SEASON GUIDE
2026–2027
A rhythm that moves between us. A heartbeat that echoes the spirit of Detroit. The spark begins here.
YOUR CITY, YOUR SOUND
2026–2027 SEASON
SEASON AT A
GLANCE
2026–2027
SEPTEMBER
SENSORY-FRIENDLY DANCE PARTY! SEP 13
DSO PRESENTS 1964 THE TRIBUTE SEPT 13
DETROIT NEIGHBORHOOD MUSICAL EXPERIENCES CROWNED IN SOUND SEPT 14
DTE COMMUNITY CONCERTS
SEPT 16–17
DSO PRESENTS AIDA CUEVAS WITH THE DETROIT SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
SEPT 18
CLASSICAL CITY RHYTHMS: WEST SIDE STORY & ARANJUEZ
SEPT 24–25
DSO PRESENTS OPENING NIGHT GALA CONCERT: JOSHUA BELL PLAYS LALO
SEPT 26
OCTOBER
POPS VIVA LAS VEGAS WITH FRANKIE MORENO OCT 2–4
CLASSICAL BERNSTEIN & APPALACHIAN SPRING OCT 9–11
CLASSICAL FOUNTAINS & PINES OF ROME
OCT 15–17
DSO PRESENTS HARRY POTTER & THE GOBLET OF FIRE™ IN CONCERT
OCT 22–23
POPS BERNADETTE PETERS
OCT 24–25
TINY TOTS
MISS PAULA AND THE CANDY BANDITS
OCT 31
YOUNG PEOPLES FAMILY SPOOKY SPECTACULAR! HALLOWEEN AT ORCHESTRA HALL
OCT 31
CLASSICAL ENIGMA VARIATIONS & BRITTEN OCT 31–NOV 1
NOVEMBER
CLASSICAL FRENCH SPLENDOR: RAVEL, DEBUSSY, AND MORE NOV 5–7
CIVIC CYE EXPERIENCE & SHOWCASE
NOV 8
CLASSICAL MOZART & SCHUMANN’S ROMANTIC RHENISH NOV 13–15
DSO PRESENTS ANDREW BIRD WITH THE DETROIT SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA LIMITED TICKETS! NOV 17
POPS LEGENDS: THE PAUL SIMON SONGBOOK NOV 20–22
DECEMBER
CLASSICAL MAHLER’S SYMPHONY NO. 6 DEC 4–5
DSO PRESENTS HOME ALONE IN CONCERT DEC 9
POPS
HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS
DEC 11–13
DSO PRESENTS FROZEN IN CONCERT DEC 19–20
JANUARY
DSO PRESENTS DISTANT WORLDS: MUSIC FROM FINAL FANTASY
JAN 6 POPS
NATURAL WOMAN: SHELÉA SINGS ARETHA FRANKLIN JAN 8–10
YOUNG PEOPLES FAMILY WINTER MAGIC: A NEW YEAR CELEBRATION
JAN 9
TINY TOTS KRIS JOHNSON’S GROOVE PARTY
JAN 9
CLASSICAL BEETHOVEN’S FIFTH JAN 14–16
CLASSICAL FROM DARKNESS TO LIGHT: BRAHMS’S SYMPHONY NO. 1 JAN 29–31
FEBRUARY
CIVIC CYE EXPERIENCE & SHOWCASE
FEB 7
POPS
EVERYTHING I KNOW: MANDY GONZALEZ SINGS LIN-MANUEL MIRANDA
FEB 12–14
CLASSICAL AUGUSTIN HADELICH PLAYS BRAHMS
FEB 18–20
CLASSICAL RACHMANINOFF’S SYMPHONIC DANCES
FEB 26–28
TINY TOTS WILL BRANCH’S FAMILY FOLK MUSIC
FEB 27
YOUNG PEOPLES FAMILY THE GREAT CHIPMUNK PICNIC
FEB 27
MARCH
CLASSICAL CLASSICAL ROOTS: AMERICAN VOICES
MAR 6
DSO PRESENTS KODO ONE EARTH TOUR 2027: LUMINANCE
MAR 9
CLASSICAL STRAVINSKY’S FIREBIRD
MAR 12–14
POPS CELTIC JOURNEY
MAR 16
POPS
STAYIN’ ALIVE: THE BEE GEES & BEYOND WITH RAJATON MAR 19–21
APRIL
CLASSICAL THIBAUDET PLAYS SAINTSAËNS APR 1-3
CLASSICAL PUCCINI’S LA BOHÈME: A LOVE STORY
APR 9 & 11
POPS THE MUSIC OF FOREIGNER
APR 16–18
POPS
OOPS…I SANG IT AGAIN!
APR 24–25
YOUNG PEOPLES FAMILY SYMPHONY IN SPACE!
APR 24
TINY TOTS
JOE REILLY’S
EARTH DAY JAM
APR 24
CLASSICAL SHOSTAKOVICH’S SYMPHONY NO. 5
APR 29–MAY 1
MAY
CIVIC CYE EXPERIENCE & SHOWCASE
MAY 2
CLASSICAL EHNES PLAYS ELGAR
MAY 7–9
CLASSICAL TCHAIKOVSKY’S SYMPHONY NO. 4
MAY 14–16
POPS
SAILING: SOFT ROCK HITS OF THE ‘70S & ‘80S
MAY 21–23
CLASSICAL THE POWER OF SOUND: BEETHOVEN & ADAMS
MAY 28–29
JUNE
CLASSICAL BEETHOVEN UNBOUND
JUN 3–5
CLASSICAL BIGNAMINI CONDUCTS ABELS & STRAUSS JUN 11–13
SENSORY-FRIENDLY STORY TIME JUN 12
POPS HEARD IT THROUGH THE GRAPEVINE: THE BEST OF FUNK & SOUL JUN 18–20
DSO PRESENTS STAR WARS: A NEW HOPE IN CONCERT JUN 26–27
JULY
SENSORY-FRIENDLY KRIS JOHNSON GROUP
JUL 11
POPS
ORCHESTRA SPECTACULAR
JUL 16–17
DSO
PRESENTS
Subscribers get pre-sale access and special pricing to these performances! Join the DSO as a subscriber today at dso.org
1964 THE TRIBUTE
SUN, SEPT 13 – 7 PM
The DSO does not appear on this program.
