VOLUME 1
Northern Sounds 2019/2020 SEASON
THE MAGAZINE OF THE DULUTH SUPERIOR SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
T R A N S F O R M AT I V E . INSPIRING. P OW E R F U L .
Photo by Michael Smišek
Hardworking. Sensible. Risk-averse. Like founder. Like fund. Curt Teberg is a no-frills type. He scours for deals, drinks his coffee black and thinks before he acts. The same goes for his fund. Instead of jumping from trend to trend, The Teberg Fund is navigated by Curt and his 30 years of experience in studying mutual funds and market patterns. Don’t invest in just anything. Invest in life.
For information about the Fund, contact Curt Teberg at 218-722-8248 or visit TebergFund.com. 5161 Miller Trunk Highway, Duluth, MN 55811 TEBRX on the Nasdaq
The Fund’s investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses must be considered carefully before investing. The prospectus contains this and other important information and may be obtained by calling 866-209-1964 or visiting www.tebergfund.com. Read it carefully before investing. Mutual fund investing involves risk; principal loss is possible. The Teberg Fund is distributed by Northern Lights Distributors, LLC, member FINRA/SIPC. 3625-NLD-8/21/2017
An excellent performance can change your life. Our high level of care and stateof-the-art technology has earned us a 98 percent patient satisfaction rating. Remember Lakewalk Surgery Center for outpatient surgery excellence. It’s your health – it’s your choice.
20 Years of Excellence 1420 London Road, Duluth 218-728-0650 lakewalk.com
A symphony of excellence and care for the audience of you.
MODERN ITALIAN RESTAURANT FROM-SCRATCH MEALS OVERLOOKING LAKE SUPERIOR SALAD, PASTA, SEAFOOD, STEAK, WINE AND COCKTAILS OPEN DAILY 11AM UNTIL 10PM
734 E. SUPERIOR STREET DULUTH MN 55802 (218) 722-1518 VABENECAFFE.COM
HANFTLAW.COM
YOU MATTER
Hanft Fride is setting the stage for legal success. Trust our history and expertise to drive an excellent performance.
YOU MATTER HERE.
DULUTH 218.722.4766 | CLOQUET 218.879.3333
3 | Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra Northern Sounds – Volume 1
H O L D O N T O Y O U R S E AT. . .
2019–2020
SEASON
MASTERWORKS SERIES
Lynn Harrell Plays Dvořák’s Cello Concerto Sat Oct 5 • 7pm Lynn Harrell, cello Leshnoff: Starburst Tchaikovsky: Francesca da Rimini Dvořák: Cello Concerto
The Beethoven Project
Beethoven’s Fifth Sat Mar 21 • 7pm Marika Bournaki, piano Connesson: Flammenschrift Mozart: Piano Concerto No.23 Beethoven: Symphony No.5
SEASON TICKETS ON SALE NOW
A Night at the Opera
Opera’s Greatest Hits with Lyric Opera of the North Sat Nov 23 • 7pm Lyric Opera of the North DSSO Chorus Richard Robbins, Chorus Master
The Writing on the Wall Sat May 2 • 7pm DSSO Chorus Richard Robbins, Chorus Master
Richard Zeller, baritone
Saint-Saëns: Bacchanale from Samson and Delilah Schubert: Symphony No.5 Walton: Belshazzar’s Feast
Obsession: Mendelssohn & Berlioz Sat Feb 1 • 7pm Erin Aldridge, violin Daugherty: Red Cape Tango Mendelssohn: Violin Concerto Berlioz: Symphonie Fantastique
POPS SERIES
A Night at the Movies Sat Oct 26 • 7pm
Featuring soundtrack selections from Star Wars, Harry Potter, James Bond, and Saturday Night Fever
The Beethoven Project
Happy Birthday, Ludwig! Sat Feb 29 • 7pm DSSO Chorus Richard Robbins, Chorus Master Asami Hagiwara, piano Beethoven: Symphony No. 2 Brahms: Schicksalslied Beethoven: Choral Fantasy
New Year’s Eve Tue Dec 31 • 7pm
Jeans ‘n Classics performs the music of The Rocky Horror Picture Show.
Pop Goes the Classics
Sat Apr 18 • 7pm
Ride with the Lone Ranger in Rossini’s William Tell Overture and dance with royalty in Strauss’ Emperor Waltz.
PHOTO Michael Smišek
ORDER TODAY! 218.623.3776 • DSSO.COM • @dssomn *Discount reflects savings on regular priced tickets. Returning members enjoy priority seating. New members will be seated starting in June. Offer expires Apr 26, 2019. Some restrictions apply.
SPONSORS:
TABLE OF CONTENTS 2019-2020 Season Schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Meet the Music Director: Dirk Meyer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Welcome from Executive Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Welcome from Board of Directors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
11
Meet the Orchestra . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Masterworks: 1: LYNN HARRELL PLAYS DVOŘÁK’S CELLO CONCERTO . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Biographies Lynn Harrell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Jonathan Leshnoff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Antonín Dvořák . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Pops 1: A NIGHT AT THE MOVIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
16
Masterworks 2: A NIGHT AT THE OPERA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Biography Richard Robbins . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Chorus Roster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Opera Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-21 Pops 2: NEW YEAR’S EVE: TIME WARP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Jeans ‘n Classics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
17
Biography Ho-Yin Kwok . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 DYSSO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Remembering Brad Bombardier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Ways to Support DSSO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Information for our Patrons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Northern Sounds
DSSO Contributors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36-37
VOLUME 1
2019/2020 SEASON
THE MAGAZINE OF THE DULUTH SUPERIOR SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
22
T R A N S F O R M AT I V E . INSPIRING. P OW E R F U L .
Administration & Staff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Symphony Chorus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Honoring Mack Harrell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
O U R M I S S IO N Our mission is to enhance our community through the performance of symphonic music that engages and inspires.
O U R VI S IO N We envision a stronger community through the power of music and musician artistry. N o r t h e r n S o u n d s i s a p u b li c at i o n of t h e D u l u t h S u p e r i o r Sy m p h o ny O rc h e s t r a
CONCERT TICKETS 218-623-3776 tickets@dsso.com | dsso.com
Northern Sounds’ mission is to further the DSSO’s connections – throughout the Twin Ports and beyond – and to celebrate and tell the stories of musicians, artists, and audience. Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra Northern Sounds 2019/2020 – Volume 1 | 5
Welcome to
the 2019-2020 season! What does “Twin Ports” mean to you? Does it conjure images of the lake? Maybe our craft brews? For me, the amazing arts community is what I think of first. I am particularly proud of the artistically excellent symphony orchestra that we can call our own – one of the many unique qualities that make the Northland such a special place to live. The Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra will, once more, enrich our lives with the power of music in our exciting 2019-2020 Season. From world-renowned soloists, to local collaborations, our new season holds something for everyone. Enjoy classics like Dvořák and Beethoven, film scores from your favorite blockbusters (Star Wars, James Bond, Harry Potter and more!) and even a Time Warp New Year’s Eve Celebration.
I’m also thrilled that the DSSO Chorus, celebrating 60 years, will be joining us multiple times this season. When the combined forces of almost 300 musicians and singers take the stage for William Walton’s masterpiece Belshazzar’s Feast in May, we might just raise the roof of Symphony Hall. So what are you waiting for? An artistic gem is in your Northland backyard and a transformative musical experience awaits. You will not want to
Enjoy the new season!
Dirk Meyer, Music Director Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra
218.623.3776 • DSSO.COM
Most recently Meyer created The Beethoven Project, a collaboration between the DSSO and Minnesota Public Radio. During the five years of this project, the DSSO will perform and record all of Beethoven’s nine symphonies and, at the same time, create concerts and events that shed a light on the master’s works and bring his music to new audiences. Maestro Meyer is the author of “Chamber Orchestra and Ensemble Repertoire: A Catalog of Modern Music”. Published by Scarecrow Press with a foreword by David Daniels, this book is a resource for conductors, librarians and administrators, providing them with performance information for approximately 4000 compositions.
DIRK MEYER
MUSIC DIRECTOR
Meyer’s special interest in contemporary music has led to him featuring world premiers by composers such as Miguel del Aguila and Eve Baglarian, as well as the American or regional premiers of works by Arvo Pärt, Einojuhani Rautavaara, Joby Talbot, Elliott Sharp, Jonathan Leshnoff, and Hugo Alfven.
German conductor DIRK MEYER is Music Director of the Duluth
Outside of North America Meyer has conducted many
Superior Symphony Orchestra (DSSO) in Minnesota and the Augusta
orchestras in Europe and abroad, including appearances in
Symphony in Georgia. Having received much of his training in
South Africa, the Czech Republic, and Germany. In the operatic
European opera houses, Meyer is passionate about opera and also
world he has led performances of Carmen and Don Giovanni with
holds the position of Music Director with the Lyric Opera of the North
the Plovdiv Opera in Bulgaria and served as Assistant Conductor
(LOON).
to the Michigan State University Opera Theatre, which he
He has guest conducted many orchestras throughout the United States, including the Phoenix Symphony Orchestra, Symphoria in
conducted in Puccini’s La Bohème and Stravinsky’s The Rake’s Progress.
Syracuse, the Orlando Philharmonic, the Springfield Symphony
From 2007 to 2011, Meyer served as Music Director to the
Orchestra in Massachusetts, the Naples Philharmonic, and The
Sarasota Youth Orchestras, giving his Carnegie Hall debut in New
Florida Orchestra. Other recent engagements have been with
York City with the Sarasota Youth Philharmonic in 2008.
the Toronto Symphony Orchestra and the Edmonton Symphony
Prior to his current appointments, Meyer served as Associate
Orchestra in Canada, the New Bedford (MA) and East Texas
Conductor, and later Principal Guest Conductor, of the Sarasota
Symphony Orchestras, as well as the Sarasota Orchestra in Florida.
Orchestra in Florida. Further appointments have included
In 2012, Meyer was named the winner of The American Prize in
Assistant positions with the Traverse Symphony (MI) and
orchestral conducting.
Missouri Symphony Orchestras, as well as the Music Director
Over the course of his career Meyer has earned an outstanding
position with the Mason Symphony Orchestra in Michigan.
reputation with musicians, audiences and critics, alike. His
Meyer has studied with teachers like Neeme Järvi and Jorma
performances have been described as “most intimate and
Panula and, in addition, he assisted with numerous productions
emotional”, “mesmerizing” and “out of this world” and his personable
at the Deutsche Oper am Rhein (Germany), as well as at the
and entertaining style has made him an audience favorite.
Vienna State Opera (Austria) and the Teatro Real in Madrid
As a champion of orchestral music, Meyer creates concert
(Spain).
experiences that bring classical music to new audiences. These
He holds Doctor of Musical Arts and Masters degrees in
endeavors range from conversational concerts to multimedia
orchestral conducting from Michigan State University, where he
performances, and include collaborations of all kinds. One of the
worked with Leon Gregorian and Raphael Jimenez. Here he also
most adventurous collaborations he created was Runway Duluth, a
worked as Graduate Teaching Assistant. His Bachelor’s Degrees
fashion and music collaboration that received national recognition
are from the Folkwang Conservatory in Germany (music) as well
and redefined what the concert experience can be.
as the University Duisburg-Essen (philosophy). Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra Northern Sounds 2019/2020 – Volume 1 | 7
Welcome from the
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR As a child, my first introduction
foster my deep love of music.
into orchestral music was
I am so excited and honored to serve as the executive
Brahms‘ 3rd Symphony.
director of the Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra. I
Growing up in a small town in
look forward to learning more about your community,
northern Indiana, one sleepless
hearing your stories of how and why music inspires you,
night, I happened to turn on
and continuing this great musical tradition. This season
the radio to the local classical
you will hear music both foreign and familiar, classical
music station and heard this
and popular, stirring and haunting. When you come to
wonderfully stirring piece of
concerts, think back to your introduction to music. What
music. This being years before
piece or experience got you involved? Please find me in
you were able to look up playlists online, my mother
the lobby and share your story – and think about bringing
called up the radio station to figure out what was being
a friend to foster their own connection to this wonderful,
played and then went to the local store to purchase the
life-changing artform.
album. What was that piece of music? It was the third
– Brandon VanWaeyenberghe
movement of Brahms’ Symphony No. 3, and that album would be the first in a long series of steps that would
There’s nothing quite like flowers sent with your special message! Ordering beautiful flowers from Engwalls is incredibly easy, even at the last minute.
