2014-15 Houston Symphony Season Brochure

CONDUCTING

ELECTRICITY 2014–15: The Inaugural Season of Music Director Andrés Orozco-Estrada

A baton rises. Silence falls. Excitement builds.

In an instant, the full force of 87 talented musicians is unleashed.

You feel the music. The experience is grand, yet the performance is intimate.

There’s a connection between everything. The conductor to the musicians.

The musicians to the audience. The audience to the music.

And as the final note sounds and the roar of the audience fades, you realize you’ve just experienced something special.

You’ve just experienced the Houston Symphony.

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It begins.

I’m thrilled to become part of this vibrant city and 100-year tradition here at the Houston Symphony. My goal is to build upon the foundation that has been built by our incredible orchestra, chorus, volunteers and you, our patrons. Every time I walk onto the stage to rehearse and perform with these musicians, I feel something extraordinary. I hope to share this infectious spirit with you. We have a tremendous opportunity to perform music of the greats, as well as music of today from various corners of the world. I’m especially excited about my "Musically Speaking" series and exploring music together.

Andrés Orozco-Estrada Music Director Roy and Lillie Cullen Chair

houstonsymphony.org

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2014–15 SEASON HIGHLIGHTS

Itzhak Perlman, conductor and violin

Andrea Bocelli, vocalist

EVENTS NOT TO BE MISSED 2ND ANNUAL FREE DAY OF MUSIC

Bernadette Peters, vocalist

July 12, 2014

3 WEEKS OF BEETHOVEN November 14–30, 2014

Day of Music 2013

ANDREA BOCELLI AT TOYOTA CENTER December 10, 2014

ITZHAK PERLMAN

February 12–15, 2015

BERNADETTE PETERS

CONTENTS:

February 13, 2015

SEASON HIGHLIGHTS MOZART’S REQUIEM ANDRÉ WATTS SARAH CHANG

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HANS GRAF AS CONDUCTOR LAUREATE BEETHOVEN SYMPHONIES 1 & 4 JASON ALEXANDER AN EVENING OF COMEDY & SONG

BEETHOVEN’S FIFTH

SUTTON FOSTER BROADWAY'S LEADING LADY

VERDI’S REQUIEM

BLOCKBUSTER FILM SCORES

RACHMANINOFF’S SECOND PIANO CONCERTO

SCHOOL HOUSE ROCK! MUSIC FROM THE LION KING

¡Bienvenido, Andrés! Events..............................5 Symphony Specials............................................6 Subscriber Rewards...........................................7 Classical Season..........................................8–11 Classical Ticket Packages.........................12–17 POPS Season & Ticket Packages............18–19 Family Season..................................................20 Education & Community Programs................21 Your Concert Experience.................................22 Become a Donor..............................................23 Order Season Tickets................................26–27

¡BIENVENIDO, ANDRÉS! Andrés Orozco-Estrada, Music Director

Houston welcomes Andrés! Be part of the thrilling opening weekend of Andrés’ Inaugural Season as we welcome him as our 15th Music Director.

¡BIENVENIDO, ANDRÉS! CONCERT FREE COMMUNITY PERFORMANCE AT MILLER OUTDOOR THEATRE

OPENING NIGHT WITH ANDRÉS CONCERT & GALA AT JONES HALL AND THE CORINTHIAN

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Gabriela Montero, piano All of Houston is invited to Miller Outdoor Theatre for a free concert to celebrate and welcome Music Director Andrés Orozco-Estrada. Bring your family and join us under the stars as Andrés leads the orchestra through music of Colombia and America, complete with folk dancing and other festive elements. Also on the program, Venezuelan pianist Gabriela Montero dazzles you with Gershwin's Rhapsody in Blue. Don't miss this milestone event in the Symphony's history!

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Alison Balsom, trumpet Mozart: Overture to The Marriage of Figaro Haydn: Trumpet Concerto Mussorgsky/Ravel: Pictures at an Exhibition Saluting the official start of his Inaugural Season, Andrés leads the Opening Night concert with Alison Balsom, British trumpeter extraordinaire and recipient of the 2013 Gramophone Awards "Artist of the Year" title. The concert opens with Mozart’s delightful Overture to The Marriage of Figaro. Balsom performs Haydn's Trumpet Concerto, and the night concludes with Pictures at an Exhibition, Mussorgsky's ten-movement suite, in a brilliant orchestration by Maurice Ravel.

Friday, September 12, 2014, 8:30 pm

MUSICALLY SPEAKING WITH ANDRÉS

ANDRÉS 10-CONCERT PACKAGE Don’t miss any performances conducted by Andrés! Get all 10 concerts in one season ticket package. See page 17 for details.

An intimate concert experience focused on single works with commentary from Andrés Orozco-Estrada. ˇ and Shostakovich are the Bartók, Dvorák focus of our new "Musically Speaking with Andrés" format at Rice University's Stude Concert Hall. Subscribe to the "Musically Speaking" concert format with our 3-concert package or attend all Andrés-conducted performances of the 2014–15 Season with our 10-Concert Package.

Saturday, September 13, 2014, 7:30 pm

For more information on the Opening Night Gala please see page 25. Opening Night concert tickets go on sale to the general public on July 1, 2014.

FIESTA SINFONICA CON ANDRÉS FREE COMMUNITY PERFORMANCE AT JONES HALL Sunday, September 14, 2014, 6:00 pm

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Gabriela Montero, piano Our weekend-long "Bienvenido" celebration culminates with Andrés leading the orchestra for our annual free concert saluting Hispanic Heritage Month. Gabriela Montero, acclaimed Venezuelan pianist, performs Gershwin’s jazz-influenced Rhapsody in Blue. The New York Times describes Montero as "compelling, elegant, and incisive." Also on the program, hear sizzling danzas from Mexico, France and Colombia.

See page 17 for more details. houstonsymphony.org

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SYMPHONY SPECIALS

Symphony Specials are available to subscribers before the general public. Seats will go fast, so become a subscriber now to secure your place for these exclusive concerts.

39TH ANNUAL IMA HOGG COMPETITION FINALS CONCERT

HANDEL’S MESSIAH

December 19, 20, 2014, 8 pm December 21, 2014, 2:30 pm

May 31, 2014, 7:30 pm Rice University Stude Concert Hall

Helen P. Shaffer, chair The finals concert of the prestigious Houston Symphony Ima Hogg Competition is the exciting last step for musical competitors vying for prizes valued at more than $40,000 including the top award of $25,000. Hear them play concertos with the Houston Symphony, cast your vote for the audience choice award, and await the judges’ decisions that could help launch a young musician’s career.

For more information about how to support the Ima Hogg Competition visit houstonsymphony.org/ima2014 Tickets are on sale now to the general public.

2ND ANNUAL DAY OF MUSIC July 12, 2014, 10 am – 10 pm

We open our doors for the 2nd Annual Day of Music.

This day-long free summer event features dozens of performances representing Houston's diverse music community. Hear the orchestra play symphonic works, and enjoy an eclectic mix of jazz groups, rock bands, blues artists, ethnic ensembles, choral music and more. And you don't have to go far for lunch; experience the city's food truck scene just outside of Jones Hall.

BEN FOLDS

June 14, 2014, 7:30 pm

Lucas Waldin, conductor Ben Folds, singer/pianist Multi-talented singer-songwriter Ben Folds, who currently appears as a judge on NBC’s The Sing-Off, returns to rock out with the Houston Symphony, performing fan favorites from his career on the cutting edge of rock music.

Tickets go on sale to the general public on March 17, 2014.