1964 The Tribute is not endorsed by or affiliated with Apple Corps, LTD.
AIDA CUEVAS WITH THE DETROIT
SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
FRI, SEPT 18 – 8 PM
OPENING NIGHT
GALA: JOSHUA BELL PLAYS LALO SAT, SEPT 26 – 7 PM
HARRY POTTER AND THE GOBLET OF FIRE ™ IN CONCERT
THU, OCT 22 – 7:30 PM
FRI, OCT 23 – 7:30 PM
All characters and elements © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Publishing Rights © JKR.
Add on any of these special events to your 2026–2027 subscription today.
ANDREW BIRD WITH THE DETROIT SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA TUE, NOV 17 – 7:30 PM
HOME ALONE IN CONCERT Wed, Dec 9 – 7:30 PM
© 1990 Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
FROZEN IN CONCERT SAT, DEC 19 – 3 PM SUN, DEC 20 – 3 PM
Presentation licensed by Disney Concerts. © All rights reserved.
DISTANT WORLDS: MUSIC FROM FINAL FANTASY
WED, JAN 6 - 7:30 PM
KODO ONE EARTH TOUR
2027: LUMINANCE
TUE, MARCH 9 - 7:30 PM
The DSO does not appear on this program.
STAR WARS: A NEW HOPE IN CONCERT
SAT, JUN 26, 2027 – 7:30 PM
SUN, JUN 27, 2027 – 3 PM
Presentation licensed by Disney Concerts.
© All rights reserved.
PUCCINI’S
LA BOHÈME
APR 9 &11
Puccini’s La bohème comes vividly to life in a concert performance with the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, led by Music Director Jader Bignamini and an all-star cast of vocalists. From intimate moments to soaring orchestral power, Puccini’s beloved score traces the joys and heartbreaks of young artists navigating love, friendship, and belonging. With the orchestra front and center, the music’s romance, warmth, and emotional depth are felt with striking immediacy.
STARS SHINE IN DETROIT
From iconic soloists to defining voices of our time, these performances bring the world’s most celebrated artists to Detroit.
Joshua Bell performs at Opening Night Gala SEPT 26, 2026
Alexandra Dariescu performs Leokadiya Kashperova’s Piano Concerto OCT 15-17, 2026
Leif Ove Andsnes plays Britten’s Piano Concerto OCT 31–NOV 1, 2026
Augustin Hadelich performs
Brahms’s Violin Concerto FEB 18–20, 2027
Stella Chen performs Erich Wolfgang Korngold’s Violin Concerto FEB 26-28, 2027
Jean-Yves Thibaudet plays Saint-Saëns’s Piano Concert No. 5 APR 1–3, 2027
Daniil Trifonov plays Prokofiev’s Piano Concerto No. 2 APR 29–MAY 1, 2027
FOCUS FOCUS FOCUS COMING INTO
Music of distinctive originality comes into focus across the season. Bold, expressive, and expertly crafted, each composer brings a unique voice and perspective, offering music that belongs at the heart of the symphonic repertoire and artistry that feels at home on the Orchestra Hall stage.
Anna Clyne Within Her Arms
OCT 31–NOV 1, 2026
John Adams
Frenzy: a short symphony OCT 9–11, 2026
Anna Thorvaldsdóttir ARCHORA
JAN 14–16, 2027
Carlos Simon Wake Up! Concerto for Orchestra FEB 18–20, 2027
Valerie Coleman Piano Concerto (midwest premiere) MAR 6, 2027
John Adams Harmonielehre MAY 28–29, 2027
SY MPHONIC
LANDMARKS
Curated and conducted by Music Director Jader Bignamini, these monumental works define what a symphony orchestra can do in scale, sound, and emotional power.
Mahler’s Symphony No. 6 DEC 4–5, 2026
Respighi’s Roman Trilogy: Pines of Rome & Fountains of Rome OCT 15–17, 2026
Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 5 APR 29–MAY 1, 2027
Strauss’s Ein Heldenleben JUN 11–13, 2027
COMPOSER-IN-RESIDENCE:
MICHAEL ABELS
In the final season of his residency, Pulitzer Prize winner Michael Abels presents two works driven by strong rhythmic propulsion and cinematic pacing you feel not just in your ears, but in your bones. Shaped by tension and release, the music feels physical, vivid, and alive, drawing listeners in from the very first moments.
Experience his music live: Emerge OCT 15–17, 2026
Delights and Dances JUN 11–13, 2027
TABITA BERGLUND:
PERSPECTIVES
Principal Guest Conductor Tabita Berglund is among today’s most in-demand conductors, known for leading visceral, vividly charged performances. After a widely acclaimed season, she returns with music driven by color and momentum, offering a listening experience that highlights the orchestra in a strikingly different way.
Britten’s Piano Concerto and Elgar’s Enigma Variations OCT 31–NOV 1, 2026
Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony and Anna Thorvaldsdóttir’s ARCHORA JAN 14–16, 2027
Beethoven’s Third Piano Concerto and John Adams’s Harmonielehre MAY 28–29, 2027
CLASSICAL SERIES PVS
JADER BIGNAMINI
MUSIC DIRECTOR
MUSIC DIRECTORSHIP ENDOWED BY THE KRESGE FOUNDATION
CITY RHYTHMS: WEST SIDE
STORY & ARANJUEZ
THU, SEPT 24, 2026 – 7:30 PM
FRI, SEPT 25, 2026 – 8 PM
Jader Bignamini, conductor
Rafael Aguirre, guitar
Gabriela ORTIZ Kauyumari
RODRIGO Concierto de Aranjuez
GERSHWIN Cuban Overture
BERNSTEIN Symphonic Dances from West Side Story
Bernstein and Gershwin ignite the hall with electric energy, the DSO is joined by Rafael Aguirre in Rodrigo’s Concierto de Aranjuez—plus
Gabriela Ortiz’s Kauyumari, a vibrant celebration of community and new beginnings.