Give joy. Give flowers. Florist, Greenhouse and Garden Centers Serving the Twin Ports | 218-727-8961 www.engwalls.com
8 | Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra Northern Sounds 2019/2020– Volume 1
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Welcome from
JOHN BERCHILD, DSSA Board Chair The Duluth Superior Symphony
as we proceed with our preparation for
Association Board of Directors
implementation of our new Strategic
welcomes you to the 2019-20 Concert
Plan, including budgeting and
Season of our Duluth Superior
fundraising. I am personally indebted to
Symphony Orchestra. Our Music
his continuing loyalty and assistance.
Director, Dirk Meyer will be presenting a spectacular and inspiring selection of symphonic music.
Finally, I want to thank our generous and faithful donors and patrons for your support of our efforts in making all this
I also want to take this opportunity to
possible. Without this financial support,
welcome Brandon VanWaeyenberghe
we would not be sustainable and could
as the DSSO’s Executive Director. His
not maintain this wonderful musical
background includes various roles in
heritage in our Twin Ports community.
fundraising and business intelligence for the Houston Symphony and, most recently, a leadership role as Director of
– JOHN BERCHILD DSSA BOARD CHAIR
Finance for the Charlotte Symphony. up in South Bend, Indiana and spent most of his summers at his grandparents’ resort on Upper Eau Claire Lake near Hayward, Wisconsin. The Board looks forward to working with
™
Brandon in the implementation of our
are Trade Marks used under license from De Beers Group.
Brandon is a Midwesterner having grown
new Strategic Plan and leading us forward in providing our community with
his hard work, dedication and leadership as our Interim Executive Director. His
™ ™
I also want to thank Kevin Peterson for all
, Forevermark Tribute and
the finest in classical music.
® ®
to provide valuable insight and guidance
© Forevermark 2018. Forevermark ,
background with the DSSO has helped
,
considerable knowledge and
Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra Northern Sounds 2019/2020 – Volume 1 | 9
Coming to you from the ALLETE Stage
MEET THE ORCHESTRA
Dirk Meyer, The Charles A. & Carolyn M. Russell Music Director Sponsors: Harris & Diane Balko; Elisabeth C. Mason; The Charles A. & Carolyn M. Russell Foundation
VIOLIN I
Erin Aldridge, Concertmaster Sponsor: Verna & Arend Sandbulte in support of the concertmaster chair through the Sandbulte Orchestra Leadership Fund
Colin McGuire, Associate Concertmaster Sponsor: The Northern Mechanical/Plumbing Contractors Association
Steve Highland, Assistant Concertmaster Sponsor: Thomas & Barbara Elliott
Ann Anderson, Associate Concertmaster Emeritus Sponsor: Happy Sleeper
Nicole Craycraft Sponsor: Glen Holt
Kathleen Sanders Sponsor: Terry & Vicki Anderson
Nairi Stack Sponsor: Stack Brothers Mechanical Contractors; Tom & Mimi Stender
Joan Halquist Sponsor: Mark Solie; Jim & Libby Prest
Amanda Wirta Sponsor: James & June Farkas
Lindsey Bordner Sponsor: Joel & Catherine Koemptgen
Daniel Radosevich Sponsor: Robert & Angelica Fryberger
Ashley Ng (on leave 2019-2020) Sponsor: Darlene Wolfe
VIOLIN II
Laurie Bastian, Principal Sponsor: Jacquie & Jim Sebastian
Jean Leibfried, Assistant Principal Sponsor: Sandra Barkley; Marcia & Gary Doty
Amy Eichers Sponsor: Tom & Alice McCabe
Michael Husby (on leave 2019-2020) Sponsor: Brad Schmugge, CPA
Olga Chernyshev Sponsor: Kay & Walt Gower
Yukina Ono (on leave 2019-2020) Sponsor: Father Andrew Ricci; Rose & Lester Drewes
Michael Zellgert Sponsor: Vern & May Nordling
Sarah Warner Sponsor: Kathy & James Sanders
Kristen Anderson Sponsor: Anonymous Friend of the DSSO
Karen Durfee Sponsor: Kenneth Schoen
Mary Negus Sponsor: Anonymous Friend of the DSSO
Stephen Baillie Sponsor: Henry & Terry Roberts
VIOLA
Kevin Hoeschen, Principal Sponsor: Laura Budd
Ronald Kari, Assistant Principal Sponsor: Ruth Ann Eaton; Stephen & Laurie Cushing
Clare Chopp Sponsor: Johannes & Martha Aas
Jonathan Kresha Sponsor: Nancy Odden & Doug Britton
Kevin W. Peterson Sponsor: Robert T. & Barbara K. Bennett; Ruth Frederick
Kirsti Petraborg Sponsor: Anonymous Friend of the DSSO
Judy MacGibbon Sponsor: J. Clark & Jean A. Laundergan, in memory of Warren & Viola Askeland
J. David Arnott, DMA Sponsor: Sylvia Jamar
CELLO
Betsy Husby, Principal Sponsor: James & Christabel Grant
Lucia Magney, Assistant Principal Sponsor: Ann Mars
Julia Morehouse Sponsor: Nancy & Mark Melhus; Nancy Melander
Eric Graf Sponsor: Natascha & Ramin Artang
Rebecca M. Peterson Sponsor: Robert T. & Barbara K. Bennett
Darin Anderson Sponsor: Dr. Michael & Sharon Mollerus
Jesse Nummelin Sponsor: Anonymous Friend of the DSSO
Elena Denny Sponsor: Linda Boben
Scott Lykins Sponsor: Anonymous Friend of the DSSO
BASS
Charles Block, Principal Sponsor: Adelaide M. Cline
Vincent Osborn, Assistant Principal Sponsor: Andrea Wahman & Lee Zimmerman; Judy McKim; Lane Smith
Anthony Lischalk Sponsor: John Ivey Thomas and Mary Rees Thomas Family Fund
James McLeod Sponsor: Branden Robinson
Irving G. Steinberg Sponsor: Lurene Buhrmann
Blake Bonde Sponsor: Carolyn Sundquist
FLUTE
Claudia White, Principal (on leave 2019-2020) Sponsor: Thomas & Janice Shuey
Kathleen Winters, Acting Principal Sponsor: Jeff Elliott
Hannah Peterson, Piccolo/Flute 3 Sponsor: Anonymous Friend of the DSSO
OBOE
Michael Dayton, Principal (on leave 2019-2020) Sponsor: Gary Foley
Darci Griffith Gamerl, Acting Principal Sponsor: Dr. Dennis & Donna Soukup
Sarah Carmack, English Horn/Oboe 3 Sponsor: Anonymous Friend of the DSSO
CLARINET
Jennifer Gerth, Principal Sponsor: William & Saundra Palmer
Kristine Peterson, Clarinet 2 Sponsor: Kay & William Slack
Theodore Schoen, Clarinet 3/Utility Sponsor: Karl Diekman
10 | Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra Northern Sounds 2019/2020– Volume 1
BASSOON
Michael Roemhildt, Principal Sponsor: Janet Sklaris, in memory of Frank Sklaris
Jefferson Campbell, Contra Bassoon Sponsor: Anonymous Friend of the DSSO
SAXOPHONE
Gregory Kehl Moore, Principal Sponsor: Anonymous Friend of the DSSO
HORN
James Pospisil, Principal Sponsor: James & Mary Zastrow
Paul Litterio, Assistant Horn Sponsor: Dean Peterson; James Seitz & Diane Kolquist
Erika Hammerschmidt, Horn 2 Sponsor: Robert & Mary Evans; Elaine & Roger Engle
Gwendolyn Hoberg, Horn 4 Sponsor: Susan Meyer
TRUMPET
Earl Salemink, Principal Sponsor: Sharon & Robert Wahman
Charles Leibfried, Trumpet 2 Sponsor: Jeff & Vickie Cadwell; David & Patricia Mast; Marcia & Gary Doty
Thomas Pfotenhauer, Trumpet 3 Sponsor: Mark & Grace Monson
TROMBONE
Larry J. Zimmerman, Principal Sponsor: Gale & Jeri Kerns
Joel Kilgore, Trombone 2 (on leave 2019-2020) Sponsor: Roberta Vose
James Erickson, Bass Trombone Sponsor: Mark Danielson & Theresa Smith
TUBA
Steve Grove, Principal Sponsor: Helena Jackson & Doug Dunham
TIMPANI
Fred Morgan, Principal Sponsor: Ellen Marsden
PERCUSSION
Gene Koshinski, Principal Sponsor: Susan J. Relf
Tim Broscious, Percussion 2 Sponsor: Jeremy Hoglund & AndrĂŠa Mueller Hoglund
HARP
Janell Kokkonen Lemire, Principal Sponsor: Elaine Killen
KEYBOARDS
Beth Gilbert, Principal Sponsor: John & Kathy Berchild
Masterworks 1
LYNN HARRELL PLAYS DVOŘÁK’S CELLO CONCERTO Saturday, October 5, 2019, 7:00 PM DECC Symphony Hall, ALLETE Stage DIRK MEYER, Music Director LYNN HARRELL, Soloist, Violoncello Jonathan Leshnoff
Starburst 8’
Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky
Francesca da Rimini, Op. 32
22’
Intermission 20’ Antonín Dvořák
Concerto for Violoncello in B minor, Op. 104
40’
I. Allegro
II.
III. Finale: Allegro moderato – Andante – Allegro vivo
Adagio, ma non troppo
SPONSOR:
Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra Northern Sounds 2019/2020 – Volume 1 | 11
LYNN HARRELL Cellist
Lynn Harrell’s presence is felt
season at Carnegie Hall. Abroad, he played
Scotia festivals.
throughout the musical world. A
alongside the Gewandhaus Orchestra
An accomplished recording artist, Lynn
consummate soloist, chamber musician,
Leipzig, China and Seoul philharmonics,
Harrell’s discography of more than 30
recitalist, conductor and teacher, his work
Duisberg Symphony, and the Orquestra
recordings include the complete Bach
throughout the Americas, Europe and
Sinfônica Brasileira. He toured North
Cello Suites (London/Decca), and two
Asia has placed him in the highest echelon
America and Europe with the Mutter-
Grammy wins with Itzhak Perlman and
of today’s performing artists including
Bronfman-Harrell Trio to venues including
Vladimir Ashkenazy – in 1981 for the
such noted conductor-collaborators
Carnegie Hall, the Maison Symphonique
Tchaikovsky Piano Trio and in 1987 for the
as James Levine, Sir Neville Marriner,
de Montreal, the Salzburg Großes
complete Beethoven Piano Trios (both
Kurt Masur, Zubin Mehta, André Previn,
Festspielhaus, and Dresden Staatskapelle.
Angel/EMI).
Sir Simon Rattle, Leonard Slatkin, Yuri
His international engagements include
Temirkanov, and Michael Tilson Thomas.
adjudicating the XV Tchaikovsky
Mr. Harrell plays a 2008 Dungey cello. He
International Competition, concerts with
makes his home in Santa Monica, CA.
