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InTUNE

September - October 2026

The Houston Symphony Magazine

Simply the Best: A Tribute to Tina Turner

Rachmaninoff Festival: Rachmanino!’s Second Symphony

Rachmaninoff Festival: Rachmanino!’s Piano Concerto No. 3

Mozart’s Jupiter Symphony & JIJI

Inverness

River Oaks, $9.5 mil. Beverly Berry 713.302.6999

Chevy Chase

River Oaks, $7.9+ mil. Alex Heins, 713.417.4793 Kristin Tillman, 281.785.3566

Waverly Ct.

Rice/Museum Dist, $5.7 mil. Colleen Sherlock 713.858.6699

Meadow Lake River Oaks, $5.5 mil. Colleen Sherlock 713.858.6699

Leisure Ln.

Bunker Hill, $4.5+ mil. Sharon Ballas 713.822.3895

Bolsover

Southampton, $2.8+ mil. Cathy Blum 713.320.9050

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University Blvd.

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Westchester

W. 43rd

Ella Blvd.

Washington Ave.

West University, $2.7+ mil. Mary Frances A. DuMay 713.724.0577

Garden Oaks, $1.2+ mil. Houston Symphony Jeremy Fain 713.677.4337

Houston Symphony Sept 2026

Hunters Creek, $2 mil. Elissa Kirkham 832.443.1500

Oak Forest, $1+ mil. 4 Meg Greenwood Rife 832.578.2594

West University, $1.8+ mil. Cathy Blum 713.320.9050

6th Ward District, $350s Amanda Anhorn 713.256.5123

Your Houston Symphony Welcome to the Houston Symphony Upcoming Performances in November Your Symphony Experience Start the Season on a High Note Juraj Val"uha, Music Director Orchestra Roster Society Board of Trustees Administrative Sta! Rachmaninoff Festival: Preview Behind the Music: Tim Dilenschneider & Laurie Rachford Subscriber of the Month: Leslie Siller Meet the Musician: Wesley Ducote Meet the Musician: Agnes Tse Meet the Musician: Kayla Burggraf Meet the Musician: Han Xie Meet the Musician: Samantha Washecka 2026–27 Performance Calendar Summer Spotlight Featured Programs Simply the Best: A Tribute to Tina Turner Rachmaninoff Festival: Rachmanino!’s Second Symphony Rachmaninoff Festival: Rachmanino!’s Piano Concerto No. 3 Mozart’s Jupiter Symphony & JIJI Our Supporters

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On the Cover: Juraj Val"uha, Music Director

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INTUNE July 2023

welcome to the houston symphony

Dear Music Lover, Welcome to the Houston Symphony’s new season. As our concerts get under way, I want to thank you, our cherished Houston community, for coming out in full force for our Houston Symphony. This past year, nearly 400,000 people heard the Houston Symphony here in Jones Hall, at Miller Outdoor Theatre, at the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion in the Woodlands, and in communities around greater Houston. You came for any number of reasons—to be together with friends, to escape, or to experience the extraordinary artistry of our incredible musicians. We aim to be a symphony orchestra that serves all of Houston, and one need just take a look back at our programming over the past month to get a sense of the breadth and diversity of our o!erings. We collaborated with Pepe Aguilar, Idina Menzel, and Ben Rector; we performed How to Train Your Dragon; and celebrated America 250 at our Opening Night Concert and Gala with the incredible mezzo-soprano Isabel Leonard and acclaimed actor Matthew McConaughey.

All of us at the Houston Symphony are grateful to you for attending and supporting this great institution. Enjoy our new season. Warmly,

Gary Ginstling Executive Director/CEO Margaret Alkek Williams Chair

Our programming this season continues to reflect that range of artistry and diversity. We turn our attention to

Houston Symphony

the lush and glorious music of Sergei Rachmanino! in a two-week mini-festival featuring pianist Yefim Bronfman playing the fiendishly di#cult Piano Concerto No. 3. We showcase the guitar with JIJI, an artist making her Houston Symphony debut in a work for both acoustic and electric guitar by composer Steven Mackay. And, we celebrate the “Queen of Country” Dolly Parton with a weekend of concerts in a program personally chosen by Dolly herself.

UPCOMING PERFORMANCES IN

November Shostakovich’s Ninth Symphony & Yoonshin Song November 6, 7* & 8 Houston Symphony Concertmaster Yoonshin Song takes center stage for Prokofiev’s electrifying Violin Concerto No. 2, a staggering musical journey supercharged with brooding drama and fast-and-furious energy.

La Vida Loca November 21 & 22* Get on your feet and let’s get loud with the greatest hits of the ‘90s and ‘00s Latin pop explosion, including the steamy serenades of Enrique Iglesias, the Miami Sound Machine vibes of Gloria Estefan, the guitar-god grooves of Santana, the unbridled energy of Ricky Martin, iconic Selena songs, and so much more.

Thanksgiving Weekend: Prokofiev’s Symphony No. 7 & Shéhérazade November 27, 28* & 29 It’s a sumptuous musical feast with all the trimmings as Music Director Juraj Val!uha shares a bounty of delights, perfect for Thanksgiving weekend! Prokofiev’s Symphony No. 7 sparkles with twinkling charm and fairy tale magic.

*Program will be livestreamed

Classical Series

Vitol POPS Series

PNC Family Series

Summer & Specials

Chamber Series

INTUNE September/October 2026

your symphony experience JONES HALL

Since the opening of Jones Hall in 1966, millions of arts patrons have enjoyed countless musical and stage performances at the venue. Dominating an entire city block, Jones Hall features a stunning travertine marble facade, 66-foot ceilings, and a brilliantly lit grand entrance. Jones Hall is a monument to the memory of Jesse Holman Jones, a towering figure in Houston during the first half of the 20th century.

CONCERT DISRUPTION

We strive to provide the best possible auditory experience of our world-class orchestra. Noise from phones, candy wrappers, and talking is distracting to the performers on stage and those around you. Please help us make everyone’s concert enjoyable by silencing electronic devices now and remaining quiet during the performance.

FOOD & DRINK POLICY

“WHEN SHOULD I CLAP?”

It’s a question we hear often! Traditionally, audiences wait to applaud until the very end of a piece, especially when it has several sections (called movements). This allows the music to flow without interruption and helps the performers stay focused. If you’re unsure, a simple cue is when the conductor lowers their arms and turns toward the audience—that’s your signal the piece has finished. That said, there’s no wrong way to show your appreciation. If the music inspires you in the moment, don’t hesitate to clap! Your enthusiasm and energy are always welcome at the Symphony.

CHILDREN

Children ages six and up are welcome to all Classical, Vitol POPS, and Symphony Special concerts. Children of all ages are welcome at PNC Family Series performances. Children must have a ticket for all ticketed events.

LATE SEATING

The Encore Café and in-hall bars are open for Symphony performances, and food and drink will be permitted in bar areas. Food is not permitted inside the auditorium. Patrons may bring drinks into the auditorium for Vitol POPS Series concerts and Symphony Specials. Drinks are not permitted inside the auditorium for Classical concerts.

Each performance typically allows for late seating, which is scheduled in intervals and determined by the conductor. Our ushers and Front of House Coordinator will instruct you on when late seating is allowed.

TICKETS

LOST & FOUND

For lost and found inquiries, please contact Front of House Coordinator, Nadjalie Santos, during the performance. They also can be reached at Nadjalie.Santos@HoustonSymphony.org. You may contact Houston First after the performances at 832.487.7050.

Subscribers of five or more concerts may exchange their tickets at no cost. Tickets to Symphony Specials or single ticket purchases are ineligible for exchange or refund. If you are unable to make a performance, your ticket may be donated prior to the concert for a tax-donation receipt. Donations and exchanges may be made in person, over the phone, or online.

ESCANEE AQUÍ PARA VER TRADUCCIÓN AL ESPAÑOL

Houston Symphony

START THE SEASON ON A HIGH NOTE Introducing New Donor Benefits for the 2026–27 Season As you enjoy the first notes of the 2026–27 Season, your gift helps every moment resonate onstage and throughout our community. By supporting the Houston Symphony, you play the most important part in our concerts and Education & Community Engagement programs that bring music to life in Greater Houston and beyond, while also gaining access to exciting donor benefits that enhance your Symphony experience.

SCAN TO CONTRIBUTE!

In the 2026–27 Season, we are thrilled to introduce a new donor level and benefits structure that offer even more meaningful ways to connect with the music and the musicians you love the most! Associate Member Principal

DONOR BENEFITS

($100+)

($250+)

Principal ($500+)

Orchestra Concertmaster Jones Hall Circle Circle Member ($1,000+)

($1,500+)

$50

$134

($2,500+)

Houston Symphony Society Membership, including invitation to and voting privileges at the Annual Meeting Priority access to ticket pre-sales with early bird ticket notifications, & exclusive early access to subscribe or purchase single tickets for the season *NEW! Exclusive concert-day discounts at some of Houston’s best restaurants *NEW! Subscription to Symphony Notes newsletter Electronic access to & recognition in the Houston Symphony’s Annual Impact Report *NEW! Premier assigned seating for Symphony concerts at Miller Outdoor Theatre (excludes July 4) Invitation for two to one Houston Symphony private rehearsal Invitation to a Group Tour of Jones Hall *NEW! Premier donor-exclusive discounts at some of Houston’s best restaurants *NEW! Two complimentary drink coupons Invitation for two to a second Houston Symphony private rehearsal Invitation to Online Insider Series with Houston Symphony Staff *NEW! Invitation for two to all Houston Symphony private rehearsals–with one featuring a champagne toast One-time pass for the Circles Lounge Semi-annual recognition in the Houston Symphony program, InTUNE Invitation to a Circles Signature Tour of Jones Hall *NEW! Invitation for two to an annual Circles Reception with Musicians *NEW! Recognition in every issue of the Houston Symphony program, InTUNE Access to the Circles Lounge at all Houston Symphony Jones Hall Performances Invitation for two to one Post-Concert Meet & Greet with an Artist Invitation for two to one “Meet the Orchestra” Event Access to a designated member of the Development Team Fair Market Value

LET YOUR GENEROSITY START THE 2026–27 SEASON ON A HIGH NOTE—MAKE A MEANINGFUL DONATION TO YOUR HOUSTON SYMPHONY TODAY!

$22

$250

New tax legislation allows many donors to take an additional charitable deduction this year, making this an especially advantageous time to give!

Juraj valČuha Music Director Roy and Lillie Cullen Chair

Music Director Juraj Val"uha, who is entering his fifth successful tenure with the Houston Symphony, is recognized for his expressive artistry, incisive musicianship, and the dynamic collaboration he has forged with the orchestra since his appointment. He is known for his sharp baton technique, natural stage presence, and the impressive ease of his interpretations that translate even the most complex scores into immersive experiences.

He has since led the Leipzig Gewandhaus Orchestra, Dresden Staatskapelle, Munich Philharmonic, Berlin Philharmonic, Swedish Radio Symphony, Amsterdam Royal Concertgebouw, Rotterdam Philharmonic, Orchestre de Paris, Maggio Musicale in Florence, Orchestra dell’Accademia Nazionale di Santa Cecilia Rome, Milan’s Filarmonica della Scala, Montréal Symphony, and the NHK and Yomiuri orchestras in Tokyo.

Before joining the Houston Symphony in June 2022, Val"uha was Music Director of the Teatro di San Carlo, Naples, from 2016 to 2022, and first guest conductor of the Konzerthausorchester Berlin. He was Chief Conductor of the Orchestra Sinfonica Nazionale della RAI from 2009 to 2016. He has held the post of Principal Guest Conductor of the Yomiuri Nippon Symphony Orchestra since 2023.

He enjoys regular collaborations with American orchestras such as the Pittsburgh, Chicago, and San Francisco Symphony orchestras; the Minnesota Orchestra; and the New York Philharmonic, among others. International touring with the Orchestra Sinfonica della RAI took them to the Musikverein in Vienna; Philharmonie in Berlin, Cologne, Düsseldorf, Zurich, and Munich; to the Enesco Festival in Bucharest; and to the Abu Dhabi Classics. With the Konzerthausorchester Berlin, he visited Riga, Vilnius, and Tallinn to mark the 100th anniversary of the Baltic nations.

The 2005–06 Season marked the start of his international career on the podium of the Orchestre National de France followed by remarkable debuts in the United Kingdom with the Philharmonia London, in Germany with the Munich Philharmonic, and in the United States with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra.

Houston Symphony

Val"uha champions the compositions of living composers and programs contemporary pieces in most of his concerts. He has conducted world premieres, including Christopher Rouse’s Supplica with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, Steven Mackey’s violin concerto with Leila Josefowicz and the BBC Symphony in Manchester, Nico Muhly’s Bright Idea with the Houston Symphony and, most recently, Andy Akiho’s Timpani Concerto with Leonardo Soto and the Houston Symphony. He also conducted, in the presence of the composer, Steve Reich’s Four Seasons at the Melos-Ethos Festival in Bratislava. Other composers he has supported and continues to follow with interest are Bryce Dessner, Steven Stucky, Andrew Norman, James MacMillan, Luca Francesconi, Anna Thorvaldsdóttir, Anna Clyne, Julia Wolfe, and Jessie Montgomery, among others. Juraj Valcuha is a prized opera conductor. His most recent productions include Tristan und Isolde at the Deutsche Oper Berlin and the Bavarian Opera in Munich, Salomé at the Semper Oper Dresden, Pelleas et Mélisande at the Geneva Opera, and Janá"ek’s The Cunning Little Vixen at Paris Opéra Bastille. In the 2025–26 Season, he led the San Francisco, Chicago, and Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestras. In Europe, he joined the Orchestre National de France, the Konzerthaus Orchester Berlin, the Bamberg Symphony, the Santa Cecilia Orchestra in Rome, the Basque National Orchestra, the NDR Elbphilharmonie in Hamburg and on tour, and the RAI National Orchestra in Turin.

The 2026–27 Season will be taking him$to the Yomiuri Nippon, the Pittsburgh and the San Francisco Symphony Orchestras, the WDR Symphony in Cologne, SWR Stuttgart, NDR Hamburg, the Orchestre National de France, the Santa Cecilia Orchestra in Rome, and the Rai Orchestra in Torino. He will conduct Elektra at the Deutsche Oper Berlin, and Shostakovich’s Lady Macbeth of Mtsensk at the Rome Opera. Born in Bratislava, Slovakia, Val"uha studied composition and conducting in his birthplace, then at the conservatory in St. Petersburg (with Ilya Musin), and finally, at the Conservatoire Supérieur de la Musique in Paris.

INTUNE September/October 2026

ORCHESTRA ROSTER Juraj Val!uha

Steven Reineke, Principal POPS Conductor

Music Director Roy and Lillie Cullen Chair

FIRST VIOLIN Yoonshin Song, Concertmaster Max Levine Chair Vacant, Associate Concertmaster Ellen E. Kelley Chair Boson Mo, Assistant Concertmaster Qi Ming, Assistant Concertmaster Fondren Foundation Chair Tong Yan Ferenc Illenyi Si-Yang Lao Christopher Neal Sergei Galperin Annie Kuan-Yu Chen Han Xie Samantha Washecka Agnes Tse SECOND VIOLIN Vacant, Principal Vacant, Associate Principal Amy Semes Mihaela Frusina Jing Zheng Anastasia Iglesias Tina Zhang* Yankı Karataş Hannah Duncan Alexandros Sakarellos VIOLA Joan DerHovsepian, Principal Wei Jiang, Acting Associate Principal Samuel Pedersen, Assistant Principal Paul Aguilar Sheldon Person Fay Shapiro Keoni Bolding Jimmy Cunningham CELLO Brinton Averil Smith, Principal Janice H. and Thomas D. Barrow Chair Christopher French, Associate Principal Jane and Robert Cizik Chair Anthony Kitai Louis-Marie Fardet Je#rey Butler Maki Kubota Xiao Wong Charles Seo Jeremy Kreutz DOUBLE BASS Robin Kesselman, Pr$ncipal Timothy Dilenschneider, Associate Principal Andrew Pedersen, Assistant Principal Eric Larson Logan May Burke Shaw

COMMUNITY-EMBEDDED MUSICIAN Lindsey Baggett, Violin LIBRARIANS Ali Verderber, Associate Librarian Megan Fisher, Assistant Librarian Houston Symphony

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, Conductor Laureate Gonzalo Farias, Associate Conductor

Donald Howey Avery Weeks FLUTE Kayla Burggraf, Principal General Maurice Hirsch Chair Matthew Roitstein, Associate Principal Judy Dines Kathryn Ladner* PICCOLO Kathryn Ladner* OBOE Jonathan Fischer, Principal Lucy Binyon Stude Chair Anne Leek, Associate Principal Vacant Adam Dinitz Pablo Moreno+ ENGLISH HORN Adam Dinitz Barbara and Pat McCelvey Chair CLARINET Mark Nuccio, Principal Bobbie Nau Chair Vacant, Associate Principal Christian Schubert Alexander Potiomkin Ben Freimuth+ E-FLAT CLARINET Ben Freimuth+

TRUMPET Mark Hughes, Principal George P. and Cynthia Woods Mitchell Chair John Parker, Associate Principal Richard Harris TROMBONE Nick Plato#, Principal Bradley White, Associate Principal Phillip Freeman BASS TROMBONE Phillip Freeman TUBA Dave Kirk, Principal TIMPANI Leonardo Soto, Principal Matthew Strauss, Associate Principal PERCUSSION Vacant, Principal Mark Griffith Matthew Strauss HARP Allegra Lilly, Principal KEYBOARD Wesley Ducote LIBRARIAN Luke Bryson, Principal