OPENING NIGHT GALA:
JOSHUA BELL PLAYS LALO
SAT, SEPT 26, 2026 – 7 PM
Jader Bignamini, conductor
Joshua Bell, violin
CHABRIER España
GINASTERA Four Dances from Estancia LALO Symphonie espagnole
Joshua Bell headlines a sparkling gala with Lalo’s Symphonie espagnole, alongside Chabrier’s España and Ginastera’s Estancia
BERNSTEIN & APPALACHIAN SPRING
FRI, OCT 9, 2026 – 10:45 AM
SAT, OCT 10, 2026 – 8 PM
SUN, OCT 11, 2026 – 3 PM
Peter Oundjian, conductor
Paul Huang, violin
Joan TOWER Suite from Concerto for Orchestra
BERNSTEIN Serenade (after Plato’s “Symposium”)
COPLAND Appalachian Spring Suite
John ADAMS Frenzy: a short symphony
American music, restless and searching: Oundjian leads Tower’s Concerto for Orchestra and Copland’s Appalachian Spring, with Paul Huang in Bernstein’s Serenade, and Adams’s Frenzy bringing full-throttle drive.
FOUNTAINS & PINES OF ROME
THU, OCT 15, 2026 – 7:30 PM
FRI, OCT 16, 2026 – 10:45 AM
SAT, OCT 17, 2026 – 8 PM
Jader Bignamini, conductor
Alexandra Dariescu, piano
Michael ABELS Emerge
KASHPEROVA Piano Concerto in A minor
RESPIGHI Fontane di Roma (Fountains of Rome)
RESPIGHI Pini di Roma (Pines of Rome)
From intimate storytelling to full orchestra color, this program shows we are more than the sum of our parts—Michael Abels’s Emerge, Ottorino Respighi’s radiant Pines and Fountains of Rome, and Alexandra Dariescu performs Leokadiya Kashperova’s Piano Concerto in A minor.
ENIGMA VARIATIONS & BRITTEN
SAT, OCT 31, 2026 – 8 PM
SUN, NOV 1, 2026 – 3 PM
Tabita Berglund, conductor Leif Ove Andsnes, piano
Anna CLYNE Within Her Arms
BRITTEN Piano Concerto ELGAR Enigma Variations
A tour of England’s musical characters: warmth in Anna Clyne’s Within Her Arms, sparkle and bite in Benjamin Britten’s Piano Concerto with Leif Ove Andsnes, and noble humanity in Edward Elgar’s Enigma Variations with “Nimrod” at its heart.
FRENCH SPLENDOR: RAVEL, DEBUSSY, AND MORE
THU, NOV 5, 2026 – 7:30 PM FRI, NOV 6, 2026 – 8 PM SAT, NOV 7, 2026 – 8 PM
Marie Jacquot, conductor Zuill Bailey, cello
DEBUSSY Prélude à l’après-midi d’un faune (Prelude to the Afternoon of a Faun)
DUTILLEUX Tout un monde lointain... (A whole distant world...)
Marc-André DALBAVIE Color
RAVEL Daphnis et Chloé Suite No. 2
Immerse yourself in French music: Debussy’s Prelude to the Afternoon of a Faun shimmers, Zuill Bailey gazes into Dutilleux’s A whole distant world, MarcAndré Dalbavie paints in Color, and Ravel’s Daphnis et Chloé erupts in sun-drenched splendor.
MOZART & SCHUMANN’S ROMANTIC RHENISH
FRI, NOV 13, 2026 – 10:45 AM
SAT, NOV 14, 2026 – 8 PM
SUN, NOV 15, 2026 – 3 PM
Jader Bignamini, conductor
Hannah Hammel Maser, flute
Alyssa Katahara, harp
MENDELSSOHN-HENSEL Overture in C major MOZART Concerto for Flute and Harp in C major SCHUMANN Symphony No. 3 in E-flat major, “Rhenish”
Two DSO principal musicians step into the spotlight in a program of grace and joy: Hannah Hammel Maser and Alyssa Katahara solo in Mozart’s Concerto for Flute and Harp, with Fanny Mendelssohn-Hensel’s Overture in C major and Schumann’s “Rhenish.”
MAHLER’S
SYMPHONY NO. 6
FRI, DEC 4, 2026 – 8 PM
SAT, DEC 5, 2026 – 8 PM
Jader Bignamini, conductor
MAHLER Symphony No. 6 in A minor
No warm-ups, no safety nets: Jader Bignamini leads Mahler’s Sixth Symphony—from its relentless opening march and haunted slow movement to the hammerblows of fate at its close.
BEETHOVEN’S FIFTH
THU, JAN 14, 2027 – 7:30 PM
FRI, JAN 15, 2027 – 10:45 AM
SAT, JAN 16, 2027 – 8 PM
Tabita Berglund, conductor
Robyn Bollinger, violin
Anna THORVALDSDÓTTIR ARCHORA
Katherine BALCH Artifacts BEETHOVEN Symphony No. 5 in C minor
A journey to beginnings: Anna Thorvaldsdottir’s ARCHORA seeks the origins of life, Katherine Balch’s violin concerto Artifacts honors her friendship with DSO Concertmaster Robyn Bollinger, and Beethoven’s Fifth grows a world from the smallest seed.