In recent seasons, Lynn performed
the Seoul Philharmonic and Eliahu Inbal,
domestically with the symphonies of
Mariinsky Orchestra and Valery Gergiev,
Atlanta, Sydney, and Detroit, and the
and performing in the Verbier, Hong Kong
Metropolian Opera Orchestra to close the
International Chamber, Aspen, La Jolla, Eastern Music, Tanglewood, Ravinia, and
12 | Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra Northern Sounds 2019/2020– Volume 1
JONATHAN LESHNOFF Starburst (2010)
Born September 8, 1973 in New Brunswick, New Jersey Work Composed 2010 World Premiere April 29-30, 2010 at Meyerhoff Symphony Hall Baltimore; Marin Alsop Conducting the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra
Jonathan Leshnoff is one of the
Leshnoff chose the name Starburst
HISTORY:
leading composers bringing new
because ‘the word has a lot of energy to it
Tonight’s performance of this work is the
creations into the classical music world
and I like the image of light.’ He adds that
first by the DSSO. Three other works by
of the 21st century. His undergraduate
the piece has ‘lots of orchestral shimmer’
Jonathan Leshnoff have previously been
studies were in anthropology and
with its emphasis on fast patterns in the
played by the Orchestra. Concerto for
music at Johns Hopkins University and
upper woodwinds and strings. Starburst
Violin and Viola was given on May 3, 2008
the Peabody Conservatory. He did his
is structured in two parts. Two important
with Markand Thakar and soloists Charles
graduate studies in music at Peabody
motives are developed at the beginning:
Wetherbee and Victoria Chiang (Mr.
Conservatory and was awarded a Doctor
a running or ‘fleeting’ motive in the
Thakar’s wife). Leshnoff’s Violin Concerto
of Music degree from the University of
woodwinds and a rhythmically crisper,
was performed on May 19, 2012 with Mr.
Maryland. His composition, Starburst,
more detached idea in the strings. The
Thakar and Mr. Wetherbee. On January
was an instant success and cemented
music climbs to a big outburst, and then a
19, 2013 the Concerto for Orchestra and
Leshnoff’s reputation. His works are being
clarinet cadenza in a much slower tempo
Two Percussionists was given by Dirk
performed by more than 65 orchestras
leads to the second phase. The fleeting
Meyer and the Todd Meehan and Doug
worldwide in hundreds of concerts.
motive returns in a march-like, repetitive
Perkins Duo.
guise. From then on, the piece gets bigger Starburst was completed in 2010 for
and bigger until it explodes at the end—
INSTRUMENTATION:
a commission from the Baltimore
just like its name.
Two flutes and piccolo, two oboes, three
Symphony Orchestra, with a co-
clarinets (one doubling bass clarinet),
commission from the Kansas City
Tim Smith reviewed the premiere in the
two bassoons and contrabassoon, four
Symphony Orchestra and the Fundación
Baltimore Sun calling Starburst “a curtain-
horns, three trumpets, two trombones
Orquestra de Extremadura in western
raiser in the best sense of the word, full of
and bass trombone, tuba, timpani,
Spain. Janet E. Bedell, the annotator for
energy and anticipation. The composer’s
percussion (vibraphone, crotales, snare
the Baltimore Symphony, interviewed
most distinctive talent may be for
drum, chimes, glockenspiel, marimba,
Leshnoff for the premiere of Starburst
creating deeply lyrical themes, but here,
xylophone, bass drum) and strings.
and provided the following note:
his focus is on propulsion and creating a sense of almost frantic searching…”
Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra Northern Sounds 2019/2020 – Volume 1 | 13
HISTORY: Tonight marks the fifth DSSO performance of this tone poem. It was also played in 1943, 1950, 1962, and on March 6, 2004. INSTRUMENTATION: Three flutes (one doubling piccolo), two oboes and English horn, two clarinets, two bassoons, four horns, two trumpets, two cornets, three trombones, tuba, timpani, harp, percussion (bass drum, cymbals, tam-tam) and strings.
PYOTR ILYICH TCHAIKOVSKY Francesca da Rimini, Op. 32
Born May 7, 1840 in Kamsko-Votkinsk, Vyatka Province, Russia Died November 6, 1893 in Saint Petersburg Work Composed 1876 World Premiere March 9, 1877 at the Russian Musical Society in Moscow; Nicolai Rubinstein conducting
Tchaikovsky initially envisioned Francesca
are based on a diabolical nature: Totentanz
and Isolde, Helen of Troy, Achilles, Paris,
da Rimini as an opera using a pre-existing
(1849), Sonata Après une lecture de Dante
and you can probably name quite a few
libretto by Konstantin Zvantsyev. However,
(1856), Dante Symphony (1857) and others.
newer inductees) in the second circle of
Zvantsyev was a ‘rabid Wagnerite’ and he
The major influencing factor in these works,
hell, reserved for the lustful. Their souls
began making some musical demands
and in Francesca, comes from the writings
are buffeted back and forth incessantly by
that Tchaikovsky did not enthusiastically
of the Italian poet Dante Alighieri
the winds of a violent storm, symbolizing
receive. In August of 1876 Tchaikovsky
(c1265-1321).
the power of lust to blow needlessly and
attended the world premiere of Wagner’s Ring cycle as a critic for the Russian press. The experience of the four-opera saga was ‘tedious and oppressive’ for Tchaikovsky and he welcomed the conclusion: “Finally on Thursday it was all over, and with the last chords of Götterdämmerung I felt as though I had been released from captivity.” After his return home he began the sketches for Francesca da Rimini in October and finished it in November. The irony of this story is that while Tchaikovsky found Wagner’s music ‘tedious and oppressive,’ it stuck in Tchaikovsky’s brain enough to find its way into Francesca! Tchaikovsky was the first to acknowledge the influence, “Isn’t it strange that I should have fallen under the influence of a work of art for which I feel, on the whole, a marked antipathy?”
Francesca da Rimini (or Francesca da Polenta) (1255-c1285) was the daughter of Guido da Polenta, lord of Ravenna. Around 1275 she was wedded to the crippled Giovanni Malatesta, son of Malatesta da Verucchio, lord of Rimini. The Polenta family had been at war with the Malatesta family and the marriage was a way for them to secure peace (Hatfields and McCoys?). But while Francesca is in Rimini she falls in
aimlessly: “as the lovers drifted into selfindulgence and were carried away by their passions, so now they drift for ever. … a howling darkness of helpless discomfort.” The most famous quote from Dante is the inscription: “Abandon all hope, ye who enter here” and probably the second most famous is when Francesca mournfully muses, “There is no greater sorrow than to be mindful of the happy time in misery”.
love with Giovanni’s younger brother Paolo,
Tchaikovsky’s tone poem, Francesca
who was also married (by the way, Auguste
da Rimini, evokes all the turbulence
Rodin’s The Kiss (1888) was originally titled
and ferocity that Dante’s description
Francesca da Rimini). They managed an
of hell presents. The wild ride through
affair for ten years or so until Giovanni
the whirlwind storm that Francesca and
surprised them in Francesca’s bedroom
Paolo endure through eternity seems so
and violently killed them both. If you are
real that you may actually experience
now thinking this would make a great opera
a sensation of disorientation and even
synopsis… so did twenty-seven other
vertigo. The storm Tchaikovsky presents
composers, even Sergei Rachmaninoff
has its quiet moments and, as only he can
Perhaps more than in any of his other
in 1906 with a libretto by none other than
do, Tchaikovsky gives us one of his most
works, Francesca shows influences of
Tchaikovsky’s brother, Modest!
beautiful and lamenting melodies. But,
Franz Liszt (1811-1886) in both musical and subject matter. A number of Liszt’s works
Readers of Dante’s Inferno meet Francesca and Paolo (as well as Cleopatra, Tristan
14 | Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra Northern Sounds 2019/2020– Volume 1
hang on, the wild ride comes back with a vengeance.
ANTONÍN DVOŘÁK
Cello Concerto in B minor, Op. 104, B. 191 Born September 8, 1841 in Nelahozeves, near Prague, Czech Republic (then Bohemia) Died May 1, 1904 in Prague Work Composed 1895 World Premiere March 19, 1896 in London at Queen’s Hall; Leo Stern, soloist; Dvořák conducting Dvořák refused to write a solo concerto
“Symphony No. 9” from the New World.
for the cello despite being asked by, among others, Hanuš Wihan (1855-1920), who was considered the greatest cellist of his time. Dvořák claimed that he felt the cello was a fine orchestral instrument, but “totally insufficient for a solo concerto.” He apparently thought the bass register was akin to mumbling and the higher register had a nasal quality, though he was fond of the middle register. Finally relenting, Dvořák wrote to a friend that probably no one was more surprised than he himself that, despite his long held reservations, he had decided to write a cello concerto. (Most cellists know that Dvořák did write a concerto in 1865 for the cello and piano, but it was never orchestrated and now mostly exists with heavy editing from other composers and cellists).
Wihan made suggestions for improvement after seeing the score, including two cadenzas, one at the end of the third movement. Dvořák rejected the cadenzas and accepted only a few minor changes. Indeed, Dvořák was quite protective of his concerto and wrote to his publishers:
In 1894 Dvořák was in his third term as Director of the National Conservatory in New York and Victor Herbert, who was teaching at the conservatory (and was also principal cellist at the premiere of Dvořák’s New World Symphony), had finished and premiered his Cello Concerto No. 2 in E minor, Op. 30. After hearing at least a couple of performances of Herbert’s concerto, Dvořák was inspired to finally honor Wihan’s request to write a concerto. Although much of the concerto was written while Dvořák was in the United States, it does not have the American influence that is so prevalent in his String Quartet No. 12 “American” or
I give you my work only if you will promise me that no one – not even my friend Wihan – shall make any alteration in it without my knowledge and permission, also that there be no cadenza such as Wihan has made in the last movement; and that its form shall be as I have felt it and thought it out. Dvořák also insisted that the finale should have a diminuendo and close gradually “… like a breath… then there is a crescendo, and the last measures are taken up by the orchestra, ending stormily. That was my idea, and from it I cannot recede.” In November 1895 Dvořák received a letter from Francesco Berger, the Secretary of the London Philharmonic Society, inviting him to conduct a concert of some of his works in London. Dvořák agreed and proposed to premiere his Cello Concerto with Wihan as soloist. Berger suggested March 19, 1896, for the date of the concert, but Wihan was unavailable. The Philharmonic Society nevertheless insisted on the date and, without consulting Dvořák, hired the English cellist Leo Stern. Dvořák was incensed and initially re-fused to come for the concert;
HISTORY: The Orchestra’s seven previous Masterworks Series performances of this concerto have featured solo cellists Joseph Schuster (1954), Raya Garbousova (1958), Janos Starker (1969), Ronald Leonard (1983), Jian Wang (1997, with Yong-yan Hu conducting and also performed the same weekend in Minneapolis at the Ted Mann Auditorium at the University of Minnesota), Hae-Ye Ni (2003), and Suren Bagratuni (April 18, 2015 with Dirk Meyer conducting). (The Young People’s Concerts in 1963 featured student cellist Mary Drawz in the second movement.) Tonight’s soloist Lynn Harrell has appeared with the DSSO on two previous concerts: on April 6, 1979 (in Couperin’s Pieces de Concert and Bloch’s Schelomo), and on March 10, 1984 (in Bruch’s Kol Nidrei and Tchaikovsky’s Rococo Variations). Both concerts were led by Taavo Virkhaus. INSTRUMENTATION: Two flutes (second doubling piccolo), two oboes, two clarinets, two bassoons, three horns, two trumpets, three trombones, tuba, timpani, triangle and strings.
he had promised the premiere to Wihan. Whatever may have happened it is now left to conjecture. What we do know is that Stern traveled to Prague to prepare the concerto under Dvořák’s supervision and by early March everything was settled. Dvořák conducted the premiere on March 19 in Queen’s Hall with Stern as soloist. The cello played by Stern was made by Antonio Stradivari, the 1684 “General Kyd”, which now belongs to the Los Angeles Philharmonic. The first movement is a large-scale sonata form with a lengthy introduction stating both themes and allowing the soloist to expand on each. The first theme is heard throughout the movement, giving it a cyclic structure. The second and third movements are a tribute to the memory of Josefina Kounicová, née Čermáková, Dvořák sister-inlaw, who had recently died. Within these two movements he quotes his song Lasst mich allein (Op. 82, No. 1), which was her favorite. Although Dvořák was initially very resistant to composing a cello concerto, it became one of his most personal works.
Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra Northern Sounds 2019/2020 – Volume 1 | 15
Pops 1
A NIGHT AT THE MOVIES Saturday, October 26, 2019, 7:00 PM DECC Symphony Hall, ALLETE Stage DIRK MEYER, Music Director Richard Strauss Opening from Also sprach Zarathustra, Op. 30 Howard Shore The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring Mel Brooks The Producers Richard M. Sherman & Robert B. Sherman A Disney Supertime (Tunes from Mary Poppins) Kristen Anderson-Lopez & Robert Lopez Music from Frozen John Williams Star Wars: Suite for Orchestra Intermission 20” Bill Conti Musical Highlights from Rocky John Williams Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone: Harry’s Wondrous World Bee Gees Saturday Night Fever Medley Benji Pasek & Justin Paul The Greatest Showman Richard O’Brien The Rocky Horror Picture Show John Barry The Best of Bond
16 | Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra Northern Sounds 2019/2020– Volume 1
SPONSOR:
Masterworks 2
A NIGHT AT THE OPERA Saturday, November 23, 2019, 7:00 PM DECC Symphony Hall, ALLETE Stage DIRK MEYER, Music Director RICHARD ROBBINS, Chorusmaster DSSO Chorus, Soloists LYRIC OPERA OF THE NORTH
Vicki Fingalson, Soprano
Sarah Lawrence, Soprano
Alice Pierce, Soprano
Georgia Jacobson, Mezzo-Soprano
John Pierce, Tenor
David Greenberg, Tenor
Calland Metts, Baritone
Cory Renbarger, Baritone
Luke Williams, Baritone
Get ready to be held spellbound by some of the most beloved arias and dramatic choruses of all time. This concert is perfect for the opera-curious and the opera lover alike, as the DSSO joins with LOON and highlights the DSSO Chorus with works from Aïda to Carmen to La Bohème. Please see insert for complete program listing.
Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra Northern Sounds 2019/2020 – Volume 1 | 17
Biography
RICHARD ROBBINS
Richard Robbins is the Director of Choral
internationally, and he has been invited
Cleobury, Robert Franz, and Dirk Meyer.
Activities and Assistant Professor of Music
to present on a range of topics for music
Choral groups under Dr. Robbins’ direction
at the University of Minnesota Duluth,
education and conducting organizations,
have earned awards at numerous festivals,
where he directs the University Singers,
including the American Choral Directors
and have collaborated with a wide range
Chamber Singers, and teaches an array
Association, and internationally at Warsaw,
of classical and pop artists. He taught
of choral conducting and music courses.
Poland’s Chopin Conservatory of Music.
choral music in the Texas public schools for
Prior to this, he served as Director of Choral
A conductor with extensive experience in
several years (most recently at Houston’s
Activities at the University of Wisconsin-
preparing choral-orchestral repertoire, Dr.
famed High School for the Performing and
Superior, where he directed the A Cappella
Robbins also serves as Chorus Master of
Visual Arts), and previously directed the
and Chamber Choirs, and taught courses
the Duluth-Superior Symphony Orchestra
Concert Women’s and University Men’s
in choral music education, counterpoint,
Chorus. Dr. Robbins’ work with the DSSO
Choruses at the University of Houston.
ear training, and music technology. Dr.
Chorus comes after leading choirs for the
He is a member of ACDA (previously
Robbins travels extensively as a clinician,
Houston Ballet and preparing choirs for
serving on the Executive Board of the
adjudicator, and director for choral festivals
over 50 performances with the Houston
Southwestern Division), Chorus America,
and honor choirs across the country, with
Symphony. He has prepared choruses
NCCO, and NafME, and also serves as
recent engagements in Miami, Los Angeles,
for several major conductors, including
a festival conductor for the American
Orlando, San Francisco, Chicago, and New
Christoph Eschenbach, Ermanno Florio,
Federation Pueri Cantores. Dr. Robbins
York City. His editions of Italian sacred
Hans Graf, Joan Glover, Bernard Labadie,
holds degrees from Florida State University
music of the early Baroque are published
Klaus Peter Flor, Michael Krajewski, Stephen
and the University of Houston.
18 | Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra Northern Sounds 2019/2020– Volume 1
CHORUS ROSTER RICHARD ROBBINS, Chorus Master BETH SOBCZAK, Rehearsal Pianist RYAN DEIGNAN, Rehearsal Conductor NIKKI NORLAND, Chorus Administrator Jeanne Abelsen
Robert Drevlow
Jessica Hugheltt
Grace Monson
RitaRae Stadler-Sager
Catherine Aderson
Dani Dunphy
Anne Javaherian
Alesha Murphy
Connie Stanley
Cathy Ameel
Bonnie Lou Dunphy
Elijah Jensen
Cathy Nagler
Katie Stevenson
Edward Anderson
Ben Ellison**
Jim Johnson
Andrew Nast
James Stewart
Greg Anderson
Judy Ellison
Jan Johnson
Nancy M. Neilson
Kathy Stinnett
Richard Anderson
Otis Faris
Kayleigh Karppinen
Emily Nygren
Brianna Stolan
Melissa Anderson
Karen Finseth
Michelle Kessler
Nancy Odden
Alex Strelow
Yvonne Anderson
Marge Fisher
Laura Kirwin
Barbara Olson
Gary Swanson
Jody Anderson
Louise Foss
Elizabeth Klawitter
Dennis Paulson
Jean Swanson
Robert Asleson
Dean Fox
Susan Knauss
Rouleau Peggy
Megan Taves*+
Andrea Asleson
Diane Dinndorf Friebe
Pat Kruschke
Alanna Pekuri
Charlotte Taylor
Glen Backman
Maureen Gamradt
Cot LaFond
Pete Pellinen
Mary A. Tennis
Linda Backman
Gregory Garmer
Cathy Larson
Lou Ann Petersen-Noltner
Allen Thompson
Rachel Bartell
Anita Gille
Mary Ledford
ValeriePeterson
Adrienne Thureen
Mariana Beier
Hilary Godard+
Martin Lee
Katie Peterson
Steve Treichler
Laura Berdahl
Taylor Gonzaga
Janet Lietha
Kristin
Shelby Trost
Joseph Berini
David Greenberg+
Roger Lindberg
Paul Piszczek+
Charlene Uecker
Sandra Berini
Annamarie Gutsch
Stephanie Linge
Luther Qson
Brandon VanWaeyenberghe
Audrey Beyer+
David Haavik +
Michael Lyons
Karen Robnik
Beverly Vavra
Anne Bier
Keri Halverson
Dan Maki+
Angela Russeth
Ingrid Vendela
Nathan Borka
Ken Hammarlund
Sandy Marden-Lokken
Rhonda Sande
Keely Waechter+
Donalee Brevak
Don Hanson
Kelli Marlow
Sharon Sandvik
Jori Walt
Jeffrey Cadwell
Amanda Hanson
Cathy Martin
Carol Saranpaa
Shawna Weaver
Cindy Carlson
Lynne Harrington Hall
Cindy Martinson
Deborah Schlacks
Harry Welty
Lea Carr
Lynn Hegrenes
Kent Matthews
Randy Schmidt
Sam Weston
Marilyn Carter
Rose Heldt
Glenn McGill
Debra Schroeder
Lynn Wiemann
Terry Chialasstri
David Helf
Diane McGill
Anne Schuller
Madison Wilson
Tracy Close
Lawrence Helmbrecht-La
Gary Meier
Jim Schulzetenberg
Mary Wilson
Aaron Crenshaw
Pointe
Darla Meier
Linda Senta
Amelia Wise
Mark Danielson
Gunes Henderson
Rosanne Mellesmoen
Wesley Sisson
Peter Wodrich
Tom Diener
Grace Herbertz
Calland Metts**
Tom Sjoberg
Kirby Wood
James Donovan
Bob Hjort
Aine Miller
Tomina Slevin
Grace Young*
Laura Donovan
Conrad Hjort
Jane Moe
Susan Smart
Anna Dontje
Carol Hoeschen
Sharon Mollerus
Theresa Smith
Mary Dontje
Luke Hoplin+
Mark Monson
Jerry Spehar
+ LOON Chorus Members **LOON Artistic Staff *Section Leaders
Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra Northern Sounds 2019/2020 – Volume 1 | 19
OPERA’S GREATEST HITS The modern opera, as we know it, has been around for over four hundred years. At the end of the 16th century Dafne, by Jacopo Peri (1561-1633), was produced in Florence, Italy. Italian composer Claudio Monteverdi (1567-1643) was a pioneer in the development of opera and is considered a crucial transitional figure between the Renaissance and the Baroque periods of music history. His operas L’Orfeo and L’incoronazione di Poppea, along with many of his other works, are performed regularly. Opera quickly spread throughout the rest of Europe and composers established national traditions and identities in the 17th century. The first German opera, Dafne, was composed in 1627 by Heinrich Schütz (1585-1672), who is regarded as the most important German composer before Johann Sebastian Bach. Jean-Baptiste Lully (1632-1687), although Italian-born, was a French composer who felt that Italian-style opera was inappropriate for the French language. He and librettist Philippe Quinault created operas that flowed in a more natural sense and they also developed the story more quickly to appease the French public. Lully is also credited with inventing the French Overture, a form used extensively in the Baroque and Classical eras, especially by Bach and Handel. In England Henry Purcell (16591695) incorporated Italian and French elements, but his style was uniquely English Baroque. His Dido and Aeneas (c. 1683-1688) is one
of the most monumental works in Baroque opera and continues to be performed regularly. Italian opera dominated most of Europe (except France) in the 18th century and the most prevalent forms were Opera seria (serious, written for nobility) and Opera buffa (comic, written for the people). Christoph Willibald Gluck (17141787) felt these two forms seemed unrealistic and had strayed too far from what opera should be. He composed 49 operas, of which Orfeo ed Euridice is the most wellknown. Of course the leader of 18th century opera is Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756-1791) with a total of 22 operas, his most famous being The Marriage of Figaro, Don Giovanni, Cosí fan tutte, The Abduction from the Seraglio and The Magic Flute. The latter two are landmarks in the German opera style. Bel Canto (beautiful singing) style ruled the early 19th century with operas by Gioachino Rossini (17921868), Gaetano Donizetti (17971848) and Vincenzo Bellini (18011835). Bellini is considered the quintessential composer of the bel canto era and he was admired by other composers: Verdi raved about his “long, long, long melodies such as no one before has written” and Wagner (who rarely liked anyone but himself) was “spellbound by Bellini’s almost uncanny ability to match music with text and psychology.” Other fans of Bellini included Liszt
20 | Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra Northern Sounds 2019/2020– Volume 1
and Chopin. The advent of Grand Opera (epic scale, large casts and big orchestras) was during this period and by the mid-to-late 19th century was dominated by Giuseppe Verdi (1813-1901) and Richard Wagner (1813-1883), ushering in the Golden Age of Opera. By the closing years of the 19th century there was a desire for opera to focus on average people and their problems, which resulted in the Verismo (realistic) tradition. Pietro Mascagni (1863-1945) was responsible for ushering in this movement in 1890 with his sensational masterpiece Cavalleria Rusticana. Modern productions often pair this work with Ruggero Leoncavallo’s (1857-1919) 1892 opera Pagliacci. However, the greatest Italian composer after Verdi is Giacomo Puccini (18581924). Puccini’s early works are in the traditional romantic opera style and later he successfully developed his work in the Verismo style. Puccini’s enduring popularity is a testament to his mastery at communicating directly with the audience. Opera was not confined to Italy and Germany during the 19th century. Opera traditions were also being developed in Eastern Europe, particularly in Bohemia and Russia. Important composers of that region include the Czech composer Bedřich Smetana (18241884), Russia’s Modest Petrovich Mussorgsky (1839-1881), Pyotr
Ilyich Tchaikovsky (1840-1893) and Alexander Borodin (1833-1887). French opera grew as well with Léo Delibes (1836-1891), CharlesFrançois Gounod (1818-1893) and Camille Saint-Saëns (1835-1921). Hungarian Franz Lehár (1870-1948) composed a well-loved operetta (light opera), The Merry Widow, in 1905. The early half of the 20th century adds Richard Strauss (1864-1949) to our history of opera with his masterful works Der Rosenkavalier, Elektra, Salome, Die Frau ohne Schatten, Ariadne auf Naxos, Intermezzo and Capriccio. The second half of the century gives us Benjamin Britten (1913-1976) and his epic operas Peter Grimes, Gloriana, A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Death in Venice. New operas continue to be composed with some reflecting the times in which we live. The operas of John Adams (b. 1947) bring real-life events to the stage with Nixon in China (1987), The Death of Klinghoffer (1991) and Doctor Atomic (2005). Finnish composer Jukka Linkola (b. 1955) wrote Rockland to commemorate an uprising of mine workers in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Jake Heggie (b.1961) created an opera based on the book by Sister Helen Prejean, Dead Man Walking and English composer Mark-Anthony Turnage (b. 1960) composed Anna Nicole based on the rise and fall of
media celebrity Anna-Nicole Smith. These are only a few of the many new emerging operas. The influence of opera also extends to popular music and Broadway. George Gershwin’s Porgy and Bess and Leonard Bernstein’s Candide began their life on the Broadway stage and are now accepted as part of the opera repertory. Operatic story-telling techniques found their way into rock music with the first ‘rock opera’ Tommy by The Who in 1969, followed by Jesus Christ Superstar in 1971, Les Misérables in 1980 and Rent (1996), which is a modern setting of Puccini’s La bohème. Numerous new musicals are employing various operatic techniques, including the use of sung recitatives instead of dialogue. Opera continues to grow and evolve making it relevant for today’s and tomorrow’s audiences. Perhaps the best quote to leave you with is from Karen DeCrow, former president of the National Organization for Women, an American attorney, author, activist and feminist who also strongly supported equal rights for men in child custody decisions: “Opera is the most complete art form. It includes drama, acting, technology, art, dance, and the epitome of the human voices. But mostly, go for the glorious music. The arts are crucial to the life of every community.”
