Dear friends of the Madison Symphony Orchestra,
Be part of
Following years of planning and great anticipation, our centennial season is finally here! We’re celebrating 100 years of making music together here in Madison. The orchestra has evolved — transforming and renewing itself over the years to become the incredible ensemble you hear today. I am particularly honored to lead this season in my final year as your Music Director.
Before our subscription season officially kicks off in October, join us for two special Centennial Celebration events in September. A one-night-only “Magical Tchaikovsky” program features the orchestra and pianist Olga Kern, followed by a celebratory dinner in the Overture Hall Lobby. The next evening, Cirque de la Symphonie performers join our musicians for a soaring program of film music and high-flying acts, followed by an after-party with DJ Terrence J to light up the night.
What a subscription season we have planned! The opening concert in October brings you contemporary star composer Mason Bates’ Resurrexit , Mahler’s magnificent “Resurrection” Symphony No. 2 , and Madison’s own pianist Christopher Taylor. In the November, January, February, and April concerts, you’ll see guest conductors and the return of cellist Alban Gerhardt, pianist Yefim Bronfman, violinist Rachel Barton Pine, and the Los Angeles Guitar Quartet. I’ll be on the podium for our Christmas concert featuring soprano Alexandra LoBianco and bass-baritone Kyle Ketelsen, and again in March when beloved pianist Emanuel Ax performs Mozart.
For my final subscription concert as your Music Director in May 2026, I’m very excited and proud to announce our commission of EARTH: A Choral Symphony by National Opera Hall of Fame composer Jake Heggie and librettist Gene Scheer. This dramatic work will feature our wonderful choral partners and Metropolitan Opera superstar Ailyn Pérez. The world premiere will be paired with Beethoven’s immortal Fifth Symphony , for a thrilling finish to our 100th subscription season.
In addition to the subscription concerts, don’t miss our exciting MSO at the Movies offerings, including Disney and Pixar’s Toy Story in Concert, Live to Film in early October, and Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark™ Live in Concert in March, both led by Associate Conductor Kyle Knox.
Finally, “A Community Gift and Dream — for the Love of Music,” our Centennial Festival Weekend throughout Overture Center for the Arts in June, will bring our 100th Anniversary to a close. This FREE two-day festival will feature performances by a wide variety of Madison-area music groups and individual performers, embracing all kinds of musical styles. Attendees will also enjoy a family concert, an organ performance, and my final concert as Music Director — an orchestral showcase with violinist Julian Rhee in Overture Hall, featuring many of classical music’s greatest hits, including the inspirational Ode to Joy choral finale from Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony .
The work of the MSO’s centennial planning committee and staff, and the support from major donors, have combined to create a once-in-a-lifetime celebratory season where you’ll want to experience every concert and special event. Explore it all here and make it YOUR year of celebrating 100 years together in music!
John DeMain, Music Director
the experience.
Beginning this fall, your Madison Symphony Orchestra will celebrate a century of joy bringing live music to life. You’ll experience breathtaking moments and memories throughout our 100th season. We’re composing a new future connecting community and expanding musical horizons. The Madison Symphony Orchestra’s 25/26 subscription concert season will take place between October 2025 and May 2026, and will include eight triple-performance concerts featuring orchestral masterpieces, a world premiere commission performed by our own MSO musicians and world-renowned guest soloists, plus two MSO at the Movies live-to-film concerts. Subscribers can add Movies and Centennial special events to their subscription before single tickets open to the public on August 23, 2025 . Share our love of music together. Join us — everyone can be a part of it!
