Jacksonville Symphony Newsletter by Design Extensions

HARMONY Fall 2009

J A C K S O N V I L L E

In homes by December 5

S Y M P H O N Y

O R C H E ST R A

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Volume 1 – Edition 1

IN THIS ISSUE Anniversary Celebrations 2 Maestro’s Notes 3 Education and Outreach 4 New Faces on Stage 6 Volunteer Organizations 7

H O L I D A Y

Dear Symphony Family, We hope you’ll enjoy reading this inaugural edition of HARMONY, designed to keep you abreast of the recent accomplishments and upcoming activities of your Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra. This is an exciting season for the Jacksonville Symphony as we celebrate the 60th anniversary season of the orchestra and the Guild, the 25th anniversary of our Symphony Chorus, the 10th season with Fabio Mechetti as our music director and the 10th year of the Bryan Concert Organ. So what’s new? At 60, it seemed time for a new look and thanks to Burdette Ketchum, we now have an exciting new brand and logo. We hope you’ve seen J SYM billboards, ads, signposts and banners all over the city. The launch of the new Friday Fusion Series got off to a great start Oct. 9 with newly returning Resident Conductor Michael Butterman on the podium. And thanks to an economic recovery grant from the National Endowment for the Arts, we have a new Education and Community Programs Manager, Tony Kamnikar. We have three important strategic organizational goals: 1) Enhancing financial resources 2) Improving and growing artistically and 3) Engaging more vitally with our community. We are working on creating new revenue streams, including expanding the geographic area we serve and building our endowment. We are excited about this concert season with fabulous programs, artists, and a world premiere by our own Piotr Szewczyk. We are building collaborative programs with organizations such as Communities in Schools, WJCT, Downtown Vision, Douglas Anderson School of the Arts, Downtown Ecumenical Services Council and the Jacksonville Public Library. With the help of a grant from the State of Florida, we will be expanding our education programs in Duval and surrounding counties. And our new JSYO Jump Start String program has been successful beyond our wildest dreams, making a life-changing impact on students. The financial challenges we face this season are unprecedented. We certainly appreciate the faithful support of donors and subscribers like you that sustain an important community asset – our orchestra! My first year as executive director of the Jacksonville Symphony has been thrilling – listening to our fabulous orchestra in Jacoby Symphony Hall every week and meeting so many of you, the people who love our orchestra and the music we play and want to see it grow and thrive. Musically yours, Stacy Ridenour, Executive Director

Jacksonville Symphony is Joy to Your Ears

T R A D I T I O N S

The holidays are the perfect time to share the heartwarming sounds of the Jacksonville Symphony. With “First Coast Nutcracker,” “Holiday Pops” and Handel’s “Messiah,” there is something for everyone. Our Jacksonville Symphony Youth Orchestra also takes the stage with “Sounds of the Season.” “The music of the holiday season is so rich in its traditions, and some might argue some of the best music was inspired by this holiday,” said Scott Terrell, who will guestconduct five performances of Holiday Pops. “I like this season because the music fills many with joy and anticipation - and is always fresh from one year to the next.”

Terrell, who is music director of the Lexington Philharmonic, looks forward to visiting Jacksonville. “This will be my first trip to the Jacksonville Symphony, and I am really looking forward to working with this great orchestra. And to have some wonderful singers and choruses to work with makes it more exciting yet.” Holiday Pops audiences will enjoy the seasonal sounds of “O Come All Ye Faithful,” “Winter Wonderland,” “A Chanukah Overture” excerpts from The Nutcracker and more. Highlights also include “The Grinch Who Stole Christmas” and a narration of history’s famous, “Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus.” The extraordinary big band vocalist Lynn Roberts joins the musical celebration, along with the Jacksonville Symphony Chorus and Jacksonville Children’s Chorus. Make sure to add Jacksonville Symphony Gift Certificates to your shopping list for your music-loving friends and family. You’ll also want to browse the lobby for gifts at the Nutcracker Boutique and Symphony Gift Corner. For tickets, gift certificates and more information, call (904) 354-5547 or log on to jaxsymphony.org.