HISTORY: Four of the fourteen excerpts on tonight’s program have not previously been played by the DSSO (those from The Magic Flute, Nabucco, Lakmé, and Der Rosenkavalier). The most recent concerts of opera excerpts by the Orchestra were in 1999 and 2010. Seven of the operas have been given in fully–staged performances with the DSSO in the orchestra pit (Carmen, La Bohème, Tosca, Il Trovatore, The Barber of Seville, Lucia di Lammermoor, and Die Fledermaus) . “Polovetsian Dances” from Prince Igor was given in 1936 by the DSSO and the first incarnation of the DSSO Chorus. It was also performed on the 2010 “A Night at the Opera” concert with the Chorus (then in its fiftieth continuous season). Lyric Opera of the North (LOON) gave a full presentation of Bizet’s Carmen on November 15, 2014 with the DSSO and Dirk Meyer conducting. Lyric Opera of the North will present Tosca at the NorShor this coming June, with Dirk Meyer conducting.
Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra Northern Sounds 2019/2020 – Volume 1 | 21
Pops 2
NEW YEAR’S EVE: TIME WARP December 31, 2019, 7:00 PM DECC Symphony Hall, ALLETE Stage DIRK MEYER, Music Director This evening’s performance will be under the baton of a guest conductor.
JEANS ‘N CLASSICS, Guest Artists
Kathryn Rose, Vocals Rique Franks, Vocals Paul DeLong, Drums Tracey Gallant, Vocals Christina Melanie, Keyboards David Blamires, Vocals Gavin Hope, Vocals Peter Brennan, Guitar and Jeans ‘n Classics founder Steve Lucas, Electric Bass
SCIENCE FICTION, DOUBLE FEATURE
Dammit Janet Over at the Frankenstein Place The Time Warp Sweet Transvestite I Can Make You A Man Hot Patootie – Bless My Soul I Can Make You A Man (Reprise) Touch-A, Touch-A, Touch Me
Intermission 20’ Eddie Rose Tint My World Floor Show Fanfare/Don’t Dream It Wild and Untamed Thing I’m Going Home Super Heroes Science Fiction, Double Feature (Reprise) The Time Warp 22 | Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra Northern Sounds 2019/2020– Volume 1
SPONSOR:
JEANS ‘N CLASSICS Jeans ’n Classics is a group of musicians
reputation precedes us for providing
who understand orchestra culture and
lush, fully realized arrangements of
are committed to help in the building of
rock and pop classics for rock band
younger, loyal audiences for symphony
and symphony, and top notch, easy-to-
orchestras across North America.
work-with performers who truly know
Jeans ’n Classics appeals to an age group from, but not limited to, 25 to 65. Peter Brennan’s Jeans ’n Classics is a winner! For almost 20 years the JnC approach to combining world class rock musicians and symphonies has been a game changer for orchestras
While most definitely not a tribute act, Jeans ‘n Classics faithfully interprets the music of legendary rock and pop albums and artists, with their own special and signature flair.
in their quest to attract new and more
Symphonies far and wide have heralded
expansive audiences.
the quality of our orchestral scores. Our
how to deliver a great rehearsal and live show experience with professionalism, humor, and finesse. Jeans ’n Classics works with over 100 orchestras in venues throughout North America, and has created almost 1,000 original rock and pop orchestrations which are presented across 45 unique and exciting productions.
Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra Northern Sounds 2019/2020 – Volume 1 | 23
Biography
HO-YIN KWOK, Assistant Conductor We are pleased to announce the appointment of Ho-Yin Kwok as the new Assistant Conductor of the Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra and Director of the DSSO Youth Symphony. Ho-Yin is currently a doctoral teaching assistant at the University of Minnesota, Co-Director of the University’s Campus Orchestras program and Artistic Director/Conductor of the Mississippi Valley Orchestra in the Twin Cities. Welcome, Ho-Yin! Described as an “impressive conductor…outstanding in his attention to detail and his command of the big picture,” Hong Kong-born conductor Ho-Yin Kwok holds degrees in Orchestral Conducting from the
University of Iowa and has received several awards for his leadership on the podium, most recently, winner of the 2017-2018 Vincent C. LaGuardia, Jr. Conducting Competition. He previously served as the Assistant Conductor of Collegium Musicum Hong Kong and the Hong Kong Baptist University Symphony Orchestra. Also a keen violinist, Ho-Yin has appeared as a soloist with several orchestras throughout the U.S and Hong Kong and has toured internationally to Leipzig, Munich, Vienna, Salzburg, Prague, and more. An active chamber music player and supporter of new music, Ho-Yin is known for his innovative collaborations and advocacy of modern works.
a perfect night out
DINNER & A SHOW
home of 24 | Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra Northern Sounds 2019/2020– Volume 1
Ruby Rae
Order Online! FREE DELIVERY! ORDER ONLINE! Did you know that we deliver our full menu? Did you know that we offer FREE DELIVERY? Place your order at www.pizzaluce.com
26 | Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra Northern Sounds 2019/2020– Volume 1
2525 London Road | 218.724.1612 | www.blackwoods.com
in Duluth News Tribune ‘Best Of’ Awards!
Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra Northern Sounds 2019/2020 – Volume 1 | 27 1102 Woodland Ave | 218.724.0010 | www.tavernduluth.com
DULUTH SUPERIOR SYMPHONY YOUTH ORCHESTRAS By Melanie Sever
“Music is a more potent instrument than any other for education, because rhythm and harmony find their way into the inward places of the soul.” – Plato
Each year over 130 young musicians
Hall at the Duluth Entertainment and
sitting in our youth orchestras. It
participate in the Duluth Superior
Convention Center. The narrated
takes a village to support quality
Symphony Youth Orchestras (DSSYO)
program, which showcased all of the
programming that fosters these
program through its three orchestras
DSSYO ensembles, culminated with
bright, young musicians – parents and
(Sinfonia, Concert Orchestra, and
133 musicians on stage for the show-
guardians, school music programs,
Youth Symphony) and the Percussion
stopping finale. The younger audience
private music teachers, the dedicated
Ensemble. Just as one year ends,
that this program aims to inspire
staff of the DSSYO and DSSO, and the
preparations are under way for the next
enthusiastically enjoyed it. Finally, the
contributions of each of us willing to
season, beginning with another round
Youth Symphony, our most advanced
support programs such as this.
of auditions in May and June for new
orchestra in the program, wowed
and returning students and in early
DSSO audience members with the
Please keep the DSSYO program in mind
September for new students. Summer
side-by-side performance on the final
when considering your charitable giving.
may be a break for the students, but
Masterworks concert of its season,
Our goal is to make this wonderful
the conductors will be busy selecting
performing Chabrier’s España.
opportunity available to all deserving young musicians. There are many ways
and notifying next season’s members, choosing repertoire, seating the
Over its nearly 80 years, the DSSYO has
for an individual, family, or business to
orchestras and getting everything
played a significant role in the lives of its
participate as a donor:
ready to go for the first rehearsal on
members and our community. Students
September 9, 2019 for the 2019-2020
not only learn mastery in performing
• General DSSYO program contributor
season.
music, but also develop skills in
• Program ads
working together, creative problem
• Concert or Season sponsor
The 2018-2019 DSSYO program ended
solving, perseverance and discipline
• Underwriting the cost of music and/
its 79th continuous season on a high
– all qualities needed to succeed
or
note with the last of three concerts of
in life and any profession. We hear
• Coaching Fund sponsor, which helps
the season, the annual Spring Concert
from many members that their love
provide professional coaching by
at the beloved Mitchell Auditorium,
for music and orchestra blossomed
instrument in each of our orchestras
our home base, on May 5, 2019. This
through participation in the program
• Scholarship Fund contribution
concert topped a very successful year
and lifelong friendships were formed.
or sponsor, which helps make
that began with orchestral retreats
Additionally, many members have gone
participation in the program possible
for each of our groups, followed by
on to careers in music performance
to those without the financial means
the Fall Concert in November, at
and music education. Throughout the
to pay the annual tuition.
the beautiful and newly renovated
years, many former DSSYO members
Superior High School Performing Arts
have become members of the Duluth
Center. Additionally, the 56th annual
Superior Symphony Orchestra (DSSO).
Lollipop Concert: Myths & Legends was performed in March in Symphony
The musicians, patrons, and world citizens of the future are currently
28 | Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra Northern Sounds 2019/2020– Volume 1
programs
Please contact the DSSO office at 218-623-3776 (DSSO) to make your contribution or to further discuss the details of giving options.
2019-2020 YOUTH CONCERTS FALL CONCERT
LOLLIPOP CONCERT
SPRING CONCERT
Sunday, Nov. 24 3 PM at Superior High School
Sunday, Feb. 2 3 PM at the DECC Symphony Hall
Sunday, May 3 3 PM at St. Scholastica’s Mitchell Auditorium
2600 Caitlin Ave. Superior, WI 54880
350 Harbor Drive Duluth, MN 55802
1200 Kenwood Ave. Duluth, MN 55811
No advance ticket sales. Tickets are available at the door starting 1 hour before the performance.