CENTENNIAL OPENING CELEBRATION
SEPT 19 2025
PURE JOY OPENING NIGHT:
MAGICAL TCHAIKOVSKY & MAESTRO’S DINNER 6:00 PM
SEPT 20 2025
SOAR WITH CIRQUE DE LA SYMPHONIE & PARTY INTO THE NIGHT 7:30 PM
MSO AT THE MOVIES Kyle Knox, Conductor
OCT 5 2025
DISNEY AND PIXAR’S TOY STORY IN CONCERT LIVE TO FILM
2:30 PM
MAR 28-29 2026
INDIANA JONES AND THE RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK™ LIVE IN CONCERT 7:30 PM & 2:30 PM
My thirty-two seasons as your Music Director have been truly moving and joyful, with so many memories. I have adored my time with the incredibly talented musicians in our orchestra, the collaborations with so many world class soloists, and the relationships that I — and my late wife Barbara and daughter Jennifer — have developed with MSO personnel and so many of YOU, our amazing patrons and donors. Thank you. – John DeMain
SUBSCRIPTION CONCERTS
PRIMAL LIGHT: OCT 17-19
BATES | FRANCK | MAHLER
John DeMain, Conductor
Christopher Taylor, Piano
Jeni Houser, Soprano • Emily Fons, Mezzo-Soprano
Madison Symphony Chorus, Beverly Taylor, Director
RADIANCE: NOV 21-23
THEOFANIDIS | HAYDN | MUSSORGSKY
Robert Moody, Guest Conductor
Alban Gerhardt, Cello
A MADISON SYMPHONY CHRISTMAS: DEC 5-7
John DeMain, Conductor
Alexandra LoBianco, Soprano • Kyle Ketelsen, Bass-Baritone
Madison Symphony Chorus, Beverly Taylor, Director
Mt. Zion Gospel Choir, Tamera and Leotha Stanley, Directors
Madison Youth Choirs, Michael Ross, Artistic Director
HEARTBEAT: JAN 23-25
FRANK | STRAUSS | BRAHMS
Kazem Abdullah, Guest Conductor
Yefim Bronfman, Piano
PLAYFUL PURSUITS: FEB 20-22
MENDELSSOHN | KORNGOLD
DEBUSSY | STRAVINSKY
Tania Miller, Guest Conductor
Rachel Barton Pine, Violin
FORCE OF NATURE: MAR 20-22
STRAUSS | MOZART | ORTIZ | RESPIGHI
John DeMain, Conductor
Emanuel Ax, Piano
FOUR THE SOUL: APR 10-12
LÓPEZ | RODRIGO | SIBELIUS
Laura Jackson, Guest Conductor
Los Angeles Guitar Quartet, Guest Artists
VOICES ETERNAL: MAY 1-3
BEETHOVEN | HEGGIE/SCHEER*
* World Premiere Commission
John DeMain, Conductor
Ailyn Pérez, Soprano
Madison Symphony Chorus, Beverly Taylor, Director
Mt. Zion Gospel Choir, Tamera and Leotha Stanley, Directors
Madison Youth Choirs, Michael Ross, Artistic Director
17-19
CHRISTOPHER
TAYLOR
JOHN DEMAIN
Conductor
Jeni Houser, luminous in voice and visage...
– MN Artists
JENI HOUSER
Soprano
...Taylor is so talented it’s almost frightening...
– Boston Globe ...superhuman control, coordination, and concentration...
– Chicago Tribune
MADISON SYMPHONY CHORUS
Beverly Taylor, Director
EMILY FONS
Mezzo-Soprano
Be part of the experience.
Piano
Primal Light
This concert opens with a fresh take on the story of resurrection with lush layers of colorful sound evoking a cinematic feel. Resurrexit by Mason Bates will take you on a mystical pilgrimage with shimmering exotic tonalities that give way to contemplation and dramatic stirrings of rebirth.
César Franck’s Symphonic Variations is a masterpiece of collaboration between piano and orchestra celebrating the interplay of poetic musical voices. Christopher Taylor’s virtuosic artistry is a perfect fit for this intimate and lyrical work. Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No. 2 is one of the most profound and transformative works ever. Written over six years, it journeys from a somber funeral march to a luminous vision of resurrection and renewal. Mahler once described this symphony as “my whole life in one work.” Themes of struggle, hope, and transcendence will bring us to a glorious reassurance of light in our lives.
PRESENTING SPONSOR
Rosemarie and Fred Blancke
MAJOR SPONSORS
Marilyn Ebben, in memory of Jim Ebben
Larry and Jan Phelps
Martha and Charles Casey
Robert and Linda Graebner
Mezzo-Soprano Emily Fons has a dynamite voice: dark and rich yet flexible, and that dark sound is gloriously natural, not manufactured as we sometimes hear.
– Theater Jones
Evocative, dusky and primordial, a certain cinematic quality permeating and contributing to the work’s narrative feel. ‘Resurrexit,’ ever tuneful, makes use of Middle Eastern tonalities at times, lending the music an exotic tinge.
– Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
MUSIC
MASON BATES
Resurrexit
CÉSAR FRANCK
Symphonic Variations, M. 46
GUSTAV MAHLER
Symphony No. 2 in C minor, “Resurrection”
NOV 21-23
ROBERT MOODY
Guest Conductor
A magician of cantabile playing and a master of the virtuosic panache — one of the best cellists alive.
– Tagesspiegel
Gerhardt’s technique is always absolutely at the service of the music.
