KNIGHT THEATER
Concert Program
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T H E N I N E T Y- F O U R T H S E A S O N
Friday, October 17, 2025, at 7:30 pm Saturday, October 18, 2025, at 7:30 pm Knight Theater at Levine Center for the Arts
THREADS OVERTURE
arranged by David Hamilton
TWO DOORS DOWN
originally released on Here You Come Again (1977)
MY TENNESSEE MOUNTAIN HOME
originally released as a single for My Tennessee Mountain Home (1972)
BLUE SMOKE
originally released on Blue Smoke (2014)
THE BRIDGE
originally released Just Because I’m A Woman (1968)
BETTER GET TO LIVIN’
originally released as a single for Backwoods Barbie (2007)
JOLENE
originally released as a single for Jolene (1974)
IF YOU HADN’T BEEN THERE
from the new Broadway musical, Dolly! (2025)
BACKWOODS BARBIE
originally released on Backwoods Barbie (2008)
EAGLE WHEN SHE FLIES
originally released as a single for Eagle When She Flies (1991)
LIGHT OF A CLEAR BLUE MORNING
originally released on New Harvest…First Gathering (1977)
Concert Program (continued)
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INTERM IS S IO N THREADS ENTR’ACTE
arranged by David Hamilton
HERE YOU COME AGAIN
originally released on Here You Come Again (1977), written by Barry Mann & Cynthia Weil
ISLANDS IN THE STREAM
originally released in 1983, written by Barry, Maurice & Robin Gibb
COAT OF MANY COLORS
originally released as a single for Coat of Many Colors (1971)
TRAVELIN’ THRU
written for the film Transamerica (2005)
BABY I’M BURNIN’
originally released on Heartbreaker (1978)
I WILL ALWAYS LOVE YOU
originally released on Jolene (1974) A Dolly Parton/Schirmer Theatrical/Sony Music Publishing Co-Production All songs written by Dolly Parton, unless otherwise noted Arrangements by David Hamilton
ARTISTS David Hamilton, conductor Katelyn Drye, vocals Hollie Hammel, vocals Blair Lamb, vocals Derek Drye, acoustic guitar/dobro/lap steel & vocals Lindsey Miller, electric/acoustic guitar John Shaw, banjo/mandolin Gary Lunn, bass guitar Luke Woodle, drums Dustin Knock, technical director APPROX. DURATION: 2 hours, including one 20-minute intermission. ALL MUSIC UNDER EXCLUSIVE LICENSE FROM SONY MUSIC PUBLISHING TO SCHIRMER THEATRICAL LLC UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED. BETTER GET TO LIVIN’ UNDER LICENSE FROM SONY MUSIC PUBLISHING AND BMG RIGHTS MANAGEMENT ISLANDS IN THE STREAM UNDER LICENSE FROM UNIVERSAL MUSIC PUBLISHING GROUP
Production Credits
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CREATIVE TEAM DOLLY PARTON
Songwriter & Executive Producer
BETSEY PERLMUTTER
Creative Director & Producer, Schirmer Theatrical
ROBERT THOMPSON
Producer, Schirmer Theatrical
TODD ELLIS
Producer, Sony Music Publishing
DAVID HAMILTON
Arranger & Orchestrator
ADAM GRANNICK
Director of Video and Animation
ALEX KOSICK
Associate Producer, Schirmer Theatrical
CREATIVE SERVICES LAURA COOKSEY & DAVID WISE Vocal Coaching & Casting, Ten Two Six Music Group ADAM WEISMAN & DUSTIN KNOCK
Technical Services, Black Ink Presents
PAUL BEVAN Sound Design ALI MEAH
Logo Design, NoisyBird Media
ZACH MCNEES
Post-Production Sound Mixing
STEPHEN LAMB Copyist EMILY YOON
Vice President, Wasserman Music
ALEX FISHER & KERIGAN MEDEIROS
Wasserman Music, Booking Agency
CHRIS PIZZOLO & FAITH WOOD
Immediate Family, Digital Marketing
About Dolly Parton
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over the past 50+ years. On October 17, 2023, she released her second New York Times Best Seller coffee table book in a trilogy called Behind The Seams: My Life in Rhinestones. The first of the series was bestselling coffee table book Songteller: My Life in Lyrics.
Dolly Parton is the most honored and revered multi-hyphenate of all time and was recently inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Her current album Rockstar made history by scoring the biggest album debut sales week of her seven-decade career and earning her six #1s on the Billboard charts: Top Rock Albums, Top Rock & Alternative Albums, Top Country Albums, Top Album Sales, Top Current Album Sales, and Independent Albums. The landmark album also claimed the #3 spot on the Billboard 200 chart, her highest position ever. Achieving 27 RIAA-certified gold, platinum, and multiplatinum awards, she has had 26 songs reach #1 on the Billboard country charts, a record for a female artist. Parton is the first artist to have topped Billboard’s Adult Contemporary, Christian AC Songs, Hot Country Songs, Christian Airplay, Rock Digital Songs, Country Airplay and Dance/ Mix Show Airplay radio charts. Parton became the first country artist honored as Grammy MusiCares Person of the Year given out by NARAS. She has 49 career Top 10 country albums, a record for any artist, and 120 career-charted singles
In 2014, the RIAA recognized her impact on recorded music with a plaque commemorating more than 100 million units sold worldwide. She has amassed eleven Grammy Awards and 52 nominations, including the Lifetime Achievement Award, 10 Country Music Association Awards, including Entertainer of the Year; five Academy of Country Music Awards, also including a nod for Entertainer of the Year; four People’s Choice Awards; and three American Music Awards. In 1999, Parton was inducted as a member of the coveted Country Music Hall of Fame. To date, Parton has donated over 255 million books to children around the world with her Imagination Library. Her children’s book, Coat of Many Colors, was dedicated to the Library of Congress to honor the Imagination Library’s 100 millionth book donation. In March of 2022, Parton released the book Run Rose Run (co-authored with James Patterson), which sat at # 1 on the New York Times Best Sellers List for 5 weeks, a record for this decade. She also released an accompanying album of the same name with original songs inspired by the book which reached #1 on three charts simultaneously: Country, Americana/Folk and Bluegrass Albums. From her “Coat of Many Colors” while working “9 to 5,” no dream is too big and no mountain too high for the country girl who turned the world into her stage.