REMEMBERING BRAD BOMBARDIER It was with great shock and sadness that we learned of the sudden passing this past August of a longtime member of our DSSO family, Brad Bombardier. Since 1980 Brad held the second bassoon chair with the DSSO and served for a number of years as the orchestra’s music librarian. He was known throughout our community as not only a gifted performer and educator, but also a talented and prolific composer. The DSSO has had the honor of premiering four original compositions by Brad, beginning in 1990. His Concerto for Orchestra “The Hegira Endeth”, Op. 41, was premiered on February 24, 1990, Taavo Virkhaus conducting, and also performed in Thunder Bay, Ontario by the DSSO on April 4, 1992. DSSO principal cellist Betsy Husby premiered his Concerto for Violoncello and Orchestra “The Holy Fool”, Op. 61a (version for larger orchestra) on March 3, 1994 with guest conductor Edward Serov. Brad was also known for his rather interesting titles of many of his compositions. The short piece “http:// omegafanfare.com,” Op. 112 was premiered on February 26, 2000 with Yong-yan Hu conducting. On November 14, 2009, on a program
conducted by Markand Thakar which included the Beethoven Symphony No. 9 (Choral) with its well known ‘Ode to Joy’ in its fourth movement, Brad composed his Antipode to Joy, Op. 140. In addition to these full scale works, Brad also composed original cadenzas for the Mozart Bassoon Concerto in B-flat major, performed by his dear friend and colleague Michael Roemhildt with the DSSO on October 21, 1995. Brad was also a talented arranger, having arranged works for a number of Masterworks and Pops concerts for the DSSO, most recently three works by singer-songwriter Ryan Sims for his performance with the DSSO at the Lucius Woods Performing Arts Center in Solon Springs, WI on July 6 of this year. His talent was not limited to the full orchestra -he also did numerous arrangements and original compositions for the Duluth Superior Symphony Youth Ensembles. Beyond the DSSO, his many compositions have been performed by virtually every performing ensemble in the region. Brad Bombardier touched the lives of many as a musician, educator and friend. He will be deeply missed.
by Kevin W. Peterson
Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra Northern Sounds 2019/2020 – Volume 1 | 29
30 | Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra Northern Sounds 2019/2020– Volume 1
Estate Planning • • • • • • • Chris Dahlberg Dahlberg Law Office, PA 130 W. Superior Street, Suite 730 Duluth, MN 55802 (218) 722 5809 www.dahlberglaw.com
Wills/Trusts Family Cabin Trusts Powers of Attorney Health Care Directives Medical Assistance Planning Probate Business Succession Planning
Licensed in Minnesota and Wisconsin
Avoid Family Discord….Plan for a Harmonious Transition
Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra Northern Sounds 2019/2020 – Volume 1 | 31
4413 AIR BASE ROAD H E R M A N T O W N
2 1 8 . 7 2 0 . 3 5 5 3 RELFEYECARE.COM
32 | Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra Northern Sounds 2019/2020– Volume 1
my husband and I bought a Happy Sleeper for ourselves a few years ago. It was so comfortable that we decided to switch over EVERY bed at „ White Eagle Resort to Happy Sleeper. STEPHANIE LANTRY, WHITE EAGLE RESORT CO-OWNER, LAKE VERMILION
MAKE THIS
YOUR MOMENT OF GLORY With a legacy gift, you can help support healthcare in your community and allow us to continue to do what we do today, even better, for generations to come. Ways to make your mark on the future:
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Make a gift through your will or trust Donate appreciated stock and savings on taxes Consider a gift of real estate Make a gift that gives you fixed payments for life Make a gift that protects your assets
WANT TO LEARN MORE? EssentiaHealth.PlannedGiving.org (218) 786-8966 400 East Third Street | Duluth, MN
Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra Northern Sounds 2019/2020 – Volume 1 | 33
W AY S T O S U P P O R T T H E
DULUTH SUPERIOR SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA S U S TAI N I N G M E M B E R S H I P PROG R A M Through a sustaining gift, you will help provide the consistent funding we need to achieve financial sustainability and artistic excellence. Become a Sustaining Member by making monthly payments through our secure and automated payment plan.
Bringing the Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra to reality each year takes time, talent and the generosity of our supporters. We are deeply committed to ensuring that the concerts we perform are accessible to anyone who chooses to attend, regardless of economic circumstance. How is this possible? Hundreds of supporters contribute to our work on an annual basis, through legacy giving or making gifts to our endowment fund.
E N D OWM E NTS Help safeguard the future of the DSSO by making an endowed gift. Your contribution is an investment in our future, helping us grow and thrive for years to come. Our endowment funds operate like a perpetual interest-bearing bank account. A portion of the interest earned is used to support the DSSO’s work.
There are many ways to show your commitment to our mission. And remember, no matter how or how much you give, your generosity will make a significant difference in our lives and our work. The Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization; your tax-deductible gift may be given by credit card online or over the phone, or by check (send in the mail or stop by our office). Learn more at www. dsso.com or by calling Brandon VanWaeyenberghe at 218-623-3777.
S TOC K S/S EC U R ITI E S Gifts of appreciated assets can be gifted directly to the DSSO and can provide an added tax benefit for you. LEG AC Y SOC I E T Y One of the easiest and more important ways to support the DSSO is by remembering our organization with a planned or deferred gift. By including the DSSO in your will, as a beneficiary under your retirement plan, trust or insurance policy, you are helping ensure that we can continue our mission for years to come. Your gift may also entitle your estate to important tax benefits.
A N N UA L G IVI N G Making your annual membership contribution to the DSSO can take many forms, including making a pledge or a cash gift.
Benefits of Giving
✃
M E M O R IA L S A N D TR I B U TE G I F TS Establishing a memorial or tribute gift is a meaningful way to support our mission while honoring a loved one or celebrating a special occasion. Your gift will recognize someone important in your life while making a difference in the lives of those we serve. VO LU NTE E R Volunteering at the DSSO is another meaningful way to support our mission. Volunteering can include any of the following activities (this list is not all encompassing): • Helping with special mailing projects (applying labels, stuffing envelopes, closing envelopes, etc.) • Assisting at concerts as a greeter, staffing our marketing table, setting up chairs, etc. • Other duties as assigned Please contact MaryAnn Bernard for more information: mbernard@dsso.com or 281-623-3785. If you would like to make a gift to the DSSO it’s simple. Here are some options: lip out the coupon below and return it 1) C to DSSO, 130 West Superior Street, LL2, Duluth, MN 55803 2) Go to the DSSO’s website (www.dsso. com) and click on the donate button top in and see us in the lower level 2 of 3) S the US Bank Building.
MAESTRO ($25,000 and up)
Donation Amount: $_____________________________________
PRINCIPAL ($10,000 to $24,999)
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
GUEST ARTIST ($6,000 to $9,999)
________________________________________________________________________
FULL CHAIR ($4,500 to $5,999)
In honor of:__________________________________________________________
In memory of:__________________________________________________________
_____ One Time Gift
_____ Recurring Donation
Please list my/our names as follows in the program book:
Include in the listing:
HALF CHAIR ($2,500 to $4,499)
On behalf of:__________________________________________________________
_____ Monthly
_____ Quarter
_____ Annually
Payment Information: If you are making a gift with your credit card or debit card, please be sure the name and address you submit match the billing name and address for the card.
QUARTER CHAIR ($1,200 to $2,499) ACCELERANDO ($600 - $1,199)
Name:_____________________________________________________________________________________
ADAGIO ($200-$599)
City:________________________________________ State:________________ Zip:______________________
Address:___________________________________________________________________________________ Phone:_____________________________________ Email:__________________________________________
TEMPO (up to $199
_____ Check Enclosed
_____ Please bill my credit card:
_____Am Ex
Please call the DSSO at 218-623-3776 for more details.
Signature:__________________________________________________________________________________
_____ Discover
_____ MasterCard
_____ VISA
Card #:____________________________________________Exp. Date:_________ Security Code:_________
Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra • 130 West Superior Street • Suite LL2 • Duluth, MN 55802
I N F O R M AT I O N F O R O U R PAT R O N S HOW TO ORDER TICKETS Visit us online at dsso.com for concert information, the DECC seating chart, and single ticket prices. IN PERSON OR BY PHONE •D SSO Office 130 West Superior St., Suite LL2 Duluth, Minnesota Mon-Fri, 9am-4pm Ticket Line 218-623-3776
Parking When parking at the DECC, please keep in mind that you may reach Symphony Hall through most doors, including the DECC parking ramp. Patrons may also park downtown and take the skywalk to the DECC. Parking is $5 per car. Note: Please arrive early to ensure that you find a parking space. Refreshments Bars serving soft drinks, wine and mixed drinks are located in the main floor lobby.
•D ECC Box Office 350 Harbor Drive Duluth, Minnesota Mon-Fri, 10am-5pm No phone orders; call 218-727-4344 to ensure Box Office is open or for questions. Box office opens at 10am day of performance for walk-up sales. Online www.ticketmaster.com Group Ticket Sales Group discounts are available for most performances. Call 218-623-3776 for information. Special Pricing for Students, Military, and Seniors Student tickets are available to persons ages 6-18 or with a current valid student ID for regular season classical and pops concerts. Military discount available to persons with valid military ID. (One ticket per valid ID.) Patrons 62 years and older receive a discount on most ticket purchases. FOR YOUR COMFORT AND SAFETY Coat Check A self-service coat check is located just inside the main floor lobby on both sides under the stairs leading to the mezzanine level. Emergency Exits Fire exits are located on all levels and marked accordingly. The lighted “EXIT” sign nearest your seat is the shortest route outdoors. In case of emergency, please walk – do not run – to your exit, unless otherwise instructed. Do not use elevators for emergency exits. Lost and Found Lost articles may be claimed at the guest services office at concert time. At other times, contact the DECC box office at 218-727-4344.
Restrooms Men’s and women’s restrooms are located in the main floor lobby and mezzanine level lobby. CONCERT ETIQUETTE Latecomers Concerts begin promptly. Out of courtesy to musicians and other patrons, latecomers and those who must leave during the performance will be seated or reseated between complete works or at intermission. TV monitors are available in the auditorium lobby for viewing the live performance. Does It Beep or Glow? Please turn off beepers on watches, paging devices, cell phones, iPads, e-books and the like during the performance. Save your texts and tweets for intermission and/or after the concert (and be sure to use #DSSOmn)! Expecting a call? Patrons cannot be paged. If you are expecting a call please leave your name and seat number at the Guest Services office. Leave the DECC phone number, 218-722-5573, and your seat location with whomever may contact you. Young Patrons Children ages six and up accompanied by an adult are welcome to attend DSSO concerts. For children under the age of six, please join the DSSO for our Lollipop and Youth Orchestra concerts especially designed for our youngest patrons. If you must bring a child under the age of six years, please be respectful of other patrons. Seating is available in the mezzanine lobby if you must exit Symphony Hall. Perfume and Cologne Because of close seating quarters, we ask that you either refrain from using or use very lightly any fragrances. Your fellow patrons with fragrance allergies will be very appreciative.
Thanks to our sponsor for the School Spotlight.
ACCESSIBILITY FOR PATRONS Handicapped Parking •O n the surface parking lot near Entrance B (City Side Convention Center) •N ear the entrance to AMSOIL Arena • I n the parking ramp on all levels with an elevator located in the northeast corner of the ramp. The elevator transports guests to the ground floor or to the skywalk level (3rd level) of the ramp which connects directly to the DECC. A state-issued disabled placard or license is required for this area. Guests are encouraged to drop off handicapped individuals at their event entrance, then park. There are elevators at the Paulucci Doors and Entrance B. Handicap Accessibility at the DECC Ramps are provided at all entries and elevators are located throughout the building. Restrooms are accessible for all guests. If additional assistance is needed while attending an event at the DECC, please contact your nearest usher, event staff member, or the Guest Services Office located in the Main Ticket Lobby. Tickets are available for accessible seats – spaces specifically designed for wheelchairs and including features such as accessible approach, location at grade, clear floor space, and larger dimensions. Our companion ticket policy allows guests with special needs to purchase up to three tickets along with their own in our designated accessible seating area. If a guest requests more than four tickets we will locate any additional tickets as close as possible to their location. Tickets for accessible seating may be purchased through the DSSO Box Office, the DECC Ticket Office, and all Ticketmaster locations. Listening devices for the hearing impaired are located in the Guest Services Office in the Main Ticket Lobby. To ensure that the devices are promptly returned, a major credit card or a driver’s license is required to use the devices. Service animals are welcome at the DECC.