– The Strad
ALBAN GERHARDT
...Moody and the symphony were all focused, creating a truly thrilling performance...
– Winston Salem Journal
Be part of the experience.
Radiance
Rainbow Body , a luminous work by American composer Christopher Theofanidis weaves ancient and modern worlds together to take us on a spellbinding journey. Inspired by the chant Ave Maria by medieval mystic Hildegard of Bingen, the piece reimagines her melodies in lush, cinematic orchestration. Haydn’s Cello Concerto No. 2 is a showcase of elegance and virtuosity brought to life with wit and charm by internationally acclaimed Alban Gerhardt who makes his fifth appearance with us. He is beloved by our musicians and audiences.
Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition orchestrated by Ravel is a feast for the senses painting vivid musical portraits. Each movement captures a visual scene, from the playful “Ballet of the Unhatched Chicks” to the majestic “Great Gate of Kiev.” With its dazzling colors and bold drama, this music will take you on an unforgettable exploration of sound and imagination.
MUSIC
CHRISTOPHER
THEOFANIDIS
Rainbow Body
JOSEPH HAYDN
Cello Concerto in D Major, Hob.VIIb:2
MODEST MUSSORGSKY
arr. MAURICE
RAVEL
Pictures at an Exhibition
Alban Gerhardt was wonderful. His work is compelling, strong and memorable.
– MSO Subscriber
His face and body movements playing with the MSO... clearly how much he loves music, making music, and working with others to make music!
– MSO Subscriber
MAJOR SPONSORS
Capitol Lakes
Skofronick Family Charitable Trust
A Madison
DEMAIN
Far and away the most commanding performance was that of bass-baritone Kyle Ketelsen... He has a naturally beautiful, superbly trained voice, rich and clear at the low end, smooth and flexible in the middle range and effortless at the top.
– Opera News
Be part of the experience.
JOHN
Conductor
KYLE KETELSEN
Bass-Baritone
ALEXANDRA
LOBIANCO
Soprano
Symphony Christmas
This spectacular annual celebration has become a joyful way to begin the holiday season in our community for concertgoers of all ages. It’s no wonder that Maestro DeMain is bringing two of his favorite soloists, soprano Alexandra LoBianco and bass-baritone Kyle Ketelsen, to share their gifts, for his 32nd season. The Madison Symphony Chorus, Madison Youth Choirs, and the Mt. Zion Gospel Choir join us to bring this special concert to life. You’ll experience the same blend of familiar and new once again this year. The experience starts with caroling in the lobby with the Chorus before each performance to set the mood. Bring your family and friends to share this beloved Madison tradition with us!
PRESENTING SPONSOR
Lau and Bea Christensen
MAJOR SPONSORS
American Printing
Fiore Companies, Inc.
Richard and Pamela Reese, in memory of Maurice and Arlene Reese
Peggy and Tom Pyle
John and Twila Sheskey Charitable Fund, in memory of Jennie Biel Sheskey
An Anonymous Friend
MADISON SYMPHONY CHORUS
Beverly Taylor, Director
The soprano [Alexandra LoBianco] has unbelievable voice control and an uncanny ability to blend with the orchestra, chorus, and fellow soloists. At times, her voice felt like a broad stable presence perfectly seated within a larger harmony, while at other times it shined above the ensemble though never at the expense of a perfect blend.
– The Cap Times
MT. ZION GOSPEL CHOIR
Tamera & Leotha Stanley, Directors
MADISON YOUTH CHOIRS
Michael Ross, Artistic Director
Bronfman is well known as a powerhouse pianist with a tone of crystalline clarity. When he turns the volume down, each note stands out like a perfectly shaped pearl. When he doesn’t, look out. You might get hit by flying chords.
– Los Angeles Times
YEFIM BRONFMAN
Be part of the experience.
Piano
KAZEM ABDULLAH
Guest Conductor
Heartbeat
Your Symphony’s new year begins with Gabriela Lena Frank’s Escaramuza (meaning “skirmish” in Spanish) — a dynamic and colorful work inspired by her Peruvian heritage. This spirited piece captures the energy of the lively Kachampa Andean dance celebrating the agility and strength of Inca warriors. Strauss’ Der Rosenkavalier Suite is a symphonic distillation of his beloved opera, bursting with elegance, humor, and romantic nostalgia — sweeping waltzes and tender love duets that have enchanted audiences for more than a century. Brahms’ Piano Concerto No. 2 is a monumental work that combines virtuosic piano passages with symphonic grandeur. One of our favorite pianists, the magisterial Yefim Bronfman, brings his formidable technique and interpretative depth to this masterpiece. The sheer beauty of this work will lift our spirits to start a new year together.