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Alison Balsom, trumpet

OPENING NIGHT CONCERT WITH ANDRÉS September 13, 2014, 7:30 pm

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Alison Balsom, trumpet Mozart: Overture to The Marriage of Figaro Haydn: Trumpet Concerto Mussorgsky/Ravel: Pictures at an Exhibition Saluting the official start of his Inaugural Season, Andrés leads the Opening Night concert with Alison Balsom, British trumpeter extraordinaire and recipient of the 2013 Gramophone Awards "Artist of the Year" title. The concert opens with Mozart’s delightful Overture to The Marriage of Figaro. Balsom performs Haydn's Trumpet Concerto, and the night concludes with Pictures at an Exhibition, Mussorgsky's ten-movement suite, in a brilliant orchestration by Maurice Ravel.

For more information on the Opening Night Gala please see page 25. Opening Night concert tickets go on sale to the general public on July 1, 2014.

Christopher Warren Green, conductor Houston Symphony Chorus Charles Hausmann, director Handel: Messiah A fixture of the Houston holiday season, Handel's masterpiece Messiah is a transcendent and captivating program, featuring the orchestra, Chorus and guest soloists.

Experience classics like "Ev'ry Valley Shall Be Exalted," "O Thou That Tellest Good Tidings to Zion" and the timeless "Hallelujah."

Tickets go on sale to the general public on July 1, 2014.

BERNADETTE PETERS

February 13, 2015, 7:30 pm

Bernadette Peters, vocalist The seven-time Tony Award® winner Bernadette Peters, who has been headlining the Broadway stage for decades and whose screen credits include NBC's Smash and her Golden Globe® win for Pennies from Heaven, arrives in Houston just in time for Valentine's Day. She captivates you as the orchestra accompanies her in a dazzling performance of some of Broadway's best music.

Tickets go on sale to the general public on October 1, 2014.

ANDREA BOCELLI AT TOYOTA CENTER December 10, 2014

Eugene Kohn, conductor Andrea Bocelli, vocalist The Italian tenor and global superstar returns to Houston for one night only at the Toyota Center. Witness the unforgettable Andrea Bocelli and his unrivaled, moving voice. Bocelli joins the orchestra to perform new songs from his latest release Love in Portofino, along with soaring arias, famed loved songs and hits like "Time to Say Goodbye."

Subscribe now for access to these Symphony Specials.

Bernadette Peters, vocalist

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See page 23 for more details.

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2014–15 CLASSICAL SEASON 2 SARAH CHANG PLUS COPLAND

4 RAVEL AND DEBUSSY

Cristian Macelaru, conductor Sarah Chang, violin Karim Al-Zand: City Scenes Barber: Violin Concerto Copland: Symphony No. 3 Touted by The New York Times as "technically brilliant, lively and characterful," Sarah Chang has been captivating audiences since her New York Philharmonic debut at age eight. The Korean-American violinist performs Barber’s intensely lyrical Violin Concerto on this program, which also features Al-Zand's three-part, urban-inspired City Scenes and Copland's Symphony No. 3. Experience a glorious variation on the Fanfare for the Common Man in the Symphony’s fourth movement.

Hans Graf, conductor Jon Kimura Parker, piano Ravel: Mother Goose – complete ballet music Ravel: Piano Concerto in G major Debussy: Images Peer through a musical kaleidoscope as Conductor Laureate Hans Graf leads a program full of French imagery and evocative melodies. Ravel’s Mother Goose epitomizes his light and colorful musical style while Debussy’s trilogy Images explores colorful landscapes including Ibéria, complete with castanets and orchestral effects reminiscent of a Spanish guitar. Also hear worldclass pianist and Houston favorite Jon Kimura Parker in Ravel’s jazzy Piano Concerto.

October 2, 4, 5, 2014

André Watts, piano

1 WATTS PLAYS RACHMANINOFF September 19, 20, 21, 2014

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor André Watts, piano Gabriela Lena Frank: Houston Symphony Commission, World Premiere Rachmaninoff: Piano Concerto No. 2 R. Strauss: Ein Heldenleben (A Hero’s Life) Renowned pianist André Watts returns to Houston to perform Rachmaninoff’s deeply romantic Piano Concerto No. 2. Enduringly popular since its 1901 debut, the concerto’s themes have found fame in movies such as Brief Encounter, The Seven Year Itch and the popular song "All by Myself." Music Director Andrés OrozcoEstrada also leads the heroic symphonic tone poem Ein Heldenleben by R. Strauss.

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3 SCHEHERAZADE

October 17, 18, 19, 2014

Jakub Hruša, conductor ˚ Denis Kozhukhin, piano Prokofiev: Piano Concerto No. 2 Rimsky-Korsakov: Scheherazade Musical storytelling at its best, Rimsky-Korsakov’s Scheherazade captivates and seduces with vibrant tales of Arabian nights. Let your imagination soar as dazzling symphonic sounds portray Scheherazade’s stories that captured the Sultan’s curiosity and admiration. Plus, hear young Russian pianist and winner of the 2010 Queen Elisabeth Competition Denis Kozhukhin perform Prokofiev’s virtuosic Piano Concerto No. 2.

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October 23, 25, 26, 2014

Sarah Chang, violin

6 MOZART’S REQUIEM

8 MOZART AND SHOSTAKOVICH

November 20, 22, 23, 2014

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Christina and Michelle Naughton, piano Mendelssohn: The Fair Melusina Mozart: Concerto for Two Pianos Shostakovich: Symphony No. 12, The Year 1917 Twin sisters Christina and Michelle Naughton share the Jones Hall stage to perform Mozart’s Concerto for Two Pianos. Watch and listen in awe as the duo exchanges musical dialogue across the two pianos in this light and playful concerto. Next, experience a rare performance of Shostakovich’s intense and expansive Symphony No. 12, The Year 1917.

PLUS BEETHOVEN

3 WEEKS OF BEETHOVEN Experience Part I of a three-season cycle of all nine Beethoven symphonies with three weeks of music by the legendary composer, including the powerful Fifth Symphony.

5 BEETHOVEN’S FIFTH November 14, 15, 16, 2014

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Frank Huang, violin Gabriela Lena Frank: Three Latin American Dances Lalo: Symphonie espagnole Beethoven: Symphony No. 5 Hear the opening four-note, attention-grabbing theme of Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony, and you’ll instantly know why it is considered one of the most influential pieces of music ever written. This performance kicks off 3 Weeks of Beethoven with Andrés Orozco-Estrada and begins a three-year cycle of all nine Beethoven symphonies.

Also, experience Lalo’s Symphonie espagnole, which features brilliant Spanish violin melodies performed by Concertmaster Frank Huang.

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Houston Symphony Chorus Charles Hausmann, director Beethoven: Overture to Coriolan Beethoven: Overture to Egmont Brahms: Schicksalslied (Song of Destiny) Mozart: Requiem Opening with two Beethoven overtures and concluding with Mozart’s Requiem, Music Director Andrés OrozcoEstrada leads the Houston Symphony and Chorus in a program exuding drama and heroism. The Requiem, Mozart's final composition, remains one of his most compelling and impactful masterpieces. Capturing the essence of Mozart’s musical genius, it expresses intense emotion, both powerful and serene.

7 BEETHOVEN 1 & 4

November 28, 29, 30, 2014

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Brinton Averil Smith, cello Beethoven: Symphony No. 1 Schumann: Cello Concerto Beethoven: Symphony No. 4 Bring your family and friends this Thanksgiving weekend and give thanks for Beethoven. The composer’s First and Fourth Symphonies combine his compositional style coupled with nods to Mozart and Haydn’s spirited Classical tradition. Principal Cellist Brinton Averil Smith performs Schumann’s Cello Concerto, which was described by legendary cellist Pablo Casals as "sublime music from beginning to end."

January 15, 17, 18, 2015

Note: The Thursday program only includes Shostakovich's Symphony No. 12, along with musical commentary. See page 17 for more information.

