SCORE
SPRING 2019 — MAR | APR | MAY
The
AN AUSPICIOUS DEBUT:
Marc-André Hamelin, Piano April 12 – 14
ORCHESTRAL BRILLIANCE
Three Virtuosi March 8 – 10
SYMPHONY OF A THOUSAND
Mahler 8 May 3 – 5
Greg Zelek & Thomas Mesa Overture Concert Organ Performance, April 16
Voices of Spring
News & Stories
An evening to benefit the Organ Endowment, May 11
The Final Forte Concert on the Green And More...
CONTENTS The Madison Symphony Orchestra's 2018–2019 season celebrates 25 years of great music with Music Director John DeMain. Welcome to the Spring edition of The SCORE.
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Orchestral Brilliance Concertmaster Naha Greenholtz, Principal Clarinetist JJ Koh, and Principal Tubist player Joshua Biere step into the spotlight as soloists in this all-orchestral program..
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An Auspicious Debut Pianist Marc-André Hamelin performs two great works before and after intermission in a program that features two of the greatest German composers and two great French impressionists.
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Symphony of a Thousand
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Eight soloists, three choirs, and more than 500 musicians combine their talents on stage to perform Mahler’s monumental eighth symphony.
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Greg Zelek & Thomas Mesa Principal Organist Greg Zelek closes the 2018–2019 Organ Season with a unique, combined performance with Cuban-American cellist Thomas Mesa.
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News & Stories Discover more about Voices of Spring, The Final Forte, Concert on the Green, upcoming, events and more….
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8-18
Information, Subscriptions & Tickets Connect with us for ticket purchases, Flex-Tickets, and special pricing for groups of 10 or more people.
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Cover, 2 (Hamelin), 5: Canetty Clark; p2/4 (Greenholtz): Chris Hynes; p2 (Link Up), 3 (New Subscriber Reception), 11 (Link Up): Amandalynn Jones; p3 (Mesa): Lisa Marie-Mazzucco; p3 (Concert on the Green): Todd Maughan; p3/4 (Biere), 3 (Zelek), 11 (Symphony Soup): Peter Rodgers; p3/6 (LoBianco): My Photography NYC; p3/6 (Hilley): Bethany Davis; p3/6 (Birsan): Kristen Hoebermann; p3/6 (Pogorelc): Jason Fay; p3/6 (Miller): Devon Cass; p3/6 (Redding): Robert Gilder; p3/6 (Kitic): Zoran Dzeferdanovic; p11 (The Final Forte): James Gill
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MAHLER 7
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14 13 3
ORCHESTRAL BRILLIANCE
Gain insights to the performance! Michael Allsen’s program notes are a great way to tune up for concerts. Excerpt... (go to the web page for more) “[Gershwin, An American in Paris] The influence of Jazz is clearly audible, but the most prominent element is the variety of orchestral moods he projects and the ingenious ways he achieves them. The standard orchestra is augmented by saxophones, a huge array of percussion, and —one of Gershwin’s most prized souvenirs from his 1928 trip to Paris—a set of four French taxihorns.” – Michael Allsen
PRESENTING SPONSOR:
Three Virtuosi
JJ Koh, and principal tuba Josh Biere. These young professionals have already made an
By John DeMain
extraordinary
Our March concerts shine the spotlight on
contribution
to
the
overall
outstanding quality of our orchestra.
our own brilliant musicians that make up the
Naha will play Prokofiev’s 2nd violin concerto,
Madison Symphony Orchestra. It is important
premiered in 1935 in Madrid. Prokofiev wrote
to me on the occasion of my 25th anniversary
this concerto while he was touring Europe
with the Symphony to share this celebration
and wrote the last movement in Spain. Listen
in a special way with these musicians, who
for the castanets as a special Spanish touch
make my musical life such a pleasure.
during the last movement.
