We are excited to bring you the 57th Season of the Longview Symphony Orchestra! Your continued support ensures our ability to help grow the next generation of musicians and music-lovers, bring top-quality musicians to our area, and provide educational and family experiences that are sure to unite and enlighten.
One concert to rule them ALL! Embark on an unforgettable journey to Middle-Earth with the Longview Symphony Orchestra on April 18, 2026. For the first time ever, the LSO is proud to present Howard Shore's magnificent, threetime Academy Award-winning score for The l ord of the rings Symphony.
This is the biggest event in our history, bringing together our largest orchestra and chorus ever assembled. An expanded Longview Symphony Orchestra will be joined by a massive adult and children’s choir, all coming together to immerse you in the world of J.R.R. Tolkien. One of our most popular events will be our FrEE Mordor Map Challenge at the l ongview Arboretum on March 21, 2026.
On July 4, 2026 Longview Symphony will join with Gregg County and other East Texas cities for a celebration of America's Semiquincentennial (250th Anniversary) at Maude Cobb Convention Center! (FREE!)
please consider becoming a supporter of our 2025-2026 Concert Season. Your gift ensures another successful season for the Longview Symphony Orchestra! Wonderful benefits and privileges are extended for your sponsorship, including print and media exposure, complimentary event tickets, recognition in program and more! The power of music to unite and inspire us is boundless. With your help the l ongview Symphony will continue to grow, educate, and enrich. Thank you for your support of the l ongview Symphony!
Longview Symphony is a recognized 501(c)(3) not-for-profit
Ben Maines
air Conditioning, inc
“Serving East Texas, Since 1949”
Supporting the Longview Symphony League since 1968!
When you support the LSL, you support Fine Art and Fine Entertainment, in Longview.
From its humble beginnings, the LSO has brought the “World, to Longview, with world class musicians… performing with professional East Texas musicians. This was only possible with generous donations of our local patrons.
Please consider, making a tax-deductible gift, to the Longview Symphony League.
AND a salute, to all the past and present LSL Board members, LSO musicians, conductors, patrons, contributors, and advertisers…. Cheers to the LSO, and the next 50 years!
Bach’s Lunch
These lunchtime recitals feature the music of Bach and other classical pieces while showcasing local musicians. There is no charge for these concerts. Many people bring their sack lunch to eat beforehand (a room is provided), and then attend the concert at 12:20.
Dining area opens at 11:30 AM. Concerts begin at 12:20 PM and end by 1:00 PM.
Fri DAy, J A nuA ry 16, 2026
First Presbyterian Church of Kilgore
Fri DAy, M A rC h 27 , 2026
First Lutheran Church of Longview
Fri DAy, A P ri L 24, 2026
First Methodist Church of Longview
Free Fri DAy C O n C ert Serie S
EVERY PIECE MATTERS
That’s our opinion anyway. And it’s the reason every investment and acquisition we make is one that not only expands our portfolio of o erings but ensures that we continue to provide the quality our customers and investors have come to expect. And only by prioritizing innovation and cutting-edge technology, do we continue to hold our market-leading positions across–providing di erentiated products and solutions that enhance lives every day, Because, when every piece matters, it matters how every piece is made. Find out more about everything Westlake has to o er at westlake.com
SANTA FLAVIOUS
His legend has been whispered in a hundred languages and he’s known across centuries and continents by many wondrous names: St. Nicholas, Father Christmas, Père Noël, Sinterklaas, and more. Yet here in the Pineywoods, when the winter winds carry the scent of pine and peppermint, he is lovingly known as “Santa Flavious.” Tonight, Santa Flavious steps away from the secretive bustle of his legendary Toy Shop (whose exact location remains, of course, strictly classified) to join the Longview Symphony for his seventh season of “Home for the Holidays!”
His visits to Longview began in 2015, and according to folklore, Santa is said to travel not only by sleigh but also by “winter windways,” invisible paths that allow him to appear precisely where he’s needed most often just in time for a concert, a cookie, or a child’s Christmas wish.
Some tales even claim that Santa can hear a perfectly-played violin note from over a thousand miles away… which might explain why he’s so fond of symphonies.
And if you listen carefully tonight, you may catch the faint jingle of a bell that no one can see and no musician is playing… an age-old sign that Santa himself is near. You can also spot Santa Flavious tomorrow, December 6th, at the Grand ReOpening of the “Dreaming Peddler’s” new location, where he is rumored to appear precisely when the cocoa is hottest.