BASS CLARINET Alexander Potiomkin BASSOON Rian Craypo, Principal Isaac Schultz, Associate Principal Elise Wagner Adam Trussell CONTRABASSOON Adam Trussell HORN William VerMeulen, Principal Mr. and Mrs. Alexander K. McLanahan Endowed Chair Robert Johnson, Associate Principal Nathan Cloeter, Assistant Principal/Utility Ian Mayton Barbara J. Burger Chair Brian Mangrum Spencer Bay+

STAGE PERSONNEL José Rios, Assistant Stage Manager Nicholas DiFonzo, Head Video Engineer Justin Herriford, Head Audio Engineer Connor Morrow, Head Stage Technician Giancarlo Minotti, Audio Production Manager 8

*on leave + contracted substitute

INTUNE September/October 2026

2026&27 SEASON

SOCIETY BOARD OF TRUSTEES OFFICERS Barbara McCelvey President

Barbara J. Burger Immediate Past President

John Rydman** Board Chair Chair, Artistic & Orchestra A#airs

Mike S. Stude** Chair Emeritus

Jonathan Ayre Secretary Chair, Finance

Gary Ginstling^ Executive Director/CEO Margaret Alkek Williams Chair

Janet F. Clark^ Immediate Past Chair

Paul Morico General Counsel

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Brad W. Corson Chair, Governance & Leadership

Ed Schneider Chair, Development

Juraj Val!uha^ Music Director Roy and Lillie Cullen Chair

Carey Kirkpatrick Chair, Marketing & Communications

Robert Orr Chair, Strategic Planning

Joan DerHovsepian^ Musician Representative

Jesse B. Tutor** Chair, Audit

Mark Hughes^ Musician Representative

Jerre Williams^ President, Houston Symphony League

Jeremy Kreutz^ Musician Representative

Evan B. Glick Chair, Popular Programming Sippi Khurana, M.D. Chair, Education & Community Engagement Mary Lynn Marks Chair, Volunteers & Special Events

Steven P. Mach At-Large Member Bobby Tudor** At-Large Member Gretchen Watkins At-Large Member

Mark Nuccio^ Musician Representative

James H. Lee^ President, Houston Symphony Endowment

GOVERNING DIRECTORS Gary Beauchamp Eric Brueggeman MK Campion John Cassidy, M.D. Khoa Dao Lidiya Gold

David J. M. Key David Krieger Paul Leach Cindy Levit Isabel Stude Lummis Cora Sue Mach**

Rodney Margolis** Meredith Marshall Leslie Nossaman David Peavy Chris Powers Brittany Sakowitz

Ed Schneider Justin Stenberg William J. Toomey II Betty Tutor** Robert Weiner Margaret Alkek Williams**

TRUSTEES Christopher Armstrong David Balderston David J. Beck Carrie Brandsberg-Dahl Nancy Shelton Bratic Terry Ann Brown** Ralph Burch John T. Cater** Robert Chanon Heaven Chee Michael H. Clark Virginia Clark Andrew Davis, Ph.D. Denise Davis Tracy Dieterich Kelli Cohen Fein Je#rey B. Firestone Eugene A. Fong Aggie L. Foster

Kate Dearing Fowler Aoife French Carolyn Gaidos Andrew Gould Lori Harrington Pablo Hernandez SchmidtTopho# Je# Hiller Grace Ho Gary L. Hollingsworth John W. Hutchinson Brian James Matthew Kades Lilia Khakimova I. Ray Kirk, M.D. Matthew Loden Kirby Lodholz Michael Mann, M.D. Nancy Martin

Jack Matzer Jackie Wolens Mazow Diane K. Morales Tim Ong Edward Osterberg Jr. Kusum Patel Gloria G. Pryzant Miwa Sakashita Andrew Schwaitzberg Helen Sha#er** Becky Shaw Michael Silliman Jim R. Smith Miles O. Smith** Quentin Smith Tad Smith Anthony Speier Tina Raham Stewart Terry Thomas

Nanako Tingleaf Margaret Waisman, M.D. Fredric A. Weber Vicki West Steven J. Williams David J. Wuthrich Ellen A. Yarrell Robert Yekovich

FOUNDATION FOR JONES HALL REPRESENTATIVES Janet F. Clark Brad W. Corson

Barbara McCelvey

As of August 26, 2026 Houston Symphony

EX-OFFICIO Alejandro Gallardo Reverend Ray Mackey, III Frank F. Wilson IV

Fredric Weber ^Ex-Officio **Lifetime Trustee

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ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF LEADERSHIP GROUP Gary Ginstling, Executive Director/CEO Margaret Alkek Williams Chair Elizabeth S. Condic, Chief Financial Officer Vicky Dominguez, Chief Operating Officer Rolanda Gregory, Chief Marketing O#cer Jennifer Renner, Chief Development O#cer Mayenne Minuit, Executive Assistant DEVELOPMENT Leanna Aldis, Manager, Foundation Relations Sarah Ansell, Director of Special Events Sarah Bhalla, Board Relations Associate Grace Blando, Development Officer Lauren Buchanan, Development Communications Manager Alex Canales, Manager, Donor Services Isabel Cook, Development Associate, Annual Giving & Membership Jessie De Arman, Development Associate, Gifts, Records, & Research Timothy Dillow, Senior Director, Individual Giving Amanda T. Dinitz, Director, Principal Gifts & Endowment Kamra Kilmer, Manager, Corporate Relations Karyn Mason, Institutional Giving Officer Hadia Mawlawi, Endowment & Planned Giving Officer Gavin Reed, Major Gifts Officer Tim Richey, Major Gifts Officer Katie Salvatore, Director, Annual Giving & Membership Phillip Smith, Special Events and League Liaison Officer Lena Streetman, Director, Development Operations Sarah Thompson, Donor Events Manager Christina Trunzo, Director, Institutional Giving Marilyn Ralston, DeLUXE K!ds Site Manager EDUCATION | COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT Olivia Allred, Education Manager Allison Conlan, Senior Director, Education & Community Engagement Austin Hinkle, Education & Community Engagement Coordinator Jazmine Olwalia, Community Engagement Manager

MARKETING | COMMUNICATIONS Bryan Ayllon, UX & Conversion Specialist Rachel Cheng, Marketing & External Relations Assistant Bella Cutaia, Manager, Patron Services Kathryn Judd, Director, Marketing Priya Kurup, Senior Associate, Group Sales Caroline Lawson, Patron Services Representative Yoo-Ell Lee, Graphics & Media Designer Milow Lozano, Ticketing Systems & Marketing Operations Specialist Ciara Macaulay, Creative Director Ashley Martinez, Patron Services Coordinator Mariah Martinez, Email Marketing Coordinator Alexander McKeveny, Performance Marketing Specialist Casey Pearce, Graphic Design Manager Aracely Quevedo, Patron Services Representative Nadjalie Santos, Front of House Coordinator Eric Skelly, Senior Director, Communications Christian Sosa, Web Experience Director Alexa Ustaszewski, Manager, Revenue and Audience Insights Sophie Volpe, Digital Content Specialist Leecia Whatley, Patron Services Representative Jenny Zuniga, Director, Patron Services OPERATIONS | ARTISTIC Stephanie Alla, Associate Director of Artistic Planning Becky Brown, Associate Director of Orchestra Personnel Juan Pablo Brand, Artistic Assistant and Assistant to the Music Director Megan Fisher, Assistant Librarian Julia Hall, Assistant Director, Houston Symphony Chorus Parker Hart, Concert Operations Manager Adrian Hernandez, Concert Media Production Manager Brian Miller, Director of Orchestra Personnel Giancarlo Minotti, Audio Production Manager José Rios, Assistant Stage Manager Brad Sayles, Senior Recording Engineer Ali Verderber, Associate Librarian Meredith Williams, Director of Concert Operations Rebecca Zabinski, Senior Director of Artistic Planning

Community-Embedded Musicians (CEM): Lindsey Baggett, Lead CEM Lucinda Chiu, CEM Teaching Artist David Connor, Senior CEM Teaching Artist Emil De Veyra, CEM Teaching Artist Bensen Kwan, CEM Education Specialist Brittany Leavitt, CEM Teaching Artist Bianca Lozano, CEM Teaching Artist Adrian Ponce, CEM Teaching Artist Lauren Ross, CEM Teaching Artist Jaya Varma, CEM Teaching Artist

Houston Symphony

FINANCE | ADMINISTRATION | IT | HR José Arriaga, Systems Engineer Henry Cantu, Finance Accountant Kimberly Cegielski, Sta# Accountant Heather Fails, Database Administrator Ronin Jackson, IT Intern Joel James, Director of Human Resources Tanya Lovetro, Director of Budgeting & Financial Reporting Freddie Piegsa, Help Desk Technician Morgana Rickard, Controller Gabriela Rivera, Senior Accountant Pam Romo, Office Manager/HR Coordinator Lee Whatley, Senior Director, IT & Analytics

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INTUNE September/October 2026

RACHMANINOFF FESTIVAL: PREVIEW This October, Music Director Juraj Val"uha opens the Houston Symphony’s 2026–27 Classical Series with a festival dedicated to one of today’s most loved and frequently performed composers: Sergei Rachmanino! (1873–1943). Rachmanino!’s status as a composer, however, was not always so assured; for much of the 20th century, critics tended to dismiss him as an anachronistic Romantic who failed to adapt to the modern world. In 1954, no less an authority than the Grove Dictionary of Music and Musicians infamously derided his style as “consist[ing] in essence mainly of artificial and gushing tunes accompanied by a variety of figures derived from arpeggios”—a characterization that study of his scores quickly reveals is a gross misrepresentation.

Although Rachmanino!’s parents ultimately separated, his mother identified her son’s musical gifts and enrolled him in the St. Petersburg Conservatory. Unsurprisingly given the instability of his environment, the young Rachmanino! struggled as a student until it was deemed necessary to send him away to Moscow. There, he would enroll in the Moscow Conservatory and board with the strict and severe piano pedagogue Nikolai Zverev, known for his “liberal fist.” Despite these harsh conditions, Rachmanino! advanced rapidly and began to discover his own musical voice. At one of his examinations, none other than Tchaikovsky dropped in to hear him play an original piano composition. The exams were marked on a scale of 1 to 5 with 5+ being the highest possible score; Tchaikovsky gave Rachmanino! a 5++++.

Audiences and musicians, however, have always treasured his music; now, one quarter into the 21st century, no one can argue that Rachmanino! lacks staying power. Although Rachmanino! was not a musical innovator, he successfully made the ideals of Russian Romanticism he inherited his own. Perhaps the secret of his music’s enduring power is that Rachmanino!, in both his music and his life, perfectly embodied the expectations we have of the Romantic artist—particularly a Russian one.

Until Tchaikovsky’s untimely death in 1893, the elder composer acted as a kind of mentor to Rachmanino!, helping to secure the premiere of his first opera, Aleko, at the prestigious Bolshoi Theater in Moscow—a coup for a young artist. Rachmanino!’s career as a composer, pianist, and conductor went from strength to strength until the disastrous premiere of his First Symphony in St. Petersburg in 1897. The conductor, Alexander Glazunov, was reportedly drunk during the performance, and a hostile critic, César Cui, wrote a scathing review: “If there were a conservatory in Hell, and if one of its talented students were to compose a programme symphony based on the story of the Ten Plagues of Egypt, and if he were to compose a symphony like Mr. Rachmanino!’s, then he would have fulfilled his task brilliantly [...]”

Born into an ancient aristocratic family, Rachmanino! nevertheless had a childhood marred by di#culties. His father, like many young noblemen of his generation, was charming, handsome, and terrible with money. Spending lavishly and utterly ill-equipped to adapt to Russia’s industrializing economy, Rachmanino!’s father quickly squandered both his own inheritance and his wife’s dowry. One country estate after another was sold o!, until the Rachmanino!s found themselves in a cramped St. Petersburg apartment too small to house all the children; for years, Rachmanino! had to room with cousins.

Houston Symphony

This failure struck Rachmanino! as a devastating blow; for three years, he composed almost nothing. Rachmanino! only overcame this extended creative block with the help of the psychologist Nikolai Dahl,

Powerhouse pianist Yefim Bronfman will scale the towering heights of “Rach 3,” long regarded as the Mount Everest of piano concertos.

Aleksey Bogdanov, baritone, will join the Symphony for Rachmanino!’s Spring.

whose course of treatment included hypnosis therapy. At the same time, he embarked on a forbidden love a!air with the woman who would become his wife: his cousin Natalia Satina. The major piece that broke his silence would prove one of his greatest masterpieces, his Piano Concerto No. 2 (although not part of the festival, you can hear this extraordinary work later this season in May).

not as a composer, but as a virtuoso pianist, and for the remainder of his life he pursued grueling touring schedules, leaving little time for composing.

Most of the pieces featured in the festival come from this mature, second period of Rachmanino!’s career, when his musical personality was frequently characterized by a deep, expressive melancholy, beneath which lay an abiding warmth and generosity of spirit. Completed in 1902, Spring, a cantata for baritone, chorus, and orchestra, combines the beauty of nature with operatic drama. The Isle of the Dead, a brooding tone poem inspired by Arnold Böcklin’s painting of the same name, and the Second Symphony, perhaps the Platonic ideal of a Russian Romantic darkness-to-light symphony, both date from 1908, while the mammoth Piano Concerto No. 3 was completed the following year in 1909. Soloist Yefim Bronfman, one of the premiere exponents of this masterpiece, returns to Jones Hall with his unforgettable interpretation of this passionate, virtuoso concerto. The Russian Revolution of 1917 marked the next great cataclysm in the composer’s life. Together with his wife and daughters, he escaped across the Russian border into Finland on an open sledge, carrying only a few possessions. Rachmanino! e!ectively lost everything; Ivanovka, the country home where he composed his Third Piano Concerto and many other works, was destroyed. He quickly realized that the fastest way to recoup his family’s fortune was

Rachmanino! only completed six new works during this final period in exile, among them his fascinating Symphony No. 3, completed in 1936. Though firmly grounded in the language of Romanticism, this symphony shows that Rachmanino!’s style continued to evolve after he left Russia. Although the soaring melodies and big emotions are still there, the music evinces a new formal concision, harmonic density, and melodic economy that evoke both modernity and memories of a lost world to which the composer could never return. After Rachmanino!’s death in 1943, his reputation largely rested on a handful of works: the Second and Third Piano Concertos, the Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, and the ever-popular Prelude in C-sharp minor. After weathering the withering modernist critiques of the middle of the century, Rachmanino!’s music experienced something of a renaissance in its final decades, as virtually his entire oeuvre was published, recorded, and rediscovered. Indeed, today the breadth and diversity of his music is better known and appreciated than it was even during his lifetime. The Houston Symphony’s current festival gives audiences the opportunity to appreciate the many facets of Rachmanino!’s remarkable output, which is sure to grace concert halls for many years to come. –Calvin Dotsey

Scan for details on the Rachmaninoff Festival:

INTUNE September/October 2026

September 25 & 26, 2026

Simply the Best: A Tribute to Tina Turner Steven Reineke, conductor *Adrienne Warren, vocalist *Alvin Hough, Jr., piano *Carla R. Stewart, background vocalist *Shonica Gooden, background vocalist 0:03 0:03 0:03 0:03 0:03 0:04 0:03 0:04 0:07

Arr. S. REINEKE – Tina Turner Overture STONE/D. McKENZIE – I Want to Take You Higher I. TURNER/D. McKENZIE – A Fool in Love HURLEY-WILKINS/D. McKENZIE – Nutbush City Limits CHAPMAN-KNIGHT-CHINN/S. SHOUP – Better Be Good to Me M. KNOPFLER/D. McKENZIE – Private Dancer PEEBLES-BRYANT-MILLER/R. PELLET – I Can’t Stand the Rain GREEN-MITCHELL-JACKSON/S. SHOUP – Private Dancer LYLE-BRITTEN/D. McKENZIE – What’s Love Got to Do with It?

INTERMISSION 0:01 0:03 0:03 0:03 0:03

0:07

NORMAN/J. TYZIK – James Bond Theme from The Best of Bond— BONO-D. EVANS/J. ANGERMÜLLER – “Goldeneye” from Goldeneye HAMMOND-WARREN/D. McKENZIE – Don’t Turn Around LYLE-BRITTEN/R. PELLETT – “We Don’t Need Another Hero” from Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome Arr. D. KONDOR – Tina Turner Covers Medley The Acid Queen— Addicted to Love— Disco Inferno CHAPMAN-KNIGHT/D. McKENZIE – The Best

*Houston Symphony debut Houston Symphony

About the Program

Friday, September 25 Saturday, September 26 Saturday, September 26

Jones Hall Jones Hall Jones Hall & Livestream

7:30 p.m. 2 p.m. 7:30 p.m.