I decided to feature three of our principal players who are wonderful virtuosos as well:
JJ is playing Debussy’s Rhapsody. This little jewel of a piece was written for a clarinet
concertmaster Naha Greenholtz, principal clarinet
MARCH
continued on page 18 John DeMain, Conductor
FR I, MA R . 8, 7 :3 0 PM
Schubert:
SAT, MA R . 9, 8:00 PM
Prokofiev: Concert No. 2 for Violin Naha Greenholtz, Violin
S UN , MA R . 10, 2:3 0 PM
Symphony No. 8, Unfinished
Debussy: Rahpsody for Clarinet and Orchestra JJ Koh, Clarinet Discover more: madisonsymphony.org/orchestral
Vaughn Williams: Concerto for Tuba and Orchestra Josh Biere, Tuba Gershwin: An American in Paris
MAJOR FUNDING PROVIDED BY:
Kelly Family Foundation
Louise and Ernest Borden
Elaine and Nicholas Mischler
Scott and Janet Cabot ADDITIONAL FUNDING PROVIDED BY:
von Briesen & Roper, s.c. 4
with funds from the State of Wisconsin and the National Endowment for the Arts
AN AUSPICIOUS DEBUT:
Marc-André Hamelin By John DeMain For our April concerts, I again chose to frame these programs with works by two of my personal favorite composers, Mozart
The first, Strauss’ Burleske, I had planned to
and Debussy. The Prague Symphony with
perform in our 2015 season with Emanuel Ax,
its operatic influences is simply Mozart at his
but at the last minute he requested a change
best and again puts us in touch with why we
in repertoire for that concert. So, finally, we
listen to classical music. Both melodic and
get to hear this unusual and fascinating work
exhilarating, it provides a fine contrast to
by Strauss in these performances. The piece
the first of our two piano concertos that
demands a virtuoso pianist to play the work,
mark the debut of the great Canadian pianist
and we have a great one in Mr. Hamelin.
Marc-André Hamelin.
continued on page 18
APRIL FRI, AP R. 12 , 7:30 P M SAT, AP R. 13, 8:00 P M S U N, AP R. 14 , 2 :30 P M
Discover more: madisonsymphony.org/hamelin
John DeMain, Conductor Marc-Andre Hamelin, Piano Mozart:
Symphony No. 38, Prague
Strauss: Burleske, Marc-André Hamelin, Piano
Program note excerpt (go to the concert web page for more)… “In composing La Mer, Debussy drew his inspiration directly from the sea: specifically the English Channel. He began work on the piece in 1903, but in 1905, he traveled to Eastbourne, a seaside town on the southern coast of England, to finish the score.” – Michael Allsen
Ravel: Concerto for Piano and Orchestra in G Major Marc-André Hamelin, Piano Debussy: La Mer
MAJOR FUNDING PROVIDED BY:
Fred and Mary Mohs
Skofronick Family Charitable Trust
ADDITIONAL FUNDING PROVIDED BY:
Forte
Rodney Schreiner and Mark Blank
James and Joan Johnston
Stafford Rosenbaum LLP
with funds from the State of Wisconsin and the National Endowment for the Arts
Gary and Lynn Mecklenburg 5
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MAHLER
Symphony of a Thousand
Discover more: madisonsymphony.org/mahler
By John DeMain My 25th anniversary season comes to a thrilling conclusion
are often operatic in scope, and indeed this eighth symphony
with Mahler’s powerful expression of faith and redemption
has tempted some to call it his opera. It was Leonard
that is the basis for his colossal eighth symphony. I began
Bernstein’s passionate embrace of Mahler that introduced this
my tenure here in Madison with Mahler’s first symphony,
composer to me. I felt immediately that Mahler embraced so
and performed the eighth as a triumphal closing celebration
totally man’s earthly experience and his struggle for salvation.
of our first season in Overture Hall.