Conductor Bio
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David Hamilton
conductor/arranger/orchestrator David Hamilton is an accomplished musician known for his versatility and artistic passion. He has earned a reputation as a premier orchestral arranger and a respected conductor, producer, pianist, and composer. It has been a joy for him to bring Dolly Parton’s beloved songs to life in fresh ways with new orchestral arrangements for Threads: My Songs in Symphony, and to celebrate Dolly’s ongoing creative legacy. Hamilton’s music spans a wide range of genres. He has written many arrangements for classical artist Lang Lang, recordings with The Walt Disney Co. and with Deutsche Grammophon, and performances with Ed Sheeran, Metallica, and many others. Hamilton has also created an extensive body of musical work, collaborating with Michael W. Smith. Hamilton’s arrangements for Amy Grant, Renée Fleming, Lady Antebellum, Carrie Underwood, Josh Groban, Andrea Bocelli, Kristin Chenoweth, Sandi Patty, CeCe Winans, Vince Gill, Heather Headley, and many other artists showcase his diverse creative skills. His orchestral arrangements can be heard at Walt Disney theme parks worldwide and have been performed by the Boston Pops, the New York Pops, the Los Angeles Philharmonic, the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, and at the Grammys, the Dove Awards, and the Country Music Association TV broadcasts. Hamilton’s passion for sacred music fuels his writing for choirs and congregational
worship worldwide. His compositions and keyboard artistry are also featured on his solo jazz release Good Things and his most recent solo piano release, Sacred Space. Hamilton has led recording sessions on soundstages in London, Los Angeles, and Nashville, and conducts pops and choral concerts. For many years, he has served as music director for Amy Grant and Michael W. Smith, helping them bring their artistry and holiday musical traditions to audiences across the nation. It has been his privilege to conduct many distinguished orchestras, including the Nashville Symphony, Dallas Symphony Orchestra, Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, Indianapolis Symphony, Virginia Symphony, and Edmonton Symphony, while also having conducted at Carnegie Hall and the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts with the National Symphony Orchestra. Hamilton’s love for music began in his childhood and teenage years, studying piano and composition. His undergraduate work at the Wheaton College Conservatory of Music, a graduate degree from the University of Miami School of Music, and his many years serving as a church music leader have provided diverse training and a rich background in blended musical worlds, which have served him well in the vibrant, creative community of his hometown, Nashville.
Guest Artist Bios
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Katelyn Drye vocalist
Katelyn Drye is a singer, songwriter, and lover of all things Dolly. She is exactly one-half of the country duo, The Dryes, alongside her husband Derek. Recognized by Country Living Magazine as “The new hot country duo to watch” after premiering on season 22 of NBC’s The Voice (Team Blake), The Dryes have accumulated over 12 million global streams, catching the attention of USA Today, Rolling Stone, People, American Songwriter, and Billboard, among others. Their sassy single “Dolly Would” is the anthem to a longtime hero, Dolly Parton which together with their alluring, soulful track “House on Fire” reached #1 on CMT’s 12 Pack Countdown. Their summer single, “Daydrinkin’”, charted on iTunes on release day and has garnered over five million views across social media, while their newest single “Ain’t God Good” reflects on the goodness found in and out of the difficult times we all face in life.
thedryes.com
(Biographies continued next page)
Guest Artist Bios (continued)
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Hollie Hammel vocalist
Hollie Hammel is a Los Angeles-based singer, songwriter, producer, and background vocalist. Originally from Nashville, she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education from Belmont University. During her decade in Music City, Hammel toured and recorded with celebrated artists such as Joss Stone, Sara Evans, Hans Zimmer, Brandi Carlile, and more. Her talents have also been featured on projects for Disney, where she lends her voice and likeness to several beloved characters in Harmonious (streaming on Disney+), as well as recordings played in Disney Parks around the world. Now splitting her time between Los Angeles and Nashville, Hammel is deeply passionate about fostering creative communities in both cities. When not collaborating with other artists, she dedicates herself to writing, recording, and producing her own original music. Tonight, Hammel is deeply honored to join the symphony in celebrating the legendary Dolly Parton, paying tribute to one of music’s, and her own personal, cherished icons.