PRESENTING SPONSOR
Marvin J. Levy
MAJOR SPONSORS
Madison Magazine
Martha and Charles Casey
Madison Gas & Electric Foundation, Inc.
Fred Mohs, in memory of Mary Mohs Kazem Abdullah, coaxed luscious and cacophonous sounds from the incomparable Met orchestra... to bring the music and musicians together to form a powerful whole greater than the sum of its parts.
– Opera News
His energy emanates from his fingers and swirls out of the piano with such perfection that every note grabs the ear with an expressive, singing quality.
– Washington Post
MUSIC
GABRIELA LENA FRANK
Escaramuza
RICHARD STRAUSS
Suite from Der Rosenkavalier, Op. 59
JOHANNES BRAHMS
Piano Concerto No. 2 in B-flat Major, Op. 83
2:30 PM She displayed wonderful control over the orchestra as if she carried a quiver of gestures that matched perfectly the mood of each musical section…
– The Capital Times
Amazing conductor. In all my years at the symphony I have never seen the audience stand and cheer as they did for this performance.
– MSO Subscriber
RACHEL BARTON PINE
Violin
Striking and charismatic… she demonstrated a bravura technique and soulful musicianship.
– The New York Times
TANIA MILLER
Guest Conductor
I was especially impressed by Rachel’s warmth, humor, and generous spirit, let alone her excellence in performing.
– MSO Subscriber
Be part of the experience.
PRESENTING SPONSOR
Pleasant T. Rowland Foundation
MAJOR SPONSORS
Madison Symphony Orchestra League
Peter and Leslie Overton
Cyrena and Lee Pondrom
Richman & Richman LLC
Playful Pursuits
Overture to A Midsummer Night’s Dream is a decidedly playful overture by a very youthful Felix Mendelssohn (composed when he was just 17 years old). This sparkling work captures the magic of the fairy kingdom, the humor of the lovers’ entanglements, and the grandeur of Theseus’ court. Violinist Rachel Barton Pine returns to play Korngold’s Violin Concerto — a lush and romantic work that glows with cinematic beauty and emotional depth — bridging the worlds of classical music, and Hollywood film scores. Debussy’s Prélude à l’après-midi d’un faune is dreamlike music inspired by Stéphane Mallarmé’s poem about a faun’s sensual reverie, that paints a lush and languid musical landscape and a sense of wonder. Stravinsky’s ballet Petrushka tells the story of a tragic puppet brought to life by a magician, set against the vibrant backdrop of a Russian fair. All four of these lively pieces of music will fill us with a lightness of being.
Tania Miller was incredible... I was riveted to her emotional conducting...
MUSIC
MENDELSSOHN
Overture to A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Op. 21
CLAUDE DEBUSSY
Prélude á l’après-midi d’un faune (Prelude to the Afternoon of a Faun)
– MSO Subscriber
ERICH WOLFGANG KORNGOLD
Violin Concerto in D Major, Op. 35
IGOR STRAVINSKY
Petrushka (1947 version)
His greatness, his overwhelming authority as musician, technician and probing intellect emerges quickly as he plays. Within minutes, we are totally captured by his intensity and pianistic achievement.
– Los Angeles Times
JOHN DEMAIN Conductor
EMANUEL AX Piano
I grew up in NYC, attending great classical performances at Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall, etc. and can’t imagine hearing anything better! Kudos to John DeMain for his leadership and brilliance in guiding the orchestra to such an extraordinarily high level of excellence.
– MSO Subscriber
Be part of the experience.
of Nature
Strauss’ Till Eulenspiegel’s Merry Pranks is a mischievous tone poem that follows the antics of a legendary trickster. From daring escapades to clever pranks, the music captures Till’s irreverent spirit with virtuosic orchestral writing and humor. Emanuel Ax returns to lend his mastery and lyricism to Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 25 — a work filled with grandeur and elegance composed at the height of his creative genius. Grammy winning composer Gabriela Ortiz grew up steeped in the indigenous music of her native Mexico. Her Téenek channels the spirit of the Huasteca region of Mexico. Respighi’s Pines of Rome is a symphonic masterpiece that paints a vivid portrait of Italy’s Eternal City through its famous pine trees — opening with a scene of children at play, and ending with a depiction of a Roman Army on the march. This work’s dramatic orchestration, including offstage brass and bird calls, creates a sensory experience like no other. You’ll feel energy, power, and sense of place in each piece of music at this concert.