To explore more stories, legends, and sightings of our beloved Santa Flavious, visit: SantaFlavious.com
C O n C ert SPO n SO re D in PA rt by:
Honoring
Legacies of Faith One Life at a Time
The Longview Symphony is supported in part by grants awarded through the City of Longview Cultural Activities Advisory Committee and the City Council funded by the hotel occupancy tax, and the Texas Commission on the Arts.
t h A nk y O u t O O ur Sy MP h O ny S PO n SO r S
MA e S trO
City of Longview
Crain Foundation
Longview Symphony Foundation
Texas Commission on the Arts
CLASS i CAL
Eleanor and Dr. John Kirk
Dan Sorey
Charlotte & John Wrather
Rosa May Griffin Foundation
Estis Compression FLOWCO
Hollandsworth Foundation
LeTourneau University Foundation
en CO re
Paula & Dr. Kim Howard
Linda & Dan Stevens
VeraBank
Jim Bartlett Fine Jewelry
Capital Wealth Group/Jon Cromer
Barbie & Jim Deborah
Forbes & Butler
Ginia & Gordon Northcutt
Johnson & Pace
Niki & Darren Groce
Priddy Design Build
Susan Kay Smith
Texas Bank and Trust
Westlake Chemical
t ribute S A n D Me MO ri ALS
Address your tax-deductible contributions to the Longview Symphony. Undesignated contributions will be placed in the Crescendo Fund. Contributions to the Crescendo Fund may be made online at www.LongviewSymphony.org or mailed to the Longview Symphony, P.O. Box 1825, Longview, TX 75606. If you wish to make a memorial or estate donation, please designate to the Legacy Endowment or the Longview Symphony Foundation. Mail contributions to Longview Symphony, P.O. Box 1825, Longview, TX 75606. Would you like to support the Symphony? Please see us at our table in the lobby during intermission.
Advanced Roofing
Barbara & Joe Baucum
Mary & Bryan Benson
Bodacious BBQ
Bullard Family Foundation
Samantha & Paul Bradley
Mimi & Bruce Cammack
Cassity Jones Building Material
Cindy Graham & Ken Day
Cobb Electric
Coghlan Crowson
Coolidge and Company Real Estate
CrossFit Electrica
Diagnostic Clinic of Longview
Ellen & Dr. Jay Gordon
Gregg County Historical Museum
Henry & Peters
Linda & Patrick Hill
Anne & Jim Hugman
Carol Blair & Robbie Lepire
Longview Eye Associates
Karen & Randy Maines
Patricia & Laney Newman
Patriot Erectors
Sloan Law Firm
Spaw Glass
Sugar Cube Bakery/Christina Stanger
SWEPCO
Judy & Wiley Thomas
Dr. Tiffany Turner – Christus Pediatrics
Ava & Jack Welge
Karen & David Wright
Suzanne Stadden Brown Tuma
Women’s Health Boutique
F un D
Edible Art | Jan & Sam Forester | Lynette Goodson | Ellen & Dr. Jay Gordon
Karen & Brent Haas | Barbara Hawkins | Jeannie and Dr. Craig King
Christina & Matthew Nehrling | Karen & Ron Peters | Phillips Flooring
Betsy & Dr. Joseph Pistone | Nancy & Dr. James Sawyer | Craig Vanbiber
Nell & Johnny Ward | Julie & Wayne Young
COMM e MO r Ati V e CO ntributi O n S
In memoriam of Logan Damewood by Nan Mitchell | In memoriam of Mary Taylor by Nan Mitchell | In memoriam of Pilar McLemore by Betsy & Dr. Joseph Pistone
In memoriam of Dorothy Sayre by Ruth & Bruce Hathaway | In memoriam of Joan Rathbun by LouAnne & Steve Rainey |In memoriam of Andrew McCumber, Grandson of Nancy Starr by Claire English | In memoriam of Gail Grisham by Claire English
In memoriam of Patricia & Raymond Curry by Nan Mitchell | In memoriam of Mary Murdoch by Nancy & Dr. James Sawyer and Nan Mitchell | In memoriam of Bill Rice by Claire English | In memorium of Dr. Tom Smith by Claire English
In memoriam of Dr. John Richard Lucas by Francye & Dan Phillips
In memoriam of Pilar McLemore by Jo Popma and James Smith
In memoriam of Randall Anderson by Niki and Darren Groce
In honor of Anna & Lee Sidney Allen from Susan Kay Smith
Chartered in 1976, the Longview Symphony Foundation is designated as a 501(c)(3) charitable trust by the Internal Revenue Service. Because of generous contributions from friends of the Longview Symphony and conservative investments of the Foundation’s assets by its Trustees, the trust has continued to grow, providing a solid underpinning for the Permanent Endowment Fund (PEF). A portion of the investment income of the trust is made available to the Longview Symphony League, Inc., in support of its ongoing music education and cultural programs.
There are many avenues to making a tax deductible transfer of assets into the PEF. Financial and legal advice is available
to assist in the consideration of the various gifting alternatives, such as cash bequests, estate planning, and bequests of appreciated assets.
The generosity of each gift is acknowledged with an individual listing in the concert program. At your request, this listing may be as an anonymous donor. Naming and recognition rights are available for gifts at various levels of participation.
Please contact the Longview Symphony at 903-236-9739 to arrange a meeting with a Foundation representative to discuss your participation in the growth of the PEF.
Hall of Fame
The Longview Symphony League recognizes extraordinary patrons and volunteers who have contributed of time, talent, and resources to help make it possible for Longview families to enjoy outstanding musical performances year after year. We invite you to share with us the privilege of honoring these remarkable individuals who make up the Longview Symphony Hall of Fame.