(Biographies continued next page)
Guest Artist Bios (continued)
Blair Lamb vocalist
Blair Lamb is a Kentucky-grown and New York City-based musician, songwriter, and actor. She received a BFA in Musical Theatre with a minor in Piano from Northern Kentucky University and has since performed professionally worldwide. Dubbed “a Swiss Army Knife of a performer,” her artistry captures everything from acoustic original music to jazzy cocktail piano entertainment. Lamb has performed on luxury cruise ships as both a dueling pianist and a solo piano bar entertainer, drawing from a repertoire of over a thousand songs. She also periodically works as a professional theatre actor across the country. Above all, Lamb is an avid songwriter and spirited storyteller. She frequently graces iconic New York City stages with her evergrowing rolodex of original songs. You can find her sophomore EP Two Left Feet on all music streaming platforms, as well as her newest single “Mother Goose.”
blairlambmusic.com
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What does it mean to call a place home? Through music that spans centuries, continents, and perspectives, we invite you on a journey to explore the meaning of home — not just as a physical space, but as memory, identity, refuge, and hope.
FEATURING
Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5 October 24 – 26, 2025 Knight Theater
Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 5 February 13 & 14, 2026 Belk Theater
Dvořák’s New World Symphony March 27 – 29, 2026 Knight Theater
Beethoven’s Emperor Concerto April 10 & 11, 2026 Belk Theater
Explore the full season online and buy tickets today! box office: 704.972.2000
· charlottesymphony.org
FEATURING
Holiday Pops A CAROLINA CHRISTMAS
December 12 – 14, 2025 Knight Theater
The Music of Motown January 23 & 24, 2026 Knight Theater THE CONCERT: A Tribute to ABBA
February 27 & 28, 2026 Knight Theater
FEATURING
Holiday Pops FAMILY MATINEE December 13, 2025 Knight Theater
The Orchestra Games January 24, 2026 Knight Theater CLASSICAL KIDS LIVE:
Beethoven Lives Upstairs February 28, 2026 Knight Theater
FEATURING
Home Alone IN CONCERT November 28 & 29, 2025 Belk Theater DISNEY’S Encanto IN CONCERT
March 20 & 21, 2026 Belk Theater MARVEL’S Black Panther IN CONCERT
June 5 & 6, 2026 Belk Theater
Kwamé Ryan · Music Director Christopher James Lees, Resident Conductor
Christopher Warren-Green, Conductor Laureate
MUSICIAN ROSTER FIRST VIOLINS
Calin Ovidiu Lupanu
Concertmaster The Catherine & Wilton Connor Chair
Joseph Meyer*
Associate Concertmaster
Kari Giles
Acting Associate Concertmaster
Hanna Zhdan
Acting Assistant Concertmaster
Susan Blumberg°° Jane Hart Brendle Cynthia Burton Fengwan Chen† Ayako Gamo David Horak† Oliver Kot°° Lenora Leggatt Jenny Topilow Dustin Wilkes-Kim*
SECOND VIOLINS
Kathleen Jarrell, Acting Principal The Wolfgang Roth Chair
Carlos Tarazona°
Acting Assistant Principal The Pepsi-Cola Foundation of Charlotte Chair
Monica Boboc Martha Geissler Sakira Harley Tatiana Karpova Ellyn Stuart
VIOLAS
Benjamin Geller, Principal
The Zoe Bunten Merrillt Principal Viola Chair
Pin-Hao Liao
CELLOS
Jon Lewis, Principal
The Kate Whitner McKay Principal Cello Chair
Allison Drenkow Assistant Principal
Marlene Ballena Jeremy Lamb Sarah Markle Nicco Mazziotto David Olson
DOUBLE BASSES
Jason McNeel, Acting Principal Judson Baines, Assistant Principal Jeffrey Ferdon Eric Thompson†
HARP
Andrea Mumm Trammell Principal The Dr. Billy Graham Chair
FLUTES
Victor Wang, Principal
The Blumenthal Foundation Chair
Amy Orsinger Whitehead Erinn Frechette
PICCOLO
Erinn Frechette
This roster lists the full-time members of the Charlotte Symphony. The number and seating of musicians on stage varies depending on the piece being performed.
Assistant Principal
Ellen Ferdon Wenlong Huang Pedro Mendez Viara Stefanova Ning Zhao
° Non-revolving position °° Alternates between first and second violins † Acting member of the Charlotte Symphony ‡ Funded by The Symphony Guild of Charlotte, Inc. * On leave
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OBOES
Timothy Swanson, Principal
HORNS
Byron Johns, Principal
The Leo B. Driehuys Chair‡
The Mr. & Mrs. William H. Van Every Chair
Erica Cice Jamison Hillian†
Andrew Fierova Christopher Caudill†
ENGLISH HORN Erica Cice
CLARINETS
The Robert E. Rydel, Jr. Third Horn Chair (acting)
Richard Goldfaden Paige Quillen
TRUMPETS
Taylor Marino, Principal
Alex Wilborn, Principal
Samuel Sparrow Allan Rosenfeld
Jesdelson Vasquez† Gianluca Farina†
The Gary H. & Carolyn M. Bechtel Chair
E ♭ CLARINET Samuel Sparrow
The Betty J. Livingstone Chair
Acting Associate Principal The Marcus T. Hickman Chair
Gabriel Slesinger*
TROMBONES
BASS CLARINET Allan Rosenfeld
John Bartlett, Principal Thomas Burge
BASSOONS
BASS TROMBONE
AJ Neubert, Principal Joshua Hood Nicholas Ritter
CONTRABASSOON Nicholas Ritter
Scott Hartman, Principal
TUBA
Colin Benton, Principal
The Governor James G. Martin Chair
TIMPANI
Denis Petrunin, Acting Principal† The Robert Haywood Morrison Chair
The CSO is a proud member of the League of American Orchestras.