Scott Terrell

Lynn Roberts

JACKSONVILLE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA – HOLIDAY SPECIAL EVENTS FIRST COAST NUTCRACKER

Sponsored by VyStar December 4 at 8 p.m. December 5 at 2 p.m. & 8 p.m. December 6 at 2 p.m. Michael Butterman, conductor

HOLIDAY POPS

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida Pops Series Coffee Series Pops concerts sponsored by Stein Mart Coffee concert sponsored by Westminster Woods Sunday concert sponsored by EverBank December 11 at 11 a.m. (without choruses) December 11 at 8 p.m. December 12 at 3 p.m. & 8 p.m. December 13 at 7 p.m. Scott Terrell, conductor Lynn Roberts, guest vocalist Jacksonville Symphony Chorus Jacksonville Children’s Chorus

JACKSONVILLE SYMPHONY YOUTH ORCHESTRA “SOUNDS OF THE SEASON” Target Family Series Sponsored by MPS Group Sunday, December 13 at 3 p.m. Pre-concert activities at 2 p.m. Tickets are only $7.

HANDEL’S MESSIAH

Sponsored by St. Vincent’s Healthcare December 19 at 8 pm Jacksonville Symphony Chorus and esteemed soloists

TICKETS: (904) 354-5547 | jaxsymphony.org SALVATION ARMY TOY DRIVE AT THE SYMPHONY – See page 2.

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Fall 2009

A N N U A L

The Exponential Benefits of Annual Giving

Normally when you give a gift, it gets used up quickly. But when you contribute to the Jacksonville Symphony’s Annual Fund, the benefits reverberate throughout the community like music bouncing off the walls at the Jacoby. That’s the message behind a recent direct mail piece aimed at patrons and supporters, said Dick Pierpont, Chairman of the Symphony Board’s Development Committee. “We want to highlight the fact that supporting the Symphony supports the whole community in ways people might not think about,” he said. For example, a gift to the Jacksonville Symphony’s Annual Fund keeps the orchestra’s popular music education programs alive for future generations. “The Jump Start Strings and after-school enrichment programs, Young People’s Concerts in Jacoby Hall and the Jacksonville Symphony Youth Orchestra, Dick Pierpont these and other programs enable thousands of local children to experience the joys of music,” Dick added. “Without these programs, they might never have that experience.” Your gift also keeps dollars circulating through the local economy. You might be surprised to learn that the Jacksonville Symphony delivers a $24 million jolt to the area economy, supporting jobs for people who provide products and services to audiences, musicians and others connected to the orchestra experience. And because the Jacksonville Symphony is a constant reminder of the sheer power of the human spirit, your gift nurtures the arts community throughout Jacksonville. That benefits all of us by attracting visitors and new businesses and enhancing the overall quality of life in Northeast Florida. In the end, your gift enriches more than the Jacksonville Symphony Annual Fund. It enriches the wider community, in all sorts of tangible and intangible ways. So please, unleash the exponential power of your financial support. With the tax year about to end, make a tax deductible contribution to the Jacksonville Symphony Annual Fund today. Visit jaxsymphony.org or call our Development Office at (904) 354-1473. Let your gift reverberate.

G I V I N G

Galas for a Season of Anniversaries

In this season of anniversaries, you might want to take advantage of these gala evenings coming up on the Jacksonville Symphony calendar. They should be coming up on yours, too. Reservations are going fast, and you know you’ll be kicking yourself if you miss out.

Itzhak Perlman Diamond Jubilee Dinner Saturday, January 9, 2010

The world champion of violin virtuosity, Itzhak Perlman is the soloist who was chosen to open the Times-Union Center in 1997. Mr. Perlman returns on January 9, 2010, for another stunning performance at the 60th Anniversary Celebration Concert, sponsored by Regions. The event is already sold out, but if you’re one of the lucky ones who have tickets, why not go all out and make a stellar evening even more spectacular? The black-tie Diamond Jubilee Dinner, sponsored by The Petway Family Foundation, starts at 5:30 and features a silent auction plus an elegant meal prepared by one of Jacksonville’s most acclaimed caterers. Special thanks to Brooks for sponsoring Mr. Perlman. After the concert, join celebrity guests for dessert and a champagne toast. Dinner tickets range from $560 to $1060 per couple. For reservations and information, contact Linda Holmes at (904) 354-4092.

Organ Contributors’ Reception Saturday January 16, 2010

Hard to believe, but the mighty Bryan Concert Organ, a 6,215-pipe Casavant behemoth is already in its 10th year of faithful service to Jacksonville audiences. To celebrate, the Jacksonville Symphony is planning a special reception for the Bryan family and all the other folks who made those gleaming pipes possible. If you donated to the Organ Restoration Fund, you’re invited to join us on January 16, 2010, immediately following that evening’s Fidelity National Financial Masterworks performance which, conveniently enough, features organ soloist Felix Hell putting the massive beast through its paces in Saint-Saens’ magnificent “Organ” Symphony and Jongen’s Sinfonia Concertante with the Jacksonville Symphony under Fabio’s direction. For information about this invitation-only reception, contact Linda Holmes at (904) 354-4092.