PRESENTING SPONSOR
Myrna Larson
MAJOR SPONSORS
Irving and Dorothy Levy Family Foundation, Inc.
The Madison Concourse Hotel & Governor’s Club
Stephen D. Morton
David and Kato Perlman
Fred A. Wileman
...brilliant interplay with the orchestra and lead instrumentalists, was astonishing. A true master at work, seemingly effortless and breathtaking. It was duet on a grand scale between Mr. Ax and Mr. DeMain. What a joy!
– MSO Subscriber
MUSIC
RICHARD STRAUSS
Till Eulenspiegel’s Merry Pranks, Op. 28
WOLFGANG
AMADEUS MOZART
Piano Concerto No. 25 in C Major, K. 503
GABRIELA ORTIZ
Téenek – Invenciones de Territorio
OTTORINO RESPIGHI
Pines of Rome, P. 141
LOS ANGELES GUITAR QUARTET
Guest Artists: John Dearman, Matt Greif, Bill Kanengiser, Douglas Lora
The world’s hottest classical ensemble or its tightest pop band? However it helps you to think about the LAGQ, keep the emphasis on superlatives for its unrivaled joy, technical elan and questing spirits.
– Los Angeles Times
…inspired yet deceptively easygoing virtuosity that exists when discipline and spontaneity are balanced to perfection.
– The Washington Post
Lighthearted, amusing, and simple plain fun ... The smiles on the faces of the patrons leaving the hall said all that needs to be said.
– Calgary Herald
Be part of the experience.
LAURA JACKSON
Guest Conductor
Laura Jackson… is paving a new direction for up-andcoming female conductors and composers through her artistry, leadership, and creative community engagement. – Forbes
JOAQUIN RODRIGO
Concierto Andaluz
Four the Soul
Peruvian composer Jimmy López’s Fiesta! Four Pop Dances for Orchestra is a vibrant and exhilarating celebration of life, culture, and happiness. Filled with pulsating rhythms, bold colors, and infectious energy, it draws from the rich traditions of Latin American music and ends with a blazing Techno finale. Rodrigo’s Concierto Andaluz performed by the world-renowned Los Angeles Guitar Quartet celebrates the spirit of Andalusia, a region in southern Spain with its lively rhythms and soulful melodies. Each movement captures a unique aspect of Spanish culture, from the exuberance of a flamenco dance to the delicate beauty of a serenade. This work shines as a testament to Rodrigo’s genius and the flavorful allure of Spanish music. Sibelius’ Symphony No. 2 is a powerful work often described as the “Symphony of Independence.” It is deeply rooted in the Finnish composer’s national identity, filled with moments of lyrical beauty and triumphant resolve. We’ll come away from this concert feeling the rhythms of living through music.
MAJOR SPONSORS
WMTV 15 News
Carla and Fernando Alvarado
Diane Ballweg
Nancy Mohs
Kay Schwichtenberg and Herman Baumann
MUSIC
JIMMY LÓPEZ
Fiesta! Four Pop Dances for Orchestra
JEAN SIBELIUS
Symphony No. 2 in D Major, Op. 43
Voices Eternal
Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony is often described as “fate knocking at the door.” The symphony reflects his personal struggle with adversity and his triumph over despair — bursting with vitality, defiance, and an unshakable belief in the human spirit — transcending time to become a symbol and voice of resilience, freedom, and hope. Looking to the future, the MSO has commissioned composer Jake Heggie and librettist Gene Scheer to create a world premiere work in celebration of our 100th Anniversary. EARTH: A Choral Symphony will celebrate our beautiful planet and shared humanity. Composed in four movements, the piece explores themes of truth and possibility, with each movement touching on a different aspect of the wonder of Earth and our place in its story. John DeMain and the Madison Symphony Orchestra, famed Met Opera soprano Ailyn Pérez, and three choruses, will weave together elements of the story in these world premiere performances. We invite you to witness the birth of this dramatic new work that will speak of our Earth — the vibrant place we share together.
PRESENTING SPONSOR
Myrna Larson
MAJOR SPONSORS
Diane Ballweg
Elaine and Nicholas Mischler
Nick and Judith Topitzes Family Foundation University Research Park
JAKE HEGGIE
Composer
Arguably the world’s most popular 21st-century opera and art song composer…
– The Wall Street Journal
JOHN DEMAIN
Be part of the experience.
Conductor
AILYN PÉREZ
Soprano
Her voice has a distinctive timbre, with plaintive richness blended into its youthful bloom ... Ms. Pérez, a beautiful woman who commands the stage, has the makings of a major soprano.