PERCUSSION
Brice Burton, Principal
About the CSO
The Charlotte Symphony Orchestra (CSO) is one of the premier music organizations in the Southeastern United States and the oldest continuously operating symphony orchestra in the Carolinas. As Charlotte’s most active performing arts group, the CSO presents around 150 concerts each season, reaching more than 150,000 music lovers. The 2025–26 season marks the next chapter in the Charlotte Symphony’s artistic evolution under Music Director Kwamé Ryan. Framed by a season-long exploration of home — reflecting on belonging, identity, and place through a wide range of musical voices — the season offers bold new works, symphonic masterworks, and creative collaborations across the Classical, Pops, Movie, and Family series. Highlights include the debut of the CSO Spotlight Series, an everexpanding look at the work of this season’s CSO Spotlight Artist, Gabriel Kahane; performances of audience favorites like Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony and Ravel’s Boléro; and more events that showcase the Orchestra’s breadth, from the music of Dolly Parton to Black Panther in Concert. Engaging with more than 15,000 students each year, the Charlotte Symphony nurtures the next generation of musicians and music lovers through its four diverse
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youth orchestras, in-school education programs, instrument coaching, and Project Harmony, which offers free afterschool lessons in music and life skills to over 200 students in under-resourced areas. With its new mobile stage, CSO Roadshow, the Symphony extends its reach directly into neighborhoods, bringing live music to communities across the region. Founded in 1932, the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra continues to play a vital cultural role in the region and remains committed to the belief that music, accessible to all, enriches and unites our community.
OUR MISSION
The Charlotte Symphony uplifts, entertains, and educates the diverse communities of CharlotteMecklenburg and beyond through exceptional musical experiences.
OUR VISION
Reaching out through the transformative power of live music, the Charlotte Symphony will be a civic leader, reflecting and uniting our region.
For more information, visit us online at
charlottesymphony.org
MUSICIAN
SPOTLIGHT
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Pedro Mendez VIOLA CSO Member since September 2025 HOMETOWN: Barquisimeto, Venezuela
Fun Facts • Pedro discovered his love of music through his father, who taught him basic chords on the guitar and cuatro • He studied in the internationally acclaimed EL SISTEMA and performed under Gustavo Dudamel at the age of 13 • A passionate educator, Pedro has mentored young musicians in both South America and the United States
Annual Fund Supporters
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Annual Fund We gratefully acknowledge these generous donors to the Charlotte Symphony Annual Fund. This list reflects gifts received through October 10, 2025.
BENEFACTOR CIRCLE $100,000+ Anonymous
Jacqueline B. Mars
$50,000 – $99,999 The Fox Family
Jane & Hugh McColl*
Douglas Young
$25,000 – $49,999 Joan & Mick Ankrom Ruth & Richard Ault Dr. Milton & Arlene Berkman Philanthropic Fund Judith & Mark Brodsky Margarita & Nick Clements Roberta H. Cochran Jean & Dick Cornwell Susan Cybulski Linda & Bill Farthing Ralph S. Grier Maria & John Huson
Ginger Kelly Sally Gregory & Richard Krumdieck Betty P. & Jeffrey J. Lee Patrick J. O’Leary Sandra Levine Richard J. Osborne* Pat Rodgers Carolyn Shaw Susan & John Shimp Andrea & Sean Smith Tara & Ken Walker
$15,000 – $24,999 Joye D. Blount & Jessie J. Knight Jr. Nicola & Emanuel Clark Catherine & Wilton Connor* Denise & Peter DeMaio Robin & Christoph Feddersen Laurie & Barry Guy Fran & Greg Hyde Tanya & Steve Makris
DeDe & Alex McKinnon Ulrike & Alex Miles Mica Post Oberkfell & Keith Oberkfell Debbie & Pat Phillips* Juliette & Walter Pryor Judy & Derek Raghavan Cameron & Stuart Sherrill Melinda & David Snyder
* The CSO recognizes donors of exceptional generosity whose cumulative giving exceeds $1 million with the designation of Music Director Society. For more information, please contact Shayne Doty at 704.714.5104.