1999- Dr. Berdine Jones, Sara Richkie Whitehurst, Daisy M. Morris
2000- Wells Burton, Charles E. Watkins, Willis H. “Throck” Throckmorton
2001- Gerald G. Mullikin, M.D., W.E. “Gene” Lynn, Hazel Hickey
2002- Alyce Monsour
2004- Dr. & Mrs. B. Reid Clanton
2005- Bob Sweat, Logan & Eleanor Damewood
2006- Franklin Martin Jr., John & Anne Dean Turk
2007- Alvin O. Austin
2009- Alma Ruth & Dr. Morgan Willeford
2010- Richard E. (Dick) Miller
2011- Evalonia Barrett-Bolton
2012- Judy Anne Owens
2013- Ann & Isidor Saslav
2014- Dr. Charles & Paula Kaplan
2019- Maggie Ferrell and Dr. James Snowden
2022- Mary Taylor
2025- Randy Maines
bOA r D OF Dire C t O r S
Paul Roberts President
Dr. Kevin Richardson
Vice President of Perfornamce
Rocio Mendez
Vice President of Development
Mallory Chargois Treasurer
Samantha Bradley
Marlena Cooper
Jon Cromer
Barbie Deborah
Claire English
Lynette Goodson
Rance Hawthorne
Christa Howard
Jenn Eldridge Secretary
Charlotte Wrather Director-at-Large
Shelly Butler Past President
Niki Groce Executive-Director
Dr. Greg Grabowski, Conductor
Jennifer Jackson
Dr. John Kirk
Kenneth Kirkland
Alison Little
Justin McFaul
Patricia Newman
Terrye Nix
Ginia Northcutt
Dr. Joseph Pistone
Jamie Robinson
Javier Sauceda
Jerry (Wayne) Smith
Christina Stanger
Suzanne Brown Tuma
Dr. Tiffany Turner
Wray Wade
Jennifer Ware
L O ng V iew Sy MP h O ny PAS t Pre S i D ent S
Dr. Landon A. Colquitt ......... 1968-1969
Herbert Boyland ................... 1969-1970
Bob Boyett ............................ 1970-1971
Ben Franklin Martin, Jr. ........ 1971-1973
Marvin R. Mikeska................ 1973-1975
Jack T. Buchanan ................... 1975-1976
Wells Burton ......................... 1976-1978
John Cary .............................. 1978-1979
Wesley Ray ............................ 1979-1980
William C. Keese .................. 1980-1982
Steve Adell............................. 1982-1983
W.E. Lynn ............................. 1983-1985
David Holland ...................... 1985-1987
Robert Sweat ......................... 1987-1989
Dr. Gerald G. Mullikin ......... 1989-1991
Gerald G. Mullikin ......... 1993-1995
Clyde N. Clubb .............. 1995-1997 Mrs. Frank (Millicent) Canter. 1997-1999 Dr. Morgan L. Willeford ....... 1999-2002 Richard E. (Dick) Miller ....... 2002-2004 Stanton Nash ........................ 2004-2005 Bryan Benson ........................ 2005-2008 Wayne Smith ......................... 2008-2010 Randy Maines ....................... 2010-2012
Dr. Weaver holds a Bachelor of Music from BYU and a Master of Music from TCU, specializing in vocal performance and pedagogy. She earned her Ph.D. in music history, with a secondary area in vocal performance from the University of Oregon in 2006. As the recipient of an International Rotary Foundation Ambassadorial Scholarship, Dr. Weaver conducted her dissertation research in Bologna Italy, exploring compositional ethics of composers in Florence and in northern Italy during the late sixteenth and early seventeenth centuries. She continues to perform actively with early music and contemporary music ensembles.
wh A t i S O P eningnotes ?
Get the most out of Longview Symphony Orchestra concerts by attending Opening Notes. Each Opening Notes is an informal and informative discussion about the program and provide a behind-the scenes look at the art of musicmaking. Your concert ticket is your admission.