Coming to you from the ALLETE Stage
Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra Northern Sounds 2019/2020 – Volume 1 | 35
DSSO CONTRIBUTORS
CONTRIBUTORS
Thank you to the following corporate and individual contributors who have given in support of the DSSO since January 1, 2019. MAESTRO ($25,000 and up) Margaret Dale Ames Lifetime Trust McKnight Foundation Minnesota State Arts Board The Charles and Carolyn Russell Family Foundation US Bank PRINCIPAL ($10,000 to $24,999) Helena Jackson & Doug Dunham Elisabeth C. Mason Pachel Foundation William & Saundra Palmer Verna & Arend Sandbulte in support of the concertmaster chair through the Sandbulte Orchestra Leadership Fund Janet R. Sklaris Muriel Whiteside Charitable Trust Mary & James Zastrow GUEST ARTIST ($6,000 to $9,999) Martha Aas The Estate of Mr. John Elliott James & Christabel Grant St. Luke’s Hospital Sharon & Michael Mollerus Henry & Terry Roberts FULL CHAIR ($4,500 to $5,999) Allete, Inc. Dr. Vicki & Terry Anderson Robert T. & Barbara K. Bennett John & Kathy Berchild Elizabeth & Richard Burns Mark Danielson & Theresa M. Smith Karl Diekman Gary Foley Beth Gilbert Happy Sleeper Mattress Elaine Killen Ellen Marsden Cheryl & Joe Meese Nancy Odden & Doug Britton Robert & Sharon Wahman HALF CHAIR ($2,500 to $4,499) Stack Brothers Mechanical Contractors Laura Budd Adelaide M. Cline
Northern Mechanical/Plumbing Contractors Association Marcia & Gary Doty Ruth Ann Eaton Thomas & Barbara Elliott Mark & Nancy Melhus James & Kathleen Sanders Brad Schmugge, CPA Jacquie & Jim Sebastian Jane S. Smith Memorial Fund QUARTER CHAIR ($1,200 to $2,499) Anonymous Natascha & Ramin Artang Sandra Barkley BNSF Railway Foundation Linda & Mark Boben Judge David & Gloria Bouschor Jared & Leslie Broadway Lurene Buhrmann Jeffrey & Vickie Cadwell Alison Jean Clarke Stephen & Lauri Cushing Rose & Lester Drewes Rondi Erickson Robert & Mary Evans James & June Farkas Ruth Frederick Robert & Angelica Fryberger Kay & Walt Gower Ron & Kay Gustafson Jeremy Hoglund and Andréa Mueller Hoglund Glen Holt Sylvia Jamar Jeri & Gale Kerns Joel & Catherine Koemptgen Matthew & Tina Koecher Family Diane M. Kolquist & James Seitz J. Clark & Jean Laundergan in Memory of Warren & Viola Askeland Ann Mars David & Patricia Mast Tom & Alice McCabe Nancy Melander Susan Meyer Mark & Grace Monson Nordling Family Fund May & Vern Nordling Dean Peterson & Deborah Rausch Father Andrew Ricci Timothy & Adeline Sandor in Memory of Joseph A. Sandor Kenneth Schoen
36 | Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra Northern Sounds 2019/2020– Volume 1
Thomas & Janice Shuey Lane Fryberger Smith Donna & Dennis Soukup South Pier Inn Tom & Mimi Stender Carolyn Sundquist Richard & Cecile Swenson John Ivey Thomas & Mary Rees Thomas Family Foundation Fund Roberta Vose Andrea Wahman & Lee Zimmerman Gudrun & Geoffrey Witrak ACCELERANDO ($600 to $1,199) Mary Ann & Dell Bernard Jan Biga Terrence & Kathy Clark Margaret Foss Jeremy & Carol Fryberger Carlton & Judy Gustafson Joan & Thomas Hedin Pamella Jacobson Taylor Johnson Margaret Joynes Kiwanis Club of Friendly Duluth Robert & Priscilla Knighton Dennis Lamkin Donn Larson William & Irene Moser Heather A. Muster Gerald & Mary Ann Ostroski William & Kay Slack Patrick Spott & Kay Biga Valentini’s Vicino Lago ADAGIO ($200 to $599) Benedictine Sisters of St. Scholastica Monastery Bill Anderson Evelyn M. Anderson Allen Anway in Memory of Dorothy Anway Chuck & Judyth Babst Leonore Baeumler Susanne & Johan Bakken Daniel & Marjorie Bergeland Doug & Karen Buell Mark & Cathy Casper Kate Dean Dorene Degidio R. Craft & Ellie Dryer Tom & Joanne Ellison Margaret Fawcett Martha & Conrad Firling
DSSO CONTRIBUTORS Thank you to the following corporate and individual contributors who have given in support of the DSSO since January 1, 2019. John M. Fochs Kayla & Dan Foley Julie A. Ford Claudia French Diane Dinndorf Friebe & Joseph M. Friebe Patricia Gannon John Gibbs Barbara & William Gravelle Hope Heikkinen Robert & Lois Heller Barbara & Bob Hjort Paul Holm Jane & Jack Jarnis Dr. David Jennings Dennis Johnson Ruth R. Johnson Barbara Johnson-Kim Ronald Kari in Memory of Bradley Bombardier Milka Kleiner John, Judith & James Lampi Sharon Layon & Neil Nelson Martin Lee, RN, MBA Charlie & Jean Leibfried in Honor of Tom & Mary Donahue Paul & Nancy Lokken Dr. John & Mrs. Michelle Magdsick Gary & Darla Meier Betty Melde Dirk & Paula Meyer Norma Miles Pam Moore & Jon Stephenson Wende & James Morrell Dan & Cathy Mundt Judith A. Newman Barbara L. Olson in Honor of Betty A. Melde & in Memory of R. James Melde David J. Ouse Gerald Ruona Dr. John Schrock & Mary Berube James & Judith Stewart Thom & Cindy Storm Anita Swanson Thirsty Pagan Brewing Thrivent Financial Sharon L. Torrison in Memory of David Vose & Don Niemi Rajiv Vaidyanathan Pat Wellberg Elaine Wickstrom TEMPO (up to $199) Janet Akervik James J. Amato John & Cathy Ameel Deb Anderson & Ed Herzog Patricia Anscomb Kathleen Antilla in Memory of Marge Kuehn Judith & James Bailey
Lee Ball Jane & Thomas Barthell Susan Bathory & Donald Lane Barbara Bentz Ronald & Terry Blaisdell Joanne M. Blakeslee Gary Boelhower & Gary Anderson Angie Bomier Shirleyann Brandser Wendy Buczynski Jan Carey Peggy Carlson Nancy Carroll David Carter Timothy & Leslie Churchill Dianna Crandall Bill and Kathy Croke Carolyn & Alan Diamond Michael & Carol Donahue Jeanne Doty Duraine Egan Hendershot Joe Ehlers & Sarah Nelson Jeff Elliott Karen Erickson Marie Fegley David Flemming Edward Flenz Donald Gaalaas in Honor of the Youth Orchestras Program Robert Goodin Paul Gustad Joanne Hagen Larry & Jean Hammargren Jim & Shirley Herman Robert & Joyce Hickman Patricia Holliday Diane Holliday-Welsh Wayne Holmberg Mary Ann & Oliver Houx Pat Jirsa Donald & Mary John Edna & George Johnson Marlene Johnson Matthew Johnson Carol & Bob Kelley Robert Kidd Patti Kleimola Dorothy Knudsen Katie & Bob Kuettel Damien Kujawa Dr. Jerome Kwako Jean & Steve L’Abbe in Memory of Bradley Bombardier Anne Laible Devereaux Lalond Barb Lamaster Paul Lee Patricia Luder Joyce Lund Judy MacGibbon
Joan Mahle Audrey Markon James Martin Patricia Young Massie Patty Mester Joseph & Jodi Milli William Miner Catherine Morin Janet & John Murphy Nancy Neilson Susan Nelson Ryan & Natasha Nordrum in Memory of Dirk Robert Nordrum Terry Olson Margaret Oman Mary Ostman John Pastor Barb Pearman Judy G. Pearson Ann Pellman Marylou Perham Greg Pesola Barry & Elizabeth Peterson Richard & Linda Peterson Anne Peterson Bauers Mary Kay Plank Antoinette Poupore-Haats James Proudlock Frances L. Reed Jack Renick Delores Rogers Steve & Janet Rosen Michael & Betsy Rosenzweig Carol Saranpaa Eileen Schantz-Hansen Helen Sever Eugene Shull James Slocum Tobin Sobaski Barbara Soufflet Carol Spencer Craig & Sandra Sterle Claryce Swensen Barbara Teske Kathleen Thibault Ruth Thorpe in Honor of Vincent Osborn Donna Trostad Nancy Turchi Sharon van Druten Judith Van Dyne Jennifer Wabrowetz Dana T. Waldbillig Lue Ann Warcholak Mark & Carol Weitz Trevor L. White in Memory of Alberte & Trevor White Cathy & Kirby Wood Jay & Helyn Woolf Beva Lee Wunderlich
Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra Northern Sounds 2019/2020 – Volume 1 | 37
See the whole picture Weis Eye Center is the only Practice in the Northland to offer blade-free z-Lasik surgery.
Call (218) 625 1917 www.weiseyecenter.com
38 | Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra Northern Sounds 2019/2020– Volume 1
Because you matter
to the last moment of your life.
m d f ound at i on. o r g
Discover
...Our Vibrant Community.
For over 85 years, Ecumen Lakeshore has been committed to providing quality care to the Twin Ports community. We invite you to view our distinctive floor plans and explore the different neighborhoods at Lakeshore, including independent apartments, assisted living apartments, and secure apartments for residents with memory loss. Our short-stay rehabilitation center provides exceptional nursing and physical, occupational, and speech therapy services. The caring professionals of Ecumen Home CareLakeshore provide compassionate, skilled care to assist you with healing and healthy living.
THE CREST • THE SHORES • THE FOUNTAINS ECUMEN HOME CARE-LAKESHORE ...and TRANSPORTATION services!