Annual Fund Supporters (continued) $10,000 – $14,999 Kristen & Paul Anderson Katharine & Frank Bragg Betsy & Alfred Brand Lynne & Colby Cathey Jeanie & Tom Cottingham Peter De Arcangelis Donna & Alvaro de Molina Peggy & Richard Dreher Lisa & Carlos Evans Eileen Friars & Scott Pyle Dr. Robert A. Gaines & Toni S. Burke Caren & Charles Gale Andrea & Todd Griffith In Loving Memory of Zaydee & Antonio Lopez-Ibanez from Lina & Enrique Lopez-Ibanez Leslie & Michael Marsicano Elizabeth & Jay Monge Robert Norville Ann & Fritz Rehkopf Kathy & Paul Reichs Kelli & Michael Richardson Rosalind S. Richardson Sara Garcés Roselli & Dan Roselli Lindsay & Frank Schall Sherry & Thomas Skains Drs. Jennifer Sullivan & Matthew Sullivan Ann & Michael Tarwater Kelly & Neal Taub Jill & Kevin Walker Michael Waterford John Drew Witherington Lisa & Richard Worf
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VIRTUOSO CIRCLE $5,000 – $9,999 Debbie & Wedge Abels Carol B. McPhee & Howard P. Adams The Charlotte Assembly Si & Michael Blake Krisha & Andy Blanchard Mary & Charles Bowman Barbara & Twig Branch Robin & Bill Branstrom Shirley & Mike Butterworth Dr. William J. Charles & Dr. Cynthia Nortey Morgan & Brian Cromwell Elizabeth & Christopher Daly Mary Anne Dickson Anne O’Byrne & David J.L. Fisk Amy & Sidney Fletcher Joan & Parker Foley Carol & Ron Follmer Carrie & Jay Galloway Sarah & Frank Gentry Laura & Marshall Gilchrist William & Patricia Gorelick Family Foundation Lucia Zapata Griffith & Michael Griffith Janet M. Haack Reginald B. Henderson, Esq. Vivian & Robert Lamb Anna & Laszlo Littmann Stacie McGinn Susanne & Bill McGuire Paula & Paul McIntosh Susan & Loy McKeithen* Marcy Thailer & Chuck Miller Courtney Reichs Mixon Torsten Pilz Emily & Nima Pirzadeh Kelli & Michael Richardson Anne Robinson Nancy & Charlie Robson Laura A. & Michael J. Schulte Ylida & Bert Scott Mr. & Mrs. Harley F. Shuford, Jr. Nancy E. Simpson Erin & William Sparks Elizabeth Connor Stewart Chris & Jim Teat Nancy & Dick Thigpen Brienne Tinder Judith & Gary Toman Rocky & Curtis Trenkelbach
Annual Fund Supporters (continued) $5,000 – $9,999 (continued) Daniel Troy in Loving Memory of Kathleen Troy Susan & Paul Vadnais In Memory of Tess Verbesey Elizabeth & Stephan Willen Glenda Colman & Floyd Wisner Joan H. Zimmerman Abby & Albert Zue
$3,500 – $4,999 Andrea & Alexander Bierce Dawn Beatty-Batten & Philipp J. Bischoff Jan & Bob Busch Mary & Phil Delk Pat English & Clay Furches Posey & Mark Mealy Dick Metzler Holly & Jason Norvell Linda & Tony Pace Suan & Bob Salvin Teresa & Stuart Singer Emily & Zach Smith Dr. Mark R. Swanson Deborah J. Cox & Bob Szymkiewicz
$2,500 – $3,499 Harriet B. Barnhardt Tiffany & Jason Bernd James Biddlecome in Loving Memory of Bernadette Zirkuli Biddlecome Lee & Alan Blumenthal Dr. & Mrs. O. Robert Boehm Frances & Herbert Browne Maggie Callen The Jack H & Ruth C. Campbell Foundation Dr. William H. Carson Pauline & Bill Chinnis Brent Clevenger Ann Thomas Colley Amy & Alfred Dawson Cheryl DeMaio Peggy & Charles Dickerson Elizabeth Betty Eaton Lucy Quintilliano & Leonard Fumi Kara & Timothy Gallagher Melisa & Frank Galasso Billy L. Gerhart, in Memory of Judith Gerhart
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Katherine G. Hall Jennifer & Logan Henderson Ivan Hinrichs Megan & Brendan Hoffman Christy & Ben Hume Leigh & Watts Humphrey Peggy Hynes Shirley & Bob Ivey David S. Jacobson Christopher James Lees Meghan & Luis Lluberas Jim & Kathleen Lynch Dottie & Jim Martin Rob Roy McGregor Cynthia L. Caldwell & Richard I. McHenry Dee Dee McKay Carolyn & Sam McMahon Debbie Miller & Tim Black Susan D. Montgomery Janet & Peter Nixon Laura Paschall & Brad Glaza Pamela Pearson & Charles Peach Dr. Reta R. Phifer Vincent Philips & Paul Pope Kathleen D. Prokay Lisa & Robert R. Rollins, Jr. Dr. & Mrs. Mahesh Sardesai Glenn Sherrill, Jr. In Honor of Robin Branstrom Jane Perry Shoemaker Peggy & Pope Shuford Hazel & Murray Somerville Patricia & Morris Spearman Ken Spielfogel & Richard Withem Maxine & Robert Stein Dottie Stowe in Loving Memory of Dickson Stowe Kelly Zellars & James H. Trexler Jenny & Ken Tolson Mindy & Don Upton Drs. Iris Cheng & Daniel Uri Mary Claire & Dan Wall Deborra Wood & Russell Propst Barbara Yarbrough
Annual Fund Supporters (continued) PATRON CIRCLE $1,500 – $2,499 Marcia Adams Sharon Baker & Peter Moore Merilyn & Craig Baldwin Katie & Morgan Beggs Georgia & Bill Belk Donald H. & Barbara K. Bernstein Sallie & Derick Close Jean E. Davis & Robert Metzger Dr. Kandi & Gary Deitemeyer Martin Ericson, Jr. Judith Greene Karen Gunther Maureen & Daniel Haggstrom Angela M. & Michael D. Helms Martha D. Jones Helen & Gene Katz Ginger Kemp Mary & Michael Lamach Lucinda Nisbet Lucas Dr. & Mrs. Randolph Mahnesmith Anna Marriott Rosemarie Marshall & Lee Wilkins Tammy & Steve Matula Louise & Gary McCrorie Cricket Weston & David Molinaro Helen & Arvind Patil Catherine Philpott Greater Golf Express Dr. John & Susan Rae Brendan Reen Anne & Mark Riechmann Donald Schmidt Dr. Stephen P. Schultz & Donna Dutton Anonymous Katy & Raleigh Shoemaker Rebecca & Eric Smith Marsha & Robert L. Stickler Jean M. Summerville Tillie S. Tice Henry Ward Grant Webb Pam West Bryan Wilhelm Deems Wilson