Make the Holidays Bright The Jacksonville Symphony has partnered with The Salvation Army to collect toys and bring smiles to the faces of children and families in need. Patrons are encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped toy to the First Coast Nutcracker, Holiday Pops or JSYO Sounds of the Season concerts. Monetary donations are also accepted. Donors will receive a voucher for two tickets to an upcoming JSO concert (limit one voucher per household). Editor: Paul Witkowski Contributing Writer: Richard A. Salkin Photography: Laurence Greene, Bassel Jadaa, Laird, Barry Rabinowitz Design/Layout: The Resident Newspaper Printing: Florida Times-Union Custom Publications Published by Jacksonville Symphony Association 300 Water Street, Suite 200 Jacksonville, Florida 32202 Administration: (904) 354-5479 Tickets: (904) 354-5547 Website: www.jaxsymphony.org © 2009 Jacksonville Symphony Association Go Green! HARMONY is printed on 100% recycled paper. And go green with “Dr. Seuss’ Green Eggs & Ham” at the Target Family Series, January 24, celebrating nature and the environment.

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Fall 2009

M A E S T R O ’ S

Concert Organ and Orchestra – Pure Power By Fabio Mechetti, Music Director and Principal Conductor

The pipe organ is one of the oldest instruments in history. But not the Bryan Concert Organ in Jacoby Symphony Hall. This January we will celebrate its 10th anniversary with an exciting evening including SaintSaëns’ famous “Organ” Symphony and Jongen’s Sinfonia Concertante, with the brilliant young German organist Felix Hell. Actually our organ is a little older than that (almost 100 years old). It is a Casavant instrument that belonged to the First Baptist Church in Syracuse, New York, and went through an extensive two-year renovation before being installed in Jacoby ten years ago.

Partnerships Strengthen the Community

Organist Felix Hell

Throughout the season, the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra’s ongoing partnerships engage the community in ways that resonate far beyond the concert hall. More than 50 organizations and their constituents – from schools to community groups to corporations – play a role in Jacksonville Symphony programs. And in return, we thank each partner for sharing their unique resources which enhance our concerts and events. Listed are some of the Jacksonville Symphony collaborations in the months ahead: • City Rescue Mission Dedicated concert to honor City Rescue Mission staff and clients. • Edward Waters College Scholarship Benefit Concert: JSO provides use of hall, orchestra services and administrative support. • Downtown Vision and Jacksonville Public Library Free open rehearsal and performance previews during Art Walk. • Dreams Come True Complimentary Symphony tickets for families. • Girls Scouts of Gateway Council and Boy Scouts North Florida Council Scouts attend Family Concerts annually and earn a cultural arts badge. • Ritz Chamber Players JSO provides office, rehearsal and concert space at no cost. • The Salvation Army Beneficiary of JSO patron toy drive during the holiday season.

N O T E S

For a hall that was already nationally known as one of the best dedicated symphony halls in America, adding an organ of its size and potential was a great coup. Besides the visual impact it offers our concertgoers, the possibilities of its use within the symphonic repertoire has broadened our choices. From Handel’s Messiah to Paul Richards’ Symphony No. 1, commissioned by the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra and written with an extensive organ part, our Casavant has become integral to the quality of our artistic product. Trying to play works such as Saint-Saëns’ “Organ” Symphony, Strauss’ Zarathustra, or Mahler’s Second and Eighth Symphonies with basic digital instruments does not do justice to those works. Obviously organ concerti from Bach to Copland, as well as recitals throughout the season, could not be performed without it. With 6,215 pipes, four keyboards, 80 stops, 97 ranks, full pedal and weighing nearly 20 tons, the Bryan Concert Organ is a complete instrument. It is capable of producing some of the most powerful sounds, and at the same time “celestial” sounds that create a sense of intimacy and introspection. There is only one instrument more powerful and varied than an organ: the symphony orchestra. Now, just imagine both of them joining forces and performing together! That’s exactly what will happen this coming January when the Jacksonville Sypmphony and Felix Hell will provide one of the most memorable concerts of this season.

Organ Celebration Fabio Mechetti conducts the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra’s “Organ Symphony Celebration,” part of the Fidelity National Financial Masterworks Series on January 1516 at 8 p.m. Guest Artist Felix Hell is featured in Saint-Saëns’ “Organ” Symphony and Jongen’s Sinfonia Concertante. For tickets and information call (904) 354-5547 or log on to jaxsymphony.org. Felix Hell returns to Jacoby Hall on Sunday, January 17 at 3 p.m. for an organ recited presented by Riverside Fine Arts. For tickets and information call (904) 389-6222 or log on to riversidefinearts.org.