6:15PM
LeTourneau University Belcher Center, Allen Lobby (enter through left side door) presented by Dr. Jamie Weaver
L O ng V iew Sy MP h O ny hO n O r rOLL
Cultural Arts Grant
The City of Longview
texas Commission on the Arts
Radio Sponsorship
Alpha Media group
Season Sponsors
ben Maines Air Conditioning
Crain Foundation
Forbes & butler
Johnson & Pace
randy Maine
Longview regional Medical Center
Longview Symphony Foundation
rosa May griffin Foundation
Dan Sorey
Spring hill State bank
SwePCO
texas bank & trust
Verabank
westlake Chemical women’s health boutique
Guest Artist Sponsor nancy & Jud Murray
Official Hotel Sponsor hilton garden inn
Orchestra Rehearsal Facilities
hallsville iSD
Feature Articles
Longview news-Journal
Bach’s Lunch Hosts
trinity episcopal Church, Longview | First Presbyterian Church, Longview |
First Lutheran Church of Longview | First Presbyterian Church, kilgore
First united Methodist Church, Longview
PrO gr AM
Friday, December 5, 2025, 7:00PM
LeTourneau University Belcher Center
A Chri S t MAS Fe S ti VAL
Leroy Anderson
i t’S A wO n D er F u L Li F e Suite
Dimitri Tiomkin; arr. Paul Marquart/Christopher Palmer
i. Prologue
ii. Theme
iii. Christmas eve Finale
Chri S t MAS Chi LD ren
Leslie Bricusse/arr. Mac Huff orch. David Luna
greater Longview Children’s Chorus
t he Chri S t MAS S O ng
Mel Torme/Robert Wells arr. Bob Krogstad
Litt L e bOL erO
Robert Wendel
t he hOLLy A n D the iV y:
FA ntAS y O n Chri S t MAS C A rOLS* Malcom Arnold; arr. Christopher Palmer
i nter M i SS i O n
OV erture tO A Merry Chri S t MAS
Robert Wendel
Chri S t MAS A LA VALS e
Robert Wendel
J Oy tO the wO r LD
George Frideric Handel/Lowell Mason arr. John Rutter
Longview high School Choir
Si L ent n ight
Joseph Mohr/Franz Gruber
arr. Barlow Bradford
LONGVIEW H IGH S CHOOL C HOIR
hAV e yO ur S e LF A Merry Litt L e Chri S t MAS
Hugh Martin/Ralph Blane
arr. John Whitney
i n the bL e A k Mi Dwinter
Gustav Holst
S L eigh r i D e
Leroy Anderson
hA rk the h er ALD Ange LS Sing
Charles Wesley/Felix Mendelssohn
arr. Ted Rickets
*Holly and Ivy by Malcolm Arnold presented under license from G. Schirmer Inc. and Associated Music Publishers, copyright owners.
CO n D u C tO r
Gregory Grabowski, acclaimed for his engaging, nuanced, and genuine performances, has served as the Director of Orchestral Activities at Stephen F. Austin State University (SFA) since 2019.
Maestro Grabowski has led orchestras including the Bakersfield Symphony, Baltimore Chamber Orchestra, and the Fairbanks Festival Orchestra. He served as interim director of the Flower Mound Symphony Orchestra and Assistant Conductor for the Lewisville Lake Symphony, and has appeared as guest conductor with groups such as the Richardson Symphony and the Dallas Asian-American Youth Orchestra. Grabowski completed his graduate degrees at the University of North Texas and Southern Methodist University, under primary conducting teachers David Itkin and Paul Phillips. He’s also been honored to study with many other distinguished conductors, including Don Schleicher, Nicolás Pasquet, Markand Thakar, Robert Franz, Paul Vermell, Samuel Jones, Harold Farberman, and Leon Botstein.
As Director of Orchestral Activities at SFA, in addition to conducting the SFA Symphony Orchestra (SFASO), Grabowski conducts SFA Opera productions, teaches conducting and music education courses, coordinates the Orchestral Studies area, and has a studio of graduate conducting students. Prior to his return to Texas, Dr. Grabowski served as Orchestra Director at Susquehanna University (Selinsgrove, PA). Under his leadership, the Susquehanna University Orchestra increased in size and prestige and was featured in two national public television performances aired in 2017.
Dr. Grabowski has taught and advocated for music education at every level from elementary school to professional. He began his career in the public schools of Frisco, TX, where he was the Associate Director of Winds and Percussion at Roach Middle School for three years. During his time at SFA, Dr. Grabowski assisted in the creation of the String Project, a community program sanctioned by the National String Project Consortium, in which SFA string music education majors work with elementary schoolaged students throughout Nacogdoches, teaching beginner string instruments classes. He also has instituted yearly educational outreach concerts for local elementary schools, and is a sought-after clinician and guest conductor for all-region and honor orchestras.
Greg grew up in Edison, New Jersey, where he began his musical studies as a jazz saxophone player and woodwind specialist. He now lives in Nacogdoches, TX with his wife, mezzo soprano Dianna Grabowski, and two sons, Ben and Sam. Aside from music Greg enjoys spending time on his many hobbies, including woodworking, photography, home renovation, and devising fun adventures with his family.