9 MOZART’S THE ABDUCTION FROM THE SERAGLIO January 23, 25, 2015

OPERA IN CONCERT

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Opera in Concert with international soloists and in collaboration with Shepherd School and Moores School of Music Mozart: Die Entführung aus dem Serail (The Abduction from the Seraglio) Laugh along to Mozart’s humorous The Abduction from the Seraglio, filled with colorful and exotic musical themes. The Symphony and guest vocalists portray a classic damselin-distress story in this Opera-in-Concert performance.

Captured by Turkish pirates, an affluent Spanish woman awaits her fate – will her fiancé come to rescue her, or will she forever belong to the Pasha's harem?

Note: Saturday subscribers attend on Friday.

Notates a "Musically Speaking with Andrés" concert at Rice University's Stude Hall. See page 17 for additional information. houstonsymphony.org

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2014–15 CLASSICAL SEASON 10 PERLMAN PLAYS & CONDUCTS

ˇ 12 COPLAND AND DVORÁK

14 MOZART'S SYMPHONY NO. 39

Itzhak Perlman, conductor and violin Bach: Violin Concerto No. 2 Weber: Overture to Oberon Schubert: Symphony No. 9, The Great Legendary violinist Itzhak Perlman doubly impresses as he plays violin and conducts the orchestra. Since his rise to fame as a child prodigy, the Israeli-American violinist has performed in nearly every major concert hall around the world and even on TV in Sesame Street.

With his emotion-filled, expressive musicianship, Perlman performs Bach’s Violin Concerto No. 2 and then conducts Schubert’s monumental and majestic Symphony No. 9, The Great.

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Martin Fröst, clarinet Ives: Symphony No. 1 Copland: Clarinet Concerto Goran Fröst: Klezmer Dances for Clarinet and Strings Dvorák: Symphony No. 7 ˇ Swedish clarinetist Martin Fröst was described by The New York Times as "a kinetic player with a vivid interpretive imagination and a sharply focused, warm tone." Hear this riveting clarinetist perform Copland’s Clarinet Concerto followed by thrilling Klezmer-style ˇ music. Also enjoy Dvorák’s Symphony No. 7, which explores a range of tonalities from grandeur and tragedy to pastoral reflection.

Gilbert Varga, conductor Augustin Hadelich, violin Mendelssohn: Overture to A Midsummer Night's Dream Bartók: Violin Concerto No. 2 Mozart: Symphony No. 39 In contrast to the worldly troubles that surrounded him, Mozart’s Symphony No. 39 is a delightful composition with an optimistic spirit. Violinist Augustin Hadelich shares Mozart’s spirit of perseverance. Grab your ticket and witness why, according to the Houston Chronicle, Hadelich’s last performance at Jones Hall "exerted the kind of excitement that threatens to lift the listener right out of his seat." Journey to the land of forbidden love with Mendelssohn's Overture to A Midsummer Night's Dream, Shakespeare's beloved play, with its invigorating instrumental effects.

February 12, 14, 15, 2015

Rochelle & Max Levit, Underwriter

11 GRAF CONDUCTS SCHUMANN February 20, 21, 22, 2015

Hans Graf, conductor Lise de la Salle, piano Hindemith: Konzertmusik for Strings and Brass Saint-Saëns: Piano Concerto No. 2 Schumann: Symphony No. 3, Rhenish Inspired by the Rhineland and the majestic Cologne Cathedral in Germany, Schumann’s Symphony No. 3, Rhenish, is emotive, lyrical and uplifting. Returning to the Jones Hall podium, Conductor Laureate Hans Graf is joined on stage by young French pianist Lise de la Salle, who performs Saint-Säens’ Piano Concerto No. 2. A rising star in classical music, The New York Times stated, "Ms. de la Salle is eminently musical; she offers depth as well as virtuosity."

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March 12, 14, 15, 2015

ˇ Note: The Thursday program only includes Dvorák’s Symphony No. 7, along with musical commentary. See page 17 for additional information.

13 VERDI’S REQUIEM March 20, 21, 22, 2015

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Houston Symphony Chorus Charles Hausmann, director Verdi: Requiem When Verdi’s Requiem was first performed in 1874, it was monumental and groundbreaking because it combined the dramatic qualities of an opera with traditional religious music. Hear feelings of loss and sorrow in the hair-raising "Dies irae" theme as well as joyful praises, angelic voices and sublime melodies throughout this powerful performance by the Symphony and Chorus.

March 26, 28, 29, 2015

Itzhak Perlman, conductor and violin

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, Music Director

15 OHLSSON PLAYS CHOPIN

17 BEETHOVEN AND BARTÓK

Robert Spano, conductor Garrick Ohlsson, piano Jennifer Higdon: Blue Cathedral Chopin: Piano Concerto No. 1 Jennifer Higdon: Concerto for Orchestra The orchestra opens the program with Blue Cathedral by Higdon, who The New York Times proclaims as "one of the greatest of the newer composers." We then feature Garrick Ohlsson, a "titan among the titans of the piano" when he performs Chopin’s Piano Concerto No. 1. By the end of his career in 1849, Chopin had become history’s most prolific composer of the piano repertoire with music that gracefully captures the heart and soul of the instrument. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear piano "titan" Garrick Ohlsson perform this beautifully expressive concerto by Chopin.

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor James Ehnes, violin Beethoven: Violin Concerto Bartók: Concerto for Orchestra Listen as James Ehnes soars through melodies in one of the most profound works of the violin repertoire, Beethoven’s glorious Violin Concerto. Returning for a repeat appearance with the Houston Symphony, discover why the Houston Chronicle proclaimed "Ehnes again proved notable not only for technical proficiency, but also for the warmth and understanding of his playing." Also experience the incredible virtuosity of each instrument in Bartók’s Concerto for Orchestra.

April 17, 18, 19, 2015

May 7, 9, 10, 2015

Note: The Thursday progam only includes Bartók’s Concerto for Orchestra, along with musical commentary. See page 17 for additional information.

16 BEETHOVEN

18 ANDRÉS CONDUCTS MAHLER 3

April 30, May 2, 3, 2015

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Women of the Houston Symphony Chorus Charles Hausmann, director Mahler: Symphony No. 3 Don’t miss this season finale performance led by Andrés Orozco-Estrada! Mahler once said, "A symphony must be like the world. It must embrace everything." In his colossal Symphony No. 3, Mahler explores the power and beauty of nature through the colorful sounds of the orchestra. Hear how many different nature sounds you can detect during this spectacular Symphony.

PIANO CONCERTO NO. 1 Jun Märkl, conductor Benjamin Grosvenor, piano Berlioz: Le Corsaire Beethoven: Piano Concerto No. 1 Saint-Saëns: Symphony No. 3, Organ Symphony German-Japanese conductor Jun Märkl and young British pianist Benjamin Grosvenor, who won the BBC Young Musician Competition, both make their Houston Symphony debuts. Hear Berlioz’s riveting overture Le Corsaire, about the imagined dangers and excitement of a pirate's life. Grosvenor joins the orchestra for Beethoven’s lively and bold Piano Concerto No. 1, and the program concludes with the rafter-shaking effect of Saint-Saëns’ Symphony No. 3, Organ Symphony.

Garrick Ohlsson, piano

May 15, 16, 17, 2015

Notates a "Musically Speaking with Andrés" concert at Rice University's Stude Hall. See page 17 for additional information.

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CLASSICAL CONCERT PACKAGES Choose an 18-, 9- or 6-concert package. Or, select a specialty package of concerts in Sugar Land, those with audio/visual enhancement, or a special collection of concerts with new Music Director Andrés Orozco-Estrada.

Classical concerts are Thursday/ Friday at 8 pm, Saturday at 8 pm and Sunday at 2:30 pm.

"Musically Speaking" concerts are Thursdays at 7:30 pm. Please see page 17 for additional information.

Frank Huang, concertmaster

CLASSICAL 18-CONCERT PACKAGE

Subscribe to all 18 Classical concerts, the best value and ultimate Houston Symphony experience. Performances are on Thursday/Friday, Saturday or Sunday. Purchase all 18 concerts and save up to 30% off the cost of individual tickets.