An Orchestra for the 21st Century Just as orchestral music evolves so does the process of getting tickets for Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra concerts. Whether you’re looking for tickets to a whole series or just a single performance, you’ll enjoy the new upgrades at our website, j a x s y m p h o n y. o r g , said Katie Scales, JSO marketing and sales coordinator. Katie Scales “Over the summer we migrated to a new system called Seat Advisor,” Katie explained. “It’s convenient and greenconscious.” Think Travelocity for classical music. You can pick your actual seats online and even print your tickets out at home. So there’s no delay, no postage, no need for envelopes, which offers a nice savings in administrative costs. While it’s top-of-mind, you can also take care of all sorts of other details that enhance your symphony experience. Prepaid parking? Symphony merchandise? CDs? It’s all there,

Katie said. “We can even create a custom package for your group event, which can be purchased from home in your pajamas.” The site also makes it convenient to make tax-deductible financial contributions and more. Want to read up on news about the Jacksonville Symphony? You can view recent articles and video clips that have appeared in the news, along with program notes. Since the best communication works both ways, the new system lets the Jacksonville Symphony stay in touch with patrons, too. “Now we can send emails with updates for concert evenings, special promotions and concerts, and other happenings around the symphony,” Katie said. “We’re also reaching out electronically on a wide scale as we continue to build our fan base on Facebook and our SoundBytes e-newsletter.” For the entertainment value, convenience and simplicity, it’s definitely worth a look. Check out jaxsymphony.org for yourself and be amazed.

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Jump Start Strings Program Expands

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The Jump Start Strings program, a collaboration between Communities In Schools (CIS) and the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra, is now serving more than 100 children with the addition of a fourth school. Jump Start Strings is part of Communities In Schools’ “Team Up” after-school program for Duval County at-risk students at Pinedale, Pickett, Reynolds Lane and Woodland Acres elementary schools. The students receive weekly violin instruction from Jacksonville Symphony musicians Andrew Bruck, Colin Kiely and Linda Minke, and practice supervision from “Team Up” leaders. New violins, which until now were rented, were recently purchased for the program. Communities In Schools of Jacksonville is a not-for-profit organization that partners with Duval County schools to help at-risk students to stay in school and prepare for life. The CIS/Jacksonville Symphony Jump Start Strings partnership is unique in the country and plans are in the works to expand the program to include a middle school starting in January 2010.

O utreach

Ensembles in the Schools

Symphony members are sharing music with students on a personal level with performance visits to schools. From strings, to woodwinds, to brass, to percussion, each group creates a unique presentation to the students, teaching them a variety of styles and cultures, as well as how they began their musical studies. One visit in particular to Sabal Palm Elementary caught the attention of WJXT News Channel 4 and appeared on their “Check This Out, Jacksonville” feature, sponsored by Winn Dixie. You can watch the video online at jaxsymphony.org. Also on the ensemble circuit are students in the Communities In Schools “Team-Up” after school enrichment and the Symphony Schools, a group of eight Duval County elementary schools receiving intensive artistic support as an effective tool in raising achievement thanks to funding from the Bank of America Foundation.

The Case of the Stolen Tuba

Original Art to Benefit Jump Start Strings

Communities In Schools is pleased to offer 200 certified and initialed reproductions of a Chad Weeks portrait, created to benefit Jump Start Strings. Using the basic tool of the pencil, Weeks captures the depth and subtle mood of each subject, as in this drawing of a Jump Start student with instructor Linda Minke, titled “Setting the Stage.” The price of the print is $75 and all proceeds help fund the Jump Start Strings program. Please contact Leah Barker at lbarker@cisjax.org if interested in purchasing a print.

Celebrating 20 Years In honor of its 20 years in Jacksonville, Communities In Schools is presenting a “Symphony of Students Celebration” on March 11, 2010 in Jacoby Symphony Hall. For details, call (904) 354-5918.