Program Insight What’s got love to do with it? Plenty, when we’re talking about the iconic vocalist Tina Turner. Born Anna Mae Bullock in Brownsville, Tennessee, Turner rose from modest beginnings to become one of the most uncompromising, groundbreaking singers in rock & roll history—in the process breaking down gender and racial barriers on her way to dominating the pop music charts. And what’s more, she became a superstar twice. Turner first made headlines in the company of multi-instrumentalist, songwriter, and producer Ike Turner. Performing as the Ike & Tina Turner Revue, supported by backing band the Kings of Rhythm and flashy backing vocalists the Ikettes, Tina Turner delivered unforgettable rock and soul anthems like “A Fool In Love,” “River Deep – Mountain High,” “Proud Mary,” and “Nutbush City Limits.” A blistering live performer, Turner developed a fiery stage presence often duplicated but never equalled. The highlights were bright, but o!stage life grew dark. Turner declared independence from her tumultuous marriage and musical partnership in 1976 and struck out on her own. In 1983, a hit cover of Al Green’s “Let’s Stay Together” set the stage for an unprecedented triumph: Private Dancer, Turner’s fifth solo album, became a runaway hit powered by the Grammy-winning No. 1 hit single “What’s Love Got to Do With It.” Buoyed by this breakthrough, Turner turned out one smash after another, including “Better Be Good to Me,” “We Don't Need Another Hero (Thunderdome),” “Simply the Best,” and the theme song for the 1995 James Bond film GoldenEye. She also acted in movies, and in time inspired a biographical movie and a hit stage musical based on her life. And now, Adrienne Warren—who won a Tony Award portraying the iconic singer in Tina: The Tina Turner Musical on Broadway— joins Principal POPS Conductor Steven Reineke for a hit-packed evening that will leave absolutely no doubt why we still love the great Tina Turner. —Steve Smith

Sponsors

Favorite Masters Series

Mr. & Mrs. Rodney H. Margolis Sponsorship Circle

Houston Symphony

Margaret Alkek Williams Spotlight Series

General and Mrs. Maurice Hirsch Memorial Concert Fund Supporting Sponsor

Dr. Eric McLaughlin and Mr. Eliodoro Castillo Presenting Sponsor

The Classical Season is endowed by The Wortham Foundation, Inc., in memory of Gus S. and Lyndall F. Wortham

Program Notes RACHMANINOFF Piano Concerto No. 3 in D minor, Opus 30 Sergei Rachmaninoff Born

April 1, 1873 Semyonovo, Russia

Died

March 28, 1943 Beverly Hills, California

Year Composed

1909

World Premiere

1909 New York City, New York Carnegie Hall New York Symphony Society Walter Damrosch (conductor), Rachmaninoff (pianist)

Houston Symphony Premiere

1946 Ernst Hoffmann (conductor), William Kapell (piano)

Most Recent Houston Symphony Performance

2023 Juraj Val"uha (conductor), Yefim Bronfman (piano)

After a busy season of concertizing in Europe, Rachmanino! and his family happily returned to his in-laws’ country estate, Ivanovka, for the summer of 1909. In a letter, Rachmanino! described how such rural settings stimulated his imagination: “I go for a long walk in the country. My eye catches the sharp sparks of light on fresh foliage after showers; my ears the rustling undernote of the woods. Or I watch the pale tints of the sky over the horizon after sundown, and they come: all voices at once. Not a bit here, a bit there. All.” It was not long before the voices began to sing to him of a new work: his Piano Concerto No. 3. When questioned years later, Rachmanino! recalled how he had composed the germinal melody of the piece: “It simply ‘wrote itself ’!” The piece begins with this theme, a haunting melody introduced by the soloist. The theme then moves to the violas, leading to a virtuoso transitional passage that dies away. A warmer, contrasting theme emerges as a quiet dialogue between strings and piano. At first, the theme has a march-like character, but it soon becomes lyrical and passionate in the hands of the soloist. The following reprise of the haunting opening soon wanders o! course, and the soloist builds relentlessly to a harrowing climax. Shadowy music then leads to the concerto’s cadenza, an extended, virtuoso passage for the soloist alone. The cadenza e!ectively doubles as the reprise of the main ideas of the movement, building to a monumental, chordal version of the main theme. Woodwinds mark the midpoint of the cadenza with dreamy fragments of the main melody before the soloist continues alone with an expressive reprise of the second theme. A final appearance of the opening melody brings the movement to a quiet, yet unresolved ending. The slow second movement opens with a sighing, rhapsodic theme for oboe. The soloist enters with an intense, chromatic cry before playing expressive variations on the theme. After a strong, cathartic variation, a fast, scherzando passage begins. Beneath gossamer runs for the soloist, woodwinds play a waltz-like tune that is, in fact, a disguised version of the opening theme of the concerto. After a final variation on the slow movement theme from the orchestra, the soloist reenters with a call to arms. Powerful orchestral chords launch the soloist directly into the finale’s heroic main theme, whose rhythms recall the tattoo of drums and fanfares. A vigorous transition full of marching rhythms leads to a more lyrical, contrasting theme and a powerful orchestral tutti. A series of delicate variations then fuses elements of the lyrical second theme from the first movement and the heroic, main theme of the finale. After poignant reminiscences of both main themes of the first movement, the variations peacefully die away. The heroic rhythms that began the movement then resurface in the orchestra, driving to a reprise of the finale’s main themes. Suddenly, the orchestra cuts o!, beginning a tense crescendo. The eerie, brittle sound of strings col legno (playing with the wood of the bow) underlies the soloist’s mounting virtuoso feats. At last, the tension breaks with a climactic, soaring version of the finale’s passionate second theme. The concerto then races to an exhilarating conclusion. —Calvin Dotsey 39

INTUNE September/October 2026

Program Notes RACHMANINOFF Symphony No. 3 in A minor, Opus 44 Sergei Rachmaninoff Born

April 1, 1873 Semyonovo, Russia

Died

March 28, 1943 Beverly Hills, California

Year Composed

1909

World Premiere

1909 New York City, New York Carnegie Hall New York Symphony Society Walter Damrosch (conductor), Rachmaninoff (pianist)

Houston Symphony Premiere

1946 Ernst Hoffmann (conductor), William Kapell (piano)

Most Recent Houston Symphony Performance

2023 Juraj Val"uha (conductor), Yefim Bronfman (piano)

Post-romanticism died hard amid the onslaught of new, sharply pungent musical styles in the early 20th century, and certain composers held steadfastly to their artistic beliefs until they ended their days well into the century. One who did so was Richard Strauss; Sergei Rachmanino! was another. Rachmanino!’s Third Symphony in A minor was completed as far into the era of musical modernism as 1936, and while it is considered one of Rachmanino!’s most advanced musical scores, it still celebrates basic tonal principles that had been observed generations earlier. Notwithstanding Rachmanino!’s attachment to the past, his Third Symphony is a more modern work than either of his preceding symphonies. Its themes and harmonies are more subtle and sophisticated, and the symphony’s advanced style suggests that it was a harbinger of Rachmanino!’s final orchestral masterpiece, the eerie, darkly veined Symphonic Dances of 1940. The opening movement is quite classical in its large form: a brief introduction, followed by a sonata-allegro with two main themes, a development and recapitulation. The lonely unison motto theme opening the work barely moves the distance of three adjacent notes, then bursts into a huge orchestral flourish that flings itself into the body of the movement. The main theme is immediately interesting for its pale modal colors, and its members are extensively examined before the cellos state the lyrical second theme. This evolves into a vibrant closing episode, which in turn leads to a lengthy, colorful, and absorbing development of the main theme. Fateful announcements of the opening motto signal the return of all the themes in the recapitulation, and the movement ends with the motto, plucked quietly by the strings. The slow movement similarly begins and ends with a variant of the motto, seemingly turned into a mirror image of its first-movement profile. Following its initial statement by the horn over an accompaniment of harp chords, a solo violin takes up a sweet, sentimental theme which is then elaborated by the orchestra. The center of the movement becomes a brisk, keen-edged scherzo, following a plan not only adopted in Rachmanino!’s Third Piano Concerto but also in Tchaikovsky’s famed B-flat minor Concerto. Eventually, the slow movement resumes, ending with the aforementioned motto, again quietly plucked by the strings. The finale, the longest of the three movements, is essentially another large sonata form movement, with a fugal development of its dance-like principal theme. However, other themes work their way into the fabric of the movement, notably the main theme of the slow movement and the motto from the opening movement in the brilliant extended coda. Whether by design or unconscious stylistic habit, Rachmanino! also had a penchant for including snippets of the Dies Irae plainchant melody in his thematic materials. It is found at various places in the symphony and competes with the motto theme for a dominant place in the symphony’s climactic closing pages. —Carl R. Cunningham

Houston Symphony

Program Bios Juraj Val"uha, conductor See p. 6 for bio

Yefim Bronfman, piano Internationally recognized as one of today’s most acclaimed and admired pianists, Yefim Bronfman stands among a handful of artists regularly sought by festivals,

orchestras, conductors, and recital series. His commanding technique, power, and exceptional lyrical gifts are consistently acknowledged by the press and audiences alike. Following return visits to summer festivals in Vail and Tanglewood, his season begins with the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra and concludes with the closing week of the San Francisco Symphony. With orchestras in North America, he returns to Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, Philadelphia, Houston, Pittsburgh, Washington DC, Nashville, San Diego, Buffalo, Fort Wayne, and Kalamazoo. In addition to a return to the Israel Philharmonic, he can be heard in Europe with orchestras in Berlin, Munich, Paris, Geneva, Milan, Turin, Athens, and Lyon.

Born in Tashkent in the Soviet Union, Yefim Bronfman immigrated to Israel with his family in 1973, where he studied with pianist Arie Vardi, head of the Rubin Academy of Music at Tel Aviv University. In the United States, he studied at The Juilliard School, Marlboro School of Music, and the Curtis Institute of Music, under Rudolf Firkusny, Leon Fleisher, and Rudolf Serkin. A recipient of the prestigious Avery Fisher Prize, he was further honored in 2010 as the recipient of the Jean Gimbel Lane prize in piano performance from Northwestern University and in 2015 with an honorary doctorate from the Manhattan School of Music. 

INTUNE September/October 2026

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INTUNE September/October 2026

October 16, 17 & 18, 2026

Mozart’s Jupiter Symphony & JIJI David Robertson, conductor *JIJI, guitar 0:09

STRAVINSKY – Symphonies of Wind Instruments (1947)

0:24

S. MACKEY – Aluminum Flowers 1. Introduction 2. Echo 3. Canción 4. Fantasia 5. Loop

INTERMISSION 0:30

MOZART – Symphony No. 41 in C major, K. 551 (Jupiter) I. Allegro vivace II. Andante cantabile III. Menuetto and Trio: Allegretto IV. Molto Allegro

*Houston Symphony debut

Houston Symphony

About the Program

Friday, October 16 Saturday, October 17 Saturday, October 18

Jones Hall Jones Hall & Livestream Jones Hall

7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 2 p.m.

Program Insight Equally adept on acoustic and electric guitars, contemporary classical sensation JIJI makes her Houston Symphony debut this weekend with a piece written for her, Steven Mackey’s entrancing Aluminum Flowers. Guest conductor David Robertson pairs this exciting new concerto with the Russian modernism of Stravinsky’s Symphonies of Wind Instruments and the joyous counterpoint of Mozart’s final symphony. These pieces might seem odd bedfellows at first glance, but all three are united by a classical clarity despite their radically di!erent musical styles. Composer Steven Mackey adds his own insight: “Mozart is my biggest hero, partly because it took me a while to come to him. At first it just sounded like ricky-ticky baby clichéd classical music, and then I realized, this music is about movement. It delineates all these di!erent topographies, but still ties them together. Once I grokked that, it really excited me, and has been something that I have been pursuing ever since—music as movement. I would say the same thing about Stravinsky. Stravinsky is about juxtapositions, in contrast to Mozart, who is about transitions—Stravinsky is about the di!erent places. But they have in common that there is a big wide world uncovered in the music.” —Calvin Dotsey

Sponsors Katie and Bob Orr/ Gulf Coast Guitar Association (GCGA) Presenting Sponsor

Houston Symphony

The Classical Season is endowed by The Wortham Foundation, Inc., in memory of Gus S. and Lyndall F. Wortham

Program Notes STRAVINSKY Symphonies of Wind Instruments (1947) Igor Stravinsky Born

June 17, 1882 Shveytsarskaya Ulitsa, Saint Petersburg, Russia

Died

April 6, 1971 New York, NY

Year Composed

1920

World Premiere

1921 London, England The Queen’s Hall

Claude Debussy’s death in 1918 was a momentous event in his French homeland. A music magazine invited leading composers to create short pieces it would publish in a memorial issue, and Igor Stravinsky contributed a work reminiscent of a hymn. That vignette grew into a second homage to Debussy: Symphonies of Wind Instruments, which closes with that elegiac theme. Stravinsky’s title, Symphonies, harks back to the word’s ancient origin, meaning simply that instruments sound together. The nine-minute piece features a series of vivid, pithy themes, and it switches so quickly among them that it might be the musical equivalent of a collage. Stravinsky described the work as “an austere ritual” with diverse groups of instruments contributing “short litanies.” Flutes and oboes ring out at the beginning. The other motifs include a sinuous melody for solo flute; quiet, sober chords for trumpets and trombones; and a couple of dances for woodwinds. The crossplay gradually dies down, and the piece ends with the hymn’s quiet, dignified chords. —Steven Brown

London Symphony Orchestra Serge Koussevitzky (conductor) Houston Symphony Premiere

1968 Ernest Ansermet (conductor)

Most Recent Houston Symphony Performance

2017 Hans Graf (conductor)

S. MACKEY Aluminum Flowers

Steven Mackey traced an unexpected path to find his unique voice as a composer. As an undergraduate at the University of California at Davis, Mackey “was playing in rock bands, and my fall-back position in case I didn’t become a rock star was to be a physicist somehow,” the composer recalled in a 2012 interview with musicologist Tom Moore. He only stumbled upon the classical tradition through a music appreciation class: “Within the first two weeks of taking that class [...] I decided that I wanted to be a musician.” Mackey’s physics background proved useful in the world of classical music academia at the time, in which the highly analytical style of atonal

INTUNE September/October 2026

Program Notes S. MACKEY Aluminum Flowers

Steven Mackey Born

February 14, 1956 Frankfurt, Germany

Year Composed

2023

World Premiere

2024 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Verizon Hall Curtis Symphony Orchestra Robert Spano (conductor), JIJI (guitar)

Houston Symphony Premiere

2026 David Robertson (conductor), JIJI (guitar)

serialism was ascendent. After completing a doctorate at Brandeis and beginning his academic career teaching at the College of William and Mary, in 1985 Mackey won a coveted position at Princeton’s music department, then a bastion of strict musical modernism. “When I came here to Princeton I had the skill set that allowed me to be hired,” Mackey explained. “I had written a string quartet where every note was the vortex of twelve di!erent trajectories, and spelled Mother in every direction.” Some members of the faculty, however, were intrigued by his rock and roll background, and encouraged him to explore beyond the “high modernist arc [...] As I look back, I can say that I really tipped the balance. [...] I started playing guitar, composing for myself [...] We were at the cutting edge of serial high-modernism, and now we are at the cutting edge of vernacular-based indie classical.” After 40 years, Mackey recently retired from Princeton, where he helped shape the state of contemporary classical music today. His eclectic style reflects a broad range of influences, from the classical canon to popular music to modernist experimentation. He completed Aluminum Flowers in 2023 to fulfill a commission from the Curtis Institute of Music celebrating the 100th anniversary of its founding. The work is dedicated to two guitarists, Gretchen Menn and Jiji Kim, the latter of which gave the world premiere in Philadelphia with Robert Spano leading the Curtis Institute Orchestra on March 9, 2024. In his own note for the piece, Mackey describes Aluminum Flowers as “a concerto for solo guitarist playing both electric guitar and nylon-string ‘classical’ guitar.” The work’s title was inspired by both “the image of metal wires carrying current from the guitar to its pedals like veins to petals [...] of metal flowers” and by “the pitches A-F [which] have an important structural role in the piece [...]” Structurally, the work is divided into five movements: the first, titled simply “Introduction,” calls for “a nylon string ‘classical’ or ‘Spanish’ guitar.” Mackey leans into the guitar’s traditional association with Spain with a slow, introspective waltz that seems to converse with the “Spanish” music of Debussy and Ravel. The tempo picks up for the second movement, “Echo,” which “runs the electric guitar through a delay pedal, requiring impeccable timing from the soloist to produce a rapid moto perpetuo texture.” Throughout, Mackey maintains a hauntingly delicate atmosphere which builds in intensity before vanishing. The third movement, titled “Canción” (“song” in Spanish), “somewhat paradoxically uses overdrive/distortion to create a sustained, lyrical, singing tone.” Mackey marks the movement as “a medium tempo ballad”; it begins with a rock-inflected, quasi-improvisatory solo before turning toward a more sardonic tone. “Fantasia,” the fourth movement, “is for prepared guitar—a guitar pick threaded through the strings to create a gong-like sound—and a bottle neck which slides up and down the string unencumbered by the frets.” These extended techniques allow the electric guitar to evoke sounds associated with a Javanese gamelan ensemble, a musical tradition that has piqued the interest of many classical composers since Debussy. This otherworldly music builds to a climax, which ends abruptly with

Houston Symphony

Program Notes S. MACKEY Aluminum Flowers

a quotation from a fantasia for vihuela (a cousin of the guitar) by the 16th-century Spanish composer Alonso Mudarra. Mackey instructs the soloist to play this quotation “like a bat out of hell”; the music continues to evolve, exploring glimmering textures before the soloist picks up the electric guitar to bring the movement to an end, complete with “heavy, death metal distortion” and a “lion’s roar.” “Loop,” the finale, “uses a looper to layer several polyphonic strands creating an orchestral texture.” The looper creates the opportunity to explore cascading canonic techniques, which build to a brash and brilliant conclusion in which the soloist ultimately has the last word. —Calvin Dotsey

MOZART Symphony No. 41 in C major, K. 551 (Jupiter)

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart Born

January 27, 1756 Salzburg, Austria

Died

December 5, 1791 Vienna, Austria

Year Composed

1788

Houston Symphony Premiere

1914 Julien Paul Blitz (conductor)

Most Recent Houston Symphony Performance

2020 Nicholas McGegan (conductor)

Mozart composed his final three symphonies during the summer of 1788. This was the beginning of a di#cult period for Mozart; after his opera Don Giovanni received a lukewarm reception in Vienna in the spring, a perfect storm of changing tastes, impending war, and economic malaise conspired to create financial di#culties for the composer. The three symphonies were likely composed for a concert series in August, although it is uncertain whether these concerts took place. This symphony was likely programmed for another occasion, because Mozart later added clarinets to its orchestration. Nevertheless, it cannot be known for certain whether Mozart ever heard it performed during his lifetime. In contrast with the joyful brilliance of the other two symphonies Mozart composed that summer, this one has a darker mood. The symphony begins with a rustling accompaniment in the violas, above which the violins play a sighing, melancholy melody. A stronger passage then transitions to a new, contrasting theme. Preceded by a brief pause (as if the orchestra were taking a breath), this new melody has a brighter character. These two main themes are then repeated, leading to an intense developmental section focused on the opening theme, which becomes increasingly fragmented as Mozart focuses on smaller and smaller pieces of it. After the development, we hear a reprise of the two main themes; this time, however, the once bright second theme becomes dark and mournful. The slower second movement begins with a gentle pulsing in the strings, which soon leads to pairs of short notes that float like falling leaves through the score. This enchanting, yet mysterious music looks forward to the fantastic sound world Mozart would create in his opera The Magic Flute. The imperious minuet that follows begins with striking rhythms: the melody is in a 2/4 meter while the accompaniment is in 3/4, creating a powerful tension that propels the music forward. The contrasting middle section is full of sweetness and simplicity, featuring the horns and woodwinds. The finale returns to the tempestuous character of the opening movement and follows a similar formal pattern. It presents two main themes, one dark and one light, before developing and reprising them. As in the first movement, the once bright second theme returns in a darker guise, preparing the way for the symphony’s fiery conclusion. —Calvin Dotsey 49

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with his own composition and other works, and he further explores guitar-orchestral composition with the Houston Symphony.

