2015-16 Season Classical Brochure

A NEW ERA

A NEW SOUND THE 2015 | 16 SEASON

A NEW SOUND. FOR OUR ORCHESTRA. FOR OUR CITY. FOR YOU.

You have embraced me from all corners of the community, allowing me to develop a deepened connection with extraordinary audiences as we present the best of orchestral masterpieces and the music of today.

This season we continue our 3 Weeks of Beethoven series, featuring Symphony No. 3, Eroica and Symphony No. 9. For our first concert, we’ll perform Mahler’s Symphony No. 5 and we will conclude the season ˇ with Dvorák’s Symphony No. 9 and The Cosmos—An HD Odyssey, our third and final film project in the HD Odyssey film trilogy. Our “Musically Speaking” concerts begin in October at Rice University with my friend and co-host Carlos Andrés Botero, who will once again be joining us to explore musical themes with engaging commentary.

Just give yourself the opportunity to “open your eyes and ears, and see this beautiful universe that is an orchestra.

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For our second season together, the Houston Symphony and I are eager to follow the thrilling path we have begun that represents a wonderful new era for our institution and this vibrant city. Throughout my Inaugural Season, the orchestra and I started to create a unique musical language and relationship, which we continue to strengthen with every performance.

- ANDRÉS OROZCO-ESTRADA

I believe contemporary music is essential; therefore, making music does not only mean bringing masterpieces to life, but it also means expressing current feelings, experiences and trends. I look forward to welcoming back Composer-in-Residence Gabriela Lena Frank and am equally excited to collaborate with John Corigliano, one of the most original and renowned American composers today, who will help open our season in September with Stomp, a Houston Symphony Commission and World Premiere. You’ll be hearing more from these composers during select performance discussions called On-Stage Insights, a new facet of the concert experience.

I invite all of Houston to enjoy this season, and I look forward to seeing you at a future concert!

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, Music Director, Roy and Lillie Cullen Chair

TABLE OF CONTENTS Season Highlights Classical Season POPS Season Family Season

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Symphony Specials Community Concerts and Education Classical Ticket Packages POPS and Family Ticket Packages

TABLE OF CONTENTS 11-12 13-14 15-20 21

Donor Rewards Season Pricing and Seating The Subscriber Experience Order Season Tickets

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SEASON HIGHLIGHTS

Music Director Andrés Orozco-Estrada embarks on his second season with 11 subscription weekends, including Mahler Symphony No. 5, Shostakovich Symphony No. 10, our continued 3 Weeks of Beethoven series and the world premiere of The Cosmos—An HD Odyssey.

Principal POPS Conductor Michael Krajewski showcases his wit and on-stage banter with programs like Music of The Beatles and The Best of Benny Goodman. And this summer, we power up the DeLorean with Back to the Future—Film With Live Orchestra.

JULY 17, 18, 2015

FEBRUARY 5, 6, 7, 2016

CARMINA BURANA

SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN— FILM WITH LIVE ORCHESTRA

POPS CONCERT

SEPTEMBER 12, 2015

SYMPHONY SPECIAL

OPENING NIGHT WITH JOSHUA BELL CONCERT & GALA

Note: Sunday performance will be at 2:30 pm.

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Joshua Bell, violin Gershwin: An American in Paris Bernstein/Brohn: West Side Story Suite for Violin and Orchestra Stravinsky: Suite from The Firebird (1919) Prepare for the dazzling opening of the Houston Symphony’s 2015-16 Season when world-famous violinist Joshua Bell returns to perform a work written for him, William David Brohn’s tuneful and virtuosic arrangement of the West Side Story Suite. Be delighted and amazed by Bell’s lightning-fast finger work and sweeping renditions of “I Feel Pretty,” “Somewhere” and other melodies from Leonard Bernstein’s classic musical. Gershwin’s jazzy An American in Paris opens the concert, and the evening concludes with the fairytale symbolism and burning colors of Stravinsky’s mythical ballet, The Firebird.

Note: This concert is only available to subscribers of 6 concerts or more.

For more information on the Opening Night Gala, please see page 23.

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We’re elevating the cinematic experience with Singin’ in the Rain, which was voted the No. 1 “Greatest Movie Musical” by the American Film Institute. Enjoy the classic film on the big screen as the orchestra performs the iconic score, made famous by Gene Kelly, Donald O’Connor and Debbie Reynolds. So ditch your umbrella and let it rain with “Make ‘Em Laugh,” “Good Morning,” “All I Do Is Dream Of You” and the memorable title song.

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Courtesy of The Gene Kelly Image Trust

Houston Symphony Chorus

Houston welcomes the Filarmónica Joven de Colombia (Colombian Youth Philharmonic) as they join their Artistic Advisor Andrés Orozco-Estrada, the Houston Symphony Chorus and the Houston Children’s Chorus for a spectacular side-by-side performance of Carl Orff’s epic Carmina Burana featuring nearly 400 musicians on an extended Jones Hall stage. The songs of Carmina Burana celebrate love, feasting and merriment with wild abandon, all the while acknowledging the ever-turning wheel of fortune.

Steven Reineke, conductor

Singin’ in the Rain,

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Houston Symphony Filarmónica Joven de Colombia Houston Symphony Chorus Betsy Cook Weber, director Houston Children’s Chorus Stephen Roddy, director Prokofiev: Scythian Suite Orff: Carmina Burana

Joshua Bell, violin

SYMPHONY SPECIAL

MARCH 24, 25, 26, 2016

POPS CONCERT

AN EVENING WITH MATTHEW MORRISON Steven Reineke, conductor Matthew Morrison, vocalist Star of TV’s Glee, Matthew Morrison has emerged as one of the most adored talents in entertainment, earning both Tony® and Emmy® nominations for his stage and screen work. With his charming, dapper style, the performer, who returns to Broadway in the new musical Finding Neverland, is front and center at Jones Hall delivering stellar showmanship. Hear Morrison perform songs like Duke Ellington’s “It Don’t Mean A Thing (If It Ain’t Got That Swing)” and “Sway,” as well as Broadway standards “Luck Be A Lady” (Guys & Dolls) and “What I Did For Love” (A Chorus Line).

MARCH 4-20, 2016

CLASSICAL CONCERT

3 WEEKS OF BEETHOVEN

YEAR TWO

FEATURING SYMPHONIES NO. 3 & 9 Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Join us as Andrés brings his unique blend of passion and electricity to the second installment of our 3 Weeks of Beethoven series, featuring Symphony No. 3, Eroica and the ever-popular choral Symphony No. 9.

Houston Symphony Endowment, Diamond Guarantor

Matthew Morrison, vocalist

Note: Due to high demand, exchanges will not be allowed into this concert.

Sunday subscribers will attend on Thursday due to Easter.

FINAL FILM IN THE HD ODYSSEY TRILOGY MAY 27, 28, 29, 2016

CLASSICAL CONCERT

WORLD PREMIERE

THE COSMOS— AN HD ODYSSEY Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Duncan Copp, producer On-Stage Insights with Andrés* Lutosławski: Concerto for Orchestra Dvorák: Symphony No. 9, From the New World ˇ with The Cosmos—An HD Odyssey: Premiere of Final Installment in HD Odyssey Film Trilogy The Houston Symphony presents The Cosmos—An HD Odyssey, the final installment of its innovative trilogy that began with The Planets and The Earth. Set to the score of Dvorák’s Symphony No. 9, From the ˇ New World, The Cosmos presents breathtaking images of far distant galaxies, nebulae and other astronomical wonders from the Hubble Space Telescope. Also on the program is Lutosławski’s virtuosic Concerto for Orchestra, one of the most exciting showpieces of the 20th century. *On-Stage Insights with Andrés features brief commentary about the music during the concert.

Ms. Marie Taylor Bosarge, Underwriter The Elkins Foundation, Underwriter Margaret Alkek Williams, Underwriter

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CLASSICAL SEASON

Andrés Orozco-Estrada’s highly-anticipated second season features Mahler’s Symphony No. 5, the premiere of The Cosmos—An HD Odyssey and a reprise of Andrés’ triumphant Houston Symphony debut with Berlioz’ Symphonie fantastique, which was the first piece he conducted with the orchestra.

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HILARY HAHN PLAYS SIBELIUS

| SEPTEMBER 17, 19, 20, 2015

MAHLER SYMPHONY NO. 5 Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor On-Stage Insights with Andrés* featuring John Corigliano John Corigliano: Stomp World Premiere of Orchestral Version, a Houston Symphony Commission Mahler: Symphony No. 5

| OCTOBER 1 , 3, 4, 2015

SCHUMANN AND BARTÓK

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Hilary Hahn: violin Dvorák: Slavonic Dances – selections ˇ Sibelius: Violin Concerto Dvorák: Symphony No. 6 ˇ

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Houston Symphony Chorus Betsy Cook Weber, director Bartók: Divertimento for Strings Schumann: The Pilgrimage of the Rose

Celebrate Jean Sibelius’ 150th birthday year with two-time Grammy Award®-winning violinist Hilary Hahn as she plays the Finnish composer’s passionate violin concerto with Andrés and the Houston Symphony. Be entranced from the icy opening to the searing Adagio and the virtuoso finale with its foot-stomping “polonaise for polar bears.” Delight in Dvorák’s pastoral Symphony ˇ No. 6 as Andrés and the orchestra complete our recordings of Dvorák’s Symphonies No. 6-9 for the ˇ PENTATONE label. Full of enchanting melodies inspired by his native Bohemia, selections of Dvorák’s beloved ˇ Slavonic Dances complete this program of Finnish and Czech masterpieces.

Discover Schumann’s rare masterpiece, The Pilgrimage of the Rose, an intimate, art-song-inspired oratorio about a rose who yearns to become human and experience love.

Full of gorgeous choral, ensemble and solo writing, this score deftly transforms the original fairytale into a powerful allegory of what it means to be human and to love. Also on the program, Bartók’s playfully sophisticated Divertimento for Strings is brimming with fascinating sonorities, rustic Hungarian rhythms and the joy of musical discovery.

Be the first to hear the orchestral version of Stomp by composer John Corigliano (The Red Violin, The Ghosts of Versailles) and hear from the composer himself during On-Stage Insights with Andrés at the start of the concert.

Then, embark on an epic spiritual journey as Andrés conducts Mahler’s Symphony No. 5. From the opening trumpet solo to the tender Adagietto inspired by Mahler’s wife, Alma, this symphony contains some of the most emotionally powerful music ever written. As legendary conductor Herbert von Karajan once said, “A great performance of the Fifth is a transforming experience.