– The New York Times
MADISON SYMPHONY CHORUS
Beverly Taylor, Director
LUDWIG VAN
BEETHOVEN
Symphony No. 5 in C minor, Op. 67
MUSIC
JAKE HEGGIE/
GENE SCHEER
EARTH: A Choral Symphony World Premiere
MT. ZION GOSPEL CHOIR
Tamera & Leotha Stanley, Directors
MADISON YOUTH CHOIRS
Michael Ross, Artistic Director
madisonsymphony.org/ voices
KYLE KNOX Conductor
Madison Symphony Orchestra’s MSO at the Movies presents Disney and Pixar’s Toy Story in Concert featuring a screening of the groundbreaking complete film with Oscar® and Grammy®-winning composer
Randy Newman’s musical score performed live to the film in Overture Hall.
The “Toy Story” films are beloved worldwide for their compelling characters, extraordinary storytelling, stunning visuals and the music of Randy Newman.
The composer and songwriter is behind signature songs including “You’ve Got a Friend in Me,” “Strange Things” and “I Will Go Sailing No More.”
Ever wonder what toys do when people aren’t around?
“Toy Story” answers that question with a fantastic fun-filled journey, viewed mostly through the eyes of two rival toys — Woody, the lanky, likable cowboy, and Buzz Lightyear, the fearless space ranger. Led by Woody, Andy’s toys live happily in his room until Andy’s birthday brings Buzz Lightyear onto the scene.
Afraid of losing his place in Andy’s heart, Woody plots against Buzz. But when circumstances separate Buzz and Woody from their owner, the comically mismatched duo must learn to put aside their differences and form an uneasy alliance if they are to survive a hilarious adventure-filled mission back home to Andy.
MAJOR PERFORMANCE SPONSOR
Madison Symphony Orchestra League
IN CONCERT
©
Madison Symphony Orchestra’s MSO at the Movies presents Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark™ Live in Concert featuring John Williams’ GRAMMY® Awardwinning score performed live to the film led by conductor Kyle Knox at Overture Hall.
Williams has scored each Indy adventure, including the final installment of the iconic franchise, Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny . He has received multiple Academy Awards® and more than 50 Oscar® nominations. Williams is the Academy’s most-nominated living person to date and the second-most nominated person in the history of the Oscars®. He also received numerous British Academy Awards (BAFTA), GRAMMYs®, Golden Globes®, Emmys®, as well as several gold and platinum records.
Originally released in 1981 as a collaboration between George Lucas and Steven Spielberg, Raiders redefined the possibilities of adventure cinema and launched actor Harrison Ford to legendary status.
Indiana Jones is the classic hero in this adventure set in the 1930s which follows the quick-witted and determined archaeologist as he hunts for the Lost Ark of the Covenant. Often facing insurmountable odds, Indy always manages to succeed in the nick of time, joined by endearing companions and opposed by notorious villains.
With an impressive team of supporting actors including Karen Allen, John-Rhys Davies, Denholm Elliott, and Paul Freeman, combined with innovative special effects techniques by Industrial Light & Magic, Raiders has captured the spirits of movie-goers for generations and continues to inspire adventures yet to come.
MAJOR PERFORMANCE SPONSORS
Madison Media Partners
Lake Ridge Bank
The Parker Family
As a subscriber, you can add as many MSO at the Movies tickets to your subscription as you like, before single tickets go on sale August 23, 2025!
by JOHN WILLIAMS
FRIDAY
CONCERT 6:00 PM
OVERTURE HALL
DINNER
OVERTURE LOBBY
Pure Joy Opening Night Magical Tchaikovsky &
OLGA KERN
Piano
JOHN DEMAIN
Conductor
Maestro’s Dinner
Before the Symphony subscription season kicks off in October, we invite you to join us for two very special events on September 19 and 20, 2025.
“Pure Joy Opening Night: Magical Tchaikovsky & Maestro’s Dinner” will include a classical concert featuring the Madison Symphony Orchestra and guest pianist Olga Kern, conducted by John DeMain, at 6:00 p.m. in Overture Hall, followed by a cocktail reception and formal dinner in the Overture Hall Lobby on Friday, September 19. Combo tickets for the concert and dinner are $300 per person including premium concert seating. Tickets for the concert only are $30–$100.
MUSIC
PYOTR ILYICH TCHAIKOVSKY
Romeo and Juliet, Fantasy Overture
Piano Concerto No. 1 in B-flat minor, Op. 23
Theme and Variations from Suite No. 3, Op. 55
Soar with...