David Robertson, conductor David Robertson—conductor, artist, composer, thinker, American musical visionary—occupies the most prominent podiums in orchestral and new music, and opera. He is a champion of contemporary composers, and an ingenious programmer. In the 2026–27 Season, he expands his vision of inspiring the greatest orchestras and next generation of promising musical artists. He conducts on four continents and deepens orchestral friendships with the New York Philharmonic, celebrating Steve Reich at 90, and with the Leipzig Gewandhausorchester, Czech Philharmonic, São Paulo State Symphony Orchestra, and others. Robertson makes two visits to Canada this season to conduct the Toronto Symphony Orchestra and the National Arts Centre Orchestra, Ottawa, and to Asia in summer 2027. Robertson’s interest in the process of artistic partnership evolves with a two-year commitment to the Milwaukee Symphony including a Guitar Festival, delving deeper into his fascination with the instrument

Houston Symphony

Robertson appears with the world’s great orchestras such as those of New York, Philadelphia, Los Angeles, Cleveland; Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra, Wiener Philharmoniker, Berliner Philharmoniker, Leipzig Gewandhausorchester; and major ensembles and festivals around the world. Since his 1996 Metropolitan Opera debut, Robertson has conducted a breathtaking range of Met projects, including the 2019 production premiere of Porgy and Bess, winning the Grammy Award, Best Opera Recording. In 2022, he conducted its Met revival, and made his Rome Opera debut. Robertson has served in numerous leadership positions, including Chief Conductor and Artistic Director of the Sydney Symphony Orchestra; a transformative 13-year tenure as St. Louis Symphony Orchestra Music Director; and with Orchestre National de Lyon, BBC Symphony Orchestra, and, as protégé of Pierre Boulez, Ensemble InterContemporain. Robertson is in his ninth academic year as The Juilliard School’s Director of Conducting Studies, Distinguished Visiting Faculty, and conducts the Juilliard Orchestra at David Geffen Hall at Lincoln Center and at Carnegie Hall. He serves on the Tianjin Juilliard Advisory Council. David Robertson is a Chevalier de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres of France. 

JIJI, guitar Praised by The Washington Post for her “mesmerizing” and “stirring” performances, JIJI is an adventurous guitarist known for her virtuosity and command of diverse repertoire. She is equally at home with both acoustic and electric guitar, with concert programs ranging from traditional and contemporary classical to free improvisation. JIJI’s 2026–27 Season begins with her New World Symphony debut, performing Rodrigo’s Concierto de Aranjuez, conducted by Marcelo Lehninger. Other highlights include debuts with the Houston Symphony—performing Steve Mackey’s concerto for electric and classical guitar, Aluminum Flowers— and with the Milwaukee Symphony, both conducted by David Robertson. She will perform in recital in Santa Barbara on UCSB’s Arts and Lectures series, with the Boston Classical Guitar Society, and in duo recitals with violinist Danbi Um in Linton, OH, and Shelter Island, NY. In recent seasons, JIJI has presented solo recitals at Carnegie Hall’s Weill Recital Hall; Lincoln Center; 92nd Street Y; Caramoor; Celebrity Series of Boston; Caffe Lena; Tippet Rise Art Center; San

Francisco’s Herbst Theatre; and the National Gallery of Art, among other venues. JIJI has premiered solo and chamber works by a diverse range of musical artists, including David Lang, Steven Mackey, Natalie Dietterich, Nicky Sohn, Krists Auznieks, Michael Gilbertson, Hilary Purrington, Shelley Washington, Kate Moore, Chris Rountree, Gulli Björnsson, Molly Joyce, and Paul Lansky. In 2024, JIJI released UNBOUND, the culmination of a multiyear commissioning and recording project. JIJI has gained a reputation as a sought-after concerto soloist. Recent appearances include

performances with the Seattle Symphony in a world premiere of ljósíd, a new audio-visual work by Gulli Björnsson, as well as Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra, Utah Symphony, Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, Asheville Symphony, Lincoln Symphony, Augusta Symphony, Duluth Symphony Orchestra, San Antonio Philharmonic, Marquette Symphony, Westmoreland Symphony, Sinfonietta Riga, NewWest Symphony, New York Youth Symphony, American Composers Orchestra, Southwest Michigan Symphony, Kansas City Symphony and more.

Guitar at Indiana University Jacobs School of Music and former Assistant Professor of Guitar at Arizona State University’s School of Music, Dance and Theater. She is sponsored by Augustine Strings and GuitarLift by Felix Justen. 

A committed educator, JIJI is Associate Professor of Music in

Nature’s Rhapsody Festival February 5 – 21

Pines of Rome Feburary 5, 6* & 7 Journey from sunny Spain to picturesque Italy with spellbinding works steeped in the marvels of nature. Silent Spring sets the stage, o#ering a powerful meditation on our relationship with the world around us. Flamenco flair and warm, jasmine-scented breezes saturate the senses as pianist Javier Perianes conjures Nights in the Gardens of Spain.

Beethoven’s Pastoral Symphony & The Rite of Spring Feburary 19, 20* & 21 Beethoven was a keen nature lover, and his sunny Pastoral Symphony flings the gates wide open to nature’s wonders in full bloom, complete with sparkling brooks, chirping birds, jolly country folk, a ferocious thunderstorm, and the restorative calm after the storm. The natural world pulses and pounds in all its raw, primal power in Stravinsky’s red-hot The Rite of Spring—a stunning force of nature, with a gravitational pull all its own.

CALIFORNIA DREAMIN’:

THE SONGS AND STORIES OF LAUREL CANYON

January 15, 16 & 17, 2027

POPS Series

IF I AIN’T GOT YOU:

THE BEST OF R&B March 12, 13 & 14, 2027

Houston Symphony

POPS Series

INTUNE September/October 2026

Laurie Rachford

Tim Dilenschneider, Assistant Principal Double Bass

BEHIND

What inspired you to become a Musician Sponsor? Laurie: I had been donating to the Symphony for years because I wanted to support the arts in Houston and because my parents loved the Symphony. When a Symphony development o#cer mentioned the Musician Sponsorship program, I immediately said, “Let's talk about that.”

THE MUSIC

A Conversation with Symphony Musician Tim Dilenschneider and his Sponsor, Laurie Rachford

The orchestra is made up of individuals, but you don’t always think of them that way. I thought it would be fun to get to know one of the musicians and better understand that side of the Symphony. When I looked through the musicians who were available, I remembered seeing Tim on stage. I don’t know anything about bass, but he always looked like he was having so much fun. He had a big smile on his face and seemed to really enjoy what he was doing. I thought he seemed like he’d be really fun to get to know.

The Houston Symphony’s Musician Sponsorship program creates meaningful relationships between orchestra musicians and the supporters who make their work possible. For Tim Dilenschneider, associate principal double bass, and his sponsor, Laurie Rachford, what began as a donor opportunity in 2022 has grown into a genuine friendship rooted in a shared love of music, travel, and the Houston Symphony. We sat down with Tim and Laurie to learn more about their experience with the Musician Sponsorship program and why they believe others should consider becoming sponsors. Houston Symphony

What was your first meeting like? Tim: We first met over lunch at Backstreet Cafe. She met my family and we had great conversation about our shared love of travel. It was during that lunch that I found out she had specifically requested to sponsor me even though we had never

met before. I was very honored and I remember asking her, “Why did you choose me?” She told me it looked like I was having the most fun on stage and she loved watching me play. I remember laughing and telling her I genuinely was having fun! Laurie: We went to lunch and I got to meet Tim, but he also brought his wife, Zuby. That was so much fun because Zuby periodically plays violin with the Symphony, so it was kind of like having two for one—just asking them questions and learning more about them. They’re a young couple and they’re so energetic and passionate about their music. One thing we really connected on was that we all have this passion for travel and wild travel experiences. I enjoyed hearing about their adventures, and travel has remained something we enjoy talking about.

and following our music for years, and it helps break down that wall that can sometimes exist between the stage and the audience. It creates opportunities for genuine relationships and conversations, whether we were talking about the deeper meaning behind a piece of music or something as simple as our favorite wines or places we’re traveling. Laurie: I think that the more personal experiences you have with a musician, the more passionate you become about the Symphony. It makes me more of an advocate. I bring friends to concerts, and they always know who Tim is. They’ll point and say, “There's your guy.” I get to tell them things I've learned from Tim about the Symphony. It’s given me a much deeper connection and it’s something meaningful that I can share with other people. What would you say to someone considering becoming a Musician Sponsor?

How has your relationship evolved since that first meeting and what do you enjoy the most about it? Tim: I really enjoy having a personal connection with someone in the audience when I’m performing. It brings a di!erent energy to my performance, and I enjoy having someone to discuss the experience with after the concert. I really like sharing my favorite moments and learning what she enjoyed listening to as well. Laurie: Tim will periodically pop out into the Green Room during the intermission at a concert. I’ll text him if I’m there so we can catch up. The Musician Sponsorship Dinner is always fun because we get to spend time together there, too. One of the things I enjoy most is that when I observe something on stage that I have a question about, I can text Tim afterward and ask him about it. He is always so enthusiastic when he responds and explains what’s going on. I enjoy having someone on stage that I can ask questions to, but also someone I can root for and be supportive of. Why is the Musician Sponsorship program important?

Laurie: I would say just do it. Take the leap. You can only benefit by learning more, meeting more people, and becoming more involved with the Symphony. A donation can feel transactional, but this creates a real relationship. That’s what immediately connected me to the program. Tim: Sponsoring a musician not only supports the Houston Symphony but brings you into the family. As a performer, knowing a friend or family member is in the audience changes the energy on stage. There’s a personal connection that makes the performance even more meaningful, so I truly believe as a Musician Sponsor you’re not just attending performances, you’re helping shape them. Build your own personal connection with the talented musicians of the Houston Symphony by becoming a Musician Sponsor today. Contact Gavin Reed, Major Gifts Officer, at Gavin.Reed@houstonsymphony.org or 713.337.8534 for more information.

Tim: The Musician Sponsorship program is important because it gives us a chance to connect with the people who come to hear us play on a much more personal level. We get to meet audience members who have been supporting the orchestra 57

INTUNE September/October 2026

Corporate Spotlights

Baker Botts has proudly supported the Houston Symphony for decades and continues its commitment with a firm partner currently serving as the Symphony’s general counsel. Baker Botts is an international law firm practicing throughout a network of 12 offices around the globe. Based on its experience and knowledge of its clients’ industries, Baker Botts is recognized as a leading firm in the energy, technology, and life sciences sectors. Throughout the firm’s 186-year history, it has provided creative and effective legal solutions for its clients while demonstrating an unrelenting commitment to excellence. For more information, visit BakerBotts.com.

Houston Methodist is one of the nation’s leading health systems and academic medical centers. The health system consists of Houston Methodist Hospital—its flagship academic hospital in the Texas Medical Center—as well as seven community hospitals across the Greater Houston area and a continuing care facility. Houston Methodist is a dedicated supporter of the Houston Symphony as the official health care provider and underwriter of six concert weekends throughout the 2026–27 Season. Houston Methodist offers unique benefits to the Houston Symphony’s musicians through its Center for Performing Arts Medicine (CPAM). As the only center of its kind in the country, CPAM is comprised of a specialized group of more than 100 physicians working collaboratively to address the specific demands placed on artists so they can do what they do best—enrich the lives of Houston audiences.

For more than half a century, ConocoPhillips has supported the Houston Symphony and its work to advance music education, cultural relevance, and Houston’s arts community. In 2026, we will mark our 40th consecutive year as Opening Night Concert Sponsor and Lead Corporate Gala Underwriter, helping the Symphony launch its season. This longstanding partnership is one way we invest in the communities where we operate. As one of the world’s leading exploration and production companies, we are committed to being a good neighbor and responsible corporate citizen, supporting programs that enrich quality of life where our employees live and work.

Houston Symphony

still feel completely at home—visiting with Symphony staff, musicians, League members, and fellow subscribers who share the same passion for music. Q: Can you tell us about your favorite memory of attending a performance? I would like to share an experience from my time volunteering that deeply affected me, which occurred during the student concerts at Jones Hall, where Houston Symphony League members usher students from surrounding Houston schools into the Jones Hall to experience the Symphony. I was ushering a little girl about eight years old in a wheelchair, along with her chaperone, to the handicapped seating area in Jones Hall. From all appearances, she seemed to be blind, and both of her hands were wrapped in cloth, presumably to prevent her from harming herself. Her arms and legs were flailing, her wheelchair rocking back and forth, and she was clearly agitated and anxious—likely overwhelmed by the unfamiliar environment and the noises from all the children. To be honest, my heart ached for her.

SUBSCRIBER OF THE MONTH:

After several minutes, the Houston Symphony began to play. I continued to watch her, and almost instantly, her entire body became still. She relaxed and melted into her wheelchair as a gentle calm came over her. She remained peaceful throughout the entire performance. It was profoundly moving to me, and in that moment with tears in my eyes, I witnessed firsthand the extraordinary power of music.

LESLIE SILLER Q: How long have you been a Houston Symphony subscriber and donor? I have been a devoted subscriber and donor to both the Classical and Pops series, as well as a member of the Houston Symphony League, for approximately 15 years.

I cherish being part of the Houston Symphony family and the meaningful impact it has on our community. We are incredibly fortunate and blessed here in Houston.

Q: What do you love the most about the Houston Symphony?

Q: What concert are you most excited about this season?

Attending a performance by the Houston Symphony at Jones Hall is both my escape and my therapy, whether it’s a Classical program or a POPS concert. There is simply no substitute for the beauty of live orchestral music. What makes the experience even more meaningful is the sense of community; the Symphony truly feels like a family. There is a unique comfort in knowing I can attend a concert on my own and

My favorite composer is Sergei Rachmaninoff, so I am especially excited about the Houston Symphony’s performances of his symphonies over two weekends in October. There is something incredibly moving about his music, and it always resonates with me on a personal level.

INTUNE September/October 2026

Our Donors

Listing as of August 11, 2026

The Houston Symphony gratefully acknowledges those who support our artistic, educational, and community engagement programs through their annual generosity.

$100,000+

more than

Houston Symphony

Our Donors

$100,000+

Dr. Eric McLaughlin & Mr. Eliodoro Castillo

Eric and Elliot are active philanthropists in Houston’s performing arts world. They are proud to elevate their support of the Symphony and its vision to be a world-class orchestra and Houston cultural leader. Outside of his entrepreneurial and healthcare pursuits, Eric dabbles in playing the piano. He cites exceptional performing arts and powerful air conditioning as key reasons he calls Houston home. Elliot, a professionally trained bass-baritone opera singer, has also grown his real estate and property management portfolio to over $40 million in just a few years. Together, Eric and Elliot enjoy travel and the outdoors.

Bobbie Nau

Bobbie is actively involved in multiple civic, community, and philanthropic organizations in Houston and is a generous supporter of the Symphony’s Annual Fund, Special Events, and Endowment. She attends both classical and pops concerts and provides leadership support for general operations each year. In 2022, she endowed the orchestra’s Principal Clarinet Chair. In 2023, she chaired the highest-grossing Houston Symphony Wine Dinner and Collector’s Auction in the event’s history. Bobbie is former majority owner of Silver Eagle Distributors.

Leslie Nossaman

Leslie is an impactful leader on both the Symphony Board as a Governing Director and Houston Symphony League Board. She has been a Symphony patron since the 1980s and a major volunteer since 2016, including Student Concerts, Family Concerts, musician auditions, and the Archives. She is currently President of the League and participates on many Symphony committees such as Marketing, Development, and Education and Community Engagement. She is also the Chair for the Livestream and Recording Studio Consortium. 61

INTUNE September/October 2026

Our Donors

$100,000+

John & Lindy Rydman/Spec’s Wines, Spirits & Finer Foods

The Houston Symphony’s Principal Corporate Guarantor is a landmark Houston institution, Spec’s Wines, Spirits & Finer Foods. Through the Spec’s Charitable Foundation, the company supports the Symphony in a variety of ways—through the annual Wine Dinner and Collector’s Auction, the Salute to Educators Concert, and the company’s own Symphony fundraising event, Vintage Virtuoso. In total, the company has contributed more than $7.5 million to the Symphony since 1996.