FROM DARKNESS TO LIGHT: BRAHMS’S SYMPHONY NO. 1
FRI, JAN 29, 2027 – 8 PM
SAT, JAN 30, 2027 – 8 PM
SUN, JAN 31, 2027 – 3 PM
Markus Stenz, conductor Fabian Müller, piano
COLERIDGE-TAYLOR Ballade in A minor MOZART Piano Concerto No. 20 in D minor BRAHMS Symphony No. 1 in C minor
Storm clouds gather, then break: Samuel ColeridgeTaylor’s Ballade sweeps in, Fabian Müller makes his DSO debut, and Markus Stenz leads Brahms’s First Symphony on a journey from darkness to light.
AUGUSTIN HADELICH PLAYS BRAHMS
FOUNTAINS & PINES OF ROME
OCT 15–17
THU, FEB 18, 2027 – 7:30 PM FRI, FEB 19, 2027 – 10:45 AM SAT, FEB 20, 2027 – 8 PM
Jader Bignamini, conductor
Augustin Hadelich, violin
Carlos SIMON Wake Up! Concerto for Orchestra BRAHMS Violin Concerto in D major
Carlos Simon’s electrifying Wake Up! pulls us forward, followed by Johannes Brahms’s Violin Concerto with Augustin Hadelich.
RACHMANINOFF’S SYMPHONIC DANCES
FRI, FEB 26, 2027 – 10:45 AM SAT, FEB 27, 2027 – 8 PM
SUN, FEB 28, 2027 – 3 PM
Nicholas Collon, conductor Stella Chen, violin
Lotta WENNÄKOSKI Flounce
KORNGOLD Violin Concerto in D major RACHMANINOFF Symphonic Dances
Two anticipated debuts: Stella Chen makes her DSO debut in Erich Wolfgang Korngold’s Violin Concerto, and Nicholas Collon leads Sergei Rachmaninoff’s Symphonic Dances and Lotta Wennäkoski’s Flounce
ALEXANDRA DARIESCU, PIANO
AUGUSTIN HADELICH PLAYS BRAHMS
FEB 18–20
AUGUSTIN HADELICH, VIOLIN
CLASSICAL ROOTS: AMERICAN VOICES
SAT, MAR 6, 2027 – 7:30 PM
Andrew Grams, conductor
Michelle Cann, piano
Brazeal Dennard Chorale, chorus
Valerie COLEMAN Piano Concerto
(DSO co-commission; Midwest premiere)
PRICE Symphony No. 3 in C minor
A living American lineage: Valerie Coleman’s new Piano Concerto with Michelle Cann, and Andrew Grams leading Florence Price’s Symphony No. 3.
STRAVINSKY’S FIREBIRD
FRI, MAR 12, 2027 – 8 PM
SAT, MAR 13, 2027 – 8 PM
SUN, MAR 14, 2027 – 3 PM
Edward Gardner, conductor
Zoltán Fejérvári, piano
BOULANGER D’un matin de printemps
(Of a Spring Morning)
BARTÓK Piano Concerto No. 3 in E major
STRAVINSKY The Firebird (complete ballet, 1910)
We welcome the cool dawn with Lili Boulanger’s Of a Spring Morning, Zoltán Fejérvári in Bartók’s Third Piano Concerto, and Edward Gardner returning for Stravinsky’s The Firebird, crackling with danger and precision.
THIBAUDET PLAYS SAINT-SAËNS
THU, APR 1, 2027 – 7:30 PM
FRI, APR 2, 2027 – 10:45 AM
SAT, APR 3, 2027 – 8 PM
Jader Bignamini, conductor
Jean-Yves Thibaudet, piano
BERLIOZ Roman Carnival Overture
SAINT-SAËNS Piano Concerto No. 5 in F major A tour through Rome and beyond: Berlioz’s Roman Carnival Overture, Jean-Yves Thibaudet in SaintSaëns’s Fifth Piano Concerto.
PUCCINI’S LA BOHÈME: A LOVE STORY
FRI, APR 9, 2027 – 8 PM
SUN, APR 11, 2027 – 3 PM
Jader Bignamini, conductor
Francesco Demuro, tenor (Rodolfo)
Mane Galoyan, soprano (Mimì)
Will Liverman, baritone (Marcello)
Meghan Picerno, soprano (Musetta)
PUCCINI La bohème
Puccini’s La bohème comes to life in concert with all-star vocalists, led by Music Director Jader Bignamini. With the orchestra front and center, its humor, romance, and poignancy shine.
RACHMANINOFF’S SYMPHONIC DANCES
FEB 26–28
STELLA CHEN, VIOLIN
SHOSTAKOVICH’S
SYMPHONY NO. 5
THU, APR 29, 2027 – 7:30 PM
FRI, APR 30, 2027 – 8 PM
SAT, MAY 1, 2027 – 8 PM
Jader Bignamini, conductor
Daniil Trifonov, piano
Dobrinka TABAKOVA Orpheus’ Comet
PROKOFIEV Piano Concerto No. 2 in G minor
SHOSTAKOVICH Symphony No. 5 in D minor
A program pulsing with restless fire: Tabakova’s Orpheus’ Comet unfurls a bold fanfare, Trifonov ignites Prokofiev’s Second Piano Concerto, and Bignamini leads the DSO through Shostakovich’s blazing Fifth.
EHNES PLAYS ELGAR
FRI, MAY 7, 2027 – 10:45 AM
SAT, MAY 8, 2027 – 8 PM
SUN, MAY 9, 2027 – 3 PM
Domingo Hindoyan, conductor
James Ehnes, violin
ELGAR Violin Concerto in B minor
DVOŘÁK Symphony No. 7 in D minor
James Ehnes returns in Elgar’s expansive Violin Concerto. Conductor Domingo Hindoyan brings playfulness to Dvořák’s Seventh Symphony, balancing fire, lyricism, and lightness in a program infused with the Romantic spirit.