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$1,000 – $1,499 Anonymous (3) Mariam Abdul Hamid & Ferd Davis Michele & Ross Annable JWD Atchison Dianne & Brian Bailey Elsie & William Barnhardt Ms. Helen Fowler & Mr. Lincoln A. Baxter Emerson Bell Katherine & John Beltz Shirley W. Benfield Samuel Blackmon Sara & Ethan Blumenthal Jodie & Erik Bowen In Memory of Kyden Justice Brown Jane & Larry Cain Amanda & Kevin Chheda Rebecca & D. Mark Cody Dorothy & Mike Connor Dr. & Mrs. Charles E. Cook Dr. Kilian Cooley Kathleen Goldammer-Copeland & Mark Copeland Ann F. Copeland Larry J. Dagenhart Heather & Gray Dyer Judy & Bob Erb Heather & Thomas Finke Karen Geiger Jenn & Taylor Gherardi Carol & Joseph Gigler Audean & Berkley Godehn Joyce & Ed Hamilton Anne J. Henderson Juliet & Brian Hirsch Linda & Paul Ibsen Joan Irwin Lea & Stuart Johnson Priscilla & Michael Johnson Dr. Valerie Kinloch & Mr. Thomas A’Hearn Joan Kirschner Marilyn Kroll Holly & Christopher Maurer Arrington Mixon Joan Morgan Sue Lin Tan & Rama Narayanan Eleanor W. Neal Mr. & Mrs. E. O. Oakley Caroline Olzinski Patricia & James Petillo Dr. William G. Porter Joan Rasmussen & Morry Alter
Annual Fund Supporters (continued) Sally & Russell Robinson Rita & Thomas Robinson Elizabeth & Robert Rostan Anjan Shah Sandra Shuster Birte & Roman Streitberger Scott Smith Tamara & Cassiel Smith Alice & Al Sudduth Ann & Wellford Tabor Annette & Eric Telljohann Catherine Thompson Libby & Vint Tilson Tim Timson Sarah S. Tull Maureen Turner Emily & Jeff Vaughan Dr. & Mrs. Bill Chu & Jin Wang Rebecca Waters Linda & Craig Weisbruch Peter White Jennie & Ry Winston Lauren Wooden Velva W. Woollen Sandy & John Yakob
$500 – $999 Anonymous (2) Lynda & Doug Abel Cathy & Bob Becker Beth & Carl Belk Dr. John L. Bennett & Mr. Eric T. Johnson Mary Ann & Timothy Beranek Jeffrey Boghosian Marilyn & Herb Bonkovsky James Broadstone Nelle & Ken Brown Aram Kim Bryan Mary Lou & Greg Cagle Jennifer & Daniel Callahan Nan & Brooks Carey Thomas E. Collins, Jr. Jack Cook In Loving Memory of Ruth Jernigan Dr. & Mrs. Mark Couture Gaither & Robert Deaton Dr. Roy E. DeMeo, Jr. & Ms. Linda A. Evanko Margaret & George Dewey Diane & Doug Doak Kate & Trae Fletcher Lucinda & Harvey Gantt Dr. John & Eileen Gardella Dr. & Mrs. Richard Gellar Stacy & Pete Gherardi
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Linda & Dan Gordon Cynthia Greenlee Gloria Gunst Johanne & Patrick Hawk Dr. & Mrs. Michael D. Heafner Stefan Heinzelmann Ms. Yvonne DeBeauville & Mr. Roger Hill John J. Kelly, Jr. Mary & Steven Kesselman Nancy H. Kiser George W. & Constance C. Knight Linda & Norman Kramer Maria Kurtz Jonathan Lamb Barbara & Jerome Levin John J. Locke Katherine & Mark Love Dr. & Mrs. William W. MacDonald Allison Malter Leigh & Bruce Marsh Paula & Francis Martin Wendy & Ed Matthews Jill Maxwell Constance & Kiran Mehta Amanda & Matthew Molbert Sally Staub Moore Jennifer & Michael Neurohr Mary Newsom Dr. & Mrs. Paul Nitsch Nancy Olah & Bill Pace Ynez Olshausen Gwen Peterson & Tom Hodge Janet & Rick Pfeiffer Moira Quinn Sabine & Haywood Rankin Susanne & Mark Rascio Family Emily & Brian Reinicker Joan & Albert Rodgers Margaret Rogers & John R. Willis Betty & Bill Seifert Michael Silverman Dr. & Mrs. Henry L. Smith II Scott Smith Julia J. Souther Tara & Joseph Spil Mary & Bill Staton Kathryn Stewart, MD, MPH Susan & Jet Taylor Molly & Chris Tull Melanie & James Twyne Signature Web Design Karen & Charles Wolff Judith Wood
Planned Giving
page 25
The Encore Society The Encore Society includes individuals who have made provisions for the CSO in their estate plans. We are honored to recognize their support: Anonymous (3) Geraldine I. Anderson† Michele & Ross Annable Richard & Ruth Ault Baldwin Family Trust Barnhardt Thomas Trust Lincoln A. Baxter & Helen M. Fowler Annette Bedford† Larry & Joyce† Bennett Dr. Milton & Arlene Berkman Donald H. & Barbara K. Bernstein Mark & Louise Bernstein† Rosemary Blanchard† Twig & Barbara Branch Saul Brenner Mike & Joan Brown† Mrs. Joan & George Bruns† Jan & Bob Busch Dr. Helen G. Cappleman, Ph.D.† Jim Cochran† & Robin Cochran Catherine & Wilton Connor Charles & Peggy Dickerson Martin Ericson, Jr. Linda & Bill Farthing David J.L. Fisk & Anne P. O’Byrne Sylvia T. Forsythe† Dorris H. Goodyear† Peter & Ann† Guild William G. & Marguerite K. Huey Fund Dr. Nish Jamgotch, Jr.† Betty & Stanley Livingstone†
Lucille F. & Edwin L. Jones Endowment for the Arts Polly and Don Kellam† Jim Martin Paula & Paul McIntosh Nellie McCrory† M. Marie Mitchell† Cricket Weston & David Molinaro Joan & Richard Morgan Francis A. Mueller† Don C. Niehus Eva Nove Richard J. Osborne Gwen Peterson & Tom Hodge Gilbert Pirovano† James Y. Preston† Mrs. Clayton (Dusty) Pritchett Ann & Fritz† Rehkopf Elizabeth Waring Reinhard Nancy W. Rutledge Mike Rutledge Harriet Seabrook Mr. & Mrs. William Seifert Morris & Patricia Spearman Bob & Maxine Stein Dr. Ben C. Taylor III Mr. & Mrs. Hans Teich Cordelia G. & Dr. Chandler† Thompson Tim Timson Jenny & Ken Tolson Ms. Deborra Wood & Mr. Russell Propst
† Deceased
Leave a lasting legacy of great music through your planned gift. For more information, please contact Shayne Doty at 704.714.5104.