CLASSICAL 9-CONCERT PACKAGES

FIRE 9 concerts on Friday, Saturday or Sunday

1 WATTS PLAYS RACHMANINOFF September 19, 20, 21, 2014

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor André Watts, piano Gabriela Lena Frank: Houston Symphony Commission, World Premiere Rachmaninoff: Piano Concerto No. 2 R. Strauss: Ein Heldenleben (A Hero’s Life)

2 SCHEHERAZADE

October 17, 18, 19, 2014

Jakub Hruša, conductor ˚ Denis Kozhukhin, piano Prokofiev: Piano Concerto No. 2 Rimsky-Korsakov: Scheherazade

3 BEETHOVEN’S FIFTH

November 14, 15, 16, 2014

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Frank Huang, violin Gabriela Lena Frank: Three Latin American Dances Lalo: Symphonie espagnole Beethoven: Symphony No. 5

4 BEETHOVEN 1 & 4

November 28, 29, 30, 2014

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Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Brinton Averil Smith, cello Beethoven: Symphony No. 1 Schumann: Cello Concerto Beethoven: Symphony No. 4

5 MOZART’S THE ABDUCTION FROM THE SERAGLIO January 23, 25, 2015

OPERA IN CONCERT

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Opera in Concert with international soloists and in collaboration with Shepherd School and Moores School of Music Mozart: Die Entführung aus dem Serail (The Abduction from the Seraglio) Note: Saturday subscribers attend on Friday.

6 GRAF CONDUCTS SCHUMANN February 20, 21, 22, 2015

Hans Graf, conductor Lise de la Salle, piano Hindemith: Konzertmusik for Strings and Brass Saint-Saëns: Piano Concerto No. 2 Schumann: Symphony No. 3, Rhenish

7 VERDI’S REQUIEM

March 20, 21, 22, 2015

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Houston Symphony Chorus Charles Hausmann, director Verdi: Requiem

8 OHLSSON PLAYS CHOPIN April 17, 18, 19, 2015

Robert Spano, conductor Garrick Ohlsson, piano Jennifer Higdon: Blue Cathedral Chopin: Piano Concerto No. 1 Jennifer Higdon: Concerto for Orchestra

9 ANDRÉS CONDUCTS MAHLER 3 May 15, 16, 17, 2015

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Women of the Houston Symphony Chorus Charles Hausmann, director Mahler: Symphony No. 3

SPECTRUM

5 PERLMAN PLAYS & CONDUCTS

8 BEETHOVEN PIANO CONCERTO NO. 1

9 concerts on Thursday, Saturday or Sunday

Itzhak Perlman, conductor and violin Bach: Violin Concerto No. 2 Weber: Overture to Oberon Schubert: Symphony No. 9, The Great

Jun Märkl, conductor Benjamin Grosvenor, piano Berlioz: Le Corsaire Beethoven: Piano Concerto No. 1 Saint-Saëns: Symphony No. 3, Organ Symphony

1 SARAH CHANG PLUS COPLAND October 2, 4, 5, 2014

Cristian Macelaru, conductor Sarah Chang, violin Karim Al-Zand: City Scenes Barber: Violin Concerto Copland: Symphony No. 3

2 RAVEL AND DEBUSSY October 23, 25, 26, 2014

Hans Graf, conductor Jon Kimura Parker, piano Ravel: Mother Goose – complete ballet music Ravel: Piano Concerto in G major Debussy: Images

April 30, May 2, 3, 2015

February 12, 14, 15, 2015

ˇ 6 COPLAND AND DVORÁK

9 BEETHOVEN AND BARTÓK

March 12, 14, 15, 2015

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Martin Fröst, clarinet Ives: Symphony No. 1 Copland: Clarinet Concerto Goran Fröst: Klezmer Dances for Clarinet and Strings Dvorák: Symphony No. 7 ˇ ˇ Note: The Thursday program only includes Dvorák’s Symphony No. 7, along with musical commentary. See page 17 for additional information.

3 MOZART’S REQUIEM PLUS BEETHOVEN

7 MOZART'S SYMPHONY NO. 39

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Houston Symphony Chorus Charles Hausmann, director Beethoven: Overture to Coriolan Beethoven: Overture to Egmont Brahms: Schicksalslied (Song of Destiny) Mozart: Requiem

Gilbert Varga, conductor Augustin Hadelich, violin Mendelssohn: Overture to A Midsummer Night's Dream Bartók: Violin Concerto No. 2 Mozart: Symphony No. 39

November 20, 22, 23, 2014

March 26, 28, 29, 2015

May 7, 9, 10, 2015

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor James Ehnes, violin Beethoven: Violin Concerto Bartók: Concerto for Orchestra Note: Thursday progam only includes Bartók’s Concerto for Orchestra, along with musical commentary. See page 17 for additional information.

Notates a "Musically Speaking with Andrés" concert at Rice University's Stude Concert Hall. See page 17 for additional information.

4 MOZART AND SHOSTAKOVICH January 15, 17, 18, 2015

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Christina and Michelle Naughton, piano Mendelssohn: The Fair Melusina Mozart: Concerto for Two Pianos Shostakovich: Symphony No. 12, The Year 1917 Note: The Thursday program only includes Shostakovich's Symphony No. 12, along with musical commentary. See page 17 for additional information.

Save up to 30% when you subscribe! houstonsymphony.org

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CLASSICAL 6-CONCERT PACKAGES

FROST BANK GOLD CLASSICS 6 concerts on Thursday, Saturday or Sunday

1 SARAH CHANG PLUS COPLAND October 2, 4, 5, 2014

Cristian Macelaru, conductor Sarah Chang, violin Karim Al-Zand: City Scenes Barber: Violin Concerto Copland: Symphony No. 3

2 RAVEL AND DEBUSSY October 23, 25, 26, 2014

Hans Graf, conductor Jon Kimura Parker, piano Ravel: Mother Goose – complete ballet music Ravel: Piano Concerto in G major Debussy: Images

3 MOZART’S REQUIEM PLUS BEETHOVEN November 20, 22, 23, 2014

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Houston Symphony Chorus Charles Hausmann, director Beethoven: Overture to Coriolan Beethoven: Overture to Egmont Brahms: Schicksalslied (Song of Destiny) Mozart: Requiem

4 PERLMAN PLAYS & CONDUCTS February 12, 14, 15, 2015

Itzhak Perlman, conductor and violin Bach: Violin Concerto No. 2 Weber: Overture to Oberon Schubert: Symphony No. 9, The Great

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ˇ 5 COPLAND AND DVORÁK March 12, 14, 15, 2015

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Martin Fröst, clarinet Ives: Symphony No. 1 Copland: Clarinet Concerto Goran Fröst: Klezmer Dances for Clarinet and Strings Dvorák: Symphony No. 7 Note: The Thursday program only includes Dvorák’s Symphony No. 7, along with musical commentary. See page 17 for additional information.

6 BEETHOVEN AND BARTÓK May 7, 9, 10, 2015

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor James Ehnes, violin Beethoven: Violin Concerto Bartók: Concerto for Orchestra Note: The Thursday progam only includes Bartók’s Concerto for Orchestra, along with musical commentary. See page 17 for additional information.

SHELL FAVORITE MASTERS ˚ 6 concerts on Friday, Saturday or Sunday

1 SCHEHERAZADE

October 17, 18, 19, 2014

Jakub Hruša, conductor Denis Kozhukhin, piano Prokofiev: Piano Concerto No. 2 Rimsky-Korsakov: Scheherazade

2 BEETHOVEN’S FIFTH

November 14, 15, 16, 2014

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Frank Huang, violin Gabriela Lena Frank: Three Latin American Dances Lalo: Symphonie espagnole Beethoven: Symphony No. 5

Jon Kimura Parker

3 MOZART’S THE ABDUCTION FROM THE SERAGLIO January 23, 25, 2015

OPERA IN CONCERT

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Opera in Concert with international soloists and in collaboration with Shepherd School and Moores School of Music Mozart: Die Entführung aus dem Serail (The Abduction from the Seraglio) Note: Saturday subscribers attend on Friday.