Mike Stude

Mike Stude, Chairman Emeritus of the Board of Trustees, has been one of the Symphony’s most devoted champions for decades. He has made extraordinary personal contributions of time and treasure and is a steadfast advocate of the Symphony and its Endowment among foundations and peers. A lifelong lover of classical music, Mike is former owner of KRTS classical radio, serves as a Musician Sponsor, and has traveled worldwide to hear the orchestra on tour. He began his career at Brown & Root and later became Owner and President of Stude Investment Partners and Chairman of Big Covey Exploration.

Bobby and Phoebe Tudor

Bobby and Phoebe Tudor are leading Houston philanthropists with a remarkable dedication to the Houston Symphony. Over the course of their decades-long involvement, they have provided leadership support for virtually every one of the organization’s strategic priorities. Bobby has served as both President and Chairman of the Board of Trustees. He is CEO of Artemis Energy Partners; previously, he was a founding partner and chairman of Tudor, Pickering, Holt & Co. Phoebe is an active community volunteer involved with the arts, historic preservation, parks, education, and quality-of-life issues.

Mr. & Mrs. Jesse B. Tutor

Betty and Jesse Tutor are synonymous with the Houston Symphony, embodying a lifetime of service to the Society, Board, and League. Both serve as Governing Directors, Lifetime Trustees, and as chairs of the Legacy Society, with Jesse having served as President of the Board and Betty as President of the League. They have chaired and been honored at numerous events and helped lead the Symphony to its first $1 million Ball in 2006. The Symphony's administrative o#ces are named in recognition of the Tutors’ extraordinary dedication and enduring impact.

Margaret Alkek Williams

The Houston Chronicle named Margaret “the most powerful, committed female philanthropist in Houston since Ima Hogg.” Her extraordinary contributions have made a remarkable impact at the Symphony and across the theater district. Each season, she sponsors the six-concert Margaret Alkek Williams Spotlight Series and serves as Grand Guarantor of two programs. In 2015, Margaret endowed the orchestra’s Executive Director/CEO Chair. She is a Lifetime Trustee and Governing Director. In 2024, the Margaret Alkek Williams Grand Lobby opened at Jones Hall.

Houston Symphony

Our Donors

Artist Circle/$50,000+

Edward & Janette Blackburne Mary Kathryn Campion & Stephen Liston Drs. Dennis & Susan Carlyle Brady F. & Zane Carson Carruth Anne & Albert Chao Virginia A. Clark Brad & Joan Corson Aggie L. Foster & Steve Simon

Elia & Michael Gabbanelli Stephen & Mariglyn* Glenn Gary L. Hollingsworth & Kenneth J. Hyde Rebecca & Bobby Jee Carey Kirkpatrick Cindy E. Levit Joella & Steven P. Mach Mr. & Mrs. J. Stephen Marks Dr. Miguel & Mrs. Valerie Miro-Quesada

Katie & Bob Orr / Oliver Wyman Mr. David Peavy & Dr. Stephen McCauley Shirley & David Toomim Family Foundation / Steve & Ellen Robinson Kathy & Ed Segner Alana R. Spiwak & Sam L. Stolbun

Mr. Jay Steinfeld & Mrs. Barbara Winthrop Anne Adams & Terry Thomas Robert G. Weiner & Toni Blankmann

In memory of Ira T. Anderson Jr. by Frances Anderson & Jennifer Anderson Ann & Jonathan Ayre Dr. Saúl & Ursula Balagura Barbara & David Balderston Donna & Ken Barrow Jim* & Dale* Brannon Nancy & Walter Bratic Kathryn & Eric D. Brueggeman Mr. Christopher Cheever Debby & Roger Cutler Mike & Debra Dishberger

Joan & Bob Duff Mr. & Mrs. Russell M. Frankel David & Aoife French Evan B. Glick Mr. Joe Greenberg & Mrs. Claire Liu Mark & Ragna Henrichs Dr. Rita Justice/The MasterCaregiver Company Lil & Matthew Kades Gwen & Dan Kellogg Mr. & Mrs. David B. Krieger Paul Leach & Susan Winokur Alison & Ara Malkhassian

Mrs. Carolyn & Dr. Michael Mann Mr. & Mrs. Rodney H. Margolis Michelle & Jack Matzer John & Dorothy McDonald Jim & Terri McLaughlin Gloria & Joe Pryzant Laurie A. Rachford Ed & Janet* Rinehart Toni A. Oplt & Ed Schneider Donna Scott & Mitch Glassman Ms. Diana Skerl

Bill & Ann Stanley Justin Stenberg Stephen & Kristine Wallace Jay & Gretchen Watkins Mr. & Mrs. Fredric A. Weber Steven & Nancy Williams Ellen A. Yarrell Elena & John Young Anonymous (1)

Tom Anderson Nina K. Andrews Julia Andrieni & Rob Phillips Dr. Angela R. Apollo Anne Morgan Barrett Mr. David J. Beck Dr. Gudrun H. Becker In Memory of Sybil F. Roos – Ginger Bertrand, Cathey Cook, & Betsy Garlinger Terry Ann Brown Mr. Robert Bunch & Ms. Lilia Khakimova Ralph Burch Dr. Robert N. Chanon Coneway Family Foundation Jeanette & John DiFilippo Sidney Faust

Mr. & Mrs. Jeffrey B. Firestone Eugene Fong Mrs. Mary Foster & Mr. Don DeSimone Mary & Steve Gangelhoff Mr. & Mrs. Shaun Gibson Suzan & Julius Glickman Mrs. Mary Goodman Mr. & Mrs. Fred L. Gorman Jo A. & Billie Jo Graves Claudio J. Gutiérrez Mr. Stan Haddock Mr. & Mrs.* Jerry L. Hamaker Carol & Charlie Herder Elaine & Jeffrey Hiller Mina Park & Olaf Honerkamp Mrs. James E. Hooks

Catherine & Brian James Dr. Charles Johnson & Tammie Johnson Mr. & Mrs. Bashar Kalai Ms. Linda R. Katz Dr. & Mrs. I. Ray Kirk Cynthia* & Richard Loewenstern Isabel & Ransom Lummis Cindy Mao & Michael Ma Susan & Michael Mason Marvin & Martha McMurrey Diane K. Morales Ms. Janet Nichols Michael Baugh & Tim Ong Mr. & Mrs. Jonathan E. Parker Jean & Allan Quiat Susan & Ed Septimus

Mr. & Mrs. James A. Shaffer Becky Shaw Robin Angly & Miles Smith Tad & Suzanne Smith Dr. Carol Stelling Mr. & Mrs. Karl Strobl Mrs. Marguerite M. Swartz Marc Tabolsky & Sally Anne Schmidt Margaret Waisman, M.D. & Steven S. Callahan, Ph.D. Vicki West Kate & Brook Wiggins Larry & Lori Williams Rini & Edward Ziegler Anonymous (1)

Sponsorship Circle/$25,000+

Salon Circle/$15,000+

Conductor's Circle/$10,000+ Gail & Louis Adler Stanford & Joan Alexander Foundation Marcie & Nick Alexos The Greentree Fund Edward H. Andrews III Laura & Christopher Armstrong Rita & Jeffrey Aron Johanna & Brad Bishop Cynthia & Jeb Blackwell Judy & James Bozeman Carrie & Sverre BrandsbergDahl

Barbara A. Brooks Dolores & Craig Brooks Kori & Chris Caddell Chaing-Lin & Ye-Mon Chen Regina & Larry Corbin Alexander Dell Rebecca & Joseph Demeter Elisabeth DeWitts Valerie Palmquist Dieterich & Tracy Dieterich Kathy & Frank Dilenschneider Bonnie & George Dolson Rosalind & Gary Dworkin Kelli Cohen Fein & Martin Fein

Ursula H. Felmet Marie Hoke Fish & Richard Fish Janet Gurwitch & Ronald Franklin Carolyn & Patrick Gaidos Grace Ho & Joe Goetz Ms. Lidiya Gold Stella Guerra-Nelson Kathryn & Kirk Hachigian Deborah Happ & Richard Rost Sandy & Don L. Harris Pam & Jim Harris

Ann G. Hightower Katherine & Archibald Hill Katherine Hill Daniel Irion Marzena & Jacek Jaminski Josephine & Phil John Donna Marie & John Joity Debbie & Frank Jones Kathryn L. Ketelsen Yvette & David J. M. Key Carmen & Alfred J. Knapp Jr. Julie Van & Joshua Lee Helen & Calvin Leeke Gail Little

INTUNE September/October 2026

Our Donors

Conductor's Circle/$10,000+

Marilyn G. Lummis Pat & Bob Lunn Barry & Rosalyn Margolis Family Nancy F. Martin Martha & Alexander Matiuk Dr. & Mrs. Malcolm L. Mazow Kandee & Terry McGill Rita & Paul Morico Barbara & Gerald Moynier Jo Ann & Marvin Mueller Dr. Susan Osterberg & Mr. Edward C. Osterberg, Jr. Dianne Padgett Mr. & Mrs. Robert Pastorek Mr. Robert J. Pilegge

Mrs. Jenny Popatia in memory of Dr. Tajdin R. Popatia Heather & Chris Powers Christiana & George Ransford Mona & Gabriel Rio Fay & George Rizzo Floyd W. Robinson Alicia & Douglas Rodenberger Robert K. Rogerson Roz* & David Rowan Lori Harrington & Parashar Saikia Dr. John R. Stroehlein & Miwa Sakashita

Pat* & John A. Anderson II Lilly & Thurmon Andress Rick Ankrom & Jay Hooker Jacqueline Baly Stephanie & Dom Beveridge Linda & Stephen Bickel Joan H. Bitar Naomi & Charles* Black Florence & George Boerger Margery Anderson & Farhad Bozorgmehr Matt Brams & Alice Mao Joe Brazzatti Mr. Gordon J. Brodfuehrer Nancy Poindexter & Chester Brooke David Neal Bush John W. Cassidy Per Staunstrup Christiansen Barbara A. Clark & Edgar A. Bering Carmen Bonmati & Ben Conner Roz & Byron* Cooley Corey Tu & Andrew Davis Alice M. R. de Kok Ellen Dillon Lindsay & Brian Fisher Janet Fitzke Diana & Bill Freeman

Alejandro E. Gallardo Eugenia C. George Gary Ginstling & Marta Lederer Kathy & Albrecht Goethe Susan & Bradford Goodwin Jr. Julianne & David Gorte Louise Richman & Dennis Griffith William Griffiths Mary N. Hankey Adriana & Robert Hogan Bonnie & John Homier Lindsay & John W. Hutchinson Cathy & Joseph Jankovic Susan & Jonathan Jee Mary & Mark Jensen Susanna Calvo & Stephen Jeu Beverly Johnson Jane & Kevin Kremer Alfred Lasher, III Renae & Gary Leach Steve Lee Janine T. Levitch Nancey G. Lobb Kirby & David Lodholz Sue Ann Lurcott Kathy McCraigh Carol & Paul McDermott

Cathy McNamara Stephen Mendoza Lyn & Larry Miller Stephanie Weber & Paul Muri Aprill Nelson Bobbie Newman Tammy & Wayne Nguyen Gigi Noyes Kusum & K. Cody Patel Shirley & Michael P. Pearson Linda Tarpley Peterson Pamela & James L. Pool Roland & Linda Pringle Darla & Chip Purchase Cris & Elisa Pye Uma Ramaswamy Janet & J.B. Reimer Vicky & Michael Richker Jill & Allyn Risley Carol & Dennis Ritter Yvonne Romero Constance E. Roy Megan Anne & Jason Ryan Andrew Sackheim Lawrence P. Schanzmeyer Margaret & Garry Schoonover Robert Seah Carol Lee Klose & Carolyn A. Seale

Farida Abjani Mary E. Ainslie Jeff Autor Henry Bachman Carol* & Stephen J. Banks Polina Gaddy & Scott Barber Janet & John Beall Bonnie & Frank Benton Catherine & Roger Bhalla Lesley & Gerald Bodzy Louis Bonno Gwen* & Robert Bray Helene Harding & Patrick Briggs Jane & Ron Brownlee

Irene & Fred Buckwold Patricia & William* Bumpus Justice Brett & Erin Busby Cheryl Byington Julie & Terry Carius Margot & John Cater Tyri Schiek & David Centanni Julie & David Charles Tatiana & Daniel Chavanelle Brittany & Adam Clark Patricia & James Cleary Diana & James Collins Roseanne & Michael Cook Miquel A. Correll Paula & John Cutler

Khoa & Quynh Dao Audrey & Phillip Davis Myriam Degreve Elena Delaunay Anita & T. Michael Dossey Nan Earle Annette & Knut Eriksen Aubrey* & Sylvia Farb Emma Ferguson Nicole Fingeroot Marilyn & Theodore Flick Glenda Flores Dianne G. Foutch Wm. David George Ph.D. Alyson & Elliot Gershenson

Houston Symphony

Christy & Ted Sarosdy Barbara & Paul Schwartz Dr. & Mrs. Robert B. Sloan Houston Christian University Mr. & Mrs. Jim R. Smith Anthony & Lori Speier Mary & Richard Spies David & Helen Stacy Tina Raham Stewart in memory of Jonathan Stewart Karen Tell Susan L. Thompson Carol & Eric Timmreck

Nanako & Dale Tingleaf Jerry Fischer & John Turner Frances & Brad Urquhart Barbara E. Williams Janice Robertson & Doug Williams Ellen & Tony Williford Kay & Doug* Wilson Woodell Family Foundation Ezra & Sharon Yacob Nina & Michael Zilkha Edith* & Robert Zinn Erla & Harry* Zuber Anonymous (6)

Virtuoso Circle/$5,000+

Linda & Charles Shearouse Angela & Steven Sherman Andrew Shipp Philip Shipp Aerin & Quentin Smith Sandy & George Sneed Linda & Sam Snyder Donna & John Speer Jeaneen & Tim Stastny Jean & Doug Thomas Pamalah* & Stephen Tipps Patricia Van Allan Katharine & William Van Wie Jeanette & David Vannauker Connie Walden Robin & David Walstad H. Richard Walton Laurel & Matthew Weathers Nancy & David Webb Dede Weil* Nancy B. Willerson Cyvia Wolff Jo Dee & C. Clifford Wright Jr. Michele & Robert Yekovich Linda Yelin Anonymous (1)

Orchestra Circle/$2,500+ Irma & Kirk Girouard Susan & Kevin Golden Helen B. Wils & Leonard A. Goldstein Amy Goodpasture Joan & William Grattendick Mary & Charles Gregory Tami A. Grubb Alice & Bruce Harkness Sonja Bruzauskas & Houston Haymon Barbara & Christopher Hekel Toney Hermes Dorene & Frank Herzog Christian Hettick

Our Donors Susan Akers Hirtz Kelley Hodges Mary Kay & Charles Jackson Jonathan T. Jan Mr. & Mrs. Rick C. Jaramillo Francene Young & Ken Jones Veronica Juarez Mady & Ken Kades Lori Kardos Lynda & Frank Kelly Maxine Olefsky & Justin Kenney Marcia & Douglas Koch Andrew Krebs Brittany & Kevin Kushner Stephanie & Richard Langenstein Deborah Laws Kathleen Lazarou & John Adams Kate & Lee Lennard William W. Lindley Kristen & Matthew Loden Martiel Luther Judy & Tony Lutkus Frances & Peter MacGregor Renee Margolin

Orchestra Circle/$2,500+ Ryan Mayworn Billy & Christie McCartney Mary Pauline McElroy Kristen Meneilly Suzanne Miller Jean Mintz Jackie Mutschler Eileen Andrews & Robert Myhill Paula & Geoffrey Newton Phong Patrick Nguyen Ruth Nocella Barbara Nussmann Macky Osorio Patricia A. Kalmans & Michael A. Ozer Laura & Bill Parker Nancy Parra Roy Perry Nora & Florante Quiocho Elsie & Venu Rao Lauren & Jeff Read Patricia Richards Rebecca Rabinow & Matt Ringel Anna Robshaw Lynn & Alex Rosas

Linda & Jerry Rubenstein Kimberly Ruona Ellen Safier & Efrain Bleiberg Anthony Sanchez Rodriguez Lee Julieta & Milan Saunders Betty & Robert Schwarz Angelica Garza & Richard Sepulveda Joan* & Paul Shack Deborah & Adrian Shelley Donna & Tim Shen Gary Shiba Carlos Sierra Kristin & Michael Silliman Hinda Simon Ray Smaistrla Becky & David Smith Becky & Sam Smith The Snook Family Young Son Joseph & Sheryl Speelman Mary McKerall & Richard Steele Debbie & Gene Straka Bill Stubbs Patricia & Robert Sturdivant

Lois Garner & William Swinton Tana & Van W. Teeters Lori & Craig Teller Emily H. & David K. Terry Juliana & Stephen Tew Denise & Sal Torrisi Andrew Troxler Hubert Vaz-Nayak Dean Walker Albert Theodore Walko Kathryn & Terence Washington Terry Weiner Katherine & William Wiener Jim Winget Beth Wolff Marianne Wood Kathleen & Patrick Wood Susan Gail Wood Lorraine Wulfe Lori & Scott Wulfe Jane & Frank Yonish Melinda & Alan Young Nora & Charles Zabriskie Anonymous (4)

Jones Hall Circle/$1,500+ Raye & Randy Alexander Elizabeth & William S. Banks III Consurgo Sunshine Deborah Bautch Cyndi Bohannon Frank Busch Thomas George Cornell Robert Crownover Carl R. Cunningham Anna M. Dean Del Olmo Aldaz Family Elsie & Lester W. Eckert Ramsay M. Elder Ronald Elkins Jay Estes Susan Feickert Marguerite & Bruce Ference Larry Finger Jeannine & Patrick Flynn Susan & Thomas Forestier Leslie Gassner Pamela Newberry & Michael Gillin Maxine & Steven Goodman Laurie & Lewis Greenberg Angelea & Eric Halen

Karen & Franklin J. Harberg Jr. Amira & Rex Hemme Beth & Dean Hennings Susan Hodge & Mike Stocker Holly Holmes Vicki Huff & Eric Boerwinkle Sharon Jamison Kathleen & Okey Johnson Blanca Jolly Ara J. Karian Bernadette Keating Raquel Lewis Patsy Liao Calum Macaulay Nancy Manderson Heidi & David Massin Brooke & Christopher McCarty Debra McCoy Patricia McMahon & Joseph F. McCarthy Ashley McPhail Ginni & Richard Mithoff Mary & Richard Moen Marguerite & Abraham Moreno Eva Jeanne Moses

Donna & Richard Nebel Cynthia & Robert Nelson Elizabeth & Stephen Newton Nelda Gilliam & Eugene Nosal Roberto Orlandi Ruth & Marc C. Paige Adriana Paiva Karen & Melvin Payne Laura Pears Dana Puddy Fairfax & Risher Randall Regina J. Rogers Adelina Romero Jill & Milt Rose David Baumann & Kent Rutter Robert T. Sakowitz Leslie Siller Tina Lee & Joel Smith Leonardo Soto Steve Stephens Bill Stevens Julie & Richard Strouse Betsy Mims & Howard D. Thames Hallie A. Vanderhider James Walker Marie & Douglas Walt Nancy Ames & Danny Ward

Fabius Watson Leesa White Jennifer Wilding Mary Ann Reynolds-Wilkins & Robert Wilkins Jerre & Dennis Williams Alice Gates & Wayne Wilner Lynn Witherspoon Jennifer R. Wittman Nora Dobin & Christian Wolfe Gerlind & Jerry Wolinsky Anonymous (3)

*Deceased

INTUNE September/October 2026

Corporate, Foundation, & Government Partners $1,000,000+

The Brown Foundation, Inc.