I am deeply grateful to be able
Mahler didn’t compose any operas, but his symphonies
M AY F R I, M AY 3, 7:30 P M SAT, M AY 4 , 8:00 P M SU N , M AY 5, 2 :30 P M
continued on page 18
John DeMain, Conductor Mahler: Symphony No. 8 Alexandra LoBianco, Soprano Emily Birsan, Soprano Emily Pogorelc, Soprano Milena Kitic, Mezzo-Soprano
Julie Miller, Mezzo-Soprano Clay Hilley, Tenor Michael Redding, Baritone Morris Robinson, Bass-Baritone
Madison Symphony Chorus, Beverly Taylor, Director Madison Youth Choirs, Michael Ross, Artistic Director UW Choral Union, Beverly Taylor, Director
MAJOR FUNDING PROVIDED BY:
Larry and Jan Phelps
Carla and Fernando Alvarado
Diane Ballweg ADDITIONAL FUNDING PROVIDED BY:
DeWitt LLP
Thomas E. Terry
Kennedy Gilchrist and Heidi Wilde
Fred A. Wileman Helen L. Wineke
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with funds from the State of Wisconsin and the National Endowment for the Arts
Greg Zelek, Organ | Thomas Mesa, Cello
F E B R UA RY O N E P E R F O R M A N C E : TUE, A PR . 16, 7 : 3 0 PM
By Greg Zelek Cuban-American cellist, Thomas Mesa, has quickly established himself as one of the most charismatic performers of his generation. He joins me in a concert of arrangements of music for cello and organ, including Tchaikovsky’s flashy Pezzo Capriccioso, that will demonstrate Thomas’ tremendous virtuosity, as well as the versatility of the Madison Symphony Orchestra’s great Overture Concert Organ. Beethoven: 7 Variations from Mozart’s The Magic Flute Debussy: Beau Soir Bach: Prelude from Cello Suite No. 2 in D minor, BWV 1008 Bach: “Fiddle” Fugue in D minor, BWV 539 Tchaikovsky: Pezzo Capriccioso, Op. 62 Widor: Toccata from Symphony for Organ, No. 5, Op. 42 Schubert: Serenade SPONSOR: William Steffenhagen
ALL TICKETS $20
Discover more: madisonsymphony.org/zelekmesa
P H OTO : JYANG C H EN
P H OTO : L ISA- M ARI E- M AZZU CCO
Interview with Thomas Mesa Sandy Tabachnick, Isthmus When I read your bio online, it said you were a late starter on the cello. About how old were you when you started learning the instrument and what attracted you to the cello? I was about 12 years old when I started learning the cello. Truly, the only reason I started was because my friends played the instrument and I wanted to hang out with them. It only took a couple of days for me to realize that I actually loved the sound of the lowest string (the C string). My mother realized how much I was enjoying it and she bought me CD's of Yo-Yo Ma and Jacqueline DuPre (two of the most famous cellists). I would listen to them before going to sleep every night and I became obsessed with the sound of the cello. Regarding Tchaikovsky’s Pezzo Capriccioso that you will be playing, is it difficult to go from what seems to me to be anguished passion to a lighthearted outburst of speedy passagework? I love this question because it aims at the very aspect
Greg said that he met you during his first year of undergrad studies at Juilliard. I assume you’re about the same age as Greg (27), is that right? I’m a bit older than Greg and we met while I was in my third year of undergrad and he was just beginning at Juilliard. I will be 28 and Greg will be 27 when we perform together in April. I saw a video on YouTube of you and Greg playing Saint-Saëns's The Swan. It was totally beautiful! Have you and Greg played together often? Greg and I have played together in the past and we’ve always found it rewarding, exciting, and completely challenging. The nature of the two instruments, cello and organ, are so different and finding a collaborative sound is an adventure that we are really looking forward to tackling. Is there anything more you would like to say about your program in April, about yourself or anything else?
of performance and interpretation that we strive to
You probably won’t hear many Cello-Organ recitals in
constantly improve on as artists. The act of performing
your lifetime. It is rare to hear one on an organ such
requires different aspects of your personality to
as the Klais and even MORE rare
emerge, both at different times and simultaneously,
in a place that’s as acoustically
and the contrasting sections in Pezzo Capriccioso
perfect as Overture Hall! This is
present an exciting challenge in this way. You described
going to be an absolute treat
these sections wonderfully, anguished passion versus
for us as performers to present
lighthearted outbursts, but the real challenge is making
this program with these
2019–2020 Overture Concert Organ Performances
the sections seem related, almost as if one could not exist
wonderful circumstances. We
Sep. 11, 2019
without the other. The difference between the sections will
can’t wait to share our music
Oct. 22, 2019
be heard no matter what, but what I’m interested in is how
with the community in Madison
Feb. 11, 2020
to find the Russian soul in the quicker sections, making the
and hope the audience enjoys
May 5, 2020
piece feel whole.
it just as much as we will!
SAVE THE DATES!
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News & Stories
CELEBRATING LEADERSHIP DONORS New Leadership Donor Spotlight: Norman and Barbara Berven Leadership Donors are some of the Symphony’s most enthusiastic supporters. With their annual fund contributions of $1,500 or more, they have access to special benefits and opportunities designed to enhance their concertgoing experience. These benefits include reserved parking for all concerts and opportunities to meet John DeMain, guest artists, orchestra members P H OTO : CASEY O EL K ER S
and other donors. For the 2018–2019 Season, Leadership Donors have provided 70% of total contributed dollars over all sources. Please join us in thanking them!