Schoolchildren by the thousands have been traveling the world through music with the Jacksonville Symphony as they helped solve “The Case of the Stolen Tuba” at the Weaver Family Foundation Student Education Series. The program was created by guest conductor Fawzi Haimor, an enthusiastic young musical talent and a firm believer in the value of learning while having fun. “Every child likes a story, particularly ‘good guy versus bad guy’ where in the end the good guy wins. Children love to be a part of that, and if they learn something in the meantime, well it’s all for the better,” Haimor said. “Giving them a reason to learn something makes them want to learn even more, it makes it fun and it further benefits their continuing education,” he added. The students were prepared in advance by their teachers with an educational guide. During the concert, students are asked to recognize musical themes and the various countries, cultures and time periods as they “travel” the world in search of the tuba thief. Selections included famous themes by Mozart, Beethoven, Rossini and Gershwin. “I am thrilled that the Jacksonville Symphony makes it a top priority to host these concerts for the children of Duval and surrounding counties. Not many people realize that these concerts may be the only formal musical influence on these children for the entire academic year!” Haimor said. “I must further credit all the educators that have incorporated this program into their already busy schedules, because their

work – along with the efforts of the Symphony musicians and staff – provides a lasting and permanent impression on children,” he added. This season, nearly 30,000 schoolchildren will attend Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra Young Peoples Concerts for grades 4 and 5 and Prelude Concerts for grades 2 and 3 in Jacoby Hall. For further information on Jacksonville Symphony educational programs, call Tony Kamnikar at (904) 354-5657 or email tkamnikar@ jaxsymphony.org.

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Youth Orchestra in Full Swing

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The Jacksonville Symphony Youth Orchestra (JSYO) has launched a new season. Earlier this month the JSYO performed its Fall Concert, as part of the Publix Super Markets Charities JSYO Series. And in his 15th year as JSYO music director, Scott Gregg has guided nearly a generation of young people through the program. “Thinking back on my years with the Youth Orchestra, it has been a real joy to play a part in the growth of these young musicians and this program,” Gregg said. “A big thank-you goes to the community of parents, private teachers, school programs – and the musicians themselves. Their enthusiasm and passion makes it all worthwhile,” he added. Next on the Youth Orchestra calendar is the annual Sounds of the Season holiday concert, part of the Target Family Series, on Sunday, December 13. Gregg has geared the program with young audiences in mind, with music from The Nutcracker, a sing-along and a visit from Santa Claus. On December 5, musicians from the JSYO’s Foundation, Junior and Premiere Strings will be spreading holiday cheer at the Jacksonville International Airport with performances in the main atrium. The JSYO season continues with a Spring Concert on March 14, the Young Artist Competition in March and the Major/Minor Concert, side by side with the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra, on May 7.

O utreach

New Education Manager on Board

Jacksonville Symphony Receives NEA Stimulus Grant to Fill Position After an extensive national search, the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra is pleased to announce that Tony Kamnikar has been named manager of education and Tony Kamnikar community programs. Kamnikar comes to us from Fort Wayne, Indiana, where he served as the education manager and third oboe/English horn for the Fort Wayne Philharmonic. Kamnikar was the driving force behind the creation of the Philharmonic’s Family Series and was instrumental in creating and writing curriculum for the Young People’s Concerts. He also helped expand these concerts to surrounding counties, working with music teachers to help secure funding for students to attend. Having a direct impact on Kamnikar’s hiring was a stimulus grant from the National Endowment for the Arts. In July, the Jacksonville Symphony was awarded

a one-time grant through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 to support the preservation of jobs that are threatened by declines in support during the economic downturn. The highly competitive process saw more than 2,400 applications. Grants were awarded to 631 arts organizations, roughly one out of every four applicants. “We are all excited that Tony will be joining our orchestra team,” said Jacksonville Symphony Executive Director Stacy Ridenour. “It is an honor for the Jacksonville Symphony to earn national recognition to fill this valued position, as we foster even stronger ties with our communities we serve.” Kamnikar’s responsibilities will include coordinating and expanding the Jacksonville Symphony educational program, working with the Jacksonville Symphony Youth Orchestra, and helping to broaden the Jacksonville Symphony’s presence and engagement with the community.

Michael Butterman Returns

New General Manager at the Symphony

Michael Butterman, one of the most sought-after conductors on the scene today, began the season as the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra’s Michael Butterman resident conductor. This new appointment marks a return for Butterman, who held the post of associate conductor of the JSO from 2000 to 2007. Butterman also serves as music director of the Boulder Philharmonic as well as the Shreveport Symphony Orchestra, and as principal conductor for education and outreach for the Rochester Philharmonic. Audiences will see him conduct First Coast Nutcracker (Dec. 4-6) and Handel’s Messiah (Dec. 19). “We are delighted to welcome Michael back. He has been an integral part of the development of this orchestra during the past few years,” said Music Director Fabio Mechetti. “Michael was always well received by the orchestra and by the community for his talents and his creative programs. We can only gain by his added experience acquired in his recent positions and we look forward to his many concerts with the Jacksonville Symphony.”