The Brown Foundation, established in 1951, is a philanthropic organization committed to enriching Texas communities through education, arts, and civic engagement. It has distributed more than $1.7 billion in grants across Texas since its inception. With a focus on bringing passion, energy, and creativity to life in Houston, the Foundation has been a steadfast supporter of the Symphony for decades. Its generous contributions have enabled the Symphony to deliver exceptional performances, engage diverse audiences, and foster education initiatives.

Houston Symphony Endowment** Houston Symphony Endowment (the Endowment) was established to support the operations of the Houston Symphony Society (the Society). The Endowment holds contributed funds in perpetuity, invests those funds, and makes contributions from time to time to the Society. Such contributions must meet the stated restrictions of donors as well as the current policies of the Endowment. The Endowment is governed by a Board of Directors who are elected by the o#cers of the Board of Directors of the Society.

THE WORTHAM FOUNDATION, INC.

The Wortham Foundation, Inc.

The Houston Symphony is fortunate to have the generous and longstanding support of The Wortham Foundation, Inc., whose grants play a vital role in maintaining the orchestra’s artistic excellence and organizational strength. The Wortham Foundation, Inc. has been a partner of the Symphony for more than 45 years, and its investment in the Symphony has been invaluable to the organization’s artistic growth.

$500,000+

City of Houston through Houston Arts Alliance

The Houston Arts Alliance (HAA) is a local arts and culture non-profit agency dedicated to helping artists and non-profits be bold, productive, and strong. Under the guidance of the Mayor’s O#ce of Cultural A!airs, HAA implements the City of Houston’s vision for arts grantmaking and civic art investments. Additionally, HAA spearheads privately funded initiatives, including disaster preparedness, arts research, and temporary public art projects that invigorate local neighborhoods. HAA generously provides funding to the Houston Symphony, allowing us to improve accessibility of the arts throughout the Houston community.

John & Lindy Rydman/Spec’s Wines, Spirits & Finer Foods

$150,000+

Albert and Margaret Alkek Foundation

Founded in 1995, the Albert and Margaret Alkek Foundation supports charitable, religious, medical, cultural, and educational initiatives across Texas. The majority of the Foundation’s grants align with Mr. Alkek’s focus on research and education, aiming to make long-term impact through discoveries and improved quality of life. The Foundation’s funding deeply reflects the Alkek family’s commitment to community involvement in Houston and throughout the state where it continues to honor the vision and values of its founder through its ongoing philanthropic work.

Houston Symphony

Corporate, Foundation, & Government Partners $150,000+

ConocoPhillips

For more than 50 years, ConocoPhillips has supported the Houston Symphony, advocating for music education and cultural enrichment. In 2025, the company celebrated its 39 th consecutive year as the Opening Night Concert Sponsor and Lead Corporate Gala Underwriter, ensuring a grand start to the Symphony’s season. This partnership exemplifies ConocoPhillips’s dedication to giving back to the community. As a leading exploration and production company, ConocoPhillips is committed to being a good neighbor and responsible citizen in the areas it operates.

The Cullen Foundation

The Cullen Foundation was established by Hugh Roy and Lillie Cranz Cullen in 1947 and has supported the Symphony for more than 60 years. In that time, the Foundation has been a loyal donor to the orchestra in times of prosperity and an invaluable champion during di#cult times. The Foundation has made extraordinary gifts to help sustain the orchestra, including contributions to Hurricane Harvey relief and to the Symphony’s Endowment Campaign.

THE CULLEN TRUST FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS

The Cullen Trust for the Performing Arts

The Cullen Trust for the Performing Arts is one of the best-known names in Houston philanthropy and has been one of the Symphony’s greatest champions. One of three charitable trusts with independent boards created by the Cullen Foundation in the 1970s, it furthers the philanthropic legacy of Houston legend Hugh Roy Cullen. The Trust has contributed more than $9 million to the Houston Symphony since 1984, supporting almost every aspect of the orchestra’s activity.

The Hearst Foundations

In a remarkable gesture of support during the COVID-19 crisis, The Hearst Foundations granted $250,000 to the Houston Symphony, part of a $50 million e!ort benefiting 100 non-profits nationwide. William Randolph Hearst III and Virginia Hearst Randt announced these unprecedented grants, aimed at aiding the Symphony’s perseverance through challenging times. Additionally, the Hearst Foundations have been a enduring supporter of the Symphony’s Education and Community Engagement initiatives.

THE HUMPHREYS FOUNDATION

The Humphreys Foundation

For more than 30 years, The Humphreys Foundation’s grants have been instrumental in allowing the Symphony to bring high-quality artistic programming to Houston. Under the leadership of President Linda Bertman, the charitable foundation based in Liberty County has underwritten several iconic Symphony concerts, including: operas like Abduction from the Seraglio, Fidelio, Bluebeard’s Castle, and Oedipus Rex; the HD Odyssey trilogy (The Planets, The Earth, The Cosmos) and the 2017–18 Season performance of The Rite of Spring; as well as festivals like the two-week Schumann Festival in 2020, and Carmina burana.

KTRK ABC-13*

KTRK ABC-13 is the leading local television news station serving the Greater Houston area, known for its comprehensive news coverage, entertainment programming, and community engagement. As the O#cial Television Partner of the Houston Symphony, KTRK ABC-13 plays a pivotal role in amplifying the Symphony’s reach and impact. This partnership exemplifies KTRK ABC-13’s commitment to supporting local arts and culture and enriching the lives of Houstonians through the power of music.

Marvy Finger Family Foundation

MARVY FINGER FAMILY FOUNDATION

Marvy Finger was a prominent figure in the real estate industry for over six decades, widely respected not only for his business success but also for his philanthropic contributions to civic, medical, and educational institutions throughout Houston. A native Houstonian, Mr. Finger was passionate about creating opportunities for motivated students to pursue further education and career advancement. The Marvy Finger Family Foundation generously supports the Houston Symphony’s Education and Community Engagement initiatives.

INTUNE September/October 2026

Corporate, Foundation, & Government Partners $150,000+

Sarofim Foundation Sarofim Foundation was established by Fayez Sarofim, prior to his death, in gratitude for the opportunities this country and Houston provided him as an emigrant from his native Egypt. Throughout his life Mr. Sarofim exhibited an unshakable faith in what was possible through a steadfast and a disciplined approach to excellence, hard work, and trust in others. These are the same principles that guide Sarofim Foundation forward today. The Sarofim Foundation Board is honored to build on Mr. Sarofim’s history of investing in our community in powerful, intentional ways.

Texas Commission on the Arts**

The Texas Commission on the Arts (TCA) is a state agency dedicated to promoting the arts in Texas. Established to support and enrich the state’s cultural landscape, TCA provides grants, resources, and initiatives to artists, organizations, and communities. Through its programs, the agency fosters creative expression, economic development, and educational opportunities in the arts. With a focus on accessibility and inclusivity, the TCA works to ensure that all Texans, regardless of background, can experience and participate in the vibrant artistic culture of the state.

Vitol, Inc.

Guarantor

Vitol is a global energy and commodities company with a presence across the energy spectrum: from crude oil and refined products to power, natural gas, renewables, and carbon. For more than 55 years, Vitol has served the world’s energy markets, trading and distributing energy safely and responsibly to growing economies around the world. From 40 o#ces worldwide, we seek to add value across the energy supply chain by deploying our scale and market understanding to help solve the energy challenges of today and investing in energy solutions for the future.

$100,000+

Chevron

Chevron has been a proud member of the Houston community for over a century, investing in programs that make our city a better place to live, work, and play. As part of our commitment to Greater Houston—the fourth largest and most diverse city in the United States—Chevron has proudly partnered with the Houston Symphony for more than 30 years to support the orchestra’s robust Education and Community Engagement initiatives and sponsor Fiesta Sinfónica, an annual free community concert to celebrate Hispanic heritage through the universal language of music.

City of Houston through the Miller Theatre Advisory Board **

The Miller Theatre Advisory Board (MTAB) serves as a steward of both public and private funds, ensuring the delivery of professional-caliber performances—free of charge—at the Miller Outdoor Theatre. Its mission is to enhance the cultural vibrancy of Houston by o!ering diverse and enriching experiences to both the city’s residents and its visitors.

The Jerry C. Dearing Family Foundation

Founded in 2009, the Jerry C. Dearing Family Foundation is a family-run private foundation that supports Houston-based non-profit organizations that provide health, education, and sustainability services in Houston and Harris County. The Jerry C. Dearing Family Foundation has distributed more than $22.5 million in grants to support, encourage, and assist several local organizations. Since the Houston Symphony’s 2018–19 Season, The Jerry C. Dearing Family Foundation has supported a wide array of our Education and Community Engagement initiatives.

Houston Symphony

Corporate, Foundation, & Government Partners $100,000+

EOG Resources

EOG Resources—one of the largest crude oil and natural gas exploration and production companies in the United States—is committed to supporting communities in which our employees live and work. For more than a decade, EOG has proudly partnered with the Houston Symphony to ensure that worldclass musical experiences and education are accessible to individuals from across Greater Houston. Serving as presenting sponsor for the Symphony’s Upper Elementary School Concerts, as well as supporting sponsor for the orchestra’s Music & Wellness initiatives and Live from Jones Hall livestream series, EOG plays an instrumental role in the Symphony’s ability to create meaningful impact in the community through the power of music.

Frost Bank

Frost Bank and the Houston Symphony—two institutions that have served Texans for more than a century—are happy to partner on the Frost Bank Gold Classics Series for the 2026–27 Season. Frost has helped generations of Texans achieve their financial goals for more than 155 years. Frost has consistently been ranked highest in customer satisfaction in Texas by the J.D. Power U.S. Retail Banking Satisfaction Study. It is honored to support communities across the state of Texas.

Houston Methodist

Houston Methodist is a dedicated supporter of the Houston Symphony as the O#cial Health Care Provider and underwriter of six concert weekends throughout the 2026–27 Season. Houston Methodist o!ers unique benefits to the Houston Symphony’s musicians through its Center for Performing Arts Medicine (CPAM). As the only center of its kind in the country, CPAM is composed of a specialized group of more than 100 elite physicians working collaboratively to address the specific demands placed on artists so they can do what they do best—enrich the lives of Houston audiences.

Houston Symphony League The Houston Symphony League (HSL) is an organization of committed volunteers who have supported the Grammy Award-winning Houston Symphony since 1937 in service to the Houston Symphony’s audience development, education, community outreach, and fundraising e!orts.

Kalsi Engineering

Founded in 1978 by Dr. M.S. Kalsi, Kalsi Engineering, Inc. is a high-tech consulting firm based in Sugar Land, Texas. Specializing in mechanical engineering, the company o!ers services in design, analysis, research, and testing for industries such as power generation, aerospace, oil, petrochemical, and defense. Kalsi Engineering is renowned for delivering cost-e!ective, innovative solutions, backed by a skilled team and a strong record of industry milestones, technical publications, patents, and new products. Their work continues to provide lasting benefits to clients worldwide.

M.D. ANDERSON FOUNDATION

M.D. Anderson Foundation

The Houston Symphony is grateful to the M.D. Anderson Foundation, a dedicated supporter since the 1970s, for supporting the Symphony’s grand scale musical projects and helping us adapt to pandemic challenges. Founded by Monroe Dunaway Anderson in 1936, the Foundation is renowned for its role in creating the Texas Medical Center and the M.D. Anderson Cancer Center and supports organizations enhancing the quality of life for Houstonians. The Houston Symphony thanks the Trustees of the Foundation for its decades of support and salutes them for their service to our city.

PaperCity*

PaperCity Magazine is a Texas-based luxury lifestyle publication covering fashion, art, design, dining, real estate, and culture. With editions in Houston, Dallas, Austin, and other major cities, the magazine showcases the definitive source for influential sophisticated trends and exclusive events. Whether in print or online, PaperCity delivers the best of Texas style and society.

INTUNE September/October 2026

Corporate, Foundation, & Government Partners $100,000+

PNC** For 160 years, PNC has been committed to providing its clients with great service and powerful financial expertise to help them meet their financial goals. As one of the largest diversified financial services institutions in the United States, PNC has a longstanding history of supporting not only our customers but also our communities, employees, and shareholders. PNC is proud to be an ongoing sponsor of the Houston Symphony’s PNC Family Series. This commitment is rooted in the belief that involvement in the arts enriches lives and fosters a stronger, more vibrant community in Houston.

Shell USA, Inc.

Shell USA, Inc., a longtime leadership contributor to the Houston Symphony, underwrites the Houston Symphony’s Favorite Masters Series of classical subscription concerts as part of the company’s continuing commitment to the communities it serves. Since it was founded, Shell USA, Inc. has invested more than $1 billion in charitable, cultural, and educational organizations throughout Houston and the United States. Shell’s support of culture and the arts encompasses a wide range of symphony, opera, and theater groups, as well as the visual arts and science museums.

Gardenia Foundation

$50,000+ Baker Botts L.L.P.*

The Lancaster Hotel*

CKP*

The Robert and Janice McNair Foundation

Houston Christian University

National Endowment for the Arts

Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo**

Nexus Health Systems

John P. McGovern Foundation**

The Powell Foundation**

Kinder Morgan Foundation**

Tito’s Handmade Vodka**

$25,000+ The Events Company*

Kirkland & Ellis

Univision Houston & Amor 106.5FM

The Melbern G. & Susanne M. Glasscock

Neiman Marcus*

Vinson & Elkins LLP

Foundation**

One Market Square Garage*

H-E-B

Rand Group, LLC*

Albert and Ethel Herzstein Charitable

Sewell

Foundation Houston Symphony Chorus Endowment

The Vivian L. Smith Foundation** Sterling-Turner Foundation

$15,000+ Ruth & Ted Bauer Family Foundation**

Suntory Global

City Kitchen*

USI Southwest

Marine Foods Express, Ltd. The Pierce Runnells Foundation

Houston Symphony

Corporate, Foundation, & Government Partners $10,000+ The Gordon A. Cain Foundation George & Mary Josephine Hamman Foundation**

William E. & Natoma Pyle Harvey Charitable Foundation**

The Radoff Family Foundation

Houston First Corporation*

The Vaughn Foundation

Silver Eagle Beverages

Port of Houston Authority

Keith & Mattie Stevenson Foundation

Strake Foundation**

Leon Jaworski Foundation

University of St. Thomas*

The Blanche Stastny Foundation

Union Pacific**

$5,000+ Wortham Insurance & Risk Management

$5,000 and below Amegy Bank

Greentree Fund

The Schissler Foundation

Corporate Circle Members The Houston Symphony is grateful to the members of our Corporate Circle who provide vital support to our mission-driven artistic and education initiatives allowing us to continue to bring world-class musical experiences to the city of Houston and to deepen our impact in the community through the transformative power of music.

Director

$10,000+

Marine Foods Express, Ltd. Silver Eagle Beverages

Partner

$2,500+

Amegy Bank

For information on becoming a member of the Corporate Circle, contact Kamra Kilmer, Manager of Corporate Relations at 713.337.8529 or kamra.kilmer@houstonsymphony.org.

* Includes in-kind support **Education and Community Engagement Support 71

INTUNE September/October 2026

Legacy Society The Legacy Society honors those who have included the Houston Symphony Endowment in their long-term estate plans through a bequest in a will, life-income gifts, or other deferred-giving arrangements. For more information, please contact Hadia Mawlawi, Endowment and Planned Giving Officer, at hadia.mawlawi@houstonsymphony.org or 713.337.8532.