The fantastic finale almost forces you to hold your breath.” *On-Stage Insights with Andrés features brief commentary about the music during the concert.

The Thursday program is part of our “Musically Speaking with Andrés” series and only includes Bartók’s Divertimento for Strings. See page 16 for additional information.

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| OCTOBER 16, 17, 18, 2015

EMANUEL AX PLAYS BRAHMS Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Emanuel Ax, piano Ives: Symphony No. 2 Brahms: Piano Concerto No. 2 Hilary Hahn, violin

Gustav Mahler, composer

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| SEPTEMBER 25, 26, 27, 2015

Bask in the warmth of Brahms’ melodic genius when Emanuel Ax returns to perform his majestic Piano Concerto No. 2, a work that enchants from the opening horn solo to the gypsy-inspired melodies of the lilting finale. Andrés also conducts Charles Ives’ Symphony No. 2 as part of a four-year cycle of this great American composer’s symphonies.

Rochelle and Max Levit, Guarantor

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| NOVEMBER 12, 14, 15, 2015

ˇ DVORÁK’S SERENADE FOR STRINGS Frank Huang, violin and leader Wagner: Siegfried Idyll Dvorák: Romance for Violin and Orchestra ˇ Sarasate: Zigeunerweisen (Gypsy Airs) for Violin and Orchestra Webern: Langsamer Satz (Slow Movement) for String Orchestra Dvorák: Serenade for Strings ˇ Frank Huang leads the Houston Symphony from the Concertmaster’s chair in this program of favorite works for chamber orchestra and strings. Written as a birthday present for his wife, Cosima, Wagner’s Siegfried Idyll contains tender and lyrical music later used in his opera of the same name. The concert also features Frank Huang ˇ as soloist in Dvorák’s melodic Romance for Violin and Orchestra and Sarasate’s gypsy-inspired showstopper, ˇ Zigeunerweisen. Concluding the program, Dvorák’s sunny Serenade for Strings presents one gorgeous melody after another, filled with all the warmth and generosity for which this composer is so treasured.

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| NOVEMBER 27, 28, 29, 2015

PROKOFIEV’S ROMEO AND JULIET Long Yu, conductor Stephen Hough, piano Huanzhi: Spring Festival Overture Saint-Saëns: Piano Concerto No. 5, Egyptian Prokofiev: Selections from Romeo and Juliet The Houston Symphony welcomes one of China’s most respected conductors, Long Yu, who heads the China Philharmonic and the Shanghai and Guangzhou Symphony Orchestras. Discover beloved Chinese folk melodies in Li Huanzhi’s Spring Festival Overture and musical allusions to Egypt and the Far East in Saint-Saëns’ exotic and touching Piano Concerto No. 5, performed by brilliant pianist, composer and writer Stephen Hough.

Finally, be swept away by Prokofiev’s classic ballet score, Romeo and Juliet, whose melodies perfectly evoke Shakespeare’s timeless story of doomed adolescent love.

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| JANUARY 22, 23, 24, 2016

SHOSTAKOVICH SYMPHONY NO. 10 Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Kirill Gerstein, piano Shostakovich: Festive Overture Ravel: Piano Concerto for The Left Hand Shostakovich: Symphony No. 10 This program of 20th century classics kicks off with one of Shostakovich’s brightest and most joyful works, his Festive Overture. Then, marvel at Ravel’s Piano Concerto for the Left Hand, performed by Houston favorite Kirill Gerstein.

Inspired by pianist Paul Wittgenstein, a WWI amputee, Ravel’s astonishing and moving score creates the illusion of two hands playing while using only one. Shostakovich’s deeply personal Symphony No. 10 was written in the wake of Stalin’s death. It contains a biting caricature of the Soviet dictator and ends with a thrilling and emotionally intense finale.

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| FEBRUARY 12, 13, 14, 2016

HAYDN & SIBELIUS

John Storgårds, conductor Sol Gabetta, cello Haydn: Cello Concerto No. 1 Sibelius: The Bard Saint-Saëns: Cello Concerto No. 1 Sibelius: Symphony No. 1 The Houston Symphony continues its celebration of Sibelius’ 150th birthday with his tone poem, The Bard and his soaring Symphony No. 1. Acclaimed Argentine cellist Sol Gabetta performs not one, but two cello concertos: Haydn’s gracious Cello Concerto No. 1 in C major and Saint-Saëns’ thrilling Cello Concerto No. 1 in A minor. Conductor John Storgårds returns to Houston to display his prowess with the baton as well as with the bow when he leads the orchestra from the violin in the Haydn Concerto.

| JANUARY 28, 30, 31, 2016

BRAHMS & SCHUMANN

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Patricia Kopatchinskaja, violin Barber: Overture to The School for Scandal Schumann: Violin Concerto Brahms: Symphony No. 2 Known for her fresh interpretations and for performing barefoot, European violin sensation Patricia Kopatchinskaja plays Robert Schumann’s brooding, beautiful Violin Concerto. Initially suppressed by Johannes Brahms and Clara Schumann because they feared it showed signs of Robert’s impending madness, this haunting concerto is now recognized as one of Schumann’s late masterpieces. Andrés conducts Brahms’ sunny Symphony No. 2, which features dreamy lullabies, a soulful Adagio and the biggest bring-down-the-house finale Brahms ever wrote. Also on the program is Samuel Barber’s early masterpiece, Overture to The School for Scandal.

The Thursday program is part of our “Musically Speaking with Andrés” series and only includes Schumann’s Violin Concerto. See page 16 for additional information.

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CLASSICAL SEASON 3 WEEKS OF BEETHOVEN

YEAR TWO

Our 3 Weeks of Beethoven series with Andrés continues with the second installment of our three-season cycle of all nine Beethoven symphonies.

Secure your seats for four of Beethoven’s beloved symphonies, including Symphony No. 3, Eroica and the ever-popular choral Symphony No. 9.

Houston Symphony Endowment, Diamond Guarantor

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| MARCH 4, 5, 6, 2016

BEETHOVEN 2 & 8

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Wayne Brooks, viola Beethoven: Symphony No. 2 On-Stage Insights with Andrés* featuring Gabriela Lena Frank Gabriela Lena Frank: La Llorona for Viola and Orchestra Beethoven: Symphony No. 8 Discover Beethoven’s playful side as Andrés resumes his three-season cycle of Beethoven’s nine symphonies.

Beethoven’s Symphony No. 2 bristles with barely contained energy as he begins to break free of the classical style. Additionally, his high-spirited Symphony No. 8 is full of musical jokes, including a humorous portrayal of the newly-invented metronome. The Houston Symphony continues its relationship with Composer-inResidence Gabriela Lena Frank with her ghost-storyinspired viola concerto La Llorona, commissioned by the Houston Symphony in 2007 for our own Principal Viola Wayne Brooks.

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| MARCH 10, 12, 13, 2016

BEETHOVEN’S EROICA PLUS SHOSTAKOVICH

| MARCH 18, 19, 20, 2016

BEETHOVEN 9 & BERNSTEIN

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Martin Helmchen, piano Mark Hughes, trumpet On-Stage Insights with Andrés* featuring Pierre Jalbert Pierre Jalbert: Music of Air and Fire Shostakovich: Concerto No. 1 for Piano, Trumpet and Strings Beethoven: Symphony No. 3, Eroica Often hailed as the birth of the Romantic era, Beethoven’s heroic Symphony No. 3 changed music forever.

Originally inspired by Napoleon, Beethoven famously scratched out the dedication to the French general after he crowned himself emperor, betraying the ideals of freedom that Beethoven so loved. Also on the program are Shostakovich’s darkly humorous and haunting Concerto No. 1 for Piano, Trumpet and Strings and the exciting and innovative Music of Air and Fire by Houston composer Pierre Jalbert.

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Houston Symphony Chorus Betsy Cook Weber, director On-Stage Insights with Andrés* featuring Betsy Cook Weber Bernstein: Chichester Psalms Beethoven: Symphony No. 9, Choral Rejoice with Leonard Bernstein’s jubilant Chichester Psalms, a Hebrew-language setting of favorite psalms from the Old Testament. Written for strings, brass, percussion, chorus and soloists, this tuneful work has remained one of Bernstein’s most popular since its 1965 premiere. Of all symphonies, Beethoven’s monumental Symphony No. 9 is most often declared the greatest ever written. This immortal masterpiece takes listeners on a spiritual journey from the darkness of the opening to the triumph of the famous “Ode to Joy.” Note: Due to high demand, exchanges will not be allowed into this concert.

*On-Stage Insights with Andrés features brief commentary about the music during the concert.

| MARCH 31, APRIL 2, 3, 2016

RACHMANINOFF’S SYMPHONIC DANCES

Michael Francis, conductor David Pyatt, horn Richard Watkins, horn William VerMeulen, horn Robert Johnson, horn Korngold: The Sea Hawk James Horner: Concerto for Four Horns and Orchestra North American Premiere, Co-Commission of the Houston Symphony and the International Horn Society Rachmaninoff: Symphonic Dances Don’t miss an exciting North American Premiere as celebrated film composer James Horner (Titanic, Avatar) unveils his new Concerto for Four Horns, performed by soloists including the Houston Symphony’s own William VerMeulen and Robert Johnson. Also on the program is swashbuckling film music from the Golden Age of Hollywood’s greatest composer, Erich Wolfgang Korngold, and the rhythmic vitality and dark melodies of Rachmaninoff’s final work, Symphonic Dances.

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Experience the beauty of Mozart’s Violin Concerto No. 3 as played by Karen Gomyo, “a first-rate artist of real musical command, vitality, brilliance, and intensity” (Chicago Tribune). Then, delve into the mystic world of Bruckner’s Symphony No. 7. From the long melodic lines of the opening to the slow, powerful crescendo of the Adagio, Bruckner’s music is infused with an intense spirituality, born of the composer’s own deep faith.

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Gabriela Montero, piano Gabriela Lena Frank: Escaramuza Grieg: Piano Concerto Berlioz: Symphonie fantastique Houston favorite Gabriela Montero returns to perform Grieg’s virtuosic Piano Concerto. From its unforgettable opening chords to its heart-on-sleeve finale, warm melodies with a Nordic color abound in this perennially popular work. Andrés returns to Symphonie fantastique, Berlioz’ fever dream of unrequited love, glittering ballrooms and opium-induced hallucinations of guillotines and graveyards.