4 GRAF CONDUCTS SCHUMANN February 20, 21, 22, 2015

Hans Graf, conductor Lise de la Salle, piano Hindemith: Konzertmusik for Strings and Brass Saint-Saëns: Piano Concerto No. 2 Schumann: Symphony No. 3, Rhenish

5 VERDI’S REQUIEM

March 20, 21, 22, 2015

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Houston Symphony Chorus Charles Hausmann, director Verdi: Requiem

6 ANDRÉS CONDUCTS MAHLER 3 May 15, 16, 17, 2015

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Women of the Houston Symphony Chorus Charles Hausmann, Director Mahler: Symphony No. 3

GREAT PERFORMERS 6 concerts on Thursday/Friday, Saturday or Sunday

1 WATTS PLAYS RACHMANINOFF September 19, 20, 21, 2014

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor André Watts, piano Gabriela Lena Frank, Houston Symphony Commission, World Premiere Rachmaninoff: Piano Concerto No. 2 R. Strauss: Ein Heldenleben (A Hero’s Life)

2 BEETHOVEN 1 & 4

November 28, 29, 30, 2014

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Brinton Averil Smith, cello Beethoven: Symphony No. 1 Schumann: Cello Concerto Beethoven: Symphony No. 4

3 MOZART AND SHOSTAKOVICH January 15, 17, 18, 2015

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Christina and Michelle Naughton, piano Mendelssohn: The Fair Melusina Mozart: Concerto for Two Pianos Shostakovich: Symphony No. 12, The Year 1917

CLASSICAL CONCERT PACKAGES

5 MOZART'S SYMPHONY NO. 39 March 26, 28, 29, 2015

Gilbert Varga, conductor Augustin Hadelich, violin Mendelssohn: Overture to A Midsummer Night's Dream Bartók: Violin Concerto No. 2 Mozart: Symphony No. 39 ˇ

5 OHLSSON PLAYS CHOPIN April 17, 18, 19, 2015

ˇ

Robert Spano, conductor Garrick Ohlsson, piano Jennifer Higdon: Blue Cathedral Chopin: Piano Concerto No. 1 Jennifer Higdon: Concerto for Orchestra

6 BEETHOVEN PIANO CONCERTO NO. 1 April 30, May 2, 3, 2015

Jun Märkl, conductor Benjamin Grosvenor, piano Berlioz: Le Corsaire Beethoven: Piano Concerto No. 1 Saint-Saëns: Symphony No. 3, Organ Symphony

(CONTINUED)

Choose an 18-, 9- or 6-concert package. Or, select a specialty package of concerts in Sugar Land, those with audio/visual enhancement or a special collection of concerts with new Music Director Andrés Orozco-Estrada.

Classical concerts are Thursday/ Friday at 8 pm, Saturday at 8 pm and Sunday at 2:30 pm.

"Musically Speaking" concerts are Thursdays at 7:30 pm. Please see page 17 for additional information.

Note: The Thursday program only includes Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 12, along with musical commentary. See page 17 for additional information.

Notates a "Musically Speaking with Andrés" concert at Rice University's Stude Concert Hall.

See page 17 for additional information.

Augustin Hadelich, violin

James Ehnes, violin

houstonsymphony.org

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CLASSICAL CONCERT PACKAGES (CONTINUED)

Choose an 18-, 9- or 6-concert package. Or, select a specialty package of concerts in Sugar Land, those with audio/visual enhancement or a special collection of concerts with new Music Director Andrés Orozco-Estrada.

Classical concerts are Thursday/ Friday at 8 pm, Saturday at 8 pm and Sunday at 2:30 pm.

"Musically Speaking" concerts are Thursdays at 7:30 pm. Please see page 17 for additional information.

Wayne Brooks, viola Andrés Orozco-Estrada, Music Director

SOUND PLUS VISION

5 OHLSSON PLAYS CHOPIN

6 concerts on Thursday/Friday, Saturday or Sunday These concerts combine music with concert video, dialogue, visual images or special lighting.

Robert Spano, conductor Garrick Ohlsson, piano Jennifer Higdon: Blue Cathedral Chopin: Piano Concerto No. 1 Jennifer Higdon: Concerto for Orchestra

Please note that "SoundPlusVision" subscribers sit in different seats at each concert.

1 SARAH CHANG PLUS COPLAND

April 17, 18, 19, 2015

6 BEETHOVEN AND BARTÓK

October 2, 4, 5, 2014

May 7, 9, 10, 2015

Cristian Macelaru, conductor Sarah Chang, violin Karim Al-Zand: City Scenes Barber: Violin Concerto Copland: Symphony No. 3

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor James Ehnes, violin Beethoven: Violin Concerto Bartók: Concerto for Orchestra

2 RAVEL AND DEBUSSY

Note: Thursday progam only includes Bartók’s Concerto for Orchestra, along with musical commentary. See page 17 for additional information.

Hans Graf, conductor Jon Kimura Parker, piano Ravel: Mother Goose – complete ballet music Ravel: Piano Concerto in G major Debussy: Images

The "SoundPlusVision" series is sponsored by Margaret Alkek Williams and supported in part by The Cullen Trust for the Performing Arts Endowed Fund for Creative Initiatives.

October 23, 25, 26, 2014

3 MOZART’S REQUIEM PLUS BEETHOVEN November 20, 22, 23, 2014

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Houston Symphony Chorus Charles Hausmann, director Beethoven: Overture to Coriolan Beethoven: Overture to Egmont Brahms: Schicksalslied (Song of Destiny) Mozart: Requiem

4 MOZART’S THE ABDUCTION FROM THE SERAGLIO January 23, 25, 2015

SUGAR LAND SERIES 1 BEETHOVEN’S FIFTH November 13, 2014

OPERA IN CONCERT

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Opera in Concert with international soloists and in collaboration with Shepherd School and Moores School of Music Mozart: Die Entführung aus dem Serail (The Abduction from the Seraglio) Note: Saturday subscribers attend on Friday.

Video enhancement of Houston Symphony concerts is made possible by the Albert and Ethel Herzstein Charitable Foundation.

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Frank Huang, violin Gabriela Lena Frank: Three Latin American Dances Lalo: Symphonie espagnole Beethoven: Symphony No. 5

2 HANDEL’S MESSIAH December 18, 2014

Christopher Warren Green, conductor Houston Symphony Chorus Charles Hausmann, director Handel: Messiah

3 BLOCKBUSTER FILM SCORES March 5, 2015

Michael Krajewski, conductor 16

POPS CONCERT! SEE PAGE 19

Subscribe today to get the best seats at the best prices!

ANDRÉS SUBSCRIPTION PACKAGES

3 MOZART’S REQUIEM PLUS BEETHOVEN November 20, 22, 23, 2014

ANDRÉS 10-CONCERT PACKAGE

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Houston Symphony Chorus Charles Hausmann, director Beethoven: Overture to Coriolan Beethoven: Overture to Egmont Brahms: Schicksalslied (Song of Destiny) Mozart: Requiem

1 WATTS PLAYS RACHMANINOFF

4 BEETHOVEN 1 & 4

September 19, 20, 21, 2014

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor André Watts, piano Gabriela Lena Frank: Houston Symphony Commission, World Premiere Rachmaninoff: Piano Concerto No. 2 R. Strauss: Ein Heldenleben (A Hero’s Life)

2 BEETHOVEN’S FIFTH

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Frank Huang, violin Gabriela Lena Frank: Three Latin American Dances Lalo: Symphonie espagnole Beethoven: Symphony No. 5

January 23, 25, 2015

OPERA IN CONCERT

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Opera in Concert with international soloists and in collaboration with Shepherd School and Moores School of Music Mozart: Die Entführung aus dem Serail (The Abduction from the Seraglio) Note: Saturday subscribers attend on Friday.