MSO: What early experiences led to your interest in the arts, and specifically classical music?
MSO: Why do you make a Leadership contribution in addition to purchasing season tickets?
B: M y mother had a passion for acting and
B: We feel incredibly fortunate to have such
my parents sought to expose us to many
a wonderful symphony orchestra, organ
different art forms. Music was always
and concert hall here in Madison, and
playing in the house. My sisters and I took
we definitely feel that the Symphony
piano lessons and two of us played the
deserves our support. We want to do our
clarinet. One of my sisters was a music
part to help ensure that the Symphony
major in college and the other became a
programs remain vibrant. We have
very talented visual artist.
enjoyed the opportunities to meet others
N: M y elementary school had a very fine music program. I played baritone horn in
who share our passion, and the reserved parking is a nice benefit, too!
teacher and violist in the Des Moines
MSO: What other activities do you enjoy when you’re not attending concerts and shows?
Symphony and his sons played the cello.
B: We are both Attic Angel volunteers, we
the band and percussion in the orchestra. My uncle was a high school music
One of them became a professional
audit a class every semester at UW-
cellist in Los Angeles.
Madison, and we have season tickets for
MSO: How did you decide to become regular concertgoers? N: When we got married seven years ago, following the passing of our first spouses, Barbara already had season tickets and
Badger football, basketball and hockey. N: I also still work part-time in the UW Dep’t of Rehabilitation Psychology, so there is really never a dull moment!
regularly with her. We have several
Editor’s note: Barbara is a talented decorator and her beautiful work will be seen at FOCO’s Voices of Spring gala on May 11. Visit:
friends who also attend concerts. We
madisonsymphony.org/voices for event details.
I happily started attending concerts
went to a few of the Saturday morning organ hymn sings and were introduced
Gifts of all amounts make it
to the previous organ curator through
possible for the MSO to share
a mutual friend. Now we have season
incredible musical experiences
tickets for the organ series as well as the
with our community. To learn more
Symphony series, and Barbara recently
about Leadership Giving, visit
joined the Friends of the Overture
madisonsymphony.org/leadership.
Concert Organ (FOCO) board.
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CELEBRATING COMMUNITY SUPPORT
News & Stories
Green Bay Packers Foundation Grant Received We are pleased to announce that the Madison Symphony Orchestra has received a grant award from the Green Bay Packers Foundation to support our 2019 Spring Young People’s Concert. On December 5, MSO and MSOL board members Jim and Marilyn Ebben attended a luncheon hosted by the Green Bay Packers Foundation at Lambeau Field, where they accepted the grant check on behalf of the MSO. In total, the Green Bay Packers Foundation granted $800,000 to 230 organizations in 2018 and we are honored to be one of the recipients. The Spring Young People’s Concert will serve approximately 1,000 upper-middle and high school students on March 14 in Overture Hall. To learn how you or your company/organization can support MSO education programs, please contact Casey Oelkers, Director of Development, at (608) 260-8680 x228. Discover more: madisonsymphony.org/support
Johnson Financial Group partnering with the MSO for over 15 years Johnson Financial Group has partnered with the MSO for over 15 years as a sponsor of concerts and a supporter of special events. We are excited to have them as a sponsor of our upcoming concerts in May and are grateful for their long history of supporting the Symphony. We asked Regional President, Greg Dombrowski to tell us more about the company and their community giving.
MSO: Can you tell us a little more about your company and the services you provide? GD: Johnson Financial Group is a Wisconsinbased, privately-owned financial services company offering banking, wealth and insurance solutions. As trusted partners, Johnson Financial Group associates work together to sustain thriving futures for businesses, individuals and communities.
MSO: What are Johnson Financial Group’s corporate philanthropy priorities?