TCHAIKOVSKY’S SYMPHONY NO. 4
FRI, MAY 14, 2027 – 8 PM
SAT, MAY 15, 2027 – 8 PM
SUN, MAY 16, 2027 – 3 PM
Anna Sułkowska-Migoń, conductor
Ingrid Fliter, piano
BACEWICZ Overture
CHOPIN Piano Concerto No. 2 in F minor
TCHAIKOVSKY Symphony No. 4 in F minor
Anna Sułkowska-Migoń makes her DSO debut in a program with rich Slavic roots: Grażyna Bacewicz’s urgent overture, Chopin’s Second Piano Concerto, and Tchaikovsky’s Fourth Symphony.
THE POWER OF SOUND: BEETHOVEN & ADAMS
FRI, MAY 28, 2027 – 10:45 AM
SAT, MAY 29, 2027 – 8 PM
Tabita Berglund, conductor
Paul Lewis, piano
WAGNER Prelude to Act I of Lohengrin
BEETHOVEN Piano Concerto No. 3 in C minor
John ADAMS Harmonielehre
Live music reshapes time: Wagner’s luminous Lohengrin Prelude, Paul Lewis in Beethoven’s Third Piano Concerto, and John Adams’s Harmonielehre in pulsing, ecstatic motion.
BEETHOVEN UNBOUND
THU, JUN 3, 2027 – 7:30 PM
FRI, JUN 4, 2027 – 10:45 AM
SAT, JUN 5, 2027 – 8 PM
Jader Bignamini, conductor
Nemanja Radulović, violin
CHERUBINI Overture to Anacréon
BEETHOVEN Suite from The Creatures of Prometheus
BEETHOVEN Violin Concerto in D major
The spark of rebellion: Cherubini’s revolutionary energy, Beethoven’s Creatures of Prometheus, and his bold Violin Concerto—close to Nemanja Radulović, who calls it formative, challenging, and rewarding.
BIGNAMINI CONDUCTS
ABELS & STRAUSS
FRI, JUN 11, 2027 – 8 PM
SAT, JUN 12, 2027 – 8 PM
SUN, JUN 13, 2027 – 3 PM
Jader Bignamini, conductor Johannes Moser, cello
Michael ABELS Delights and Dances
TCHAIKOVSKY Variations on a Rococo Theme
STRAUSS Ein Heldenleben (A Hero’s Life)
Richard Strauss’s Ein Heldenleben is an unmissable spectacle, with Jader Bignamini and the DSO as its swaggering heroes. Abels’s Delights and Dances and Tchaikovsky’s Rococo Variations with cellist Johannes Moser complete the program.
DIGITAL LIVESTREAMS
The Live from Orchestra Hall series is the only free livestream initiative of its kind among major US orchestras and brings the DSO to an international audience.
As the first orchestra to broadcast a live concert over the radio waves in 1922, the DSO proudly continues its celebrated tradition of innovation and reinvention to reach fans and further broaden accessibility worldwide.
SHOSTAKOVICH’S SYMPHONY NO. 5
APR 29–MAY 1
DANIIL TRIFONOV, PIANO
BEETHOVEN UNBOUND
JUN 3–5
NEMANJA RADULOVIĆ, VIOLIN
POPS SERIES PNC
ENRICO LOPEZ-YAÑEZ
PRINCIPAL POPS CONDUCTOR & DEVEREAUX FAMILY CHAIR
VIVA LAS VEGAS WITH FRANKIE MORENO
FRI, OCT 2, 2026 – 10:45 AM
SAT, OCT 3, 2026 – 8 PM
SUN, OCT 4, 2026 – 3 PM
Enrico Lopez-Yañez, conductor Frankie Moreno, vocalist and piano
Lacey Schwimmer, dancer
From the Golden Age of the Rat Pack and Elvis to the mega-stars of today, Las Vegas is home to the greatest acts on earth! Five-time Las Vegas Headliner of the Year Frankie Moreno, his band, and dancer Lacey Schwimmer join the DSO for an electrifying celebration of the music of the Strip!
BERNADETTE PETERS
SAT, OCT 24, 2026 – 8 PM
SUN, OCT 25, 2026 – 3 PM
Enrico Lopez-Yañez, conductor Bernadette Peters, vocalist
Prepare to be swept off your feet as the legendary star of film, TV, and Broadway Bernadette Peters graces the stage with her incomparable talent, fabulous humor, and magnetic presence. From classic show tunes to timeless melodies, this concert promises an unforgettable journey through the heart of musical theater.
LEGENDS: THE PAUL SIMON SONGBOOK
FRI, NOV 20, 2026 – 10:45 AM
SAT, NOV 21, 2026 – 8 PM
SUN, NOV 22, 2026 – 3 PM
Jeff Tyzik, conductor
Conductor Jeff Tyzik returns for an evening of music from the legendary Paul Simon. Explore his unique artistry as a songwriter from his years with Simon and Garfunkel through his solo albums Graceland and Rhythm of the Saints. Orchestrated by Tyzik, you’ll enjoy songs including “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” “Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard,” “The Sound of Silence,” and “50 Ways to Leave Your Lover.”
HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS
FRI, DEC 11, 2026 – 10:45 AM & 8 PM
SAT, DEC 12, 2026 – 3 PM & 8 PM
SUN, DEC 13, 2026 – 3 PM & 8 PM
Enrico Lopez-Yañez, conductor
Celebrate the season with one of Detroit’s favorite holiday traditions! Principal Pops Conductor Enrico Lopez-Yañez returns to bring the magic of the holidays to life with festive favorites performed in the warmth of Orchestra Hall. Make memories to cherish for years to come with a concert filled with joy, music, and holiday spirit.
NATURAL WOMAN: SHELÉA SINGS ARETHA FRANKLIN
FRI, JAN 8, 2027 – 10:45 AM SAT, JAN 9, 2027 – 8 PM
SUN, JAN 10, 2027 – 3 PM
Ingrid Martin, conductor Sheléa, vocalist
Join GRAMMY®-nominated vocal powerhouse Sheléa in an evening celebrating the music of Aretha Franklin. Featuring classic hits including “Chain of Fools,” “Say A Little Prayer,” “Respect,” and “Natural Woman,” Sheléa brings the music of Aretha Franklin to life with her one-of-a-kind voice and masterful piano skills.