Cirque de la Symphonie & Party into the Night
Soar with Cirque de la Symphonie & Party into the Night” will bring together the magic of circus arts and our orchestra in Overture Hall on Saturday, September 20 at 7:30 p.m. In Cirque goes to the Cinema, Cirque acrobats will perform original choreographed acts while the Madison Symphony Orchestra, conducted by John DeMain, performs music from famous film scores, including Harry Potter and Star Wars (John Williams), Mission Impossible (Lalo Schifrin), The Sting (Scott Joplin), Gladiator (Hans Zimmer), West Side Story (Leonard Bernstein), My Heart Will Go On from Titanic (James Horner), and more!
A lively after-party with food stations, DJ Terrence J, and dancing follows the concert. Tickets for the concert only are $30–$100, and admission to the after-party may be purchased for an additional $50 per person.
Add Centennial Celebration events when you subscribe. Priority will be given to renewing and new subscribers. Please place your order as early as possible!*
*Space for our Centennial weekend concerts and events is limited. The date when a subscription is received will determine reservation priority.
SATURDAY
CONCERT 7:30 PM
OVERTURE HALL
AFTER-PARTY OVERTURE CENTER
DJ TERRENCE J
Your Subscriber Benefits
THE SAME SEATS
Your place is assured for every concert throughout the 25/26 season in Overture Hall!
SPECIAL PRICING
Save 10–25% off single tickets for 5-8 concerts.
PRIORITY RE-SEATING
Need to change your seats or the day you would like to attend? No worries. As a subscriber, you have priority based on your subscription history and contributions to the MSO. We’ll do our very best to accommodate you and your seating preferences. New seating arrangements are assigned mid-summer.
UNLIMITED TICKET EXCHANGE
A change of plan? You can exchange your tickets for a different 25/26 subscription performance (excludes MSO at the Movies and Special Events) up to 24 hours before the concert you cannot attend. There is no fee for exchanges at the Overture Center Box Office.
MISSED CONCERT INSURANCE
Miss a performance? No problem. We’ll provide tickets to another subscription concert during the 25/26 season — for free (one time only).
LOST TICKET REPLACEMENT
Never worry over misplaced tickets again. Contact the Overture Center Box Office prior to your concert for reprints.
SHARE/DONATE YOUR TICKETS
Unable to use your tickets? Share your tickets with a friend, or donate them back to the MSO by the Wednesday before the concert weekend and receive a tax-deductible receipt. The best way to donate is by mailing your tickets to our office.
SUBSCRIBER PARKING
Enjoy reserved parking at the Dane County Parking Ramp, two blocks from Overture Hall, for $5 per concert. Note: this is different from Leadership Donor Parking.
FREE TICKETS
Invite your friends on us. Order all eight subscription concerts and we’ll send you a pair of free ticket vouchers (one pair of vouchers per subscription household).
PERSONAL ATTENTION
It begins with the August arrival of your Subscriber Welcome Kit. Call (608) 257-3734, or email info@madisonsymphony.org for assistance, or see us at our courtesy table in the Overture Hall lobby before all concerts. We want to ensure you have the best possible concert experience!
25% OFF AT OUR ONLINE STORE
As a subscriber, you are a member of our family. When you subscribe, you’ll receive a special discount code you can use any time at madisonsymphony.org/store.
SAVE 10% OFF SINGLE TICKETS
Bring your family and friends! Single tickets for all subscription concerts are available exclusively to subscribers at a 10% discount starting with Subscriber Courtesy Days, August 20-22, 2025, before they go on sale to the general public on Saturday, August 23, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. As a subscriber, you have access to this benefit for the entire season! Single tickets may be purchased through the Overture Center Box Office at 201 State Street, by calling the Box Office at (608) 258-4141, or online at madisonsymphony.org.
MSO AT THE MOVIES TICKETS
Add tickets for MSO at the Movies. Reserve tickets for you, your family, and friends — as many as you like, before single tickets go on sale to the general public on August 23, 2025! Please note that MSO at the Movies is separate from the symphony subscription season.
CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION CONCERTS & EVENTS
As a subscriber, you have the opportunity to add tickets to the opening weekend concerts and special events in September along with your order before tickets go on sale to the public. Space is limited. Priority will be based upon the date your subscription is received.
A MADISON SYMPHONY CHRISTMAS
Subscribers who include Christmas concerts with their order receive the same price as other subscription concerts. Individual ticket prices are higher when single tickets go on sale August 23, 2025.