MSO: How are your company and your employees involved in our community beyond providing financial support to the MSO? GD: In addition to supporting causes in our 40 locations throughout the year, our annual Service Day involves over 900 associates who volunteer their time assisting more than 60 organizations across Wisconsin and in Arizona. Johnson Financial Group has also been a consistent contributor to United Way and matches every employee contribution on a dollar-for-dollar basis. Our people are actively involved on local boards, volunteer in local food pantries and donate to numerous organizations that help those in need. Through Johnson Bank, we promote affordable housing, help revitalize distressed areas and support non-profit organizations who primarily provide services to low- and moderate-income individuals.
place because we are there. In fact, we measure our
MSO: We are very grateful for Johnson Financial Group’s strong support of the Madison Symphony over the years. What makes the arts an important part of your company’s community support?
success in the long term value created for the next
GD: Providing experiences that enrich the lives of our
generation of customers and improved quality of life in
neighbors is the backbone to a vibrant community. The
our communities. We believe we have a personal and
arts play a critical role in providing experiences that
corporate responsibility to society that goes hand-in-hand
entertain, engage and educate us as a community. MSO
with the privilege of success and wealth. The Johnson
brings beautiful art to the stage at Overture Center and
family stresses the importance of putting more into this
to the youth of our community through their outreach
world than we take out every day. Traditionally, our giving
programs. We are proud to be affiliated in some small
priorities have been centered on the Arts, Education,
way with the wonderful work of Maestro DeMain and the
Housing, and Women and Children.
Madison Symphony.
GD: Our company was formed on the principle that each community in which we do business is a better
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News & Stories The Madison Symphony Orchestra's Education and Community Engagement programs are made available for free or at a low cost to participants, but they are not free for us to present! To learn how you or your company/ organization can support these and other MSO programs, please contact Casey Oelkers, Director of Development, at (608) 260-8680 x228.
EDUCATION HIGH NOTES The Final Forte Wednesday, March 13, 6:45 p.m. Overture Hall Join the excitement as the four finalists of the 2019 Bolz Young Artist Competition compete for top honors in Wisconsin Young Artists Compete: The Final Forte with John DeMain and the MSO! The concert is free and open to the public, and will be broadcast live on Wisconsin Public Television and Wisconsin Public Radio. Concert reservations can be made online at madisonsymphony.org/finalforte or by calling the MSO office at (608) 257-3734. Learn more about the four
“Music is of great importance to me, and the whole experience of the Final Forte this year is especially sweet and exhilarating. It has, without doubt, left an indelible memory and I am also certain that it will serve as an accelerator for my music career… I truly believe that this program will be the life changer for generations of musicians to come. I am so honored to be part of it.” – Jessica Jiang, 2018 Bolz Young Artist Competition Winner
finalists at madisonsymphony.org/bolz. SAVE THE DATES! Open Dress Rehearsal with Marc-André Hamelin Thur., April 11, 6:45 p.m. Overture Hall Magic of Music Lunch with Marc-Andre Hamelin Fri., April 12, 12:00 pm Blackhawk Country Club Rhapsodie Quartet Recital Sat., April 27, 2:00 p.m. Madison Museum of Contemporary Art
The two winners of the Final Forte will
their peers at the MSO’s 2019 Spring Young
perform the following day for an audience of
People’s Concert.
Symphony Soup Tuesday, May. 14, 10:15 a.m. and 12:15 p.m.
Hunt Quartet friends perform with the MSO
Overture Hall (these concerts are not open to the public)
on stage in a concert that reviews all the
Symphony Soup is the culminating performance of the MSO’s Up Close & Musical® program. During the UC&M yearlong residency, the Hunt Quartet, comprised of UW-Madison School of Music graduate students, visits six elementary schools throughout Dane County four times each, presenting interactive lessons that teach students about melody, rhythm, expression
The Madison Symphony Orchestra is dedicated to providing outstanding educational and community engagement opportunities throughout south-central Wisconsin. Reaching over 25,000 children and adults each year, we engage music enthusiasts of all ages and abilities through our partnerships with schools, community centers, and assisted living facilities. Join us as we embark on a journey to enrich, engage and inspire! Discover more: madisonsymphony.org/ education-community
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and form. During the Symphony Soup concert, the UC&M students will see their
pieces and concepts they worked on during the year. Learn more about symphony soup at madisonsymphony.org/soup. Symphony Soup is the MSO’s education concert for students in grades K-4. Symphony Soup brings students out of the classroom and into the concert hall, introducing them to the full instrumentation of the symphony orchestra. The concert incorporates familiar classical music melodies to make the concert engaging for students.
Link Up: The Orchestra Sings Thursday, May. 16
music’s most famous melodies on the
10:15 a.m. and 12:15 p.m.
soprano recorder.