The Thursday program is part of our “Musically Speaking with Andrés” series and only includes Berlioz’ Symphonie fantastique. See page 16 for additional information.

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RAVEL’S BOLÉRO

Experience the magic and mischief of Dukas’ The Sorcerer’s Apprentice, inspired by Goethe’s classic poem and famously featured in Disney’s original Fantasia.

Then, Caroline Goulding plays Bruch’s Violin Concerto No. 1 with “the poise and sheer veracity of technique of a veteran soloist.” Also, delight in Poulenc’s charming Model Animals Suite, taken from his ballet based on the tales of La Fontaine. Finally, witness Ravel’s genius at work in his ever-popular Boléro, his radical musical experiment with the power of orchestration.

| MAY 19, 21, 22, 2016

ANDRÉS CONDUCTS SYMPHONIE FANTASTIQUE

Thomas Søndergård, conductor Karen Gomyo, violin Mozart: Violin Concerto No. 3 Bruckner: Symphony No. 7

| APRIL 8, 9, 10, 2016

Fabien Gabel, conductor Caroline Goulding, violin Dukas: The Sorcerer’s Apprentice Bruch: Violin Concerto No. 1 Poulenc: Suite from The Model Animals Ravel: Boléro

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| APRIL 14, 16, 17, 2016

MOZART AND BRUCKNER

Karen Gomyo, violin

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| APRIL 28, 30, MAY 1, 2016

FAURÉ REQUIEM

David Zinman, conductor Houston Symphony Chorus Betsy Cook Weber, director Mendelssohn: Symphony No. 4, Italian Fauré: Requiem Renowned conductor David Zinman conducts the Houston Symphony and chorus in Fauré’s intimate Requiem, an understated, affecting and intensely beautiful work that brings solace and comfort to the heart.

Mendelssohn’s Symphony No. 4 whisks you away to the sun-drenched landscapes of Italy, concluding with the infectious dance rhythms of the saltarello.

| MAY 27, 28, 29, 2016

THE COSMOS—AN HD ODYSSEY

WORLD PREMIERE

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Duncan Copp, producer On-Stage Insights with Andrés* Lutosławski: Concerto for Orchestra Dvorák: Symphony No. 9, From the New World ˇ with The Cosmos—An HD Odyssey: Premiere of Final Installment in HD Odyssey Film Trilogy The Houston Symphony presents The Cosmos—An HD Odyssey, the final installment of its innovative film trilogy that began with The Planets and The Earth. Set to the score of Dvorák’s Symphony No. 9, From the New World, ˇ The Cosmos presents breathtaking images of far distant galaxies, nebulae and other astronomical wonders from the Hubble Space Telescope. Also on the program is Lutosławski’s virtuosic Concerto for Orchestra, one of the most exciting showpieces of the 20th century.

Ms. Marie Taylor Bosarge, Underwriter The Elkins Foundation, Underwriter Margaret Alkek Williams, Underwriter Note: Due to high demand, exchanges will not be allowed into this concert. *On-Stage Insights with Andrés features brief commentary about the music during the concert.

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BBVA COMPASS POPS

Principal POPS Conductor Michael Krajewski and the orchestra present more of the “Music You Know, Music You Love.” This season, get ready for sensational stage and screen talent like Matthew Morrison from TV’s Glee, magnificent music of the decades, including a tribute to Grammy Award®-winning singer-songwriter Carole King and American legend Frank Sinatra, as well as spectacular sounds of the silver screen with Singin’ in the Rain—Film with Live Orchestra.

Our theme of “Music You Know, Music You Love” is especially fitting this POPS Season as we salute artists that represent some of the most iconic music of all time. First up is Music of The Beatles with Rajaton (pronounced Rah-yah-tann), a vocal sextet from Finland. These singers are fantastic and will help us perform the Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band album— in its entirety—along with many chart-topping Beatles hits.

Our season also includes music of Carole King, Singin’ in the Rain—Film With Live Orchestra and a celebration of Sinatra’s Centennial with help from fan favorite and returning vocalist Tony DeSare.

On a bittersweet note, I’m announcing my departure at the end of the 2016-17 POPS Season. My tenure with this fabulous orchestra in this wonderful city has been a true joy for me, both personally and professionally; however, I have made the decision to turn the page and embrace the next chapter of my career. I will be passing the baton to my colleague Steven Reineke, a familiar face to Symphony audiences. I know you will thoroughly enjoy Steven’s enthusiasm, creativity and passion for music in the coming years.

In the meantime, I look forward to conducting my final two seasons with the Houston Symphony. (And rest assured—I still have plenty of jokes up my sleeve to share with you!)

Michael Krajewski, Principal POPS Conductor

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Described by The Huffington Post as “charming” and an “amazing collabora[tor]” with musicians, frequent guest Steven Reineke is featured this season as our Principal POPS Conductor Designate, and will assume the position of Principal POPS Conductor when Michael Krajewski steps down at the end of the 2016-17 Season.

Steven’s programs are innovative, fun and filled with his boundless energy. He is known for working with high-profile talent, including last season’s Broadway “triple threat” Sutton Foster and the star of TV’s Glee Matthew Morrison, who will perform this season with the orchestra in March 2016.

Join us in welcoming Steven to the 2015-16 POPS Season.

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| OCTOBER 30, 31, NOVEMBER 1, 2015

SINATRA’S CENTENNIAL

The Beatles

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| SEPTEMBER 4, 5, 6, 2015

MUSIC OF THE BEATLES Michael Krajewski, conductor Rajaton, vocalists

Beatlemania officially arrived in Houston 50 years ago this summer when Sir Paul, John, George and Ringo first performed at the Sam Houston Coliseum in 1965.

As a tribute, we’re kicking off the season with an all-out Beatles celebration. The first half of the program features the entire Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band album, which is ranked #1 on Rolling Stone magazine’s list of the “500 Greatest Albums of All Time.” For the second half, we’re saluting the biggest hits of the band’s astounding career, such as “Let It Be,” “All You Need Is Love” and “Eleanor Rigby.” Joining Mike and the orchestra is pop sensation Rajaton (pronounced Rah-yah-tann), a vocal sextet from Finland, who give a fresh take on some of the world’s most influential music.

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| DECEMBER 11, 12, 13, 2015

VERY MERRY POPS

Steven Reineke, conductor Tony DeSare, vocalist & pianist Montego Glover, vocalist

Michael Krajewski, conductor Houston Symphony Chorus Betsy Cook Weber, director

Since “Ol’ Blue Eyes” would have turned 100 this year, Principal POPS Conductor Designate Steven Reineke has created a program in true Sinatra style—reflecting the timeless songs that this American legend popularized, including “Fly Me To The Moon,” “My Way” and “The Lady Is A Tramp.” Adding to Steve’s “Rat Pack” is Tony DeSare, who has been described by The New York Times as “two parts Frank Sinatra to one part Billy Joel.” We also welcome Tony®-nominated performer Montego Glover (Broadway’s Memphis: The Musical), who commands the stage with her dazzling, powerhouse voice.

“It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” at the Houston Symphony with Very Merry Pops, now in its 15th season!

Bring your family and friends and rejoice in this Houston holiday tradition with Mike, the orchestra, the chorus— and some special guests who may drop by to join in on the festive fun. Enjoy favorites like “O Come, All Ye Faithful,” “Carol of the Bells” and “It’s Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas.”

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| NOVEMBER 20, 21, 22, 2015

TAPESTRY: THE CAROLE KING SONGBOOK

WORLD PREMIERE

Michael Krajewski, conductor Liz Callaway, vocalist Infused with incredible melodies and unforgettable lyrics, Carole King’s Grammy Award®-winning album Tapestry remains a gold standard in pop music. Mike and the orchestra celebrate the singer-songwriter, whose life and career inspired the 2014 Broadway hit Beautiful: The Carole King Musical. Tony® nominee Liz Callaway (Broadway’s Baby), who has also appeared on Broadway in Cats and Miss Saigon, joins the orchestra to cover King’s chart-topping tracks like “You’ve Got a Friend,” “So Far Away”and “Natural Woman.”

Jurassic Park

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| JANUARY 8, 9, 10, 2016

A TRIBUTE TO JOHN WILLIAMS Michael Krajewski, conductor No composer epitomizes modern film music like John Williams. He has written some of the most recognizable soundtracks in cinematic history, and this program celebrates the thrilling themes of the innumerable adventures that he has helped imagine. From Spielberg staples like Jurassic Park, Jaws, and E.T. to Star Wars and the Harry Potter franchise, his music has brought characters to life and filled our hearts with the magic of the movies.

Liz Callaway, vocalist

Note: Due to high demand, exchanges will not be allowed into this concert.

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BBVA COMPASS POPS 7

| FEBRUARY 26, 27, 28, 2016

THE BEST OF BENNY GOODMAN

Courtesy of The Gene Kelly Image Trust

Singin’ in the Rain,

Michael Krajewski, conductor Dave Bennett, clarinet The Dave Bennett Sextet We salute the “King of Swing” and the soaring sounds of the Big Band era in this tribute to Benny Goodman.

Led by clarinetist Dave Bennett, who captures Goodman’s famous jazzy riffs, The Dave Bennett Sextet offers “powerfully fresh and vibrant” interpretations of Goodman’s classics, including “Sing, Sing, Sing,” “Let’s Dance” and “These Foolish Things.”

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Steven Reineke, conductor Matthew Morrison, vocalist Star of TV’s Glee, Matthew Morrison has emerged as one of the most adored talents in entertainment, earning him both Tony® and Emmy® nominations for his stage and screen work. With his charming, dapper style, the performer, who returns to Broadway in the new musical Finding Neverland, is front and center at Jones Hall, delivering stellar showmanship. Hear Morrison perform songs like Duke Ellington’s “It Don’t Mean A Thing (If It Ain’t Got That Swing)” and “Sway,” as well as Broadway standards “Luck Be A Lady” (Guys & Dolls) and “What I Did For Love” (A Chorus Line).

Note: Due to high demand, exchanges will not be allowed into this concert.

Sunday subscribers will attend on Thursday due to Easter.