CRESCENDO CIRCLE (as of August 11, 2026) Dr. and Mrs. George* J. Abdo Ms. Margery S. Anderson Priscilla R. Angly Ann & Jonathan Ayre Don & Katharine Droge Barnhill James Barton James Bell Dr. Joan H. Bitar Cyndi & Carl Bohannon James* & S. Dale* Brannon Nancy & Walter Bratic Joe Brazzatti Desi Brown Terry Ann Brown Eric Brueggeman Mary Kathryn Campion & Stephen Liston Drs. Dennis & Susan Carlyle Dominic Cellitti Janet F. Clark Virginia A. Clark Mr. William E. Colburn Elisabeth DeWitts Andria N. Elkins Jean & Jack* Ellis

$100,000+

The Aubrey* & Sylvia Farb Family Eugene Fong Aggie L. Foster Lucy Ann Gebhart Stephen & Mariglyn* Glenn Evan B. Glick Jo A. and Billie Jo Graves Mr. Mario Gudmundsson Claudio J. Gutiérrez Deborah Happ & Richard Rost Don L. Harris Marilyn & Robert M. Hermance Dr. Charles Johnson & Tammie Johnson Dr. Rita Justice Mary W. Kenner Betty & Jim Key Carey Kirkpatrick Mr. & Mrs. Calvin Leeke Mr.* & Mrs.* U. J. LeGrange Joella & Steven P. Mach Martha & Alexander Matiuk Michelle & Jack Matzer Gay Stanley Mayeux

Dr. & Mrs. Malcolm L. Mazow David Peavy & Dr. Stephen McCauley Barbara & Pat McCelvey Bill & Karinne McCullough Muffy & Mike* McLanahan Dr. Tracey Samuels & Mr. Robert McNamara Mr. & Mrs. D. Bradley* McWilliams Dr. Georgette M. Michko Mr. & Mrs. Marvin H. Mueller Dr. John Oehler & Dr. Dorothy Oehler Gloria G. Pryzant Jean & Allan Quiat Ed & Janet* Rinehart Fay & George Rizzo Dr. Douglas & Alicia Rodenberger Constance E. Roy Mr. Ed Schneider & Mrs. Toni Oplt Donna Scott Charles & Andrea Seay Mr. & Mrs. James A. Shaffer

MEMBERS (as of August 11, 2026) Farida Abjani Dr. & Mrs. Jeffrey B. Aron George* & Betty Bashen Kerry Levine Bollmann Ermy Borlenghi Bonfield David Neal Bush Cheryl & Sam* Byington Sylvia J. Carroll Dr. Robert N. Chanon William J. Clayton & Margaret A. Hughes Mr.* and Mrs. Byron Cooley The Honorable* & Mrs.* William Crassas Dr. Lida S. Dahm & Mr. Karl A. Dahm Leslie Barry Davidson Susan Feickert Mrs. Thomas C. Garrett Mr. & Mrs. Harry Gendel Christine E.* & Michael B. George Mauro H. Gimenez & Connie A. Coulomb Robert M. Griswold Randolph Lee Groninger

Michael J. Shawiak Louis* & Mary Kay Snyder David & Helen Stacy Frank Shroeder Stanford in memory of Dr. Walter O. Stanford Jay Steinfeld & Barbara Winthrop Tina Raham Stewart, in memory of Jonathan Stewart Mike Stude Mr. & Mrs. Jesse B. Tutor Elba L. Villarreal Margaret Waisman, M.D. & Steven S. Callahan, Ph.D. Stephen & Kristine Wallace Mr. & Mrs. Fredric A. Weber Robert G. Weiner & Toni Blankmann Vicki West, in honor of Hans Graf Gary & Shari Winston Susan Gail Wood Jo Dee Wright Ellen A. Yarrell Anonymous (2)

Up to $99,999

Mr. and Mrs.* Jerry L. Hamaker Timothy Hogan & Elaine Anthony Dr. Gary L. Hollingsworth Dr. Edward J. & Mrs. Patti* Hurwitz Dr. Kenneth J. Hyde Catherine & Brian James Barbara & Raymond Kalmans Dr. & Mrs. I. Ray Kirk Marc Levin Mrs. Lucy Lewis Raquel Lewis David Ray Malone & David J. Sloat Mr. & Mrs. Rodney H. Margolis James G. Matthews In Memory of Stephen & Linda Massie Mary Ann* & David McKeithan Catherine Jane Merchant* Marilyn Ross Miles & Stephen Warren Miles Foundation Sidney & Ione Moran

Richard & Juliet Moynihan Janet Moynihan* Gretchen Ann Myers Patience Myers Aprill Nelson Ms. Elizabeth Nelson Mr.* & Mrs. Richard C. Nelson Bobbie Newman John & Leslie Niemand Ms. Leslie Nossaman Very Rev. John Onstott Macky Osorio Susan & Edward Osterberg Mr. & Mrs. Edmund & Megan Pantuliano Christine & Red Pastorek Peter* & Nina Peropoulos Linda Tarpley Peterson Sara M. Peterson Mrs. Jenny Popatia in memory of Dr. Tajdin R. Popatia Geraldine Smith Priest* Dana Puddy Patrick T. Quinn Liz & Dennis Regenscheid Jennifer Renner

Mr. Floyd W. Robinson Walter Ross* Dr. & Mrs. Kazuo Shimada Leslie Siller Lisa & Jerry Simon Miles O. Smith Tad & Suzanne Smith Colden Anthony Snow Marie Speziale Mr. Rex Spikes Nancy A. Strohmer Emily H. & David K. Terry Jean & Doug Thomas Stephen G. Tipps Ann K. Tornyos Steve Tostengard* in memory of Ardyce Tostengard Jana Vander Lee Bill & Agnete Vaughan Dean B. Walker Geoffrey Westergaard Nancy B. Willerson Jennifer R. Wittman Lorraine & Ed* Wulfe David & Tara Wuthrich Katherine & Mark Yzaguirre Anonymous (7)

IN MEMORIAM We gratefully honor those whose estate gifts have been realized in the past two seasons. Their generosity will inspire audiences and sustain the Houston Symphony for generations to come. Mrs. Janice H. Barrow Ann Baker Beaudette Zarine Boyce Zu Dell Broadwater Eugene Bruns Cythia Diller Houston Symphony

Mary Seaton Dix Helen Demaris Hudspeth Flores Eileen and Wm. David George Marya McLean Ingram Sam and Cele Keeper

Samuel Levine Jerald Myron Marks Will L. McLendon Brad McWilliams Dr. Robert Mihalo Alfred Cameron Mitchell 72

Mr. Dave G. Nussmann Lila Rauch Janet Rinehart Jean Stinson Anonymous (3)

*Deceased

Houston Symphony Endowment The Houston Symphony Endowment ensures the Symphony’s long-term sustainability by funding key priorities like daily operations costs, Education and Community Engagement initiatives, and affordable ticket pricing. The Symphony’s goal is to grow the Endowment by $40 million by 2030, and your support can make a lasting difference. To learn how you can support the Endowment through a gift or bequest, contact: Amanda Dinitz, Director of Principal and Endowment Gifts, at amanda.dinitz@houstonsymphony.org or 713.337.8541. Music Director: Roy and Lillie Cullen Chair Currently held by Juraj Valčuha

Associate Principal Cello: Jane and Robert Cizik Chair Currently held by Christopher French

Concertmaster: Max Levine Chair Currently held by Yoonshin Song

Principal Flute: General Maurice Hirsch Chair Currently held by Kayla Burggraff

Assistant Concertmaster: Fondren Foundation Chair Currently held by Qi Ming

Principal Oboe: Lucy Binyon Stude Chair Currently held by Jonathan Fischer

Associate Concertmaster: Ellen E. Kelley Chair Currently vacant

English Horn: Barbara and Pat McCelvey Chair Currently held by Adam Dinitz

Principal Cello: Janice H. and Thomas D. Barrow Chair Currently held by Brinton Averil Smith

Principal Clarinet: Bobbie Nau Chair Currently held by Mark Nuccio

Principal Horn: Mr. and Mrs. Alexander K. McLanahan Chair Currently held by William VerMeulen Second Horn: Barbara J. Burger Chair Currently held by Ian Mayton Principal Trumpet: George P. and Cynthia Woods Mitchell Chair Currently held by Mark Hughes Executive Director, CEO: Margaret Alkek Williams Chair Currently held by Gary Ginstling

Endowed Funds American General Fund (AIG) The Brown Foundation Guest Pianist Fund The Brown Foundation Miller Outdoor Theatre Fund in memory of Hanni and Stewart Orton, Legacy Society Co-Founders Margaret and Alice Brown Fund for Education Barbara J. Burger Janet F. Clark Fund The Cullen Foundation’s Maestro Fund The Cullen Trust for the Performing Arts Fund for Creative Initiatives The Margaret and James Elkins Foundation Fund El Paso Corporation Endowment (formerly Tenneco)

$250,000+ The Virginia Lee Elverson Trust Fund Marvy Finger Family Foundation Fund for Education and Community Engagement William Randolph Hearst Endowed Fund for Education Programs The General and Mrs. Maurice Hirsch Memorial Concert Fund in memory of Theresa Meyer and Jules Hirsch, beloved parents of General Maurice Hirsch, and Rosetta Hirsch Weil and Josie Hirsch Bloch, beloved sisters of General Maurice Hirsch Houston Arts Combined Endowment Foundation Houston Symphony Chorus Fund

Dr. MarieLuise Kalsi Fund Joan and Marvin Kaplan Fund Mary R. Lewis Fund for Piano Performance M.D. Anderson Foundation Fund Mary Lynn and Steve Marks Fund Barbara and Pat McCelvey Fund Monroe L. Mendelsohn Jr. Fund George P. and Cynthia Woods Mitchell Summer Concerts Fund National Endowment for the Arts Fund Nations Bank Endowment Fund C. Howard Pieper Foundation Fund Walter W. Sapp Fund, Legacy Society Co-Founder

Endowment Donors Philip Bahr Endowment David Bintliff- Messiah Concert Fund Walter and Nancy Bratic Fund

Fayez Sarofim Guest Violinist Fund through the Cullen Trust for the Performing Arts The Schissler Foundation Fund Spec’s Charitable Foundation Salute to Educators Concert Fund The Micajah S. Stude Special Production Fund Bobby and Phoebe Tudor Fund Mr. and Mrs. Jesse B. Tutor Endowed Fund The Wortham Foundation Classical Series Fund in memory of Gus S. and Lyndall F. Wortham

$50,000-$249,999 The Brown Foundation, inc.- In Memory of General Maurice Hirsch

Lawrence E. Carlton, MD Endowment Fund for Youth Programs Robert Cizik Endowment Virginia Clark Endowment 73

Gene Dewhurst Endowment DuPont Corporation Endowment Eaton Endowment Charles Engelhard Foundation INTUNE September/October 2026

Endowment Donors Marvy Finger Endowment Lila-Gene George Endowment General Education Programs Claire Glassell Endowment Stephen and Mariglyn Glenn Endowment Trudy Guinee Endowment Dr. Ken Hyde and Dr. Gary Hollingsworth Endowment Houston Trust Endowment JP Morgan Chase Endowment Katherine Sloan Thomas Trust Endowment

$50,000-$249,999 KHOU-TV Channel 11 Endowment Devorah and David Krieger Dion Laurent Endowment Max and Rochelle Levit Endowment Mach Family Audience Development Fund Rodney and Judy Margolis Endowment Jay and Shirley Marks Endowment Marian and Speros Martel Foundation

Walter J. Morrison Endowment Fund David Nussman, Houston Symphony Chorus Orton Family Endowment Daniel Prosser Endowment SBC Endowment James and Helen Shaffer Endowment Spectra Energy Corporation Endowment, Formerly Duke Energy Studdard and Melby Endowment

Ajay Khurana David Krieger

Scott Wise

TRUSTEES James H. Lee, President David J.M. Key

Houston Symphony

Texas Eastern Endowment L. Proctor and Alice Thomas Endowment Fredric and Betsy Weber Endowment Williams Stamps Farish Fund Williams Companies, Inc Endowment (Transcontinental Gas Pipeline)

Young Associates Council The Houston Symphony’s Young Associates Council (YAC) is a philanthropic membership group for young professionals, music aficionados, and performing arts supporters 45 and under who are interested in exploring symphonic music within Houston’s flourishing artistic landscape. To join or learn more about the YAC, please contact Katie Salvatore, Director, Annual Giving & Membership, at katie.salvatore@houstonsymphony.org or 713.337.8544. YOUNG ASSOCIATES LEADERSHIP Justin Stenberg, Chair

Liana Schwaitzberg, Membership Chair

Jeff Hiller, Vice Chair

Justin Kenney, Partnerships Chair

$5,000+

YAC - CONDUCTOR’S CIRCLE (as of August 1, 2026) Laura & Christopher Armstrong Heaven Chee Joseph Von Edwins Carolyn & Patrick Gaidos Rebecca & Andrew Gould

Lori Harrington & Parashar Saikia Elaine & Jeff Hiller# Katherine & Robert Lee Amanda & Brian Leeke Jessica & Brian Leeke

Amanda Lenertz & Chadd Mikulin Kirby & David Lodholz# Marisa & Tandy Lofland – Bespoke Digital LLC Liana & Andrew Schwaitzberg#

$2,500-$4,999

YAC - VIRTUOSO CIRCLE Sophia Ewalt & Matthew Behrmann Denise & Brandon Davis Mhair Dekmezian Meesha & Nick Gruy Juan Herrera

Jonathan T. Jan# Ashley & Andrew Kang Maxine Olefsky & Justin Kenney# Kat Kunz Andy Lee

Allegra Lilly & Robin Kesselman# Emily & Joseph Morrel – Porter Hedges LLP Ashley & Clay Nickens Anna Robshaw

Melanie Smith Young Son Bryce Swinford & Ryan Teschner Anonymous (1)

$1,500-$2,499

YAC Saba & Ben Blanding Catherine Bratic Jasmine Bolton Joseph Chang Nicole Fingeroot Amy Goodpasture

Aerin & Quentin Smith Justin Stenberg# Stephanie Weber & Paul Muri Angela Wu & Kurt Wilson Kathy Zhang-Rutledge & Mack Wilson Anonymous (1)

Cody Hall Renee Isaacs Veronica Juarez Jessica Marshall Haydée del Calvo & Esteban Montero

David Moyer Alice & Dennis O'Brien Renee Palisi Blake Plaster Sam Richards Charlotte & Craig Ross

Katie Salvatore Anthony Sanchez Rodriguez Lee# Carlos Sierra Michael Zarcaro

# Steering Committee

INTUNE September/October 2026

Jesse H. Jones Hall Renovation Donors The Houston Symphony is grateful to those who have generously provided leadership support to the Friends of Jones Hall’s campaign to provide much-needed improvements to the patron experience at Jones Hall.

$10 MILLION+

(as of July 1, 2025) Nancy and Charles Davidson

The Brown Foundation, Inc.

Janice H. Barrow* The Robert and Jane Cizik Family Janet F. Clark

$5 MILLION+ The City of Houston / Houston First Corporation

Sarofim Foundation

ConocoPhillips The Cullen Foundation The Cullen Trust for the Performing Arts

The Elkins Foundation Houston Endowment Barbara and Pat McCelvey

Margaret Alkek Williams

$1 MILLION+ The Shirley and David Toomim Family The Wortham Foundation, Inc.

FRIENDS OF JONES HALL M.D. Anderson Foundation Anne and Albert Chao

Fondren Foundation Mr. & Mrs. J. Stephen Marks

Beverly and James Postl Vivian L. Smith Foundation

Bobby and Phoebe Tudor Mr. and Mrs. Jesse B. Tutor

Robert M. Hermance Gene McDavid Janice H. Barrow Barry C. Burkholder Rodney H. Margolis Je#rey B. Early Michael E. Shannon Ed Wulfe

Jesse B. Tutor Robert B. Tudor III Robert A. Peiser Steven P. Mach Janet F. Clark John Rydman

Past Leadership PAST PRESIDENTS OF THE HOUSTON SYMPHONY SOCIETY Mrs. Edwin B. Parker Miss Ima Hogg Mrs. H. M. Garwood Joseph A. Mullen, M.D. Joseph S. Smith Walter H. Walne H. R. Cullen Gen. Maurice Hirsch

Charles F. Jones Fayez Sarofim John T. Cater Richard G. Merrill Ellen Elizardi Kelley John D. Platt E.C. Vandagrift Jr. J. Hugh Ro# Jr.

PAST PRESIDENTS OF THE HOUSTON SYMPHONY LEAGUE Miss Ima Hogg Mrs. John F. Grant Mrs. J. R. Parten Mrs. Andrew E. Rutter Mrs. Aubrey Leno Carter Mrs. Stuart Sherar Mrs. Julian Barrows Ms. Hazel Ledbetter Mrs. Albert P. Jones Mrs. Ben A. Calhoun

Mrs. Thompson McCleary Mrs. Theodore W. Cooper Mrs. Allen W. Carruth Mrs. David Hannah Jr. Mary Louis Kister Mrs. Edward W. Kelley Jr. Mrs. John W. Herndon Mrs. Charles Franzen Mrs. Harold R. DeMoss Jr. Mrs. Edward H. Soderstrom

Mrs. J. Stephen Marks Terry Ann Brown Nancy Strohmer Mary Ann McKeithan Ann Cavanaugh Mrs. James A. Sha#er Lucy H. Lewis Catherine McNamara Shirley McGregor Pearson Paula Jarrett

Jane Clark Nancy Littlejohn Donna Shen Dr. Susan Snider Osterberg Dr. Kelli Cohen Fein Vicki West Mrs. Jesse Tutor Darlene Clark Beth Wol# Maureen Higdon

Mrs. James Griffith Lawhon Mrs. Olaf LaCour Olsen Mrs. Ralph Ellis Gunn Mrs. Leon Jaworski Mrs. Garrett R. Tucker Jr. Mrs. M. T. Launius Jr.