ˇ 7 COPLAND AND DVORÁK

November 28, 29, 30, 2014

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Brinton Averil Smith, cello Beethoven: Symphony No. 1 Schumann: Cello Concerto Beethoven: Symphony No. 4

March 12, 14, 15, 2015

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Martin Fröst, clarinet Ives: Symphony No. 1 Copland: Clarinet Concerto Goran Fröst: Klezmer Dances for Clarinet and Strings Dvorák: Symphony No. 7 ˇ

5 MOZART AND SHOSTAKOVICH January 15, 17, 18, 2015

November 14, 15, 16, 2014

6 MOZART’S THE ABDUCTION FROM THE SERAGLIO

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Christina and Michelle Naughton, piano Mendelssohn: The Fair Melusina Mozart: Concerto for Two Pianos Shostakovich: Symphony No. 12, The Year 1917 Note: The Thursday program only includes Shostakovich's Symphony No. 12, along with musical commentary. See below.

ˇ Note: The Thursday program only includes Dvorák’s Symphony No. 7, along with musical commentary. See details on this page.

8 VERDI’S REQUIEM

March 20, 21, 22, 2015

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Houston Symphony Chorus Charles Hausmann, director Verdi: Requiem

9 BEETHOVEN AND BARTÓK

MUSICALLY SPEAKING WITH ANDRÉS

An intimate concert experience focused on single works with commentary from Andrés Orozco-Estrada.

These three Thursdays are part of the "Musically Speaking with Andrés" series, held at Rice University's Stude Concert Hall at 7:30 pm. They feature shorter programs, musical commentary and a post-concert Q&A session.

1 SHOSTAKOVICH'S SYMPHONY NO. 12

January 15, 2015 Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Shostakovich: Symphony No. 12, The Year 1917

ˇ 2 DVORÁK'S SYMPHONY NO. 7 March 12, 2015 Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Dvorák: Symphony No. 7 ˇ

3 BARTÓK'S CONCERTO FOR ORCHESTRA May 7, 2015 Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Bartók: Concerto for Orchestra

November 16, 2014 Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Beethoven: Symphony No. 5

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor James Ehnes, violin Beethoven: Violin Concerto Bartók: Concerto for Orchestra Note: The Thursday program only includes Bartók’s Concerto for Orchestra, along with musical commentary. See details on this page.

10 ANDRÉS CONDUCTS MAHLER 3 May 15, 16, 17, 2015

SPECIAL PROGRAM OUTSIDE OF SERIES

4 BEETHOVEN’S FIFTH

May 7, 9, 10, 2015

SPANISH DIALOGUE PROGRAM

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Women of the Houston Symphony Chorus Charles Hausmann, Director Mahler: Symphony No. 3 Notates a "Musically Speaking with Andrés" concert. See details on this page. houstonsymphony.org

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2014–15 POPS SEASON 2 TV’S GREATEST HITS September 26, 27, 28, 2014 Steven Reineke, conductor Nicole Parker, vocalist

Jason Alexander, vocalist

1 JASON ALEXANDER

AN EVENING OF COMEDY & SONG September 5, 6, 7, 2014 Michael Krajewski, conductor Jason Alexander, vocalist

Tony Award® winner and multi-talented star of the ground-breaking hit TV show Seinfeld, Jason Alexander joins the orchestra for his first-ever symphonic performance in Texas. Alexander engages you for an evening of music and laughs as he reminisces about his remarkable and versatile career on the stage and screen. Hear songs from Broadway's Music Man, Pippin and Merrily We Roll Along.

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Subscribe Today!

Join the Houston Symphony for a night celebrating some of TV’s most memorable music. With the wickedly funny singer/comedian Nicole Parker from MADtv and guest conductor Steven Reineke as your hosts, explore themes from your favorite TV shows like M*A*S*H, Downton Abbey, Hawaii Five-O and The Flinstones, among others.

Plus, join the fun with sing alongs and an on-stage game show. Hear music from crime dramas, cartoons, game shows, variety shows, sit-coms and more from yesterday and today. Additionally, Parker salutes iconic variety show performances by the likes of Carol Burnett, Judy Garland and Ethel Merman.

3 RAGTIME, BLUES & ALL THAT JAZZ October 31, November 1, 2, 2014 Michael Krajewski, conductor Byron Stripling, trumpet and vocalist

Hailed by The New York Times as "a powerful trumpeter, at ease with the most complicated and detailed bebop lines and an open-armed Armstrong swagger," Byron Stripling returns, showcasing ragtime masters Scott Joplin and Jelly Roll Morton and blues legends B.B. King and Muddy Waters. Hear Byron’s entertaining anecdotes about the music and its creators from this unforgettable era. The charismatic musician finishes the concert in style with a toe-tapping jam session.

POPS Presenting Sponsor

4 VERY MERRY POPS

December 12, 13, 14, 2014 Michael Krajewski, conductor Houston Symphony Chorus Charles Hausmann, director

No holiday would be complete without the spirited Michael Krajewski, a decked-out Jones Hall and the festive, annual tradition of Very Merry Pops. Treat the entire family to a yuletide evening of traditional standards like "Winter Wonderland," "Sleigh Ride" and "Little Drummer Boy," and remind yourself why this is simply the "most wonderful time of the year."

5 SUTTON FOSTER

BROADWAY'S LEADING LADY January 30, 31, February 1, 2015 Steven Reineke, conductor Sutton Foster, vocalist and dancer

"Triple threat" and Tony Award®-winning singer, actress and dancer Sutton Foster, who starred in Broadway’s Thoroughly Modern Millie, Anything Goes and Shrek: The Musical, joins the orchestra to help kick-off the New Year with a powerhouse song and dance extravaganza. Foster, who Vanity Fair describes as "the new Ethel Merman (meets Barbra Streisand)," belts hits such as "Gimme, Gimme" and "Anything Goes."

Michael Krajewski, Principal POPS Conductor

Music you know. Music you love.

6 BLOCKBUSTER FILM SCORES

8 A TRIBUTE TO MARVIN HAMLISCH

Travel with Mike and the orchestra to Hollywood to experience the sounds of the past 30 years of great motion picture scores. From the uplifting Forrest Gump and epic Titanic, to the fantastical Pirates of the Caribbean and The Lord of the Rings, as well as the colorful Avatar, re-live music of the big screen from composers James Horner, Hans Zimmer, Danny Elfman and, of course, John Williams.

As a composer, Marvin Hamlisch won virtually every major award: three Oscars®, four Grammys®, four Emmys®, a Tony® and three Golden Globes®. On Broadway, he wrote the music for one of the longestrunning shows, A Chorus Line. On the big screen, he had more than forty motion picture scores from The Way We Were and Sophie’s Choice, to his adaptation of Scott Joplin’s music for The Sting. Songs like "What I Did for Love" and "Nobody Does it Better" prove that Marvin Hamlisch truly was "One" singular sensation.

March 6, 7, 8, 2015 Michael Krajewski, conductor

7 U.K. ROCKS

FROM THE BEATLES TO ADELE April 2, 3, 4, 2015 Michael Krajewski, conductor Storm Large, vocalist J. Robert Spencer, vocalist

This "across the pond" spectacle salutes the United Kingdom. Storm Large from the group Pink Martini and J. Robert Spencer of the Midtown Men perform songs ranging from The Beatles to contemporary artists such as Coldplay and Adele. With hits like "Moondance," "Wish You Were Here" and "Every Breath You Take," cheer for the influence the Brits have on pop music in this newly-produced program by the Houston Symphony.