9 | FEBRUARY 5, 6, 7, 2016

SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN— FILM WITH LIVE ORCHESTRA Steven Reineke, conductor We’re elevating the cinematic experience with Singin’ in the Rain, which was voted the No. 1 “Greatest Movie Musical” by the American Film Institute. Enjoy the classic film on the big screen as the orchestra performs the iconic score, made famous by Gene Kelly, Donald O’Connor and Debbie Reynolds. So ditch your umbrella and let it rain with “Make ‘Em Laugh,” “Good Morning,” “All I Do Is Dream Of You” and the memorable title song.

Note: Sunday performance will be at 2:30 pm

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Benny Goodman, “The King of Swing”

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| MARCH 24, 25, 26, 2016

AN EVENING WITH MATTHEW MORRISON

| MAY 6, 7, 8, 2016

JOURNEY, THE EAGLES, FLEETWOOD MAC & MORE

WORLD PREMIERE

Michael Krajewski, conductor Shem von Schroeck, Micah Wilshire, Lori Wilshire, vocalists Encapsulating three decades of classic rock, we end our season with a compilation concert featuring bands and musical acts of the ’60s, ’70s and ’80s. Re-live Journey’s “Faithfully” and “Open Arms”; remember Don Henley’s raspy “Hotel California”; groove to Fleetwood Mac’s retro hit “Dreams”; and step back into 1977 with soul-rock duo Hall & Oates and their hit “Rich Girl.” We also showcase the songs of great solo acts who once dominated radio airplay like Billy Joel, Neil Young and Van Morrison.

FAMILY SEASON

Our 4-concert Family Series offers a mix of fun, thematic orchestral music to engage young minds.

Each 50-minute concert is held at Jones Hall on Saturday mornings with two start times: 10:00 am and 11:30 am.

This season, Associate Conductor Robert Franz leads three of the four programs.

Robert Franz, Associate Conductor

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| MARCH 26, 2016

SUPERHEROES AT THE SYMPHONY!

A Lifelong Love of Music Begins with Us on Saturday Mornings.

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

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| OCTOBER 31, 2015

GHOSTBUSTERS & GHOULS Robert Franz, conductor It’s Halloween, and there’s no better place to be than at the Houston Symphony. Our series opener features fantastically frightening music to give your Saturday morning a little trick and a big treat! Our spooky celebration includes music from Ghostbusters and Michael Jackson’s epic hit “Thriller.” We also feature a haunting violin solo in Saint-Saëns’ Danse macabre. Then, get ready to strut your stuff as Associate Conductor Robert Franz leads the audience in a not-to-be-missed on-stage costume parade.

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| DECEMBER 12, 2015

A FROSTY & FROZEN CHRISTMAS Bundle up! Temperatures are dropping in a decked-out Jones Hall as we celebrate the magic of the holiday season, including a special guest who may drop by to partake in the festive fun. Sing along to “Frosty the Snowman” and “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” and rejoice in Queen Elsa’s reflective personal journey “Let it Go” from Disney’s Frozen. Join us as we remember what makes this time of year so special—and a bit frosty!

Grab your cape, flex your extraordinary powers and discover your fearless inner-self as we perform The Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra. Batman, Captain America, Iron Man and the “super” stretchy Elastigirl Helen from The Incredibles are invading Jones Hall to reveal the superpowers of the orchestra’s instrument families. We’re also teaming up with our friends at Theatre Under The Stars to take flight on some awesome adventures and perilous journeys, including Summon the Heroes by one of our modern-day superhero composers, John Williams.

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| MAY 7, 2016

DREAMS CAN COME TRUE

WITH MUSIC FROM THE LITTLE MERMAID Robert Franz, conductor Be “Part of [Our] World” as we explore the visionary creations of the imagination. With Ariel’s surf to turf wishes in The Little Mermaid and selections from Mendelssohn’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Associate Conductor Robert Franz has dreamt up a fantastical program where you can be anything or anywhere “When You Wish Upon a Star.”

HOUSTONSYMPHONY.ORG | SAVE UP TO 35% WHEN YOU SUBSCRIBE!

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SYMPHONY SPECIALS

Symphony Specials are typically one- or two-night events and are available first to subscribers before the general public. They are not included in subscription packages. Add Symphony Specials to your order and don’t miss this opportunity to hear guest artists like Joshua Bell, one of the most celebrated violinists of our time.

JULY 17, 18, 2015

CARMINA BURANA

The music of two iconic British bands. Two venues. One incredible weekend of classic rock.

Led Zeppelin and Pink Floyd emerged in the ’60s and defined the sounds of the psychedelic era.

This spring, we’re bringing their music to wider audiences throughout Greater Houston with our “Classic Rock Weekend.” First, we’re up in The Woodlands at The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion for The Music of Led Zeppelin on May 29, 2015. Then, catch The Music of Pink Floyd at Jones Hall on May 30, 2015.

MAY 29, 2015

MAY 30, 2015

AT THE CYNTHIA WOODS MITCHELL PAVILION

AT JONES HALL

THE MUSIC OF LED ZEPPELIN Brent Havens, conductor/arranger Randy Jackson, vocalist The Music of Led Zeppelin combines the power of a full rock band with the Houston Symphony at The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion in one high-energy evening of music. Conductor/arranger Brent Havens and lead singer Randy Jackson, of rock band Zebra fame, join the orchestra to capture Led Zeppelin’s “sheer blast and power” riff for riff in electric performances of classic hits such as “Stairway to Heaven,” “Black Dog” and “Immigrant Song.”

THE MUSIC OF PINK FLOYD Brent Havens, conductor/arranger Randy Jackson, vocalist Amplified by a full rock band and accompanied by singer Randy Jackson’s fabulous vocals, creator Brent Havens guest conducts the Houston Symphony as they capture Pink Floyd’s ethereal flow of music and effects while churning out new musical colors. This rock concert features 17 Pink Floyd songs, including “Money,” “Learning to Fly,” “Comfortably Numb” and selections from the band’s 1979 hit album The Wall.

Tickets go on sale to the general public March 1, 2015 at houstonsymphony.org

Tickets for this concert will be available at woodlandscenter.org

The Houston Symphony’s performances at The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion are supported in part by the George P. & Cynthia Mitchell Summer Concerts Fund.

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Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Houston Symphony Filarmónica Joven de Colombia Houston Symphony Chorus Betsy Cook Weber, director Houston Children’s Chorus Stephen Roddy, director Prokofiev: Scythian Suite Orff: Carmina Burana Houston welcomes the Filarmónica Joven de Colombia (Colombian Youth Philharmonic) as they join their Artistic Advisor Andrés Orozco-Estrada, the Houston Symphony Chorus and the Houston Children’s Chorus for a spectacular side-by-side performance of Carl Orff’s epic Carmina Burana featuring nearly 400 musicians on an extended Jones Hall stage. The festive songs of Carmina Burana celebrate love, feasting and merriment with wild abandon, all the while acknowledging the ever-turning wheel of fortune.

Tickets go on sale to the general public April 8, 2015.

Houston Symphony Chorus

CLASSIC ROCK WEEKEND

JULY 25, 26, 2015

SEPTEMBER 12, 2015

POKÉMON— SYMPHONIC EVOLUTIONS

OPENING NIGHT WITH JOSHUA BELL

Tickets go on sale to the general public April 8, 2015.

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Joshua Bell, violin Gershwin: An American in Paris Bernstein/Brohn: West Side Story Suite for Violin and Orchestra Stravinsky: Suite from The Firebird (1919) Prepare for the dazzling opening of the Houston Symphony’s 2015-16 Season when world-famous violinist Joshua Bell returns to perform a work written for him, William David Brohn’s tuneful and virtuosic arrangement of the West Side Story Suite. Be delighted and amazed by Bell’s lightning-fast finger work and sweeping renditions of “I Feel Pretty,” “Somewhere” and other melodies from Leonard Bernstein’s classic musical. Gershwin’s jazzy An American in Paris opens the concert, and the evening concludes with the fairytale symbolism and burning colors of Stravinsky’s mythical ballet,The Firebird.

Note: This concert is only available to subscribers of 6 concerts or more.

Tickets go on sale to the general public July 1, 2015.

For more information on the Opening Night Gala, please see page 23.

OCTOBER 22, 2015

AUGUST 1, 2015

BACK TO THE FUTURE— FILM WITH LIVE ORCHESTRA

FEATURING SCORE BY ALAN SILVESTRI

30TH

ANNIVERSARY

Constantine Kitsopoulos, conductor Power up your DeLorean, recharge your flux capacitor and prepare to celebrate the 30th anniversary of an unforgettable movie classic. Back to the Future led to two wildly successful sequels and stamped an enduring imprint on pop culture. Now, fans old and new will experience the thrill of Back to the Future like never before—on a big screen with the Houston Symphony performing Alan Silverstri’s dazzling score live and in-sync with the film. You will also be in for an exclusive treat: Over fifteen minutes of brand new music has been added by the composer to the film’s score.

Tickets go on sale to the general public April 8, 2015.

Home Alone

Brought to life by the Houston Symphony accompanied by exciting visuals on a giant screen, Pokémon: Symphonic Evolutions will take audiences of all ages on a powerful musical retrospective through the popular video game franchise’s most memorable melodies. The premiere of Pokémon: Symphonic Evolutions in Washington D.C. sold out with a second performance added by popular demand.

Pokémon: Symphonic Evolutions is produced by Princeton Entertainment.

© 1990 Twentieth Century Fox

CONCERT & GALA

DECEMBER 4, 2015

HOME ALONE— FILM WITH LIVE ORCHESTRA

FEATURING SCORE BY JOHN WILLIAMS Give your holiday a little laughter with Home Alone, the beloved comedy favorite featuring renowned composer John Williams’ charming and delightful score performed live to picture. Macaulay Culkin stars as Kevin McCallister, an 8-year-old boy who’s accidentally left behind when his family leaves for Christmas vacation, and who must defend his home against two bungling thieves. Home Alone is must-see hilarious holiday fun for the entire family!

THE LEGEND OF ZELDA: SYMPHONY OF THE GODDESSES— MASTER QUEST

Tickets go on sale to the general public July 1, 2015.

The highly anticipated global concert tour of The Legend of Zelda: Symphony of the Goddesses—Master Quest descends on the Houston Symphony and delights fans with a truly unique experience. Audiences can expect new additions from “A Link Between Worlds,” the most recently released Zelda game.

Nicholas Kraemer, conductor Houston Symphony Chorus Betsy Cook Weber, director Handel: Messiah

Tickets go on sale to the general public July 1, 2015.