Flute
Mu S i C i A n S
Jessica Ogilvie, principal
Sue Bugg
Piccolo
Jennie McRae
Oboe
Jenna Sehmann, principal
Ryan Estes
Clarinet
Timothy J. Wright, principal
Vanessa Davis
bassoon
Sarah Boyd, principal
Neva Abrisz
horn
Andrea Denis, principal
Raymond Garcia, assistant principal
Thomas Hundemer
Tammy Moorhead
Charles Gavin
trumpet
Jake Walburn, principal
Glenn Bessinger
Michael Scarlatto
trombone
Tom Mensch, principal
Danny Vinson
bass trombone
Heather Mensch
tuba
J.D. Salas
timpani
Chandler Teague, principal
Percussion
Anthony Armistead Robinson, principal
Kevin Ogilvie
Mike Britt
Piano
Dr. Kaden Larson
harp
Cherith Hendrich
M u S i C i A n S
Violin i
Dr. Jennifer Dalmas, concertmistress
Renee Ward
Dan Santelices
Nathalie Reedstrom
Paul Lundin
Jonah Raychev
Seonghee Lee
Paula Aragundi
James Nolet
Josias Ramos
Violin ii
Anna Larson, principal
Shannon Roberts
Gary Bruns
Shelby Rotramel
Russell Lewis
Michelle Frederick
Maggie Taliaferro
Corey Bowe
Personnel Manager
Jessica Ogilvie
Librarian
Sue Bugg
Viola
Shane Almendarez, principal
Ethan Cole
Brigette Kelling
Adrian Jackson
Angel De Hoyos
Mike Grinnell
David Mills
Cello
Evgeni Raychev, principal
Caleb Moore
Chanhee Lee
Pam Martin
Katie Gutierre
John Velez
Double bass
Andrew Goins, principal
Bob Simmons
Deborah Scarlato
John Porter
Stage Manager
Ty Hood
Vice President of Production/ Longview Symphony League
Dr. Kevin Richardson
PrO gr AM nOte S i
When we are at home with the Longview Symphony Orchestra for the holidays, we know there will be plenty of cherished traditions to inspire new memories as well as some new discoveries and surprises to delight us. We will be reminded of children and childhood, fun and timeless stories, and faith and miracles.
A CHriStmAS FeStivAL
Our concert opens with Leroy Anderson’s A Christmas Festival, a dazzling collage of traditional carols guaranteed to put you in the holiday spirit. Although few of us remember his name, we are all familiar with the music of Leroy Anderson, especially his Christmas works. Anderson (1908-1975) is best known to us for his light concert works including the exuberant Bugler’s Holiday and the Christmas favorite Sleigh Ride, also on our program tonight. Born to Swedish immigrant parents who played music together in their home and who supported their son’s musical education, Anderson received his musical training in Cambridge, eventually attending Harvard University. A gifted linguist, Anderson also studied multiple languages and served in a counterintelligence unit during World War ii. With the encouragement of Arthur Fiedler, he began arranging and orchestrating for the Boston Pops Orchestra in the 1930s. Several of his compositions gained popularity as radio and television themes.
Anderson’s A Christmas Festival is perfect to open our concert, because it is a joyous presentation of our favorite carols arranged for Fiedler’s Boston Pops Orchestra in 1950. Featuring the rich sounds of brass and woodwinds that evoke images of bands on holiday streets, chimes that remind us of church bells, and seasonal sleigh bells, this delightful piece will lift your spirits and bring back happy holiday memories.
SUite FrOm it’S A WOnderFUL LiFe
Classic films have become an important component of our holiday experience as we watch them, again and again with family and friends. Several pieces on this evening’s program come from the classic movies we adore and a few films with which we might be less familiar.
For many families, Christmas is never complete until they have watched It’s a Wonderful Life, starring James Stuart, again. But if you are hatching a plot to give the adventures of George Bailey and his Guardian angel a miss this season, go ahead! We’ve got you covered. You can relive all your favorite moments from the film as we listen to dimitri tiomkin’s suite from It’s a Wonderful Life.
dimitri tiomkin (1894-1979) was the highest paid composer in Hollywood in the 1950s and composed scores combining European classicism with a distinctly American spirit. He is also famous for introducing the “theme song” that maintained
a presence throughout the score but was also marketed separately. Born in what is now the Ukraine, he learned music from his mother at an early age and eventually studied piano and composition at the St. Petersburg Conservatory. While in St. Petersburg, Tiomkin absorbed the classical styles and genres of European composers from J. S. Bach to Richard Strauss, and his lush, romantic scores demonstrate their influences on his style.
He emigrated to Berlin after the Bolshevik revolution and moved to the U.S. in the 1920s. He arrived in Hollywood shortly after the stock market crash of 1929 and entered the film industry immediately. He embraced the American sounds of Gershwin and irving Berlin and learned popular songs with ease. While he is best known for scoring Westerns such as High Noon and Gunfight at the O. K. Corral, his first big break came from Frank Capra. the 1946 film It’s a Wonderful Life was one of a string of films tiomkin scored for the great director/producer.
While the film is hailed as a classic today, its 1946 premiere earned poor reviews and the picture failed to break even at the box office. it was largely ignored until 1974, when its copyright privileges expired, allowing it to be shown on television without payment of royalties or licensing fees. The story resonated with the wider American public and has been in wide circulation for more than fifty years. the 1890s American folk song “Buffalo Gals” features prominently in the suite, representing the “American spirit,” playful innocence, and fortitude of the main characters George and mary. its familiar melody also creates transitions between other themes. We hear the romantic title and end credits music as well as the tender arrangements of familiar Christmas carols and childhood songs. We also hear the strange and earie music that serves as the backdrop for the snowstorm in which George is lost and for his confusion as he discovers what the world would have been like without him. We hope you enjoy hearing Tiomkin’s innovative music in a live symphonic performance.
CHriStmAS CHiLdren
Composed by Leslie Bricusse for the 1970 musical adaptation of Charles dickens’ A Christmas Carol entitled Scrooge, “Christmas Children” is a charming song reminding us that there is a child in all of us during this festive season. This evening, we welcome the Greater Longview Children’s choir to join us in singing about their delights and dreams for Christmas.