Comprehensive Campaign
page 26
Comprehensive Campaign We gratefully acknowledge these generous donors to the Charlotte Symphony Comprehensive Campaign. This list reflects gifts received through August 1, 2025.
$10,000,000+ Bank of America · The C.D. Spangler Foundation
$5,000,000 - $9,999,999 John S. & James L. Knight Foundation
$2,000,000 - $4,999,999 The Leon Levine Foundation · Jane & Hugh McColl
$1,000,000 - $1,999,999 Michele & Ross Annable · Atrium Health · Howard C. & Margaret G. Bissell Foundation Coca-Cola Consolidated, Inc. · EY · Contributions Associated with Falfurrias Capital Partners Lynn & Brian Good · Julie & Howard Levine · Susan & Loy McKeithen · Novant Health
$500,000 - $999,999 Anonymous · Arlene & Milton Berkman · Robin & Bill Branstrom · Deloitte Mary & Mike Lamach · Rich Osborne · Debbie & Pat Phillips · Pat Rodgers · M.A. Rogers Robert Haywood Morrison Foundation · Trane Technologies · Truist Financial Corporation
$250,000 - $499,999 Cathy Bessant · The Dickson Foundation · The Gambrell Foundation The Gorelick Family Foundation · Moore & Van Allen PLLC · Janet Preyer Nelson The Trexler Foundation · Betsy Fleming & Ed Weisiger
$100,000 - $249,000 Anonymous · Jeannette & Francisco Alvarado · Joan & Mick Ankrom Ruth & Richard Ault · NCFI/Barnhardt Foundation · Catherine & Wilton Connor Robin Cochran · Denise & Peter DeMaio · The Dowd Foundation · Linda & Bill Farthing Fran & Greg Hyde · Dr. Richard Krumdieck & Mrs. Sally Gregory · Elizabeth & Jay Monge Patricia & Thruston Morton · Steelfab, Inc. · Linda & Craig Weisbruch Andromeda & John Williams
Comprehensive Campaign (continued)
page 27
$50,000 - $99,999 Amy & Robert Brinkley · Crescent Communities · The Fox Family · Eileen Friars & Scott Pyle Mariam & Robert Hayes Charitable Trust · Ulrike & Alex Miles · Ruth Shaw Chris & Jim Teat · Rita & Bill Vandiver · Lisa & Richard Worf
$10,000 - $49,999 Anonymous · Wedge & Debbie Abels · Mary Lou & Jim Babb · Tiffany & Jason Bernd Frank Bragg · Shirley & Mike Butterworth · Joye Blount & Jesse Knight, Jr. The Cato Corporation · Margarita & Nick Clements · Mary Delk Caroline & Ben Dellinger III · Lisa & Carlos Evans · David Fisk & Anne O’Byrne Averill, Johanna, & Lauren Harkey · Carol & Bill Lorenz · Leslie & Michael Marsicano Virginia & Chan Martin · DeDe & Alex McKinnon · Posey & Mark Mealy · Wanda & Steve Phifer · Ridgely & John Phillips · Dale & Larry Polsky Judy & Derek Raghavan · Shannon & Eric Reichard · Sara & Daniel Roselli · Lori & Eric Sklut Emily & Zach Smith · Melinda & David Snyder · Dr. John A. Thompson, Jr. & Dr. Lee Rocamora Jill & Kevin Walker · Jim Worrell
$5,000 - $9,999 Brian S. Cromwell · Toni Burke & Bob Gaines · Sarah & Frank Gentry · Carol & Joseph Gigler Lucinda Nisbet Lucas · Dee Dee & William Maxwell · Melissa & Dennis McCrory Cyndee Patterson · Betty & William Seifert · Peggy & Pope Shuford · Nancy E. Simpson Drs. Jennifer & Matthew Sullivan · Mary Claire & Dan Wall · Martha Ann & Craig Wardlaw
Corporate Partners We are grateful for the following outstanding corporate funders:
Park, Inc. Publix Super Markets Charities SouthState Bank
For more information, please contact Tara Spil at 704.714.5138.
page 28
Government & Foundations
page 29
We are grateful for the following outstanding foundation and government funders:
ANONYMOUS
The Trexler Foundation Dowd Foundation, Inc. The Dickson Foundation Cole Foundation The Charlotte Assembly The Mary Norris Preyer Fund The George W. & Ruth R. Baxter Foundation Barnhardt/Thomas Trust Minor Foundation, Inc Music Performance Trust Fund For more information, please contact Tara Spil at 704.714.5138.