April 24, 25, 26, 2015 Jack Everly, conductor

9 THE PAINTJAM

CONCERT EXPERIENCE

May 22, 23, 24, 2015 Michael Krajewski, conductor Dann Dunn, artist

POPS CONCERT PACKAGES FULL POPS SERIES

9-CONCERT PACKAGE

Subscribe to all 9 concerts and don't miss a minute of this POPS season, complete with award-winning artists, guest conductors and the always witty Michael Krajewski.

"I LIKE MIKE" SERIES WORLD PREMIERE

Internationally-acclaimed, Houston-based speed painter Dan Dunn brings music to life inspired by the sounds of the full orchestra. Improvising on a grand scale, Dunn uses paint, sand, canvas, multi-media, and 30 years of life as an artist to choreograph his live performance art to classical, movie, pop and patriotic music. Don’t miss this brand new, jaw-dropping, spontaneous visual experience as he creates art right before your very eyes.

6-CONCERT PACKAGE

Get all of the Mike-conducted concerts with our 6-concert package.

1 JASON ALEXANDER

AN EVENING OF COMEDY & SONG September 5, 6, 7, 2014

2 RAGTIME, BLUES & ALL THAT JAZZ

October 31, November 1, 2, 2014

3 VERY MERRY POPS

December 12, 13, 14, 2014

4 BLOCKBUSTER FILM SCORES March 6, 7, 8, 2015

5 U.K. ROCKS

FROM THE BEATLES TO ADELE April 2, 3, 4, 2015

6 THE PAINTJAM CONCERT EXPERIENCE May 22, 23, 24, 2015

Storm Large, vocalist

Dann Dunn, artist

houstonsymphony.org

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2014–15 FAMILY SEASON

Spend Saturdays with us!

Robert Franz, associate conductor

1 AFRICAN SAFARI

WITH MUSIC FROM THE LION KING November 1, 2014 Robert Franz, conductor Intuitive African Dance and Drum Culture, African drummers Explore one of the world’s most diverse and fascinating continents: Africa. This passport adventure guides you through the sounds of exotic wildlife, beloved characters with Disney’s The Lion King as well as traditional African folk tunes and dance music. Don’t forget your binoculars, hat and other safari gear as we embark on this musical excursion across Africa!

2 ‘TWAS THE NIGHT

BEFORE CHRISTMAS December 13, 2014 Mirron Willis, narrator

Embrace the joy of the season when the timeless story 'Twas the Night Before Christmas is set to beautiful music performed by the Houston Symphony and narrated by Mirron Willis of Houston's esteemed Ensemble Theatre.

Don't miss this family holiday favorite, complete with festive carols and Jones Hall decorations to get you in the spirit of the season.

RAND G ROUP

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3 STAR WARS AND MORE! March 7, 2015 Robert Franz, conductor

Join us for an intergalactic Saturday morning as the music of Star Wars invades Jones Hall. Hear triumphant brass instruments heighten the thrill of this sci-fi journey. The epic adventure also includes Tchaikovsky's beloved 1812 Overture and "Appian Way" from Respighi's Pines of Rome.

4 SCHOOL HOUSE ROCK!

April 25, 2015 Robert Franz, conductor Theatre Under The Stars Humphreys School of Musical Theatre

WORLD PREMIERE

The Houston Symphony presents the world premiere orchestral concert featuring music from the iconic TV series School House Rock! Bop along to catchy, tongue-twisting tunes "Conjunction Junction," "Mother Necessity" and "I’m Just a Bill," and combine scholastic themes and classical composers with music by Prokofiev and Tchaikovsky.

EDUCATION & COMMUNITY PROGRAMS

Inspiring and engaging Greater Houston's diverse community.

The Houston Symphony invests over $4 million each year in educational programs, community activities and free concerts. Through more than 250 education and community engagement performances and events at over 100 venues, the Houston Symphony and its musicians inspire and engage Greater Houston’s diverse community, including more than 100,000 people who attend free of charge and over 75,000 children annually.

ENGAGING OUR YOUTH ∙∙ David Dewhurst Student Concerts Over 40,000 kindergarten through eighth grade students come to Jones Hall for concerts that integrate symphonic repertoire into school curriculum. ∙∙ Youth Orchestra Partnerships Youth orchestra musicians sit side-by-side with Houston Symphony players, receive instructional coachings and perform on stage at Jones Hall. ∙∙ Student Rehearsals Music students witness how a world-class orchestra prepares for concerts and engage in question and answer sessions.

ENRICHING OUR COMMUNITIES ∙∙ Over 25 Free Concerts at Jones Hall and in Your Neighborhood The Houston Symphony performs at Jones Hall, Miller Outdoor Theatre, and across Greater Houston. ∙∙ Day of Music This free 12-hour event in July features two Houston Symphony concerts, and over 30 performances by an array of musicians from across greater Houston. ∙∙ Community Connections Houston Symphony musicians voluntarily offer over 150 free solo and small ensemble performances and instructional sessions each year in area schools, hospitals, senior centers and other community venues.

INCREASING OUR RELEVANCE & IMPACT ∙∙ Houston CityWide Grassroots Choir Concert Talented singers from Greater Houston’s African American community partner with the Symphony for a collaborative concert in September. ∙∙ Community Leadership Council Initiative The African American, Hispanic and Asian Leadership Councils help the Symphony celebrate and better connect with Greater Houston’s multicultural population. ∙∙ Fiesta Sinfonica con Andrés The Houston Symphony celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month with a free concert at Jones Hall in September. ∙∙ Lunada The orchestra collaborates with the Mexican Institute of Greater Houston for a free concert at Miller Outdoor Theatre in October.

To learn more and ways to support these and other Education and Community programs, please visit houstonsymphony.org.

LEAD SUPPORTERS GUARANTOR - $100,000+ M.D. Anderson Foundation Ms. Marie Taylor Bosarge The Cullen Trust for the Performing Arts Lieutenant Governor David H. Dewhurst City of Houston through the Miller Theatre Advisory Board Houston Symphony Endowment John & Lindy Rydman / Spec’s Charitable Foundation

UNDERWRITER - $50,000+ Cameron International Corporation ExxonMobil Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Educational Fund GDF SUEZ Energy North America Marathon Oil Corporation John P. McGovern Foundation Shell Oil Company

These programs are also supported by the following endowed funds which are part of the Houston Symphony Endowment: Margarett and Alice Brown Endowment Fund for Education Lawrence E. Carlton M.D. Endowment Fund for Youth Programs The Hearst Foundation Spec's Charitable Foundation

houstonsymphony.org

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VISIT US ONLINE TO: ∙∙ View concert programs, program notes, video clips and more ∙∙ Sign-up for the SymphonE-News email club for up-to-date information and concert reminder emails ∙∙ Find helpful information on directions, parking, and dining ∙∙ Explore musician profiles

PRELUDE PRE-CONCERT TALKS PRIOR TO EVERY CLASSICAL CONCERT

Get insights into the evening’s program at these casual talks, held in the main concert hall starting 45 minutes prior to each classical concert. Enhance your experience by learning what to listen for and gaining useful contextual information about composers or classical works. Hear from guest artists, conductors, Houston Symphony musicians and local classical music experts.

DIRECTIONS

Jones Hall is located in the heart of the Houston Theater District, at the corner of Louisiana and Capitol Street.

∙∙ Read frequently asked questions

Jones Hall 615 Louisiana Street Houston, TX 77002

∙∙ Learn more about Andrés Orozco-Estrada

The Symphony also performs in Sugar Land at Sugar Land Baptist Church. For a map and directions, visit sugarlandbaptist.org.

HOUSTONSYMPHONY.ORG

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YOUR SYMPHONY CONCERT EXPERIENCE

The "Musically Speaking with Andrés" series takes place at Rice University's Stude Concert Hall. For a map and directions, visit rice.edu/maps.

Connect more deeply with the music. Create an evening of entertainment.