Richard Naylor began his new role this season as general manager of the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra. Naylor served as Richard Naylor general manager of the Virginia Symphony Orchestra and previously was with the Fort Wayne Philharmonic as director of operations. “Richard will bring great experience and creative new ideas to Jacksonville. He is a talented orchestra manager and I am so pleased to have him join our leadership team,” said Jacksonville Symphony Executive Director Stacy Ridenour. The general manager is responsible for the orchestra’s artistic planning and operations and works with artistic leadership and senior management in the planning and execution of programs. With the Virginia Symphony, Naylor collaboratively restructured its 2009-10 season geared for audience demand and built an innovative pops season to boost subscriptions. He was responsible for the Fort Wayne Philharmonic’s Community Partnership Program, developing key relationships with community leaders.

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Fall 2009

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We are pleased to welcome several new musicians to the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra stage. After a recent series of highly competitive national auditions, these talented professionals are now part of the orchestra’s core roster. Christopher Sales, Principal Bassoon

Christopher Sales’ orchestral career includes such orchestras as the Aspen Festival Orchestra, and the Juilliard Orchestra, as well as the Norrköping, Kentucky, Augusta, Charleston and New World Symphonies, under many great conductors including James Levine, Michael Tilson Thomas and David Zinman. Also a soloist and chamber musician, Christopher has performed concertos with the Aspen Academy of Conducting Orchestra, the Charleston Symphony and the Governor’s School for the Arts in Virginia Beach. He has played solo and chamber recitals throughout the country, most notably in Greensboro, Charleston, Tallahassee, and Cincinnati. He received his Bachelor of Music from the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music in 2007 and is on professional leave from the Juilliard School, where he will earn his Master’s degree. Christopher has attended the Sarasota Music Festival, the Aspen Music Festival and the Bellingham Music Festival in Bellingham, Wash. When not working on reeds or playing music, Christopher has developed a fervid love for hockey and ultimate Frisbee, as well as good coffee.

Aziz Barnard Luce, Principal Percussion

A native of Washington, D.C., Aziz D. Barnard Luce earned a Bachelor’s degree from Boston University and a Master’s from the New England Conservatory of Music, both with academic honors. In 2006 and 2008 Aziz was awarded a Tanglewood Music Center Fellowship, and returned in 2009 as a guest musician. A active performer and lover of contemporary music, Aziz has performed with New Music Detroit and worked with composers such as Steve Reich, Elliott Carter, and Nico Muhly. Recent engagements include performances with the Boston Symphony Orchestra and the Boston Pops Orchestra. Aziz is proud to have studied under the tutelage of Will Hudgins, Tim Genis, and John Tafoya.

Benjamin Walsh, Second Trombone

Benjamin Walsh received a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Performance from Northwestern University, where he studied with Chicago Symphony trombonists Michael Mulcahy and Charlie Vernon. He earned his Master’s Degree in Orchestral Studies from Roosevelt University in Chicago where his principal teacher was Jay Friedman. Before coming to

Jacksonville, Ben was a member of the Civic Orchestra of Chicago for one season. He has also performed, toured and recorded with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. In his spare time he enjoys outings with his family. His wife Genevieve, who is also a musician, plays French horn and they have two small children, Ben and Arla.

Ilan Morgenstern, Bass Trombone

Ilan Morgenstern began his musical studies at the municipal youth conservatory in his hometown of Rehovot, Israel. After studying the tuba, euphonium, and trombone, Ilan joined the Israel Defense Forces as a musician in the IDF Army Band. Following completion of his service, Ilan continued his musical studies in the United States, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Trombone Performance from the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music and a Master’s Degree in Trombone Performance from the University of Michigan School of Music. He has held positions in the San Antonio Symphony and Kansas City Symphony, and in addition has performed with the Philadelphia Orchestra, Houston Symphony, Detroit Symphony, Cincinnati Symphony, and Israel Philharmonic. An avid soloist, Ilan has performed recitals throughout the United States, and has won

numerous awards for his playing including the Baur Competition, Zellmer-Minnesota Orchestra Competition, Van Haney Bass Trombone Philharmonic Prize, National Solo Competition at the Eastern Trombone Workshop, and the National Repertory Orchestra’s Concerto Competition. Ilan is a clinician for the Edwards Instrument Company and performs on their trombones exclusively.