The Simple Way to Give Former DSSO Board President Jim Zastrow and his wife Mary make their annual gift to the symphony by setting up monthly installments. With the DSSO’s Automatic Withdrawal Program, you can give your annual gift in the form of convenient installments. If you would like to participate in our Automatic Withdrawal Program, please call the DSSO Office for details. 218-623-3776. dsso.com
www.ecumenlakeshore.org • (218) 625-7100 4002 London Rd, Duluth, MN 55804
Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra Northern Sounds 2019/2020 – Volume 1 | 39
NORTHERN SOUNDS
SYMPHONY BUS
Fall – Volume 1
The magazine of the Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra is free of charge to symphony concert goers. It is distributed locally to select locations.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2019-2020 John Berchild, Board Chair
Mamie Hughes, Past Chair
Christabel Grant, Vice Chair
Robert Bennett, Treasurer
Sandra Barkley, Secretary
BOARD OF DIRECTORS Sandra Barkley
James Farkas
Michael Mollerus
James Sebastian
Robert T. Bennett
Beth Gilbert
Mark Monson
Nairi Stack
John Berchild
Christabel Grant
William “Buzz” Palmer
Rajiv Vaidyanathan
Linda Boben
Jeremy Hoglund
Fr. Andrew Ricci
Christopher Virta
Ruth Ann Eaton
Tina Koecher
Branden Robinson
Roberta Vose
James McLeod
Kathleen Sanders
HONORARY LIFE DIRECTORS
DSSO MUSIC DIRECTORS
Laura Budd
Dirk Meyer
(2012 – present)
Elaine Killen
Markand Thakar
(2001 – 2012)
Dexter Larsen
Yong-yan Hu
(1995 – 2000)
Elisabeth Mason
Taavo Virkhaus
(1977-1994)
Nancy Melander
Joseph Hawthorne
(1967-1977)
James Zastrow
Hermann Herz
(1950-1967)
Joseph Wagner
(1947-1950)
Tauno Hannikainen
(1942 – 1947)
Paul Lemay
(1932 – 1942)
ADMINISTRATION
Brandon VanWaeyenberghe, Executive Director MaryAnn Bernard, Director of Office Administration Jeff Elliott, Sales Jessica Leibfried, Development and Patron Services Director Melissa Lentz, Patron Services and Marketing Manager Kathleen Sanders, Finance Consultant
CHORUS
Richard Robbins, Chorusmaster
The DSSO provides a complimentary bus service to Symphony Hall, with three bus routes picking up across Duluth and Superior. Initially, this service was put into place to provide transportation to our patrons in senior living facilities in the Twin Ports. The service has now grown to cater even more concert-goers, including those that don’t want to deal with downtown traffic, those traveling from outside the Duluth-Superior area, and anyone who just doesn’t enjoy driving during those dark winter evenings.
We are so grateful to be able to provide this amazing service to our patrons, and want to continue it for years to come. The Symphony Bus service costs the organization over $15,000 per season, and in an effort to keep the service running, we ask a $5 donation per rider. Donations can be made when you make your reservation (one is required to ride) over the phone with our Box Office staff, during your ride to Symphony Hall with a Bus Ambassador, or at Symphony Hall. Your donation will contribute to the cost of the service, as well as any necessary materials for our volunteer Bus Ambassadors.
BUS 1 5:30 pm: National Bank of Commerce - Superior, WI
ARTISTIC STAFF
Dirk Meyer, The Charles A. & Carolyn M. Russell Music Director
1127 Tower Avenue, Superior, WI 5: 45 pm: Super One Foods (West Duluth)
Ho-Yin Kwok, Assistant Conductor
5300 Bristol Street, Duluth, MN Parking: Please park in the BACK lot
Heidi Lord, Director of Artistic Operations Maureen Breemeersch, Stage Manager Kristin Sande, Music Librarian
YOUTH ORCHESTRAS
behind the building, by their loading dock off of Bristol Street. 6:00 pm: Park State Bank (27th Ave W) 2630 West Superior Street, Duluth, MN
BUS 2
Nikki Norland, Chorus Administrator
Melanie Sever, Administrative Director & Concert Orchestra Conductor
5:30 pm: Ecumen Lakeshore
Beth Sobczak, Chorus Accompanist
Ho-Yin Kwok, Interim Youth Symphony Conductor
5:40 pm: Mount Royal Pines III
Laura Kimmes, Sinfonia Conductor (on leave for 2019)
BUS 3
Kevin Hoeschen, Sinfonia Conductor (2019)
5:30 pm: Westwood
Brett Jones, Percussion Ensemble Director History of performances is provided by Ronald Kari who is in his 58th season Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra 130 West Superior Street, LL2-120 Duluth, MN 55802 TICKETS 218–623–3776 tickets@dsso.com | www.dsso.com
Ronald Kari, Youth Orchestras Coordinator
4002 London Road, Duluth, MN
50 East St. Marie Street, Duluth, MN
CSS Campus 925 Kenwood Ave, Duluth, MN 5:40 pm: First Methodist (Coppertop) Church 230 E Skyline Pkwy, Duluth, MN Parking: Please park in the large East lot. 6:00 pm: Valentini’s
Layout, design, and printing of Northern Sounds by Arrowhead Printing, Inc. The Podium is provided and maintained by Builder’s Commonwealth
42 | Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra Northern Sounds 2019/2020– Volume 1
1400 London Road, Duluth, MN
SYMPHONY CHORUS
masterpiece Belshazzar’s Feast, a choral and orchestral tour de force on the suspenseful story of the writing on the wall
“Happy birthday to you…”
from the Book of Daniel. For this concert, members of the
Your DSSO Symphony Chorus turns 60 this year and you are invited to celebrate with us, not once, but three times this season! Dirk and I are especially excited about this year’s chorus offerings, which feature some- thing for everyone. In November, join the Symphony Chorus, Orchestra, and singers from Lyric Opera of the North for some of Opera’s Greatest Hits, including some of the most moving and exciting
Chorus will be joined by singers from all three of our area universities. If you love percussive and dramatic works like Carmina Burana, you won’t want to miss this one! We look forward to sharing our 60th anniversary year with you, and we’ll see you next season. - Richard Robbins, DSSO Chorusmaster
moments in all of music. February’s concert, Happy Birthday, Ludwig!, features the famous Choral Fantasy by Beethoven, and we will also present the DSSO’s first-ever performance of Brahms’ beautiful Schicksalslied (“Song of Destiny”). Schicksalslied is sometimes called the “little Requiem,” a reference to Brahms’ beloved Ein Deutsches Requiem, and after hearing it I know you will understand why it is considered by many musicians to be his very best choral work. We end the concert season in May with William Walton’s towering
Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra Northern Sounds 2019/2020 – Volume 1 | 43
Proud to Support DSSO Shops
A Place For Fido Duluth Kitchen Co. Fitger’s Brewhouse Beer Store Fitger’s Wine Cellars Gourmet Market Lotus on the Lake The Bookstore at Fitger’s The Snow Goose Trailfitters Whimsy
Restaurants Fitger’s Brewhouse Mexico Lindo The Boat Club
Nightclubs The Barrel Room Rex Bar
Services
Fitger’s Salon & Spa
Duluth’s Historic Fitger’s Inn ~ Proud sponsors of the featured artist! * FREE covered parking with validation!
usbank.com/ourcommunity
Performances are more powerful when we all play our part.
From the stage to the seats, everyone who supports the arts deserves applause. We’re honored to play a role in making our community more inspiring. U.S. Bank is proud to support the Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra!
Downtown 723.2800
Kenwood 720.1076
Member FDIC. Š2014 U.S. Bank
Lakeside 720.1042
Lincoln Park 720.1053
Miller Hill 723.2938
Spirit Valley 720.1067
Honoring
MACK HARRELL 1909-1960
When the DSSO and Matinee Musicale first considered inviting Lynn Harrell for his current residency in Duluth, it was with the hope of honoring his father, the baritone Mack Harrell, who gave a recital at Duluth’s Pilgrim Congregational Church during the autumn of 1948. As fate would have it, tonight marks the exact anniversary of that recital. Mack Harrell was born in Celeste, Texas. After studying violin at Oklahoma City University, he prepared as a singer at the Curtis Institute (Philadelphia) and Juilliard (New York). Mack was the winner of the Metropolitan Opera Auditions in 1938, and served on the company’s roster from 1939 to 1958. At the time of his Duluth recital for Matinee Musicale, Mack was on the music faculty at Juilliard. His son Lynn, born in 1944, would have been 4 years old. In addition to appearing in major roles from the standard repertoire, Mack performed the role of Nick Shadow in the 1953 U.S. premiere of Stravinsky’s The Rake’s Progress. Mack was also highly regarded for his performances in lieder and oratorio. The late author Nicolas Slonimsky once praised Harrell for the “remarkable lyrical beauty” of his voice. Harrell’s outstanding recordings with conductors such as Bruno Walter and Eric Leindsorf remain in print and confirm Slonimsky’s assessment. Brad Snelling, College of St. Scholastica Library
2019 - 2020
SEASON
NOV 23 A Night at the Opera: 2019 Opera’s Greatest Hits Concert with the DSSO DECC • Duluth, MN
ON TOUR Little Opera of the North 2019 - 2020
Presents Opera for the Young’s adaptation of Massenet’s Cinderella.
JAN 24 & 26 Amahl and the Night Visitors 2020
Gian Carlo Menotti
MASONIC TEMPLE • Duluth, MN
FEB 14 Valentine’s Day Soiree 2020
LOON’s biggest fundraising event of the year. Fancy fun, food and music. GREYSOLON BALLROOM • Duluth, MN
JUN 12 & 14 Tosca 2020
Giacomo Puccini NORSHOR THEATRE • Duluth, MN
www.loonopera.org
218-464-0922
This activity is made possible in part by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Arrowhead Regional Arts Council, thanks to appropriations from the Minneosota State Legislature’s general and arts and cultural heritage funds.
46 | Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra Northern Sounds 2019/2020– Volume 1
WWW.ARROWHEADPRINTING.COM 218.727.1513
Go ahead make your day. Weekdays happen. Might as well make them beautiful. Turn to the power of Classical MPR to elevate the everyday.
Tune in or stream at classicalmpr.org.
The Slice
An on-air and online series devoted to the moments, people and events that make the Northland amazing. Watch at www.theslice.tv.
Locally-Focused. Regionally Recognized. All New Seasons Premiere January 2020 on PBS North.
Season 3
Season 15
This multi-Emmy-nominated series highlights the musicians, makers and creative entrepreneurs that call Northern Minnesota home.
This award-winning, nationally-syndicated series celebrates Native American culture, leaders and events in the Midwest and across the US. WDSE • WRPT is the first PBS station to create a program of its kind.
Catch up on the latest episodes at makingitupnorth.org
Catch up on the latest episodes at nativereport.org
LIVE LOCAL CBS 3
because local matters!
D A V E A N D E R S O N | K R I S T E N V A K E | A N T H O N Y M A T T | K E L LY H I N S E T H
WEEKNIGHTS AT 6 & 10 CBS3DULUTH.COM
TAKE A BOW, SPONSORS We are pleased to offer a big thank you to our sponsors for the 2019-2020 season. Their generous support makes it possible for the DSSO to bring world-class concerts, educational programs and community outreach to the Northland.
BRAVO!
Member FDIC
This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a Minnesota State Arts Board Operating Support grant, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.
THE McNIGHT FOUNDATION
DEPOT FOUNDATION
LLOYD K. JOHNSON FOUNDATION
PACHEL FOUNDATION
DULUTH SUPERIOR AREA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION
IT’S NEVER TOO LATE TO PLAN YOUR RETIREMENT. IT’S NEVER TOO EARLY EITHER. IT’S YOUR FUTURE...
TIME TO ASK YOURSELF Have I saved enough for retirement?
Do I have the right investment mix?
Will I be able to maintain my lifestyle?
Can I create a 401K plan for my employees?
SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION
218.625.1234
Personal Banking
Business Banking
Mortgage Services
Private Banking
Investments & Trust
Retirement Solutions
STOCK, BOND AND MUTUAL FUND INVESTMENTS ARE NOT FDIC INSURED. MAY LOSE VALUE. NOT BANK GUARANTEED. PRODUCTS ARE NOT OBLIGATIONS OF THE BANK.
WW W .N OR T HSHOR E . B A N K DOW N T OW N | W O O D L A N D | L A K E S I D E | HE R M A N T O W N
Bent Paddle - Duluth Collaborative Design by Shelter Architecture and BP Ownership for Bent Paddle Brewing Co.’s new Taproom - fire clay tile installed by Johnson Carpet
5611 GRAND AVENUE • SPIRIT VALLEY, DULUTH
(218) 628-2249
Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri: 9:00am-5:30pm Thurs: 9:00am-7:00pm Sat: 9:00am-3:00pm
®
Premier Gallery Dealer