25TH

ANNIVERSARY

DECEMBER 18, 19, 20, 2015

HANDEL’S MESSIAH

Experience the timeless Christmas tradition of this Baroque masterpiece with the finest performances of Handel’s Messiah in Houston. Full of glorious choruses and moving solos, this grand oratorio tells the story of the first Christmas through some of Handel’s most inspired works, including “Ev’ry Valley Shall Be Exalted,” “O Thou That Tellest Good Tidings to Zion” and the famous “Hallelujah” chorus.

Tickets go on sale to the general public July 1, 2015.

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COMMUNITY CONCERTS

Whether we are offering a day-long music festival at Jones Hall, performing at a local church or returning to one of our outdoor venues, expanding and enhancing community relevance is critical to our mission. We hope to see you at one of our community events this season, many of which are completely FREE to the public.

SEPTEMBER 13, 2015

FIESTA SINFONICA JONES HALL

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Gianluca Littera, harmonica

CityWide Grassroots Chorus

JUNE 6, 2015

IMA HOGG COMPETITION FINALS CONCERT

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage month with our FREE annual Fiesta Sinfónica concert! Hear Brazilian composer Heitor Villa-Lobos’s unique and beguiling Concerto for Harmonica and Orchestra and enjoy the dancing melodies of Mexican composer Silvestre Revueltas and Argentina’s master of the tango, Astor Piazzolla. This exciting program concludes with the infectious Latin rhythms that abound in Leonard Bernstein’s Symphonic Dances from West Side Story.

RICE UNIVERSITY’S STUDE CONCERT HALL

JULY 4, 2015

JONES HALL

JULY 12, 2015

FREE 3RD ANNUAL DAY OF MUSIC JONES HALL

JUNE & DECEMBER 2015

NEIGHBORHOOD CONCERT SERIES 13

HOUSTONSYMPHONY.ORG

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, condcutor

STAR-SPANGLED SALUTE AT MILLER OUTDOOR THEATRE HOUSTON CHRONICLE DOLLAR CONCERT

Our long-standing presenting partnership with The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion in The Woodlands continues this season as the Houston Symphony performs various programs including Part I of our “Classic Rock Weekend” with The Music of Led Zeppelin on May 29.

JULY 3, 2015

STAR-SPANGLED SALUTE SEPTEMBER 10, 2015

MUSIC OF THE AMERICAS WITH ANDRÉS OCTOBER 23, 2015

HOCUS POCUS POPS For ticketing information for these and other Houston Symphony programs, please visit woodlandscenter.org. The Houston Symphony’s performances at The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion are supported in part by the George P. & Cynthia Mitchell Summer Concerts Fund.

Jennifer Gravenor, chair

JULY 11, 2015

THE CYNTHIA WOODS MITCHELL PAVILION

MILLER OUTDOOR THEATRE EXXONMOBIL SUMMER SYMPHONY NIGHTS In June 2015, we’ll present five FREE concerts at Miller Outdoor Theatre, including our annual Fourth of July celebration Star-Spangled Salute, through the “ExxonMobil Summer Symphony Nights” series. Past performances include Gershwin’s An American in Paris, Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 4 and Rachmaninoff’s Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini.

For more information about Houston Symphony programs at Miller Outdoor Theatre, please visit milleroutdoortheatre.com.

EDUCATION & COMMUNITY PROGRAMS

The Symphony’s education and community programs provide access to music for over 250,000 Houstonians of all ages and backgrounds each year. Residents learn about and engage with music, making it a relevant and integral part of their lives.

ENGAGE

INSPIRE

FOSTER

Musicians and conductors connect with students and community members.

Helping students realize their true potential.

Creating an environment for aspiring musicians to enhance their talents.

After a recent performance, Andrés inspires a young violinist to become a conductor.

Read more at houstonsymphonyblog.org

Musicians from the Texas Medical Center Orchestra participate in a side-by-side workshop with the Houston Symphony.

LEAD SUPPORTERS GUARANTOR - $100,000+ 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 Endowment Houston Symphony Endowment John & Lindy Rydman / Spec’s Wines, Spirits and Finer Foods

Students hone their skills at a private workshop led by Principal Tuba Dave Kirk.

Houston Symphony musicians share their talents and insight.

Young talent work towards the performance of their lifetime.

UNDERWRITER - $50,000+ Cameron International Corporation The Elkins Foundation ExxonMobil Mrs. Alfred C. Glassell Jr. GDF SUEZ Energy North America Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo The John P. McGovern Foundation Mr. and Mrs. William K. Robbins, Jr. / The Robbins Foundation Shell Oil Company These programs are also supported by the following endowed funds which are part of the Houston Symphony Endowment: Margarett & Alice Brown Endowment Fund for Education Lawrence E. Carlton M.D. Endowment Fund for Youth Programs The William Randolph Hearst Endowed Fund for Education Programs Spec’s Charitable Foundation Salute to Educators Concert Fund

HOUSTONSYMPHONY.ORG

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CLASSICAL CONCERT PACKAGES

Choose a 6-, 9-, 10- or 18-concert package. Classical concerts are at 8 pm on Thursday, Friday and Saturday and at 2:30 pm on Sunday. Join us for our Prelude pre-concert talks beginning 45 minutes in advance of Jones Hall Classical performances.

“Musically Speaking with Andrés” concerts are at 7:30 pm at Rice University’s Stude Concert Hall at the Shepherd School of Music.

18-CONCERT ULTIMATE PACKAGE

10-CONCERT ANDRÉS 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 35% off the cost of individual tickets.

10 concerts with Andrés on Thursday/Friday, Saturday or Sunday SEPTEMBER 17, 19, 20, 2015

MAHLER SYMPHONY NO. 5

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor On-Stage Insights with Andrés* featuring John Corigliano John Corigliano: Stomp World Premiere of Orchestral Version, a Houston Symphony Commission Mahler: Symphony No. 5 SEPTEMBER 25, 26, 27, 2015

HILARY HAHN PLAYS SIBELIUS

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Hilary Hahn: violin Dvořák: Slavonic Dances – selections Sibelius: Violin Concerto Dvořák: Symphony No. 6 OCTOBER 1 , 3, 4, 2015

SCHUMANN AND BARTÓK

15

EMANUEL AX PLAYS BRAHMS

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Emanuel Ax, piano Ives: Symphony No. 2 Brahms: Piano Concerto No. 2 JANUARY 22, 23, 24, 2016

SHOSTAKOVICH SYMPHONY NO. 10

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Kirill Gerstein, piano Shostakovich: Festive Overture Ravel: Concerto for The Left Hand Shostakovich: Symphony No. 10 JANUARY 28, 30, 31, 2016

BRAHMS & SCHUMANN

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Patricia Kopatchinskaja, violin Barber: Overture to The School for Scandal Schumann: Violin Concerto Brahms: Symphony No. 2 MARCH 4, 5, 6, 2016

BEETHOVEN 2 & 8

MARCH 10, 12, 13, 2016

BEETHOVEN’S EROICA PLUS SHOSTAKOVICH

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Martin Helmchen, piano Mark Hughes, trumpet On-Stage Insights with Andrés* featuring Pierre Jalbert Pierre Jalbert: Music of Air and Fire Shostakovich: Concerto No. 1 for Piano, Trumpet and Strings Beethoven: Symphony No. 3, Eroica MARCH 18, 19, 20, 2016

BEETHOVEN 9 & BERNSTEIN

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Houston Symphony Chorus Betsy Cook Weber, director On-Stage Insights with Andrés* featuring Betsy Cook Weber Bernstein: Chichester Psalms Beethoven: Symphony No. 9, Choral MAY 19, 21, 22, 2016

ANDRÉS CONDUCTS SYMPHONIE FANTASTIQUE

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Gabriela Montero, piano Gabriela Lena Frank: Escaramuza Grieg: Piano Concerto Berlioz: Symphonie fantastique

ANDRÉ S

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Houston Symphony Chorus Betsy Cook Weber, director Bartók: Divertimento for Strings Schumann: The Pilgrimage of the Rose

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, Music Director

OCTOBER 16, 17, 18, 2015

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Wayne Brooks, viola Beethoven: Symphony No. 2 On-Stage Insights with Andrés* featuring Gabriela Lena Frank Gabriela Lena Frank: La Llorona for Viola and Orchestra Beethoven: Symphony No. 8

*On-Stage Insights with Andrés features brief commentary about the music during the concert.

The Thursday program is part of our “Musically Speaking with Andrés” series.

See page 16 for additional information.

3-CONCERT “3 WEEKS OF BEETHOVEN” PACKAGE

Houston Symphony Endowment, Diamond Guarantor

3 concerts on Thursday/Friday, Saturday or Sunday MARCH 4, 5, 6, 2016

BEETHOVEN 2 & 8

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Wayne Brooks, viola Beethoven: Symphony No. 2 On-Stage Insights with Andrés* featuring Gabriela Lena Frank Gabriela Lena Frank: La Llorona for Viola and Orchestra Beethoven: Symphony No. 8

MARCH 10, 12, 13, 2016

BEETHOVEN’S EROICA PLUS SHOSTAKOVICH

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Martin Helmchen, piano Mark Hughes, trumpet On-Stage Insights with Andrés* featuring Pierre Jalbert Pierre Jalbert: Music of Air and Fire Shostakovich: Concerto No. 1 for Piano, Trumpet and Strings Beethoven: Symphony No. 3, Eroica

MARCH 18, 19, 20, 2016

BEETHOVEN 9 & BERNSTEIN

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Houston Symphony Chorus Betsy Cook Weber, director On-Stage Insights with Andrés* featuring Betsy Cook Weber Bernstein: Chichester Psalms Beethoven: Symphony No. 9, Choral

BEETHOVEN 3-CONCERT “MUSICALLY SPEAKING WITH ANDRÉS” SERIES An intimate concert experience with commentary from Music Director Andrés Orozco-Estrada and co-host Carlos Andrés Botero, these three Thursdays are part of the “Musically Speaking with Andrés” series, held at Rice University’s Stude Concert Hall at the Shepherd School of Music (housed in the Alice Pratt Brown Hall) at 7:30 pm. They feature shorter programs, musical commentary and a post-concert Q&A session.

*On-Stage Insights with Andrés features brief commentary about the music during the concert.