Capital Theater, Overture Hall
During the culminating concert, students
(these concerts are not open to the public)
will bring their recorder to Overture Center
Invited to become a Link Up partner by Carnegie Hall’s Weill Music Institute in 2013, the MSO is now one of over 100 orchestras world-wide to co-present this highly interactive education program. Link Up unites the classroom and the concert hall by giving students in grades 3 through 5 the opportunity to explore music through a yearlong curriculum of activities, during which they learn to play some of classical
to play, sing, and move with the MSO during Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy,” “Simple Gifts,” and other works. During the 2018– 2019 season, over 1,700 students from 30 schools are participating in the MSO’s Link Up Program. Learn more about Link Up at madisonsymphony.org/linkup.
EDUCATION HIGH NOTES
News & Stories
Major funding for Wisconsin Young Artists Compete: The Final Forte is provided by Diane Ballweg, A. Paul Jones Charitable Trust, Julie & Larry Midtbo, Stephen Morton, Fred & Mary Mohs, Joe & Mary Ellyn Sensenbrenner; with additional funding from James Dahlberg & Elsebet Lund, W. Jerome Frautschi, Kato Perlman, Cyrena & Lee Pondrom, Sentry Insurance Foundation, Inc., Nick & Judith Topitzes, Marc Vitale & Darcy Kind, The Focus Fund for the Young Performers Initiative, The Board of the Friends of Wisconsin Public Television in memory of Roger Hauck, and Friends of Wisconsin Public Television. Major funding for the Spring Young People’s Concert provided by the Madison Symphony Orchestra League. Additional funding provided by American Family Insurance, Dane Arts, with additional funds from the Endres Mfg. Company Foundation, The Evjue Foundation, the W. Jerome Frautschi Foundation, and the Pleasant T. Rowland Foundation, The Evjue Foundation, the charitable arm of The Capital Times, The Great Dane, Heid Music & Heid Family Foundation, Joan Pulver, Linda Hogle, Wisconsin Arts Board with additional funds from the State of Wisconsin and the National Endowment for the Arts, and the William J. and Joyce F. Wartmann Fund.
2019 Bolz Young Artist Competition Finalists: Monona Suzuki, Violin; Grace Kim, Cello; Holly Venkitaswaran, Flute; Antonio Wu, Piano
MAJOR FUNDING FOR SYMPHONY SOUP PROVIDED BY:: Madison Symphony Orchestra League John and Carolyn Peterson Charitable Foundation, Inc. ADDITIONAL FUNDING PROVIDED BY: The Evjue Foundation, Inc., the charitable arm of The Capital Times Veridian Foundation William J. and Joyce F. Wartmann Fund Woodman’s Food Markets Wisconsin Arts Board, with additional funds from the State of Wisconsin and the National Endowment
2017 Symphony Soup
for the Arts.
MAJOR FUNDING FOR LINK UP PROVIDED BY: An Anonymous Friend ADDITIONAL FUNDING PROVIDED BY: Carl M. Hudig Madison Symphony Orchestra League U.S. Bank Wisconsin Arts Board, with additional funds from the State of Wisconsin and the National Endowment for the Arts 2017 Link Up
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News & Stories
MADISON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA LEAGUE Mid Winter Luncheon Thursday, March 7, 2019 | 11:30 a.m. Nakoma Golf Club John DeMain will discuss the past, present and future of the MSO — America’s premiere regional orchestra — at the annual Mid-Winter
WELCOME NEW MEMBERS!
February 25. Visit madisonsymphony.org/msol for more information and to RSVP online.
We welcome the following new members to MSOL: Jeffrey & Elizabeth Bauer
Parties of Note
Andy & Debbie Bissonnette
The MSOL’s Parties of Note is a series of 15 themed parties to benefit the Madison Symphony
Ellsworth & Dorothy Brown
of interests and tastes. With well-known hosts, behind-the-scenes venues, outdoor adventures,
Lynn & Dennis Christensen Johanna B. Fabke Jane Hamblen & Robert Lemanske Betty & Dennis Keeney Jerome & Marilynn Lawler Karen Myers Janet Nelson Gregory Reed & Michael Zorich Barbara Sandford David & Peggy Sharpe William Paul Steffenhagen Selma Vaneyck
Part of the Madison community since 1956, the Madison Symphony Orchestra League (MSOL) is an organization of more than 300 members committed to supporting the Madison Symphony Orchestra’s artistic, financial and educational mission. Discover more: madisonsymphony.org/msol
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Orchestra. This year’s parties feature activities, menus and venues to appeal to a wide variety musical entertainment, and more, there is something for everyone! And, of course, with all our parties you will enjoy fabulous food and the comradery of your fellow music enthusiasts. Parties are filling quickly, but there are still some with tickets available. Reservations may be made online at madisonsymphony.org/parties, or by mail using the Reservation Form in the back of the Passport mailed last month and available at MSO concerts. The money raised through Parties of Note supports the Education and Community Engagement activities of the Madison Symphony Orchestra.