PARKING

Enjoy the convenience of prepaid parking. To purchase vouchers in advance, call (713) 224-7575 and speak to one of our patron services representatives. Evening event parking in the Theater District Parking Garage costs $10 per car. For a parking map, see the "Plan Your Visit" section of houstonsymphony.org.

DINING

Dine at one of the many restaurants near Jones Hall, including Perbacco, Sambuca, Birraporetti’s, Bistro Lancaster and more. You can also dine in the convenient in-lobby Encore Café. For a dining guide, see the “Plan Your Visit” section of houstonsymphony.org.

ENHANCE YOUR CONCERT EXPERIENCE

GIVING LEVELS AND BENEFITS

LEADERSHIP CIRCLE | $25,000+ A distinguished group of supporters who receive customized benefits and recognition tailored to their annual support. These generous donors play a crucial role in the Houston Symphony’s success, designating their support to concerts, special projects, educational activities, or as unrestricted gifts.

CONDUCTOR’S CIRCLE | $5,000-$24,999 A dedicated group of Houston Symphony supporters who receive exclusive benefits such as Green Room access and premium valet services for all Houston Symphony concerts at Jones Hall.

For further information about the Leadership Circle or Conductor’s Circle, please contact David Chambers, Chief Development Officer, at (713) 337-8525 or david.chambers@houstonsymphony.org, or Mark Folkes, Senior Director, Development, at (713) 337-8521 or mark.folkes@houstonsymphony.org.

Questions about the Friends of the Houston Symphony?

Please contact Darryl de Mello, Annual Fund Manager, at (713) 337-8529 or darryl.demello@houstonsymphony.org, or Evin Erdowdu, Development Officer, Individual Giving, at (713) 337-8526 or evin.erdowdu@houstonsymphony.org.

Enhance your concert experience at Jones Hall by becoming a Houston Symphony donor. Enjoy exclusive benefits like VIP premium ticketing services, complimentary valet parking, access to the Jones Hall Green Room and Patron Donor Lounge, invitations to private rehearsals, salon concerts and more!

FRIENDS OF THE HOUSTON SYMPHONY | $50-$4,999 Grand Patron: $2,500-$4,999 ∙ One-time access pass to the Green Room ∙ One-time valet parking pass ∙ Invitation to all private rehearsals (four total) ∙ All benefits of the Patron Level (Fair market value: $120) Patron: $1,000-$2,499 ∙ Season access to the Patron Donor Lounge ∙ Invitation to a Houston Symphony "Insider Event" ∙ Invitation to an additional private rehearsal (three total) ∙ All benefits of the Director Level (Fair market value: $100) Director: $500-$999 ∙ Monthly recognition in Houston Symphony Magazine ∙ One-time access pass to the Patron Donor Lounge ∙ All benefits of the Principal Level (Fair market value: $10) Principal: $250-$499 ∙ Invitation to a Behind the Scenes experience ∙ Invitation to an additional private rehearsal (two total) ∙ All benefits of the Member Level (No fair market value) Member: $100-$249 ∙ Houston Symphony Society membership ∙ Invitation to one private rehearsal ∙ All benefits of the Friend Level (No fair market value) Friend: $50-$99 ∙ Subscription to Symphony Notes newsletter ∙ 10% year-round discount at the Symphony Store (No fair market value) houstonsymphony.org

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THANK YOU TO OUR INSTITUTIONAL PARTNERS

The Houston Symphony salutes our corporate, foundation and government partners whose generosity allows the orchestra to reach new heights in music, education and community engagement for the Greater Houston area and Gulf Coast region.

For further information on becoming a corporate or foundation donor to the Houston Symphony please call Brandon VanWaeyenberghe at (713) 337-8520.

Corporations $100,000 or more *

‡

Official Television Partner

*

‡

POPS Presenting Sponsor

+*

+

*

‡*

Official Health Care Provider

$50,000 or more

Official Airline

*‡

+

‡ *+

*

‡

Kalsi Engineering

‡

Rose Hill Meadows Corporation

TODD Events*

$25,000 or more +

+

*

+

*

+

+

*

RAND G ROUP

*

*‡

*

‡

‡

‡

Foundations $1,000,000 & above

$100,000–$499,999

‡ Houston Endowment, Inc. Houston Symphony Endowment‡ Houston Symphony League + The Wortham Foundation, Inc.

$500,000–$999,999

The Brown Foundation, Inc.‡

City of Houston and Theater District Improvement, Inc.+ The Cullen Trust for the Performing Arts ‡

The Albert & Margaret Alkek Foundation M. D. Anderson Foundation City of Houston through the Miller Theatre Advisory Board The Cullen Foundation ‡ The Robert & Janice McNair Foundation/ Palmetto Partners Ltd. The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation ‡ The Cynthia & George Mitchell Foundation‡

$50,000 - $99,999

The Elkins Foundation The Humphreys Foundation + John P. McGovern Foundation

$25,000–$49,999

Ray C. Fish Foundation+ Ann & Gordon Getty Foundation ‡ National Endowment for the Arts Sterling-Turner Foundation‡

Many thanks to these generous government partners. +

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* Contribution includes in-kind support

+

+ Ten years of continuous giving

+

‡ 25 years of continuous giving

‡

‡

THE NEW MUSIC DIRECTOR FUND The New Music Director Fund supports the concert activities of Andrés Orozco-Estrada in his year as Music Director Designate (2013–14 Centennial Season) and his first years as Music Director of the Houston Symphony (2014–15 and 2015–16 Seasons). Orozco-Estrada was appointed in January 2013 and is a young, dynamic conductor who radiates charm and energy both on and off the podium. He is the orchestra’s first Hispanic music director.

For information on how to become involved, please contact Mark C. Hanson, Executive Director/CEO, at (713) 238-1411 or David Chambers, Chief Development Officer, at (713) 337-8525.

The Cullen Trust for the Performing Arts Ms. Marie Taylor Bosarge Bobby & Phoebe Tudor Margaret Alkek Williams Janice H. Barrow Mr. Gary V. Beauchamp & Ms. Marian Wilfret Beauchamp Barbara & Pat McCelvey Nancy & Robert Peiser Mr. & Mrs. Jim R. Smith Mike Stude Mr. & Mrs. Jesse B. Tutor

2014–15 OPENING NIGHT GALA OPENING NIGHT GALA WITH ANDRÉS OROZCO-ESTRADA Saturday, September 13, 2014 Jones Hall and The Corinthian Barbara and Pat McCelvey, chairmen

Join us as we celebrate Andrés Orozco-Estrada’s Inaugural Season as Music Director for the Houston Symphony.

Enjoy a champagne reception at The Corinthian prior to being transported to Jones Hall for the Opening Night Concert conducted by Andrés Orozco-Estrada, featuring British trumpet player Alison Balsom and the Houston Symphony. Afterwards, continue the evening with elegance and Colombian festive fun at a black-tie dinner and dance at The Corinthian, featuring cuisine by Jackson and Company and the sounds of the Richard Brown Orchestra.

Individual tickets for the concert and black-tie dinner start at $1,000. Tables for ten, including concert seating, start at $7,500.

For further information on the Opening Night Gala, please contact Laura Neiman, Manager, Special Events, at specialevents@houstonsymphony.org or (713) 238-1485.

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Andrés Orozco-Estrada, Music Director

Andrea Bocelli, vocalist

2014–15 SEASON HIGHLIGHTS: Andrea Bocelli Bernadette Peters Itzhak Perlman 3 Weeks of Beethoven including Symphonies 1, 4 & 5

Itzhak Perlman, conductor and violin

Rimsky-Korsakov's Scheherazade Rachmaninoff’s Second Piano Concerto Mozart’s Requiem Jason Alexander: An Evening of Comedy & Song Sutton Foster: Broadway's Leading Lady Blockbuster Film Scores School House Rock!

Music from The Lion King Ben Folds Bernadette Peters, vocalist

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