EVERYTHING I KNOW: MANDY GONZALEZ SINGS LIN-MANUEL MIRANDA
FRI, FEB 12, 2027 – 10:45 AM
SAT, FEB 13, 2027 – 8 PM
SUN, FEB 14, 2027 – 3 PM
Enrico Lopez-Yañez, conductor Mandy Gonzalez, vocalist
Broadway’s Mandy Gonzalez (Hamilton, Sunset Boulevard) stars in a program that celebrates the synergy between her incredible vocal talent and Lin-Manuel Miranda’s iconic songwriting. Bring your Valentine for a program featuring stories, rhythms, and melodies from In the Heights; Hamilton; New York, New York; Encanto; Vivo; and more!
CELTIC JOURNEY
TUE, MAR 16, 2027 – 7:30 PM
Ernest Richardson, conductor
Tomáseen Foley, Irish storyteller
Susanna Perry Gilmore, fiddle
William Coulter, guitar
Brian Bigley, Uilleann pipes, Irish flute & whistles
Samantha Harvey, accordion & dance
Ross Hauck, tenor
Garrett Coleman, dancer
Caitlin Golding Coleman, dancer
Take a spirited trip across the Emerald Isle when authentic Irish music, dance and storytelling join forces with the lush sounds of the DSO to revive the majesty and charm of Celtic culture. “Danny Boy,” “Marie’s Wedding,” and “O’Neill’s March” never sounded so moving and magnificent.
STAYIN’ ALIVE:
THE BEE GEES & BEYOND WITH RAJATON
FRI, MAR 19, 2027 – 10:45 AM
SAT, MAR 20, 2027 – 8 PM
SUN, MAR 21, 2027 – 3 PM
Ingrid Martin, conductor Rajaton, vocal group
Break out your sequins and bellbottoms—we’re celebrating the best of the Bee Gees, and beyond! “You Should [and will!] Be Dancing” in your seat as world-renowned a cappella sensation Rajaton bring smooth harmonies to hits that lit up the disco scene. Relive the magic of an unforgettable era in this high-octane concert!
THE MUSIC OF FOREIGNER
FRI, APR 16, 2027 – 10:45 AM
SAT, APR 17, 2027 – 8 PM
SUN, APR 18, 2027 – 3 PM
Brent Havens, conductor “Feels Like the First Time” as the DSO teams up with a rock band, vocalist Juan Del Castillo, and conductor Brent Havens to celebrate the legendary music of Foreigner! Featuring hits including “Cold as Ice,” “Hot Blooded,” “Double Vision”, “I Want to Know What Love Is,” and more, this tribute will have you rocking out to the “Head Games” of one of classic rock’s most iconic bands.
OOPS…I SANG IT AGAIN!
S AT, APR 24, 2027 – 8 PM
SUN, APR 25, 2027 – 3 PM
Enrico Lopez-Yañez, conductor
Hit me, baby, one more time with the smash hits of the millennial pop queens! Go gaga for the epic riffs of solo stars Britney, Beyoncé, and Christina, and girl groups including The Spice Girls, TLC, and Destiny’s Child as three dynamic vocalists join the orchestra to spice up your life.
Rajaton, vocal group
SAILING: SOFT ROCK HITS OF THE ‘70S AND ‘80S
FRI, MAY 21, 2027 – 10:45 AM
SAT, MAY 22, 2027 – 8 PM
SUN, MAY 23, 2027 – 3 PM
Jason Seber, conductor
Morgan James, vocals
Doug Wamble, guitar and vocals
John Scarpulla, saxophone
Set sail on a nostalgic journey through the breezy, laid-back sounds of soft rock music from the ‘70s and ‘80s. Yacht Rock defined a generation and continues to be prevalent throughout pop culture today. Morgan James, Doug Wamble, and John Scarpulla join the orchestra to lead you on a musical voyage singing hits from Hall & Oates, Christopher Cross, Fleetwood Mac, George Michael, Kenny Loggins, and many more.
HEARD IT THROUGH THE GRAPEVINE: THE BEST OF FUNK & SOUL
F RI, JUN 18, 2027 – 10:45 AM
SAT, JUN 19, 2027 – 8 PM
SUN, JUN 20, 2027 – 3 PM
Enrico Lopez-Yañez, conductor
Ty Taylor, vocalist
Maiya Sykes, vocalist
Get in the groove and feel the rhythm with the chart-topping hits of funk and soul. Vocalists Ty Taylor and Maiya Sykes celebrate the timeless spirit of artists including Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, Gladys Knight, James Brown, Kool & the Gang, and more.
ORCHESTRA SPECTACULAR
FRI, JUL 16, 2027 – 10:45 AM SAT, JUL 17, 2027 – 8 PM
Thomas Wilkins, conductor
Conductor Thomas Wilkins leads a powerhouse program of spectacular orchestral favorites. From Tchaikovsky to Rossini, Looney Tunes cartoons
Home for the Holidays
Mandy Gonzalez, vocalist
NEIGHBORHOOD SERIES
Join us for captivating performances that move and inspire, all in the intimate setting of your own neighborhood.