A CHriStmAS SOnG
it may surprise you to learn that many of our favorite holiday classics were not actually composed for Christmas. One of these is entitled simply “the Christmas Song.” While this song is about the joys of the season, it was originally composed as
PrO gr AM nOte S iii
a way of surviving new York’s oppressive summer heat. in 1945, when songwriter Bob Wells was stuck in his sweltering apartment, trying desperately to keep his mind off the heat, he jotted down his favorite ideas about winter and Christmas in the hope of cooling down. His thoughts took on a logical progression and formed the first draft of a song. Wells’ friend, mel tormé, discovered his notes sitting open on his piano, filled out the lyrics, and composed the tune in a single afternoon. their efforts to survive a hot July Yielded a song that has captured our hearts for decades. This evening, the orchestra performs “the Christmas Song” in a symphonic arrangement by Bob Krogstad.
Three of the pieces on this evening’s program were arranged by American composer, pops conductor, and arranger robert Wendel (B. 1951). His music ranges from works for the stage to arrangements and original compositions for symphony orchestras. As we will discover, Wendel also has a lively sense of humor.
LittLe BOLerO BOY
We all love the song “the Little drummer Boy” that tells the story of a child who plays the drum, and who appears with the wise men at the manger in Bethlehem to see the new-born Jesus. Unable to bring a costly gift as the magi did, he plays his drum for the baby, who rewards him with a smile. But Robert Wendel asks us to imagine what would have happened if the drummer boy had played Maurice Ravel’s Bolero instead of pa-rum-pa-pum-pum.
Ravel’s one-movement piece Bolero is one of the most popular and wellknown orchestral works of the twentieth century. But it is subject to jokes and jibes among musicians due to its repetitive structure, which can become monotonous after a long series of rehearsals and performances. The percussionist playing the snare drum bears the brunt of the problem as the ostinato snare drum pattern is repeated one hundred and sixty-nine times, without breaks or changes, over the course of the fifteen-minute piece, making it one of the most active, longest, and ... well ... most boring percussion parts in the standard orchestral repertoire. Musicians smile at Wendel’s occupational humor, which infers that the Christ child might have been less amused by the repetitive Bolero ostinato than by the drummer boy’s simpler pattern.
despite the joke, however Wendel’s Little Bolero Boy is upbeat and exciting. the familiar tune of “the Little drummer Boy,” composed in 1941, is heard clearly over the ostinato snare drum pattern featured in Bolero. As in Ravel’s work, instruments enter one at a time to play the tune before the entire orchestra joins in the melody. The melody and snare drum increase in volume and intensity until the joyful conclusion of the reimagined carol.
PrO gr AM nOte S i V
tHe HOLLY And tHe ivY: A FAntASY On CHriStmAS CArOLS
A Christmas movie we might have missed is the 1952 production of The Holly and the Ivy. This is a story of being home for the holidays, with all the family difficulties and drama this can entail. But it is placed against the backdrop of Christian ideals and how people live those values within their families at Christmas time.
Composer and conductor Ser malcolm Henry Arnold (1921-2006) might become your favorite new discovery this season. in addition to his many concertos, songs, choral pieces, and chamber works, the British composer wrote nine symphonies, two operas, five ballets, several musicals, and scored more than one hundred films including The Bridge on the River Kwai in 1957. How is it, then, that many of us have never heard of this important composer? it may have something to do with the fact that Arnold was outspoken regarding his interest in tonal music and traditional orchestration at a time when art music was focused on experimentation with non-traditional sounds and ideas. Today, as interest in cinematic music and performance repertoire for symphony orchestras grows, we find ourselves reassessing the legacy of his work.
malcom created a “fantasy” on Christmas carols featured in the film, and orchestrator Christopher Palmer has arranged the work for symphonic performance. in this fantasy, we will hear four of our favorite traditional carols in the lush style of the 1950’s film score. the carols include “the Holly and the ivy,” “the First noel,” “Away in a manger,” and “i Saw three Ships.”
An OvertUre tO A merrY CHriStmAS
Although many of us know that an opera usually begins with an overture, fewer of us remember what these overtures sound like. One overture that has found a place in our popular culture, however, is the overture to W. A. Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro. its playful opening motive has found its way into movies, television shows, video games, and Christmas music. in his Overture to a Merry Christmas, Robert Wendel shows us that some motives in Mozart’s famous overture bear striking resemblances to phrases in two of our favorite carols, “Joy to the World” and “Oh Little town of Bethlehem.” He cleverly weaves together quotations from Mozart’s iconic overture with those from the two holiday favorites to create a fun and festive start to the Christmas season.
CHriStmAS A LA vALSe
Have you ever considered the number of Christmas songs that are written with three beats to a measure, in a waltz tempo? robert Wendel has. His celebratory Christmas a la Valse brings together several treasured carols, all of which can be
played as waltzes. You will be surprised at how many you know. He also includes The Skater’s Walz, the only melody that is not strictly a Christmas song, but that was actually designed for dancing. Christmas a la valse will have you dancing your way through the holidays.