Leadership
page 30
BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2025-26 OFFICERS Richard Krumdieck, Chair Ulrike Miles, Vice Chair Melinda Snyder, Vice Chair & Secretary Denise DeMaio, Treasurer David Fisk, President & CEO Kwamé Ryan, Music Director
2025-26 DIRECTORS Krisha Blanchard Joye D. Blount Mike Butterworth Nick Clements Sidney Fletcher Craig Froelich
Carrie Galloway Lucia Zapata Griffith Fran Hyde Byron Johns* Valerie Kinloch Stephen Makris Juliette Pryor Manley Roberts* Sara Garces Roselli Lindsay Schall Ylida Scott Cameron Sherrill Jennifer Sullivan Brienne Tinder* Andrea Mumm Trammell* Ken Walker *ex-officio
BOARD OF TRUSTEES Linda McFarland Farthing, Chair Paul Anderson Ruth & Richard Ault Rachel Gogal Badillo Arlene & Milton Berkman Jason & Tiffany Bernd Mary & Charles Bowman Frank Bragg Robin & Bill Branstrom Paige & Steve Burgess Dr. William Charles & Dr. Cynthia Nortey Derick & Sallie Close Robin Cochran Catherine & Wilton Connor Jeanie & T. Thomas Cottingham III Brian Cromwell Susan Cybulski Marcia & Jason Daily Alessandra & Pasquale De Martino Alvaro & Donna de Molina Peggy & Richard Dreher Lisa Hudson Evans Bill Farthing Karen Fox Eileen Friars & Scott Pyle Ralph S. Grier Laurie Guy Janet Haack Reginald B. Henderson, Esq. Mark & Whitney Jerrell Jeff Lee
Gov. James G. Martin Jane & Hugh McColl Stacie McGinn Susan & Loy McKeithen Alex & DeDe McKinnon Elizabeth & Jay Monge Mica Oberkfell Patrick J. O’Leary Richard Osborne Debbie & G. Patrick Phillips Derek & Judy Raghavan Paul Reichs Nancy & Charles Robson Patricia A. Rodgers M.A. Rogers Frank Schall Laura & Mike Schulte Carolyn Shaw Emily & Zach Smith Will Sparks Elizabeth Connor Stewart Bob & Marsha Stickler Kelly & Neal Taub Adam Taylor Chris & Jim Teat Kevin & Jill Walker Elizabeth & Steve Willen Braxton Winston Richard Worf Joan Zimmerman Albert Zue
Leadership (continued)
page 31
ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF EXECUTIVE
HUMAN RESOURCES
David J. L. Fisk
Maribeth Baker
President & CEO
Human Resources Counselor
Samantha Hackett
Manager of Executive Administration & Board Relations
ARTISTIC OPERATIONS
FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION Christian Drake
Vice President of Finance & Administration
Scott Freck
Amy Hine
Erin Eady
Kensloe Norrington
Laura Lindsay
Chazin & Company, Financial Services
Claudia Schmitz
LEARNING & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Vice President for Artistic Operations & General Manager Director of Orchestra Personnel Director of Orchestra Operations Director of Artistic Planning
Bart Dunn
Principal Music Librarian
Emily Schaub
Assistant Music Librarian
Ana Faithe Allen
Operations Coordinator
John Jarrell
Stage Manager
Byron Johns
Senior Stage Technician
Ross Jarrell
Stage Techician
DEVELOPMENT Shayne Doty
Vice President of Development
Richard Riedl
Associate Vice President of Development
Tara Spil
Director of Corporate & Institutional Giving
Tammy Matula
Director of Development Services
Josh Bottoms
Manager of Corporate & Institutional Giving
Jennifer Gherardi
Manager of Development Services & Events
Noel Kiss
Manager of Individual Giving & Events
HR Coordinator & Office Administrator Staff Accountant
Aram Kim Bryan
Vice President of Community Relations & Learning
Dylan Lloyd
Senior Manager of Youth Orchestras
Mark Rockwood
Senior Manager of Youth Education
Michaela Sciacca
Senior Manager of Youth Programs
Gavin Fulker
Education Programs Assistant
Bria Alexander
Community Engagement Assistant
MARKETING & AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT Frank Impelluso
Vice President of Marketing & Audience Development
Deirdre Roddin
Director of Institutional Marketing & Communications
Nicole Glaza
Senior Manager of Digital Marketing
Laura Thomas
Senior Manager of Marketing & Audience Development
Chad Calvert
Visual Communications Manager
Meghan Starr
Patron Experience Manager
Garrett Whiffen Ticketing Manager
Fantastic Fall with your CSO Oct 24 – 26 KNIGHT THEATER Soyeon Kate Lee, piano
GABRIEL KAHANE Judith AMY BEACH Piano Concerto LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN Symphony No. 5
SPECIAL EVENT
Beethoven 360
Nov 7 & 8 BOOTH PLAYHOUSE Gather around the musicians for a fresh exploration of the man behind the marble bust.
Respighi’s Pines of Rome Nov 14 & 15 BELK THEATER GABRIEL FAURÉ Requiem OTTORINO RESPIGHI Pines of Rome Fountains of Rome
featuring the Charlotte Master Chorale
GET YOUR TICKETS TODAY! charlottesymphony.org · 704.972.2000