WILLIAM DAVIDSON NEIGHBORHOOD SERIES VENUES
Southfield
CONGREGATION SHAAREY ZEDEK 27375 Bell Rd
Beverly Hills SELIGMAN PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 22305 W 13 Mile Rd
Plymouth FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 45201 N Territorial Rd
Grosse Pointe OUR LADY STAR OF THE SEA CATHOLIC CHURCH 467 Fairford Rd
ENGLISH AIRS: BRITTEN, HAYDN, & MORE
Robyn Bollinger, leader Alex Kinmonth, oboe
BRITTEN Simple Symphony
RUTH GIPPS Cringlemire Gardens
VAUGHAN WILLIAMS Oboe Concerto in A minor HAYDN Symphony No. 100 in G major, “Military”
Robyn Bollinger leads a program of charm, color, and vivid character, featuring DSO Principal Oboe Alex Kinmonth in Vaughan Williams’s lyrical Oboe Concerto. Britten’s playful Simple Symphony opens the program with youthful wit, followed by Ruth Gipps’s atmospheric Cringlemire Gardens. After intermission, Haydn’s “Military” Symphony brings brilliance, surprise, and unmistakable flair.
THU, JAN 21 – 7:30 PM SOUTHFIELD FRI, JAN 22 – 8 PM PLYMOUTH SAT, JAN 23 – 8PM GROSSE POINTE SUN, JAN 24 – 3 PM BEVERLY HILLS
POETRY IN MOTION:
RAVEL, CLYNE, & SCHUBERT
Ingrid Martin, conductor
Inbal Segev, cello
RAVEL Le Tombeau de Couperin
ANNA CLYNE DANCE (Cello Concerto)
SCHUBERT Symphony No. 5 in B-flat major
DSO Assistant Conductor Ingrid Martin leads a program of elegance, movement, and emotional depth. Ravel’s Le Tombeau de Couperin opens with luminous color and graceful dance rhythms, followed by Anna Clyne’s DANCE, a powerful cello concerto inspired by the poetry of Rumi and performed by Inbal Segev. Schubert’s Fifth Symphony closes the program with warmth, clarity, and youthful radiance.
THU, APR 15 – 7:30 PM SOUTHFIELD FRI, APR 16 – 8 PM PLYMOUTH SAT, APR 17 – 8 PM GROSSE POINTE SUN, APR 18 – 3 PM BEVERLY HILLS
CLASSICAL FIRE:
ROSSINI, MENDELSSOHN, & BEETHOVEN
Sunny Xia, conductor
Amaryn Olmeda, violin
ROSSINI L’italiana in Algeri (The Italian Girl in Algiers) Overture
MENDELSSOHN Violin Concerto in E minor BEETHOVEN Symphony No. 2 in D major
Rising conductor Sunny Xia leads a program of wit, virtuosity, and energy. Rossini’s L’italiana in Algeri Overture opens with comic sparkle before 2024 Sphinx Competition winner Amaryn Olmeda performs Mendelssohn’s beloved Violin Concerto. Beethoven’s Second Symphony closes the NHCO season with boldness, humor, and irrepressible energy.
THU, JUL 8 – 7:30 PM SOUTHFIELD FRI, JUL 9 – 8 PM PLYMOUTH SAT, JUL 10 – 8 PM GROSSE POINTE SUN, JUL 11 – 3 PM BEVERLY HILLS
SERIES JAZZ PARADISE
TERENCE BLANCHARD
FRED A. ERB JAZZ CREATIVE DIRECTOR CHAIR
STEP INTO THE SPIRIT OF JAZZ
with a thrilling new season that celebrates the legends and rising stars—all on the iconic Orchestra Hall stage. This is more than a concert series— it’s a journey that keeps the energy pulsing all season long.
MARK YOUR CALENDAR
All programs are at 8PM
SAT, SEP 19, 2026
FRI, NOV 13, 2026
SUN, DEC 6, 2026
SAT, FEB 6, 2027
FRI, MAR 26, 2027
FRI, MAY 28, 2027
Dates and times are subject to change. Please visit dso.org for performance announcements and updates.
EXPERIENCE THE SOUL OF JAZZ AT HISTORIC ORCHESTRA HALL
The DSO is proudly one of the few major American orchestras to present regular jazz programming on its main stage. The series is named after the Paradise Theatre, the historic Detroit jazz venue that was on the site of Orchestra Hall from 1941-51.
FAMILY CONCERT SERIES
SUPER SATURDAYS AT THE DSO
Introduce your children to the joy of music with these family-friendly concerts curated just for them!
TINY TOTS
(DESIGNED FOR AGES 2–6)
YOUNG PEOPLE’S FAMILY CONCERTS
(RECOMMENDED FOR AGES 6+)
Hear fun, imaginative, and interactive performances designed just for your littlest music lovers. Let them sing, dance, and explore in an up-close setting—all before naptime! It’s a playful introduction to live music that celebrates every moment of childhood wonder.
AT 10 AM
Miss Paula and the Candy Bandits SAT, OCT 31, 2026
Kris Johnson’s Groove Party SAT, JAN 9, 2027
Will Branch’s Family Folk Music SAT, FEB 27, 2027
Joe Reilly’s Earth Day Jam SAT, APR 24, 2027
Get to know the DSO and discover all the orchestra can do! These hour-long concerts introduce children to classical music through dance, theater, storytelling, and video.
AT 11 AM
Spooky Spectacular! Halloween at Orchestra Hall SAT, OCT 31, 2026
Winter Magic: A New Year Celebration SAT, JAN 9, 2027
The Great Chipmunk Picnic SAT, FEB 27, 2027
Symphony in Space! SAT, APR 24, 2027
Kick off your day with hands-on fun—instrument try-outs, arts & crafts, and more throughout the atrium! It’s the perfect way to ignite your family’s musical adventure. FREE FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES (9:30–11 AM)
MUSIC is for
EVERY–ONE
Musical connection matters to us. People and families matter to us. Throughout the season, join us at Orchestra Hall and in your community for experiences that engage all and highlight the transformative power of music.
MUSIC
EVERY–
CIVIC YOUTH ENSEMBLES (CYE) PERFORMANCES AT ORCHESTRA HALL
Students enrolled in the CYE program perform three culminating concerts at Orchestra Hall. The Civic Youth Ensembles are part of the Wu Family Academy for Learning & Engagement.