JOY tO tHe WOrLd
John rutter (1945) is an english composer whose Christmas works bring together old and modern styles in ways that resonate with audiences the world over. He succeeds in blending aspects of the Anglican choral tradition, european classical music, and American popular songs in a unique style that is accessible, while offering us the sense that we are worshipping in lofty cathedrals or meditating in idyllic english groves. His arrangement of “Joy to the World” is set in the graceful and elegant style of G. F. Handel and is rich with counterpoint and the grand flourishes that characterize the music of the early eighteenth century. this evening, the orchestra welcomes the Longview High School Choir in the performance of this seasonal favorite.
SiLent niGHt
On Christmas Eve day of 1818, Joseph Mohr, a young priest in Austria discovered that the organ in his perish church had been damaged by flood waters and would not be in working order for the evening service. Eager to have some special music for his congregation, Mohr took a poem he had written two years earlier to the church organist Franz Xaver Gruber. He asked Gruber to compose music to fit the poem, with a guitar accompaniment, to be performed during the Christmas eve service. together, the two friends composed “Silent night” in one day. Gruber published the song in 1833. The carol has become one of our favorites and has been recorded more than one hundred thousand times. We invite all of you to join the Longview High School Choir in singing the final stanza of “Silent night.”
HAve YOUrSeLF A merrY LittLe CHriStmAS
many songs from popular films have made their way into our list of Christmas favorites. One such song is “Have Yourself a merry Little Christmas” from the Judy Garland film meet me in St. Louis, premiered in 1944. Hugh martin and r alph Blane composed several songs for this box office hit, and all became popular independently. “Have Yourself a merry Little Christmas” is a song about finding the joy of Christmas, even while working through sorrow and Loss. The orchestra performs it in an arrangement by John Whitney.
in tHe BLeAk mid-Winter
in the Bleak mid-Winter may sound like an old english carol, but the words were composed by poet Christina rossetti (1830-1894) and set to music by Gustav Holst in 1906. the poem contrasts the harsh and bitter cold of winter with the warmth and splendor of the birth of Jesus. But the last verse focuses on the listeners, asking us to give him our hearts as gifts in return for his sacrifice. in this tranquil arrangement by Branwell Tovey, the orchestra captures winter’s icy chill and the quiet stillness of a snowy landscape. Yet, it also conveys the triumph that the birth of a savior represents for Christians.
SLeiGH ride
Composed for Arthur Fiedler’s orchestra, Sleigh ride is a fast, joyful, and uniquely American celebration of winter, romance, and friendship. The melody glides along as sleigh bells and wood blocks help us imagine the energetic clopping of the horses. The innovative use of additional percussion instruments, a jazz band, and even a trumpet imitating the neighing of a horse are now among the most iconic sounds of Christmas music for American listeners.
HArk tHe Her ALd AnGeLS SinG
We conclude our concert with a grand arrangement of “Hark the Herald Angels Sing” by tedd ricketts. rich with brass fanfares and shimmering strings, this arrangement presents the beloved carol with a modern, cinematic flair befitting the triumphant singing of herald angels and the joy of Christmas.
S Pe C i AL t h A nk S
Angela Reagans & Foster Middle School Choir
Annamarie Cowart
ArtsLongview
City of Longview
City of Longview Cultural Activities Advisory Committee
Forbes & Butler
Greater Longview Children’s Choir
Jo Popma & James Smith
Jim Nolet
Jonathan Kaan
Lads & Ladies of the Symphony
LeTourneau University Foundation
LeTourneau University Belcher Center Staff
Longview Symphony Foundation
David Luna
Maryah McHam & Ben Shepherd
Melody McMullen & Longview High School Choir
Michael Cavazos
Patrick Hill
Kevin Richardson
Paul Roberts
Santa Flavious
Shawn Hara
Ty Hood
Visit Longview
Special Thanks to our Main Lobby Performers!
Foster Middle School Choir under the Direction of Angela Reagans
Maryah Mcham & ben Shepherd
S Pe C i AL g ue S tS
Melody McMullen is a proud Longview native and a 1994 graduate of Pine Tree High School. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education from Stephen F. Austin State University and continued graduate work in Choral Conducting. Melody began her teaching and performing career in Houston, working in Cypress-Fairbanks ISD and with the Houston Grand Opera before returning home to East Texas in 2006.
She’s taught at Pine Tree High School, spent a year in the Dallas area (before deciding she’s truly an East Texas girl at heart), and later taught in Gilmer for four years. Melody has now led the Lobo Choir at Longview High School for six wonderful years.
Her choirs have earned consistent UIL Sweepstakes honors and have sung on some incredible stages: Johnson Space Center, EPCOT, Dallas Mavericks games, Carnegie Hall, and most recently, the American Cemetery in Normandy, France for the 80th Anniversary of D-Day — a moment she will never forget.
Outside the classroom, Melody is a sought-after professional vocalist across North and East Texas. When she’s not making music, you can usually find her loving on her cats, scrolling TikTok, devouring a good book, catching up on sleep, or enjoying time with her favorite people.