Todd Lockwood, Bass

Before coming to Jacksonville, Todd Lockwood had just started his first season as the principal double bassist of the Chattanooga Symphony and Opera. While in Chattanooga he also served as double bass instructor at the University of Tennessee, Chattanooga. He has held positions with the Kansas City and Colorado Symphonies, and performed with the Indianapolis Symphony. At age nine, Todd began playing bass in the Colorado public school system. He earned a Bachelor of Music with highest honors at the University of Colorado, and completed a Master of Music and a Performer Diploma at Indiana University. During the summer, Todd is with the Cabrillo Contemporary Music Festival, under the direction of Marin Alsop. He performs on a 19th century French bass.

M asterworks opening night Anniversary Season Opens with Official Fanfare The Jacksonville Symphony’s opening Fidelity National Financial Masterworks concert got the season off to a resounding start. Music by American composers is a standard for opening night, as distinguished actor Clifton Davis narrated Copland’s Lincoln Portrait and superstar Anne Akiko Meyers soloed in Barber’s Violin Concerto. Several elected officials were among the audience to get a first-hand Jacksonville Symphony experience. Afterwards, they were invited backstage to meet the guest artists and Maestro Mechetti. The evening began with a mayoral proclamation, read by Jacksonville City Councilman Kevin Hyde, commemorating the orchestra’s 60th anniversary season. The concert weekend was sponsored by Haskell.

City Councilman Bill Bishop with Clifton Davis

Aida Mechetti, Jeane Chappell, State Repres entatives Charles McBurney and Janet Adkins, with Symphony Board Member Joe Marasco

Fabio Mechetti, Councilman Kevin Hyde and wife Kathi, Anne Akiko Meyers and Aida Mechetti

Kennon Holmes, Anne Akiko Meyers, Symph ony Board Chair Chris Doerr and Clifton Davis

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Fall 2009

Meet the Outbound Sales Ambassadors Gordon Hiett and Scott Hawkins co-manage the outbound sales team.

Everyone needs a ticket to enjoy live music by the Jacksonville Symphony. That’s where the outbound sales team plays a big role. On weeknights and weekends, these dedicated employees are calling on residents to take in the wonderful sounds. In contrast to the high turnover you might expect in part-time sales positions, the Symphony has retained most of the same team members for the past six years. Members with the most seniority are Betty Byrne, who has been promoting the symphony for ten seasons, and Linda Bourdow, with seven years of service. Benita Powell and Vicki Miller have worked for six seasons, and Carla Freeman for three. Four new representatives have come on board this year: David Stickler, Heather Bruce, Lori Berkey and Sarah Deloach. Leading the charge are Scott Hawkins and Gordon Hiett. As co-managers of the outbound sales team, they bring valuable nonprofit marketing experience to the Jacksonville Symphony. Hiett began raising money for the Special Olympics at age 16. Over the past 20 years he has marketed a wide range of products. “What I enjoy most about working with the symphony is that as a nonprofit organization, the ultimate goal is not about making money,” Hiett said. “It’s more about educating young people and helping them to develop their musical talents, and producing a diverse range of performances on a world class level for as many people as possible.” Hawkins also is adept at marketing the nonprofit mission. For ten years he was a call center manager for Parents Anonymous in Jacksonville. Each member of the group has a deep appreciation for music and shares that passion with anyone willing to listen. And they encounter amazingly loyal patrons. “We talked to a couple who could not renew their season tickets because of health reasons,” Hiett recalled. “Since they couldn’t attend, they donated the equivalent amount of money to the symphony’s annual fund.” For those who want to add a little symphony to their lives, Hawkins has an easy answer. “If a couple can afford a nice restaurant, there should be no hesitation to attend the Symphony.”