CYE EXPERIENCE
Features a variety of CYE ensembles, including string orchestras, wind ensembles, and jazz bands.
Nov 8 | Feb 7 | May 2
CYE SHOWCASE
Features the premier classical ensembles of the CYE program.
Nov 8 | Feb 7 | May 2
MUSIC
Detroit Neighborhood Musical Experiences: Crowned in Sound
Mon, Sept 14 | 6 PM–8 PM TRUE WORSHIP CHURCH
13031 CHANDLER PARK DR, DETROIT, MI 48213
Crowned in Sound honors the power, creativity, and legacy of Black femme artists with deep roots in Detroit. This immersive experience blends concert performance with hands-on workshop elements, inviting audiences to join in music-making and movement. This event is free and tickets are not required.
DTE Community Concerts
save the date
Wed, Sept 16 | GREATER GRACE TEMPLE Thu, Se 17 | THE HAWK
Join the DSO for two free concerts to kick off the season at Greater Grace Temple and The Hawk, in partnership with the DTE Foundation. Visit dso.org/dtepowersdso for more information. Tickets available Tuesday, August 11.
Detroit Harmony Instrument Drive
Detroit Harmony is a citywide collaborative effort between the DSO and other arts nonprofits, schools, community organizations and city leaders. The initiative aims to strengthen Detroit’s music education opportunities for every child while also growing economic opportunity by supporting the instrument technicians, music educators, and teaching artists essential to a thriving musical community.
The DSO is hosting the annual Detroit Harmony instrument drive from October 5–31, 2026. Save the date and look out for more details for how you can get involved! Email Damien Crutcher, Managing Director of Detroit Harmony (dcrutcher@dso.org) or Erin Faryniarz, Detroit Harmony Partnerships & Services Coordinator (efaryniarz@dso.org) with any questions.
MUSIC
Dementia-Friendly Programming
These free events support people experiencing dementia, along with their care partners and loved ones, stay engaged and socially active.
LEGATO MEMORY CAFÉ
First Tuesday of each month | 1:30–3 PM
For more information and to register, visit dso.org/memory-cafe
Alzheimer’s Association Community Connect Program
OPEN REHEARSALS
MOZART & SCHUMANN’S ROMANTIC RHENISH
Thu, Nov 12 | 10 AM –12:30 PM
STAYIN’ ALIVE: THE BEE GEES & BEYOND WITH RAJATON Thur, Mar 18 | 10 AM – 12:30 PM
BEETHOVEN UNBOUND Thu, Jun 3 | 10 AM – 12:30 PM
Sensory-Friendly & Relaxed Programming
These free events aim to remove barriers for individuals with neurodiversity and/or intellectual or developmental disabilities, allowing everyone to be themselves and enjoy a musical experience in a safe and judgement-free environment.
SENSORY-FRIENDLY CONCERTS
DANCE PARTY! Sun, Sep 13 | 2–3 PM
STORY TIME Sat, Jun 12 | 11 AM–12 PM
KRIS JOHNSON GROUP Sun, Jul 11 | 3–4 PM
RELAXED OPEN REHEARSALS
SPOOKY SPECTACULAR Fri, Oct 30 | 1:30–3:30 PM
SHELÉA SINGS
ARETHA FRANKLIN Thur, Jan 7 | 10 AM –12:30 PM
CLASSICAL ROOTS
EDUCATIONAL CONCERT Tue, Mar 2 | 1:30–3:30 PM
OOPS… I SANG IT AGAIN! Fri, Apr 23 | 10 AM–12:30 PM
ANNUAL SPHINX
COMPETITION FINALS CONCERT
JANUARY 23, 2027 | 7:30 PM
The Sphinx Competition, held every year in Detroit (MI), is a national competition for string musicians that transforms lives by celebrating artistic talent, providing career advancement opportunities, and addressing systemic obstacles for those within Black and Latino communities.
Finalists in the Senior Division have the opportunity to perform with the professional Sphinx Symphony Orchestra, led by conductor Daniel Bartholomew-Poyser and comprised of top professionals from around the country. These finalists compete for a total of more than $100,000 in prizes, including the top Robert Frederick Smith Prize. Audience choice awards are an exciting highlight, as those in attendance cast their votes by text and select a winner in each division. The Finals Concert will also feature Good News Mass by Carlos Simon, performed by the Sphinx Symphony Orchestra alongside EXIGENCE Vocal Ensemble under the direction of its founder and conductor, Eugene Rogers.
Join us for the Finals Concert to witness the brilliance, passion, and future of classical music live in Detroit. It is more than a competition. It is a celebration of community, culture, and extraordinary talent. Be part of the moment.
AMPLIFY
THE POWER OF MUSIC
Music has the power to change lives and strengthen communities. At the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, our commitment extends far beyond the concert hall.
As a nonprofit, ticket sales cover only 27% of our operating costs —the rest comes from the generosity of supporters like you. Your gift sustains the learning and engagement initiatives that make a lasting impact across Detroit by bringing music to more people including these two transformative programs:
INSPIRE YOUNG ARTISTS OF DETROIT
Through our Civic Youth Ensembles (CYE), we nurture the next generation of musicians, offering students of all ages an unparalleled music education experience. From their first note to their final bow on the historic Orchestra Hall stage, CYE students gain life-changing opportunities—learning from DSO musicians, honing their craft, and developing invaluable life skills like discipline, teamwork, and confidence.
YOUR SUPPORT AMPLIFIES THESE OPPORTUNITIES & SO MUCH MORE
CELEBRATING DETROIT THROUGH MUSIC
Detroit Harmony, a citywide initiative led by the DSO, supports musical connections through access to instruments and musical instruction for every Detroit student who has a desire to grow in music.
Detroit Harmony stems from the rich musical history of the city. We celebrate this heritage by working alongside students and partners to shape and strengthen a vibrant cultural ecosystem for today’s youth and young people in the future.
PARADISE JAZZ