S Pe C i AL t h A nk S tO
Longview High School Choir
Cordell Allen
Jose Andujar-Santiago
Kaleigh Beall
Brielle Beene
nasya Bowers
iyanah Bradley
Alexia Brown
Jade Brown
daniela Castillo
de'nicco Chavis
Autumn Civitarese
Brooklyn Constant
Sanaah daniels
Areyana duran-rivera
Aurora Egbe
Meranda Ellis
Eles Fletcher
Khloe Ghant-Ross
Faith Glass
Anthony Gutierrez
Grant Hall
erika Hayes
isaiah Haynes
micah Haynes
Jerimiah Henderson
kevaya Henderson
mark Hernandez
kamryn Holmes Henry
Jaimee Houston
Alicia Hughes
Eliana Jackson
Owen Jackson
Chrizma Jeter
Elijah Johnson
Elyana Johnson
Zoie Johnson
Kynzie Jones
m'Cayla Jones
Karmen King
Ariyaa Lathan
ka'ni Lewis
Skylar Lewis
Taraji Lewis
Ariel Lizcano
Odalys Lopez Rivera
Joseph Lopez
Amaria Lovely
Brandon Luciano
Leah Lusk
McKenzie Lyons
Janii Madden Moody
Camila Malpica-Ramire
mar'Chella miller
MaKenzie Motley
Makayla Myles
Jade nichols
tiarra norris
dekyren Palmer
Reason Panta
Fayth Pason
Kyriah Peoples
Aa'Ziyha Perry
Landon Polhans
da'kameon Pryor
Kyla Ramsour
demitreya robbinson
Catherine Rodriguez
Rheagan Saintignan
Brianna Sanchez
Presley Savell
isabel Segura
mia Sheffield
isaiah Smith
Javonceya Smith
Jovanni Sosa
Macy Stroman
A'laijauh Survia
Kerah Survia
Kevion Templeton
Zy'Aja Washington
Zoe Wiggins
Zanyah Williams
kaitlyn Wingfield
SP e C i AL gue S t S
Our mission at the Greater Longview Children’s Choir Association is to provide quality choral music education to children in the greater Longview area. We offer two choir classes to accommodate all levels of singing. The Prelude Choir is designed to introduce children to the vocal and musical skills required for classical choral singing. The Concert Choir aims to provide an advanced choral opportunity for students with a musical background. Through the dedication of experienced choral teachers along with continued support from the community, the Greater Longview Children's Choir looks forward to growing and serving many more children in the years to come.
We are grateful to the Longview Symphony Orchestra for their generous support and encouragement. We are especially appreciative to LSO for the opportunity to contribute joyful holiday singing in a professional environment.
S Pe C i AL t h A nk S tO
Greater Longview Children’s Choir
Pre Lu D e Ch O ir
Meredith Ramos, Director
Olivia Edwards, Assistant Director
Liliana Finch, Assistant Director
david Luna, Pianist
Rhys Barr
Sophia deleon
Clara Elrod
Alessandra Garcia
Coraline Lewis
Josiah Lewis
Myla Ramos
Audra Ross
Timothy Rossouw
Wiley Sims
Ellie Smith
vivian Smith
Charlie Stillwell
Adelyn Warren
vivian Winchell
CO n C ert Ch O ir
dr. Lynette vincent, Director
Macey Pool, Assistant Director
Analicia Turner, Assistant Director
david Luna, Pianist
Elora Crosson
Cathryn Fatheree
Emalynn Fatheree
Peyton Fatheree
Anabel Lewis
Lenox Lewis
Kaliana Marr
Brenna Mettler
nathan mettler
Skylar Mireles
Elijah Ramos
Gloriana Rite
Ayva Tapia
Asa Thompson
Rebecca Thompson
Ryker Thompson
Clara Winchell
Emily Zhu
Longview Symphony
L O ng V iew Sy MP h O ny
Legacy Endowment
would you like to provide a lasting remembrance for a loved one who shared or continues to share your love of beautiful music?
The Longview Symphony Legacy Endowment was created to improve the quality of the performances and to support the growth and development of the orchestra. The interest earned supplements the current operating budget.
If you are interested in creating an enduring legacy for your beloved friend or family member, contact the Longview Symphony office, 903-236-9739.
Get Involved with the Longview Symphony Guild!
The mission of our Lads & Ladies g ui L d is to support the Longview Symphony Orchestra (LSO) by promoting its organization and events while fostering the art of music through community projects. We invite anyone who is interested to join us – no auditions or musical talent required! We share an enthusiasm and appreciation of the LSO’s contributions to our cultural and educational landscape.
He R e’s w H at we d o: s ocial e vents | a ssist with Fundraising e fforts | Community o utreach | volunteer s upport for Concerts | e ducational o utreach | Post-concert Receptions
Please contact Niki Groce at 903-736-9531 or email ngroce@longviewsymphony.org for more information.
Each year Longview Symphony is proud to sponsor Santa's (and Mrs.Claus) Float in the Downtown Longview AMBUCS Christmas Parade! This Float is always made extra bright and merry from our friends at Longview Lights!
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