Volunteer Organizations… Making a Difference ARIAS (Amelia Residents In Action for the Symphony), celebrating 10 years, is hosting its annual Fundraiser Dinner & Concert on November 22 at 5:30 p.m. at the Ritz Carlton. Upcoming events also include ARIAS Symphony Nights for Holiday Pops (Dec. 11), the 60th Anniversary Celebration (Jan. 9) and Cosi Fan Tutte (Feb. 13). ARIAS is bringing music to Nassau County schools by sponsoring Jacksonville Symphony ensemble performances and visiting schools with the Instrument Zoo starting in January. First Baptist Church in Fernandina Beach will host the “Let Freedom Ring” concert on May 27. Info: (904) 261-0105 BRASS (Beaches Residents Actively Supporting the Symphony) sponsored nearly 1,000 St. Johns County elementary schoolers to attend the Jacksonville Symphony’s Young People’s Concerts this fall. Members kicked off the season with the BRASS Bonanza at One Ocean, with musical informances by Fabio and Aida Mechetti, principal clarinetist Peter Wright and principal percussionist Aziz Barnard Luce. BRASS also sponsored the Sandi Patty concert. Members are encouraging their Beaches friends to get involved in support of excellent artistry and music education. Info: (904) 273-3891, BRASSmembership@ jaxsymphony.org THE GUILD of the Jacksonville Symphony is off to an exciting start for its 60th Anniversary year. The 2009 Nutcracker Boutique will have new items on display, so save room on your gift list. Members will celebrate the season with a Holiday Luncheon on December 7 at the TPC Sawgrass Clubhouse. Plans for the 2010 Designer Showhouse at Nocatee are in full gear. Save these dates! April 15 Luncheon; April 16 Preview Party; April 17 through May 9 Showhouse open with guest lecturers and wine tastings. And make reservations for the Queen’s Harbour Pops on April 25. Info: (904) 358-1479, scalvert@jaxsymphony.org OPUS, the Symphony’s young professionals group, kicked off the season at Walker’s in Riverside. There’s a Saturday preconcert social at Three Layers Coffee House in Springfield, November 21 at 6 p.m. before the Beethoven Eroica concert. On December 1 at 7 p.m., get your art on at a family-friendly Painting Potluck Social at Yes You Canvas! in Lakewood. Cost is $35 and proceeds will be donated to OPUS. Sign up at yesyoucanvas. com. On January 29, OPUS mingles with the World Affairs Council at Friday Fusion and hosts a night at the opera, February 13, starting at the Carling ballroom. Info: opusjacksonville@gmail.com Facebook: OPUS Jacksonville

The Jacksonville Symphony Chorus, celebrating 25 years, completed a grand performance of Carmina Burana. Chorus members are in rehearsal for Holiday Pops and Messiah and hope to welcome more new members with auditions on January 9 at 9 a.m. at JU.

Info: (904) 354-5479, ext. 271 jaxsymphonychorus.org IN MEMORIAM: We express our deep sympathy to Symphony Chorus member Sandra Scott and her family. Her son Earl Scott III, an Army pilot, died in a helicopter crash in Iraq on November 8.

Music, Mix and Mingle View more photos on the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra Facebook page.

A standing ovation for Principal Cellist

Alexei Romanenko.

World Affairs Council members (from left) Lenorae Atter, Daniel Gilham, Trina Medarev and Cyndy Clayto n.

Hornists Chris Dwyer (left) and Kevin Reid chat with conductor Michael Butterman.

JSO musicians Aurica Duca (left) Clinto n Dewing (right), and Jim Kim Pena (second from right) with her daughters Gabi and Elisa

UNF music students (from left) Hanna h Sharon, Edward Gedult von Jungenfield, Jessica Abbott and Tony Park.

Michael Butterman, with Susan and

Ernie Cornehl

cuisine, the crème-de-la-crème of Patrons enjoyed a new style of French music and a solo performance concert-going at the new Friday by Principal Clarinetist Peter Wright. Fusion series. The evening’s theme, For information and tickets, call (904) German Fusion, featured a light meal 354-5547 or log on to jaxsymphony.org. of sauerbraten, dumplings and strudel, with a lively jazz trio from UNF. The informal concert showcased the JSO’s Patron Perspective own Alexei Romanenko, principal cello, “The Jacksonville Symphony has come Kevin Reid and Christopher Dwyer in up with a winner. Last night was a horn duo, and relaxed conversation the first of a new series called Friday with conductor Michael Butterman Fusion and it was a winner for all who and the soloists. Afterwards, patrons were there… The ‘fusion’ between the and musicians mingled in the lobby conductor, the musicians and audience with more jazz, drinks and a friendly went as intended: relaxed interaction atmosphere. with humor. Also noted was the wide age variance of those attending. This is Reserve your place now for French a not-to-be-missed series.” Fusion, January 29, featuring French – Brita M. O’Carroll

T H E 6 0 TH S E A S O N PURE CELEBRATION

December 4, 2009 at 8 p.m. • December 5, 2009 at 2 p.m. & 8 p.m. December 6, 2009 at 2 p.m.

January 30, 2010 at 8 p.m.

March 18, 2010 at 7:30 p.m. • March 19, 20, 2010 at 8 p.m.

First Coast Nutcracker

Woodstock’s Greatest Hits

Romantic Mendelssohn and Bruckner