Mrs. Lilly Kucera Andress Ms. Marilou Bonner Mrs. W. Harold Sellers Mrs. Harry H. Gendel Mrs. Robert M. Eury Mrs. E. C. Vandagrift Jr.

Cora Sue Mach Kathi Rovere Norma Jean Brown Barbara McCelvey Lori Sorcic Jansen Nancy B. Willerson

Fran Fawcett Peterson Leslie Siller Cheryl Byington Mary Fusillo Heidi Rockecharlie

Houston Symphony

*Deceased

Musician Sponsorship Donors at the Sponsorship Circle level and above are provided the opportunity to be recognized as sponsoring of a Houston Symphony musician. Below is the list of Musician Sponsors during the 2026–27 season.

Dr. Angela Apollo Sheldon Person, Viola

Evan B. Glick Fay Shapiro, Viola

Dr. Saul and Ursula Balagura Charles Seo, Cello

Mary Goodman Jing Zheng, Second Violin

David and Barbara Balderston Nick Platoff, Principal Trombone

Mr. and Mrs. Fred L. Gorman Christopher French, Associate Principal Cello

Donna & Ken Barrow Robin Kesselman, Principal Double Bass

Mark and Ragna Henrichs Donald Howey, Double Bass

Gary and Marian Beauchamp Eric Larson, Double Bass

Charles & Carol Herder Nathan Cloeter, Assistant Principal/Utility Horn

Nancy and Walter Bratic Christopher Neal, First Violin Robert Bunch and Lilia Khakimova Sasha Potiomkin,Bass Clarinet

Dr. Eric McLaughlin and Mr. Eliodoro Castillo Jonathan Fischer, Principal Oboe Jim and Terri McLaughlin Bradley White, Associate Principal Trombone Martha and Marvin McMurrey Dr. Miguel and Mrs. Valerie Miro-Quesada Leonardo Soto, Principal Timpani Rita and Paul Morico Elise Wagner, Bassoon

Gary L. Hollingsworth and Kenneth J. Hyde James Cunningham, Viola

Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan E. Parker Jeffrey Butler, Cello

Mrs. James E. Hooks Burke Shaw, Double Bass

Barbara Burger Andrew Pedersen, Assistant PrincipleDouble Bass

Houston Symphony League Ferenc Illenyi, Second Violin Mark Nuccio, Principal Clarinet Sophia Silivos**, Violin

Mary Kathryn Campion & Stephen Liston Mihaela Frusina, Second Violin

Drs. M.S. and Marie-Luise Kalsi Anne Leek, Associate Principal Oboe

Dennis and Susan Carlyle Louis-Marie Fardet, Cello

Joan and Marvin Kaplan Foundation/The Kaplan, Brooks, and Bruch Families Mark Nuccio, Principal Clarinet

Jane F. Cizik Qi Ming, Assistant Concertmaster Janet Clark Yoonshin Song, Concertmaster Michael Clark and Sallie Morian

Mr. David Peavy and Dr. Stephen McCauley Jeremy Kreutz, Cello Gloria and Joe Pryzant Matthew Strauss, Percussion & Associate Principal Timpani Allan and Jean Quiat Richard Harris, Trumpet

Dr. Sippi and Mr. Ajay Khurana Boson Mo, Assistant Concertmaster Dr. and Mrs. I Ray Kirk John C. Parker, Associate Principal Trumpet

Laurie A. Rachford Timothy Dilenschneider, Associate Principal Double Bass Ed and Janet Rinehart Amy Semes, Associate Principal Second Violin John and Lindy Rydman/ Spec's Wines Anthony Kitai, Cello

Mr. Paul Leach and Ms. Susan Winokur John C. Parker, Associate Principal Trumpet

In Memory of Sybil F. Roos Ginger Bertrand, Cathey Cook, and Betsy Garlinger Mark Hughes, Principal Trumpet

Roger and Debby Cutler Tong Yan, First Violin

Cindy E. Levit Adam Trussell, Bassoon and Contrabassoon

Kathy and Ed Segner Kathryn Ladner, Flute & Piccolo

Mike and Debra Dishberger Phillip Freeman, Bass Trombone

Cora Sue Mach Joan DerHovsepian, Principal Viola

Helen and Jim Shaffer Christopher French, Associate Principal Cello

Joan and Bob Duff Robert Johnson, Associate Principal Horn

Joella and Steven P. Mach Eric Larson, Double Bass

Tad and Suzanne Smith Wei Jiang, Viola

Virginia Clark Lindsey Baggett, ViolinCommunity Embedded Musician

Aggie L. Foster and Steve Simon Mihaela Frusina, Second Violin Steve and Mary Gangelhoff Judy Dines, Flute

Mrs. Carolyn and Dr. Michael Mann Ian Mayton, Horn

Mr. Jay Steinfeld and Mrs. Barbara Winthrop Maki Kubota, Cello Justin Stenberg Brian Mangrum, Horn Mike Stude Brinton Averil Smith, Principal Cello Shirley & David Toomim Family Foundation / Steve & Ellen Robinson Matthew Roitstein, Associate Principal, Flute Bobby and Phoebe Tudor Bradley White, Associate Principal Trombone Mr. and Mrs. Jesse B. Tutor Joan DerHovsepian, Principal Viola Margaret Waisman, M.D. and Steven S. Callahan, Ph.D. Mark Griffith, Percussion Stephen and Kristine Wallace Rian Craypo, Principal Bassoon Mr. and Mrs. Fredric A. Weber Allegra Lilly, Principal Harp Robert G. Weiner and Toni Blankmann Anastasia Ehrlich, Second Violin Lori & Larry Williams Samuel Pedersen, Assistant Principal Viola Steven and Nancy Williams Elena and John Young Keoni Bolding, Viola

Alana R. Spiwak and Sam L. Stolbun Wei Jiang, Viola

Mrs. Mary Lynn Marks

Ann Klinar Stanley and Bill Stanley Mark Hughes, Principal Trumpet

Barbara and Pat McCelvey Adam Dinitz, English Horn

Stephen and Mariglyn* Glenn Christian Schubert, Clarinet

Mr. Jay Steinfeld and Mrs. Barbara Winthrop

*Deceased **Retired INTUNE September/October 2026

Meet the New Musician:

WESLEY DUCOTE

Principal Keyboard Hometown: DeQuincy, LA

Tell us a little about yourself: I'm so thrilled to be joining the Houston Symphony. Prior to this I was a freelancer in St. Petersburg, FL playing with The Florida Orchestra, Opera Tampa, and working at the University of South Florida. Collaboration is at the center of what I do, whether it's in ensembles, with opera singers, musicians of other genres, artists, or even dancers. How long have you been playing your instrument, and what do you love the most about it? I started piano lessons when I was nine so it's been about 23 years of learning at the keyboard. Of course over the years I've added studies in harpsichord and organ as well as a variety of new skills. What I love about being a pianist is that we have so much dimensionality to what we can do and even our limitations have work-arounds. We can create complex tapestries of melody, harmony, rhythm, and expression all by just “pressing buttons” (although they are very complex buttons). I am always learning and refining skills in this field and I love feeling like a fresh student every day. What is your favorite piece of music? For me it would probably be a toss-up between Messiaen's Canyons and the Stars and Mahler's 8th Symphony. They're both bold, strange, life-a!rming, glorious, all-encompassing pieces of music and they have the effect of bringing forth a collective appreciation of nature, humanity, and hope for the world. Scan here to read the full interview with Wesley Ducote!

Outside of classical music, what genre of music is your favorite? Jazz for sure. There is something so refreshingly inventive and inspiring in the evolution of the genre. Erroll Garner is one of my favorite musicians of all time.

Houston Symphony

Meet the New Musician:

AGNES TSE

Second First Violin Hometown: Hong Kong

Tell us a little about yourself: Hello everyone! I am joining the first violin section of the Houston Symphony in September and I couldn’t be more excited! I have spent the past seven years as a member of the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, and prior to that I attended the Juilliard School for my Bachelor and Master degrees. Winning a job in the Houston Symphony is a dream-come-true! How long have you been playing your instrument, and what do you love the most about it? I have been playing the violin since I was four! There is so much to love about it, but what I love most is not necessarily related to the instrument itself, but the connections I have made— meeting people and traveling around the world during my journey of playing the violin. For example, my first violin teacher in Hong Kong is like a second mom to me even till this day. I played in the Hong Kong Children’s Symphony Orchestra from 9–16 and toured overseas with friends every summer, including my first trip to the U.S. and that was when I got to visit my dream school—The Juilliard School, where I ended up spending six years for college. How did you get started playing your instrument?

Scan here to read the full interview with Agnes Tse!

My mother is the reason I am playing the violin! She loves music and she picked up the violin in her teens, however a bit too late to become a professional musician. She wanted to share with me the joy of music making and started me early on the instrument. She quit playing after having a family, so I see myself as a continuation of living her dreams for her. She provided the best of everything she could afford for me, and I definitely wouldn’t have been here today without her!

INTUNE September/October 2026

Meet the New Musician:

KAYLA BURGGRAF

Principal Flute Hometown: Decorah, IA

Tell us a little about yourself: I’m absolutely thrilled to be joining the Houston Symphony. Having done my undergraduate at Rice University and attended many Houston Symphony concerts I never imagined I would return to Houston as the Principal Flute of the Houston Symphony. After 12 years away from Houston spent in graduate school in New York, the Civic and New World training orchestras, the Kansas City Symphony and the Toronto Symphony Orchestra I am elated to embark on this next chapter of my career. I am moving here with my husband, Anthony and our cute dog Rye having just celebrated our wedding in August! How long have you been playing your instrument, and what do you love the most about it? I began playing the flute in middle school band at age 12 but had fallen in love with music long before that. I started piano at five and grew up dancing—listening to ballet music as the daughter of a former professional ballet dancer. I love that music has become a language for me to express through and the energy created through doing that with other colleagues on stage, in an orchestra, makes me feel more alive than anything else. I love the never ending nature of working on an instrument and being a forever student of music. Practicing my instrument over the many years feels like having a conversation with a dear old friend. What concert are you looking forward to performing the most this season? Scan here to read the full interview with Kayla Burggraf!

Houston Symphony

What concert are you looking forward to performing in the most this season? In May we are performing Ravel’s complete ballet Daphnis et Chloé. Often orchestras perform just the second suite—it holds the biggest flute solo in the orchestra repertoire. The entire work has so many more beautiful moments and captures the flute and its capability for expressiveness and tone color more than any other work in the standard repertoire. A dream piece to perform for any flutist and flute section!

Meet the New Musician:

HAN XIE

Second First Violin Hometown: Yueyang, Hunan, China

Tell us a little about yourself: Hi everyone! I am absolutely thrilled to be joining the Houston Symphony! Prior to joining, I was a member of the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, and I hold degrees from the Eastman School of Music and the Peabody Conservatory. How long have you been playing your instrument, and what do you love the most about it? I've been playing the violin since I was six years old. What I love most about the instrument is how it can produce such a beautiful sound and effortlessly convey a full range of emotions. How did you get started playing your instrument? When I was a kid, my mom and I were walking past a music shop and decided to peek inside. It was packed with all sorts of instruments, but I was immediately captivated by the violin. I thought it looked so incredibly elegant! Once I heard it played, it completely outshone everything else in the store for me. My mom ended up buying one for me that day, and I just wanted to play it all the time. What concert are you looking forward to performing the most this season?

Scan here to read the full interview with Han Xie!

I am most looking forward to the Bruch's Violin Concerto & Vaughan Williams performances happening January 8–10, 2027, at Jones Hall. We will be playing under the baton of Donald Runnicles, with Maria Ioudenitch as the soloist. Bruch’s Violin Concerto No. 1 holds a really special place in my heart because it was the very first concerto I learned back in junior high when I decided to pursue the violin professionally. It is packed with gorgeous melodies, and it brings back a flood of wonderful memories from when I first started taking this career path seriously.

INTUNE September/October 2026

Meet the New Musician:

SAMANTHA WASHECKA

First Violin Hometown: Round Rock, TX

Tell us a little about yourself: Hello Everyone! I joined the Houston Symphony in September, and I am very much looking forward to the rest of the season and continuing to make music with such a great orchestra! I am from Round Rock, TX, and I come from a family of musicians. After finishing high school, I moved to Houston in 2023 to pursue a performance degree at Rice. How long have you been playing your instrument, and what do you love the most about it? I have been playing violin since I was two years old. What I love most about playing is the complex range of colors and emotions that the violin is able to portray and express, and also being able to play music together with other musicians in chamber and orchestral settings. How did you get started playing your instrument? Both of my parents teach violin and I come from a very musical family. From a young age, all I wanted to do was play the violin and be able to share the same love for music as they had. What concert are you looking forward to performing in the most this season?

Scan here to read the full interview with Samantha Washecka!

I’m very excited for the Rachmanino# Festival in October, since I have always loved getting to play and perform his works. I am also looking forward to playing Daphnis and Chloe in May, since it has long been one of my favorite orchestral pieces. What is your favorite piece of music? It’s impossible for me to pick a favorite piece of music, but one that I always come back to is Rachmaninoff’s Second Piano Concerto.

Houston Symphony

PERFORMANCE CALENDAR 2026-27 season

Simply the Best: A Tribute to Tina Turner September 25 & 26*

Cirque de la Symphonie January 29, 30 & 31

Rachmaninoff Festival: Rachmaninoff’s Second Symphony October 2, 3* & 4

Cirque Magic for Kids January 30 Nature’s Rhapsody Festival: Pines of Rome February 5, 6* & 7

Rachmaninoff Festival: Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 3 October 9, 10* & 11

Hilary Hahn Plays Beethoven February 12, 13* & 14

Mozart’s Jupiter & JIJI October 16, 17* & 18

Nature’s Rhapsody Festival: Beethoven’s Pastoral Symphony & The Rite of Spring February 19, 20* & 21

Dolly Parton’s Threads: My Songs in Symphony October 30, November 1

Ehnes Plays Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto March 5, 6* & 7

Haunted Halloween October 31 S

Samara Joy with the Houston Symphony March 9

Disney Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas in Concert Live-to-Film October 31

If I Ain’t Got You: The Best of R&B March 12, 13* & 14

Shostakovich’s Ninth Symphony & Yoonshin Song November 6, 7* & 8

Seong-Jin Cho in Recital March 16

Seong-Jin Cho Plays Bartók March 19, 20 & 21

La Vida Loca November 21 & 22*

Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 6 April 2, 3* & 4

Thanksgiving Weekend: Prokofiev’s Symphony No. 7 & Shéhérazade November 27, 28* & 29

Cheyenne Jackson: The Best of Broadway April 9, 10* & 11

Dvořák’s Symphony No. 8 & Gil Shaham December 4, 5* & 6

Peter and the Wolf April 10

Very Merry Pops December 10, 12* & 13

Bach & Vivaldi’s Four Seasons April 22, 24* & 25

Ho-Ho-Holiday December 12

Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2 May 1 & 2*

Handel’s Messiah December 18, 19*, 20

Joyful Fanfares: Holiday Brass Spectacular December 19 & 20*

José Hernández’ Merry-Achi Christmas December 21

Hisaishi Conducts Hisaishi May 7, 8 & 9

Ravel’s Daphnis and Chloe May 14, 15* & 16 Soundtrack of Our Imagination: The Best of John Williams May 21, 22*, & 23

Bruch’s Violin Concerto & Vaughan Williams January 8, 9* & 10 S

Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 1 May 28, 29* & 30

Gil Shaham & Akira Eguchi in Recital: Beethoven Sonatas January 12

Mahler’s Symphony No. 1 & Mozart June 4, 5* & 6

California Dreamin’: The Songs and Stories of Laurel Canyon January 15, 16* & 17 Classical Series

Vitol POPS Series

PNC Family Series

Summer & Specials

Chamber Series

*Performance livestreamed

SUMMER “The combination of music and visuals was astounding” – Cassidy P.

“Incredible musicians, classical music. Queen was a di!erent kind of ‘symphony’ performance but enjoyable as a one o!. Music was a little loud and I like loud” – Ms. Lear Houston Symphony

“The Houston Symphony delivered an outstanding experience. The orchestra’s performance was powerful and beautifully coordinated, and the collaboration with A. R. Rahman made the evening truly memorable. The sound quality, venue, organization, and overall production were excellent.” – Mr. P

A.R. Rahman

“The selection of music played, from classical to great movie soundtracks makes going to the symphony worth it.” – Allen C.

Tag @housymphony on socials and you just might get featured in our next spotlights! 85

INTUNE September/October 2026

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SEPTEMBER MES DE LA HISPANIDAD

A TOAST TO

HISPANIC HERITAGE The Music.The Culture. The Wine.

UNITED BY CULTURE Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates the cultures, traditions, and communities that have shaped generations. From shared meals and unforgettable music to meaningful conversations and lasting memories, every gathering is an opportunity to honor our heritage together. This collection reflects those traditions through exceptional wines crafted with passion, authenticity, and respect for generations of winemaking excellence. Raise a glass to heritage. Raise a glass to community. Raise a glass to the moments that matter most.

AVAILABLE AT Imported by: 100 Points Ltd CO. Houston, TX WWW.THE100POINTS.COM

WWW.SPECSONLINE.COM

GREAT WINES • AUTHENTIC 87STORIES • SHARED PASSIONSINTUNE September/October 2026

Juraj Val"uha, Music Director

Jones Hall – 615 Louisiana Street houstonsymphony.org