PH OTO: BI L L F RI STCH
Luncheon. Invitations have been mailed and RSVPs are due by
News & Stories
MADISON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA LEAGUE Behind the Music: an MSOL Discovery Talk Thursday, April 11 | 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. Join guest speaker Norman Gilliland for a presentation and conversation entitled "Pushing the Boundaries." Listen, ask questions, and learn more Auspicious Debut: Marc-André Hamelin, over hors d'oeuvres and wine at an MSOL member's home. This event is free and open to all Members of the Madison Symphony Orchestra League. To learn more and RSVP by April 1, visit madisonsymphony.org/msol.
PH OTO: PE T E R ROD GE RS
about the Madison Symphony Orchestra’s April concert program, An
Concert on the Green On Monday, June 24, our Concert on the Green fundraiser returns for the 25th year with a day of golf, and an evening dinner and concert featuring one of the Bolz Young Artist Competition Winners. During the concert, Maestro John DeMain will pass the baton to our special guest conductor, Lynn Van Campen! This event, which supports the MSO’s Education and Community Engagement programs, is only possible because of the participation of MSOL members and friends. There are so many ways to get involved: • Join the Concert on the Green committee and help arrange the event details • Become a sponsor of the event • G ather a foursome and enjoy a round of golf the day of the event • P urchase a table or individual tickets to enjoy the evening concert and dinner For more information, contact committee chair Doug Reuhl at ALL PH OTOS BY: TODD M AU GHAN
dreuhl@gmail.com. Visit madisonsymphony.org/cog in April to purchase tickets or a table.
MSOL Annual Meeting: Amendment to Bylaws and Election of Officers At the annual meeting this year an amendment to the bylaws will be presented to the general membership for approval. The MSOL board is recommending the addition of a new position of life director to the MSOL board as listed in Article VII, Section 1 of the bylaws. The new position is to recognize extraordinary service to MSOL. The proposed amendment is printed below and this constitutes your written notice of the recommended change. Article VII–Board of Directors, Section 1
SAVE THE DATES!
The Board of Directors shall consist of the officers of the Madison Symphony Orchestra directors; advisors; and the immediate Past President.
Spring Luncheon and Annual Meeting May 17 Maple Bluff Country Club
In addition, MSOL members will vote to elect the officers for the next year.
Symphony Gala September 13
League and their assistants; the chair, co-chair and/or assistant chair of all committees; life
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News & Stories
UPCOMING EVENTS Symphony for our World Saturday, March 30 | 8:00 p.m. Tickets are on sale now for this unprecedented special concert event, which pairs National Geographic’s stunning natural
history
footage
with
an
original
symphony
composed by Bleeding Fingers Music, performed live by the Madison Symphony Orchestra and Chorus. Driven by a five-part composition, the show brings viewers from the depths of the sea, up to coastlines, over mountains, and soaring into the sky. Each movement View all upcoming concerts, special events, and more on the calendar on our website! madisonsymphony.org/ calendar
results in a powerful musical tribute to the beauty and wonders of our wild world. The 90-minute show highlights groundbreaking imagery and storytelling from 130 years of beloved National Geographic history. Symphony for Our World is officially licensed by National Geographic and produced by Jason Michael Paul Entertainment. Visit overture.org for more information and to buy tickets.
Voices of Spring Saturday, May 11 Overture Center for the Arts SAVE THE DATE FOR VOICES OF SPRING: A Premier Evening with Greg Zelek, who is completing his first year as the Principal Organist of the Madison Symphony Orchestra and Curator of the Overture Concert Organ. Enjoy champagne and hors d’oeuvres in the Overture Hall Lobby, followed by a gourmet four-course dinner on the Overture Hall stage with musical Free Community Hymn Sing Sat., May 4 | 11:00 a.m. Bring your pipes, and your friends and family, to raise a joyful noise with the Overture Concert Organ and Andrew Schaeffer, Music Director of Luther Memorial Church. All ages are welcome, and no tickets or reservations are needed. Learn more:
intermezzi by Greg Zelek and special guests. This black tie-optional event is hosted by Friends of the Overture Concert Organ and proceeds will benefit the Organ Endowment Fund. Registration information will be available soon at madisonsymphony.org/voices.