JANUARY 28, 2016

SCHUMANN’S VIOLIN CONCERTO Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Carlos Andrés Botero, co-host Patricia Kopatchinskaja, violin Schumann: Violin Concerto MAY 19, 2016

ANDRÉS CONDUCTS SYMPHONIE FANTASTIQUE

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Carlos Andrés Botero, co-host Berlioz: Symphonie fantastique

MUSIC

OCTOBER 1, 2015

BARTÓK’S DIVERTIMENTO FOR STRINGS Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Carlos Andrés Botero, co-host Bartók: Divertimento for Strings

RAND G ROUP

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CLASSICAL CONCERT PACKAGES

Choose a 6-, 9-, 10- or 18-concert package. Classical concerts are at 8 pm on Thursday, Friday and Saturday and at 2:30 pm on Sunday. Join us for our Prelude pre-concert talks beginning 45 minutes in advance of Jones Hall Classical performances.

“Musically Speaking with Andrés” concerts are at 7:30 pm at Rice University’s Stude Concert Hall at the Shepherd School of Music.

9-CONCERT “FIRE” PACKAGE 9 concerts on Friday, Saturday or Sunday SEPTEMBER 25, 26, 27, 2015

HILARY HAHN PLAYS SIBELIUS

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Hilary Hahn: violin Dvorák: Slavonic Dances – selections ˇ Sibelius: Violin Concerto Dvorák: Symphony No. 6 ˇ OCTOBER 16, 17, 18, 2015

EMANUEL AX PLAYS BRAHMS

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Emanuel Ax, piano Ives: Symphony No. 2 Brahms: Piano Concerto No. 2 NOVEMBER 27, 28, 29, 2015

PROKOFIEV’S ROMEO AND JULIET

Long Yu, conductor Stephen Hough, piano Huanzhi: Spring Festival Overture Saint-Saëns: Piano Concerto No. 5, Egyptian Prokofiev: Selections from Romeo and Juliet

JANUARY 22, 23, 24, 2016

MARCH 18, 19, 20, 2016

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Kirill Gerstein, piano Shostakovich: Festive Overture Ravel: Piano Concerto for The Left Hand Shostakovich: Symphony No. 10

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Houston Symphony Chorus Betsy Cook Weber, director On-Stage Insights with Andrés* featuring Betsy Cook Weber Bernstein: Chichester Psalms Beethoven: Symphony No. 9, Choral

FEBRUARY 12, 13, 14, 2016

APRIL 8, 9, 10, 2016

John Storgårds, conductor Sol Gabetta, cello Haydn: Cello Concerto No. 1 Sibelius: The Bard Saint-Saëns: Cello Concerto No. 1 Sibelius: Symphony No. 1

Fabien Gabel, conductor Caroline Goulding, violin Dukas: The Sorcerer’s Apprentice Bruch: Violin Concerto No. 1 Poulenc: Suite from The Model Animals Ravel: Boléro

SHOSTAKOVICH SYMPHONY NO. 10

HAYDN & SIBELIUS

BEETHOVEN 9 & BERNSTEIN

RAVEL’S BOLÉRO

MARCH 4, 5, 6, 2016

BEETHOVEN 2 & 8

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Wayne Brooks, viola Beethoven: Symphony No. 2 On-Stage Insights with Andrés* featuring Gabriela Lena Frank Gabriela Lena Frank: La Llorona for Viola and Orchestra Beethoven: Symphony No. 8

MAY 27, 28, 29, 2016

THE COSMOS—AN HD ODYSSEY Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Duncan Copp, producer On-Stage Insights with Andrés* Lutosławski: Concerto for Orchestra Dvorák: Symphony No. 9, ˇ From the New World with The Cosmos—An HD Odyssey: Premiere of Final Installment in HD Odyssey Film Trilogy

FIRE *On-Stage Insights with Andrés features brief commentary about the music during the concert.

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9-CONCERT “SPECTRUM” PACKAGE 9 concerts on Thursday, Saturday or Sunday SEPTEMBER 17, 19, 20, 2015

MAHLER SYMPHONY NO. 5

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor On-Stage Insights with Andrés* featuring John Corigliano John Corigliano: Stomp World Premiere of Orchestral Version, a Houston Symphony Commission Mahler: Symphony No. 5 OCTOBER 1 , 3, 4, 2015

SCHUMANN AND BARTÓK

JANUARY 28, 30, 31, 2016

APRIL 14, 16, 17, 2016

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Patricia Kopatchinskaja, violin Barber: Overture to The School for Scandal Schumann: Violin Concerto Brahms: Symphony No. 2

Thomas Søndergård, conductor Karen Gomyo, violin Mozart: Violin Concerto No. 3 Bruckner: Symphony No. 7

BRAHMS & SCHUMANN

MOZART AND BRUCKNER

APRIL 28, 30, MAY 1, 2016 MARCH 10, 12, 13, 2016

BEETHOVEN’S EROICA PLUS SHOSTAKOVICH

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Martin Helmchen, piano Mark Hughes, trumpet On-Stage Insights with Andrés* featuring Pierre Jalbert Pierre Jalbert: Music of Air and Fire Shostakovich: Concerto No. 1 for Piano, Trumpet and Strings Beethoven: Symphony No. 3, Eroica

FAURÉ REQUIEM

David Zinman, conductor Houston Symphony Chorus Betsy Cook Weber, director Mendelssohn: Symphony No. 4, Italian Fauré: Requiem MAY 19, 21, 22, 2016

ANDRÉS CONDUCTS SYMPHONIE FANTASTIQUE

SPEC TRUM SUGAR LAND

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Houston Symphony Chorus Betsy Cook Weber, director Bartók: Divertimento for Strings Schumann: The Pilgrimage of the Rose NOVEMBER 12, 14, 15, 2015

ˇ DVORÁK’S SERENADE FOR STRINGS

Frank Huang, violin and leader Wagner: Siegfried Idyll Dvorák: Romance for Violin and Orchestra ˇ Sarasate: Zigeunerweisen (Gypsy Airs) for Violin and Orchestra Webern: Langsamer Satz (Slow Movement) for String Orchestra Dvorák: Serenade for Strings ˇ

MARCH 31, APRIL 2, 3, 2016

RACHMANINOFF’S SYMPHONIC DANCES

Michael Francis, conductor David Pyatt, horn Charles Watkins, horn William VerMeulen, horn Robert Johnson, horn Korngold: The Sea Hawk James Horner: Concerto for Four Horns and Orchestra North American Premiere, Co-Commission of the Houston Symphony and the International Horn Society Rachmaninoff: Symphonic Dances

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Gabriela Montero, piano Gabriela Lena Frank: Escaramuza Grieg: Piano Concerto Berlioz: Symphonie fantastique

*On-Stage Insights with Andrés features brief commentary about the music during the concert.

The Thursday program is part of our “Musically Speaking with Andrés” series. See page 16 for additional information.

3-CONCERT SUGAR LAND SERIES

3 concerts on Thursday or Friday at Sugar Land Baptist Church.

NOVEMBER 13, 2015

DECEMBER 17, 2015

MARCH 11, 2016

Frank Huang, violin and leader Wagner: Siegfried Idyll Dvorák: Romance for Violin and Orchestra ˇ Sarasate: Zigeunerweisen (Gypsy Airs) for Violin and Orchestra Webern: Langsamer Satz (Slow Movement) for String Orchestra Dvorák: Serenade for Strings ˇ

Nicholas Kraemer, conductor Houston Symphony Chorus Betsy Cook Weber, director Handel: Messiah

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Beethoven: Symphony No. 2 Beethoven: Symphony No. 3, Eroica

ˇ DVORÁK’S SERENADE FOR STRINGS

HANDEL’S MESSIAH

BEETHOVEN 2 & EROICA

Mr. & Mrs. Robert M. Griswold, Partner Mr. & Mrs. Robert R. Springob, Laredo Construction, Inc., Partner

HOUSTONSYMPHONY.ORG | SUBSCRIBE TODAY!

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CLASSICAL CONCERT PACKAGES

Choose a 6-, 9-, 10- or 18-concert package. Classical concerts are at 8 pm on Thursday, Friday and Saturday and at 2:30 pm on Sunday. Join us for our Prelude pre-concert talks beginning 45 minutes in advance of Jones Hall Classical performances.

“Musically Speaking with Andrés” concerts are at 7:30 pm at Rice University’s Stude Concert Hall at the Shepherd School of Music.

6-CONCERT “FROST BANK GOLD CLASSICS” PACKAGE

BANKING INVESTMENTS INSURANCE

6 concerts on Thursday, Saturday or Sunday MARCH 31, APRIL 2, 3, 2016 SEPTEMBER 17, 19, 20, 2015

MAHLER SYMPHONY NO. 5

6-CONCERT “SHELL FAVORITE MASTERS” PACKAGE 6 concerts on Friday, Saturday or Sunday

John Storgårds, conductor Sol Gabetta, cello Haydn: Cello Concerto No. 1 Sibelius: The Bard Saint-Saëns: Cello Concerto No. 1 Sibelius: Symphony No. 1

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor On-Stage Insights with Andrés* featuring John Corigliano John Corigliano: Stomp World Premiere of Orchestral Version, a Houston Symphony Commission Mahler: Symphony No. 5

MARCH 4, 5, 6, 2016

NOVEMBER 12, 14, 15, 2015

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Wayne Brooks, viola Beethoven: Symphony No. 2 On-Stage Insights with Andrés* featuring Gabriela Lena Frank Gabriela Lena Frank: La Llorona for Viola and Orchestra Beethoven: Symphony No. 8

Frank Huang, violin and leader Wagner: Siegfried Idyll Dvorák: Romance for Violin and Orchestra ˇ Sarasate: Zigeunerweisen (Gypsy Airs) for Violin and Orchestra Webern: Langsamer Satz (Slow Movement) for String Orchestra Dvorák: Serenade for Strings ˇ

MAY 27, 28, 29, 2016

MARCH 10, 12, 13, 2016

MAY 19, 21, 22, 2016

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Duncan Copp, producer On-Stage Insights with Andrés* Lutosławski: Concerto for Orchestra Dvorák: Symphony No. 9, ˇ From the New World with The Cosmos—An HD Odyssey: Premiere of Final Installment in HD Odyssey Film Trilogy

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Martin Helmchen, piano Mark Hughes, trumpet On-Stage Insights with Andrés* featuring Pierre Jalbert Pierre Jalbert: Music of Air and Fire Shostakovich: Concerto No. 1 for Piano, Trumpet and Strings Beethoven: Symphony No. 3, Eroica