You can add Centennial Celebration concerts, events, and MSO at the Movies to your subscription order!
Be part of the experience.
Subscribe & Save
Subscribe to 8 concerts: save 25% off single ticket prices, and receive a pair of FREE ticket vouchers that can be used for any of our subscription concerts.
7 concerts: save 20%
6 concerts: save 15%
5 concerts: save 10%
Subscribe Now
New and renewing subscribers can place subscription orders online, by phone, by mail, or in-person at our office during business hours.
ONLINE: madisonsymphony.org/100
PHONE: (608) 257-3734
MAIL OR IN-PERSON:
222 W. Washington Ave., Suite 460 Madison, WI 53703
Are you a renewing subscriber?
You can enter your ID number online and the form will automatically fill in your information. Renew your subscription by May 30, 2025 , to keep your seats or request a change.
Become a new subscriber!
Your order and seating request is prioritized based on the date it is received following renewals. Subscribe early before single tickets go on sale Saturday, August 23, 2025 .
Digital or Mail
You can choose to receive your season tickets package via mail or select digital delivery to your mobile device when you place your subscription order. Learn more about digital tickets: madisonsymphony.org/digital
Love great music. Find it here.
madisonsymphony.org/ 100
A Community Gift and Dream — for the love of music
JULIAN RHEE
Violin
Following the conclusion of our 25/26 subscription season, join us for “A Community Gift and Dream — for the Love of Music” June 13-14, 2026.
During this free, two-day festival celebration, MSO musicians and diverse community groups will perform on a rotating schedule throughout Overture Center for the Arts. Main stage performances include a Family Concert and an Overture Concert Organ performance on Saturday, and a Madison Symphony Orchestra concert on Sunday. The Sunday concert features some of the “greatest hits” of classical music and a special appearance by Julian Rhee, winner of the 2017 Bolz Young Artist Competition who is now one of the top violinists in the world. This will be the final concert Maestro John DeMain conducts as our music director.
All performances will be presented free-of-charge to the public — a gift to the city of Madison and surrounding areas for their support of the MSO now and into the future.
Discover more: madisonsymphony.org/festival
For our future, become a donor!
The Madison Symphony Orchestra is grateful for donor support, which allows us to present high-quality concerts with celebrated guest artists and to share award-winning Education and Community Engagement Programs. Each year, thanks to donor support, thousands of people have memorable music experiences with us, from attending one’s first concert in Overture Hall to participating in a music therapy-informed session at a local residential care facility. You can support our mission to share music by making a tax-deductible gift. Your gift can be made by phone, online, stock transfer, Donor Advised Fund (DAF), or as a qualified charitable distribution from your Individual Retirement Account (IRA). Gifts of any amount are important and appreciated! To learn more, please visit madisonsymphony.org/individual-giving.
PHOTOS: Cover (DeMain, musicians), p2/p4 (DeMain, chorus), p8-9 (DeMain, LoBianco, Ketelsen, choruses, Mt. Zion), p12 (DeMain), p19 (choruses, Mt. Zion), p22 (DeMain), p26 (audience), back (musicians): Peter Rodgers; Cover (orchestra): Amanda Dill; p4 (Taylor): Amanda Lynn Jones; p4 (Houser): Lily Lancaster; p4 (Fons): Mouana Photography; p5 (Bates): Mathew Washburn; p6 (Gerhardt): Benjamin Ealovega; p6 (Moody): Jamie Harmon; p10 (Bronfman): Daria Acosta; p10 (Abdullah): Sandar Borchers; p11 (Frank): Maria Tauger; p12 (Barton Pine):Andrew Eccles; p13 (Miller): Todd Rosenberg; p14 (Ax): Lisa-Marie Mazzucco; p15 (Ortiz): Mara Arteaga; p16 (LA Guitar Quartet): Adam Almeida; p17 (Jackson): Ji Yang Chen; p17 (López): Ashkan Images; p18/19 (Heggie):James Niebuhr; p19 (DeMain): Steph Shanks; p19 (Pérez): Soloman Howard; p19 (Heggie): James Niebuhr; p22 (Kern): Chris Lee; p23 (Terrence J): Kuhl Entertainment; p25 (Overture Hall): Glen Nagel; p26 (Rhee): Todd Rosenberg
Celebrate a century of joy bringing live music to life. You can subscribe now, and add MSO at the Movies and special events to your order before single tickets go on sale August 23, 2025 — and save 10–25% Explore your Symphony’s 25/26 season: madisonsymphony.org/100 8