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Gabriela Montero, piano Gabriela Lena Frank: Escaramuza Grieg: Piano Concerto Berlioz: Symphonie fantastique

FEBRUARY 12, 13, 14, 2016

HAYDN & SIBELIUS

SEPTEMBER 25, 26, 27, 2015

HILARY HAHN PLAYS SIBELIUS

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Hilary Hahn: violin Dvorák: Slavonic Dances – selections ˇ Sibelius: Violin Concerto Dvorák: Symphony No. 6 ˇ

BEETHOVEN 2 & 8

ˇ DVORÁK’S SERENADE FOR STRINGS

Michael Francis, conductor David Pyatt, horn Charles Watkins, horn William VerMeulen, horn Robert Johnson, horn Korngold: The Sea Hawk James Horner: Concerto for Four Horns and Orchestra North American Premiere, Co-Commission of the Houston Symphony and the International Horn Society Rachmaninoff: Symphonic Dances APRIL 14, 16, 17, 2016

MOZART AND BRUCKNER

Thomas Søndergård, conductor Karen Gomyo, violin Mozart: Violin Concerto No. 3 Bruckner: Symphony No. 7

FROST SHELL BANK

OCTOBER 16, 17, 18, 2015

EMANUEL AX PLAYS BRAHMS

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Emanuel Ax, piano Ives: Symphony No. 2 Brahms: Piano Concerto No. 2 JANUARY 22, 23, 24, 2016

SHOSTAKOVICH SYMPHONY NO. 10

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Kirill Gerstein, piano Shostakovich: Festive Overture Ravel: Piano Concerto for The Left Hand Shostakovich: Symphony No. 10 19

RACHMANINOFF’S SYMPHONIC DANCES

THE COSMOS—AN HD ODYSSEY

BEETHOVEN’S EROICA PLUS SHOSTAKOVICH

ANDRÉS CONDUCTS SYMPHONIE FANTASTIQUE

*On-Stage Insights with Andrés features brief commentary about the music during the concert.

The Thursday program is part of our “Musically Speaking with Andrés” series. See page 16 for additional information.

6-CONCERT “GREAT PERFORMERS” PACKAGE 6 concerts on Thursday/Friday, Saturday or Sunday OCTOBER 1 , 3, 4, 2015

SCHUMANN AND BARTÓK

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Houston Symphony Chorus Betsy Cook Weber, director Bartók: Divertimento for Strings Schumann: The Pilgrimage of the Rose

NOVEMBER 27, 28, 29, 2015

MARCH 18, 19, 20, 2016

APRIL 28, 30, MAY 1, 2016

Long Yu, conductor Stephen Hough, piano Huanzhi: Spring Festival Overture Saint-Saëns: Piano Concerto No. 5, Egyptian Prokofiev: Selections from Romeo and Juliet

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Houston Symphony Chorus Betsy Cook Weber, director On-Stage Insights with Andrés* featuring Betsy Cook Weber Bernstein: Chichester Psalms Beethoven: Symphony No. 9, Choral

David Zinman, conductor Houston Symphony Chorus Betsy Cook Weber, director Mendelssohn: Symphony No. 4, Italian Fauré: Requiem

PROKOFIEV’S ROMEO AND JULIET

BEETHOVEN 9 & BERNSTEIN

JANUARY 28, 30, 31, 2016

APRIL 8, 9, 10, 2016

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Patricia Kopatchinskaja, violin Barber: Overture to The School for Scandal Schumann: Violin Concerto Brahms: Symphony No. 2

Fabien Gabel, conductor Caroline Goulding, violin Dukas: The Sorcerer’s Apprentice Bruch: Violin Concerto No. 1 Poulenc: Suite from The Model Animals Ravel: Boléro

BRAHMS & SCHUMANN

RAVEL’S BOLÉRO

FAURÉ REQUIEM

*On-Stage Insights with Andrés features brief commentary about the music during the concert.

The Thursday program is part of our “Musically Speaking with Andrés” series.

See page 16 for additional information.

PERFORMERS

6-CONCERT “SOUND + VISION” PACKAGE

NOVEMBER 27, 28, 29, 2015

MARCH 18, 19, 20, 2016

MAY 27, 28, 29, 2016

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

Long Yu, conductor Stephen Hough, piano Huanzhi: Spring Festival Overture Saint-Saëns: Piano Concerto No. 5, Egyptian Prokofiev: Selections from Romeo and Juliet

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Houston Symphony Chorus Betsy Cook Weber, director On-Stage Insights with Andrés* featuring Betsy Cook Weber Bernstein: Chichester Psalms Beethoven: Symphony No. 9, Choral

Please note that “Sound + Vision” subscribers sit in different seats at each concert.

MARCH 4, 5, 6, 2016

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Duncan Copp, producer On-Stage Insights with Andrés* Lutosławski: Concerto for Orchestra Dvorák: Symphony No. 9, ˇ From the New World with The Cosmos—An HD Odyssey: Premiere of Final Installment in HD Odyssey Film Trilogy

PROKOFIEV’S ROMEO AND JULIET

BEETHOVEN 2 & 8 OCTOBER 3, 4, 2015‡

SCHUMANN AND BARTÓK

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Houston Symphony Chorus Betsy Cook Weber, director Bartók: Divertimento for Strings Schumann: The Pilgrimage of the Rose ‡Note: Thursday “Sound + Vision” subscribers will attend on Saturday.

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor Wayne Brooks, viola Beethoven: Symphony No. 2 On-Stage Insights with Andrés* featuring Gabriela Lena Frank Gabriela Lena Frank: La Llorona for Viola and Orchestra Beethoven: Symphony No. 8

BEETHOVEN 9 & BERNSTEIN

THE COSMOS—AN HD ODYSSEY

SOUND +VISION APRIL 8, 9, 10, 2016

RAVEL’S BOLÉRO

Fabien Gabel, conductor Caroline Goulding, violin Dukas: The Sorcerer’s Apprentice Bruch: Violin Concerto No. 1 Poulenc: Suite from The Model Animals Ravel: Boléro

The “Sound + Vision” series is sponsored

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

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

*On-Stage Insights with Andrés features brief commentary about the music during the concert.

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BBVA COMPASS POPS & FAMILY PACKAGES Choose a 6- or 9-concert POPS package. POPS concerts are at 8 pm on Friday and Saturday, and at 7:30 pm on Sunday.

Family concerts are on Saturday mornings at 10:00 am and 11:30 am.

Subscribe to all 9 concerts and don’t miss a minute of this POPS Season, complete with award-winning artists, fun evenings of entertainment, and the always witty Michael Krajewski.

Matthew Morrison vocalist

4-CONCERT FAMILY PACKAGE

6-CONCERT “I LIKE MIKE” PACKAGE Subscribe to all 6 concerts conducted

by Principal POPS Conductor Michael Krajewski.

SEPTEMBER 4, 5, 6, 2015

JANUARY 8, 9, 10, 2016

NOVEMBER 20, 21, 22, 2015

FEBRUARY 26, 27, 28, 2016

MUSIC OF THE BEATLES

TAPESTRY: THE CAROLE KING SONGBOOK

A TRIBUTE TO JOHN WILLIAMS THE BEST OF BENNY GOODMAN MAY 6, 7, 8, 2016

DECEMBER 11, 12, 13, 2015

VERY MERRY POPS

JOURNEY, THE EAGLES, FLEETWOOD MAC & MORE

I LIKE MIKE OCTOBER 31, 2015

GHOSTBUSTERS & GHOULS Robert Franz, conductor

Michael Krajewski, Principal POPS Conductor

POPS

9-CONCERT FULL POPS SERIES PACKAGE

MARCH 26, 2016

SUPERHEROES AT THE SYMPHONY! Robert Franz, conductor

DECEMBER 12, 2015

FAMILY

A FROSTY & FROZEN CHRISTMAS

MAY 7, 2016

DREAMS CAN COME TRUE WITH MUSIC FROM THE LITTLE MERMAID Robert Franz, conductor

Robert Franz, Associate Conductor 21

ENHANCE YOUR EXPERIENCE

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!

Donors Have Rewards Become a donor and enjoy benefits, including special events, private rehearsals, valet parking and access to the Green Room and Patron Donor Lounge.

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 benefits such as exclusive premier reserved donor seating, Green Room access and valet services for all Houston Symphony concerts at Jones Hall.

FRIENDS OF THE HOUSTON SYMPHONY | $50-$4,999

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, Associate Director, Annual Fund, at (713) 337-8529 or darryl.demello@houstonsymphony.org.

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: $1,500-$2,499 • Season access to the Patron Donor Lounge • Invitation to a Houston Symphony “Insider Event” • All benefits of the Director Level (Fair Market Value: $100) Director: $1,000-$1,499 • One-time access pass to the Patron Donor Lounge • Invitation to an additional private rehearsal (three total) • All benefits of the Principal Level (Fair Market Value: $10)

Principal: $500-$999 • Invitation to a Behind the Scenes experience • Monthly recognition in Houston Symphony Magazine • All benefits of the Associate Principal Level (No Fair Market Value) Associate Principal: $250-$499 • 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) 22

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 two years as Music Director of the Houston Symphony (2014–15 and 2015–16 seasons).

Andrés Orozco-Estrada was appointed in January 2013 and is a young, dynamic conductor who radiates charm and energy both on and off the podium.

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 Wilfert Beauchamp Barbara & Pat McCelvey Nancy & Robert Peiser Mr. & Mrs. Jim R. Smith Mike Stude Mr. & Mrs. Jesse B. Tutor

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.

OPENING NIGHT GALA SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2015

Concert Sponsor Lead Corporate Gala Underwriter

OPENING NIGHT GALA WITH JOSHUA BELL JONES HALL AND THE CORINTHIAN Janet F. Clark, Chair

Join us as we celebrate the beginning of the 2015-16 Season of 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 Grammy Award®-winning violinist Joshua Bell and the Houston Symphony.

OPENING

Janet F. Clark, Chair

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, Music Director and his wife Julia

Afterwards, continue the elegant evening at a black-tie dinner and dance at The Corinthian, featuring cuisine by Jackson and Company and dancing the night away.

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

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2014 Opening Night Gala at The Corinthian

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 Greater Houston and the Gulf Coast Region. For information on becoming a corporate donor, please contact Candace Strauss at (713) 337-8526 or candace.strauss@houstonsymphony. For more information on becoming a foundation or government partner, please contact David Chambers at (713) 337-8525 or david.chambers@houstonsymphony.org.

Corporations, Grand Guarantor, $150,000 or more *

*

+*

*

Official Television Partner

Guarantor, $100,000 or more ‡

‡

‡*

* Official Health Care Provider

‡*

Exclusive Print Media Sponsor, Special Events

Public Media Partner

Underwriter, $50,000 or more * *

+

‡

+*

+

Official Airline

Hispanic Media Partner

*

*

+*

*

*

+

BANKING INVESTMENTS INSURANCE

‡

RAND * G ROUP

Sponsor, $25,000 or more +

+

+

*

+

*

‡

*

*

‡

‡

*

‡

+

‡*

‡

‡

Foundations and Government Agencies Diamond Guarantor, $1,000,000 and above

Principal Guarantor, $250,000 and above

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

Albert and Margaret Alkek Foundation / The Alkek and Williams Foundation + City of Houston through the Miller Theatre Advisory Board The Cullen Foundation ‡

Premier Guarantor, $500,000 and above

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

Underwriter, $50,000 and above The Elkins Foundation The Fondren Foundation The Humphreys Foundation + The John P. McGovern Foundation ‡ The Robbins Foundation

‡

Grand Guarantor, $150,000 and above M.D. Anderson Foundation ‡

Sponsor, $25,000 and above

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

Guarantor, $100,000 & above

Houston Endowment ‡ The Robert and Janice McNair Foundation / Palmetto Partners, Ltd. +

Many thanks to these generous government partners. +

+

* Contribution includes in-kind support

‡

+ Ten years of continuous giving

‡

‡ 25 years of continuous giving

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SEASON PRICING AND SEATING

From securing the best seats and saving up to 35% off the price of individual tickets, to receiving advance access to exclusive Symphony Specials, becoming a subscriber is the best way to experience the thrill of live orchestral music with the Houston Symphony.

18-Concert Classical Series

Premium

Andrés 10-Concert Package

THU/FRI/SAT 8 pm

SUN 2:30 pm

Premium

9-Concert Classical Series

THU/FRI/SAT 8 pm

SUN 2:30 pm

SUN 2:30 pm

THU/FRI/SAT 8 pm

SUN 2:30 pm

$1,692

$1,404

$1,140

$960

$1,044

$891

$720

$678

1,350

1,224

Price Level 2

860

790

Price Level 2

774

729

Price Level 2

588

534

Price Level 3 Price Level 4 Price Level 5 Price Level 6

990 846 612 378

972 792 576 360

Price Level 3 Price Level 4 Price Level 5 Price Level 6

630 500 360 240

610 500 330 220

Price Level 3 Price Level 4 Price Level 5 Price Level 6

567 477 342 216

558 450 333 207

Price Level 3 Price Level 4 Price Level 5 Price Level 6

450 330 228 144

396 300 228 132

Boxes & Rows A + B Premium

3-Concert Sugar Land Series

Pink Floyd

Carmina Burana

Pokémon

$125

$125

$99

Back to the Future

Opening Night

The Legend of Zelda

Home Alone

Handel’s Messiah

$110

$165

$125

$115

$125

125

125

99

110

139

125

115

125

Price Level 2

95

99

79

89

109

99

89

101

Price Level 3

75

75

62

74

89

83

68

69

Price Level 4

58

55

48

59

69

65

52

52

Price Level 5

42

38

35

46

49

55

38

38

Price Level 6

29

25

25

29

29

35

25

25

Ima Hogg Finals Concert: $25 General Admission 25

THU/FRI/SAT 8 pm

Price Level 2

Symphony Specials Pricing

Premium

6-Concert Classical Series

Premium

Premium

4-Concert Family Series

THU/FRI 8 pm

Adult

Child

$189

$79

$54

Price Level 2

150

Price Level 3

105

Price Level 4

69

“Musically Speaking with Andrés” Series

3 Weeks of Beethoven Package THU/FRI/SAT 8 pm

THU 7:30 pm

SUN 2:30 pm

Premium

$363

Premium

Premium

$252

Price Level 2

297

Price Level 2

204

Price Level 3

216

Price Level 3

150

Price Level 4

162

Price Level 4

N/A

Price Level 4

108

Classical Seating Chart

6-Concert “I Like Mike” POPS Series

9-Concert POPS Series FRI 8 pm or SUN 7:30 pm

SAT 8 pm

FRI 8 pm or SUN 7:30 pm

SAT 8 pm

$1,134

$1,161

$720

$744

Price Level 2

909

936

Premium Price Level 2

600

600

Price Level 3 Price Level 4 Price Level 5 Price Level 6

666 495 342 180

711 504 342 180

Price Level 3 Price Level 4 Price Level 5 Price Level 6

462 348 240 150

456 348 234 144

ORCHESTRA

POPS Seating Chart

Rice University Stude Concert Hall Seating Chart

Sugar Land Seating Chart ORCHESTRA

GRAND TIER

ONY BALC

BOXES

BOXES

SIDE BALCONY

BOXES

BOXES

SIDE BALCONY

ORCHESTRA GE LO

STAGE STAGE

Exclusive Premier Donor Seating This section is reserved exclusively for Conductor's Circle donors and above (annual gifts of $5,000+).

To learn more about becoming a donor, see page 22.

RA HEST ORC

STAGE STAGE

STAGE

Premium

Price Level 4

Price Level 2

Price Level 5

Price Level 3

Price Level 6

GE LO

ERRE PART

ORCHESTRA

Premium Price Level 2 Price Level 3

Price Level 4 Obstructed view

Premium Price Level 2 Price Level 3

Price Level 4 Obstructed view

GALLERY

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THE SUBSCRIBER EXPERIENCE

From securing the best seats and saving up to 35% off the price of individual tickets, to receiving advance access to exclusive Symphony Specials, becoming a subscriber is the best way to experience the thrill of live orchestral music with the Houston Symphony.

SUBSCRIBER BENEFITS

Best Price: Save up to 35% off the price of individual tickets.

Flexible Seat Exchanges: You can exchange your tickets to other Classical, POPS or Family performances when you have a scheduling conflict. Subscribers to 6 concerts or more can exchange without the exchange fee.

Note: Subscribers can’t exchange into Symphony Specials concerts. Some other concerts are restricted due to demand.

Priority for Special Concerts: You can get the best seats for Symphony Specials before the general public.

Discounts for Additional Tickets: Get 10% off additional tickets to season subscription concerts.

Same Great Seats: Subscribers to our standard packages of 6 concerts or more get the same seat for all of the concerts in their package. Plus, these subscribers have first access to keep or upgrade their seats during renewals.

PRELUDE PRE-CONCERT TALKS

DIRECTIONS

Get insights into the evening’s Classical program at these casual talks, held in the main concert hall starting 45 minutes prior to each Classical series concert at Jones Hall. Hear from guest artists, conductors, Houston Symphony musicians and local Classical music experts. Prelude is open to all ticket holders.

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

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

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Jones Hall, 615 Louisiana Street Houston, TX 77002 The Symphony also performs at Sugar Land Baptist Church, Rice University, Miller Outdoor Theatre, The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion and other locations around the community.

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. For a parking map, see the “Plan Your Visit” section of houstonsymphony.org.

Parking vouchers can be used at the Theater District or Alley Theatre parking garages.

SUBSCRIBER INFORMATION Full Name Email* Address City State

Zip

Daytime Phone Evening Phone Cell Phone *We will not sell or trade your email address. You will be signed-up to receive our Symphony E-News and other concert announcements, reminders, offers and updates.

SERIES Day of Week

Price Level

No. of Subs

Price

Total

x

=$

x

=$

x

=$

The Earth—An HD Odyssey DVD: $25; Case: $345 Blu-ray: $35; Case: $575

$

SYMPHONY SPECIALS AND SINGLE TICKETS Concert Name

Price

Handling Fee*

No. of Tickets

The Planets—An HD Odyssey DVD: $20; Case: $276 Blu-ray: $25; Case: $345

Total

+

$7.50

x

=$

+

$7.50

x

=$

Buy both films! 2-film package is $55 for Blu-ray or $35 for DVD. Order today by completing the “Symphony Merchandise” section.

$

SYMPHONY MERCHANDISE DVD/Blu-rays

Price

Handling Fee

No. of DVD/Blu-rays

$5.00

x

=$

+

$5.00

x

=$

TOTALS

$

Symphony Specials Total Make a donation today to celebrate Music Director Andrés Orozco-Estrada and Principal POPS Conductor Michael Krajewski Handling Fee

$

Grand Total

$

 Check enclosed payable to Houston Symphony

ONLINE houstonsymphony.org/subscriptions

CALL

$

Subscription Total

PAYMENT INFORMATION

5 EASY WAYS TO SUBSCRIBE

Total

+

(713) 224-7575, Mon – Sat, 10 am – 6 pm

FAX FORM (713) 247-0220

MAIL FORM

$

Houston Symphony Patron Services Center 615 Louisiana, Suite 102 Houston, TX 77002

$ 15.00

IN PERSON  American Express

 MasterCard

 Visa

 Discover

Cardholder's Signature

Credit Card Number Cardholder's Name (print)

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Series Name

Get ready for this season’s world premiere of The Cosmos—An HD Odyssey by re-living the first and second installments of our HD Odyssey trilogy with The Planets and The Earth, both available on DVD and Blu-ray.

Security Code

Houston Symphony Patron Services Center at Jones Hall 615 Louisiana, Suite 102, Houston, TX 77002 Mon – Sat, 10 am – 6 pm All programs, artists and pricing are subject to change.

Thank you for your order!

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2015-16 SEASON HIGHLIGHTS •• The Cosmos—An HD Odyssey •• Beethoven 9 & 3, Eroica •• Opening Night with Joshua Bell: Concert & Gala •• Carmina Burana •• Singin’ In The Rain—Film with Live Orchestra •• Ravel’s Boléro •• Matthew Morrison from TV’s Glee •• A Tribute to John Williams •• Music of the Beatles •• Superheroes at the Symphony!

•• Andrés Conducts Mahler 5

Houston Symphony Society 615 Louisiana Street, Suite 102, Houston, Texas 77002

SUBSCRIBE TODAY! Get 6 Concerts for as Low as $132 houstonsymphony.org | (713) 224-7575

Non-Profit Org U.S. Postage PAID Houston Symphony Society