ALL P HOTOS BY: AMANDALYNN JONES
madisonsymphony.org/ hymnsing
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MUSICIAN NEWS
News & Stories
Bach Around the Clock set for March 2 12-hour playathon at St. Andrew's Church in Madison Come enjoy the music of J.S. Bach at this annual community celebration. It's free and open to the public, on Sat., Mar 2, from 10 a.m.–10 p.m., at St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, 1833 Regent St. Selected musicians and ensembles will repeat their performances the next day, Sun. Mar. 3, starting at 12:30 p.m. on the Sunday Afternoon Live from the Chazen concert series. The program includes solo keyboard works, violin sonatas, Brandenburg Concertos, Cantatas, Chorales, and more; this festival gives everyone in the community, from beginners to college students, faculty, amateurs, and professionals alike, the chance to celebrate the 334th birthday of this sublime composer. Please visit bachclock.com for more details.
Just Bach, New Midday Concert Series One Wednesday each month, at Luther Memorial Church, 1021 University Ave. This series of FREE hour-long, midday concerts features Cantatas, instrumental solos and chamber music, performed one-on-a-part on period instruments. The series enjoyed a successful launch last fall, and continues this semester on Mar. 13, Apr. 24 and May 29, all at 1:00 p.m. The March 13 program includes Cantata 4 Christ lag in Todesbanden, and Cantata 18 Gleichwie der Regen und Schnee. MSO violinist Leanne League and MSO violist Marika Fischer Hoyt are among the instrumentalists. Visit justbach.org for more information.
Ancora String Quartet in Madison and Milwaukee Program includes early works by Beethoven and Mendelssohn The Ancora String Quartet, with MSO violinists Wes Luke and Robin Ryan, and MSO violist Marika Fischer Hoyt, closes its 18th season on Sat., May 11 at 7:30 p.m., at St. Andrew's Episcopal Church at 1833 Regent St. The program will be repeated the next day at St. John's on the Lake, Milwaukee. On the program are Beethoven's Quartet No. 6 in B-flat Major, Op. 18 #6, and Mendelssohn's Quartet No. 2 in A Minor, Op. 13. Please visit ancoraquartet.com for more details.
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News & Stories
A LOOK BACK MSO Diversity and Inclusion Outreach On Sunday, December 2, 2018, the Madison Symphony Orchestra partnered with the Madison Metropolitan Chapter of The Links, Incorporated, and members of the Ho-Chunk Nation, to give guests from diverse Madison communities an opportunity to come to the PH OTO: PE T E R ROD GE RS
Overture Center to enjoy A Madison Symphony Christmas. The guests included families from the One City Early Learning Center, members of the Ho-Chunk Nation, members of primarily African-American churches, and other Madison
2018 Christmas concert guests
community individuals. The Links, Incorporated is one of the oldest and largest of predominately African-American, not-for-profit, service organizations in the nation and the Madison Chapter is committed to educational, civic, and intercultural programs and projects for K-12 students. Learn more about them at madisonlinks.wordpress.com. For more information about the Ho-Chunk Nation, please visit their website at ho-chunknation.com.
Welcome New Subscribers New 2018–2019 subscribers were invited to join donors, musicians, and other special guests at receptions following our November 9-11 concerts, Remembering Lenny, featuing pianist Christopher Taylor.
ALL P HOTOS BY: AM ANDALY NN JONES
Visit our website for the latest News & Stories all summer! madisonsymphony.org/ news-stories
16
A LOOK BACK
News & Stories
Thank you for helping us celebrate 25 Years of Great Music with John DeMain!
As our 2018–2019 season comes to a P HOTO: AMANDALY NN J ONE S
close, we thank all of you who attended a concert or helped us celebrate this milestone year in our Music Director’s career. Our Symphony Gala in September was the perfect way to kick off the celebration, and we thank our partners
John DeMain at the Symphony Gala, September 21, 2018.
at Wisconsin Public Television for producing a two-part video that was shown at the Gala and our opening concert weekend. We also thank our media partners at Madison Magazine, The Isthmus and the Capital Times for writing stories about this season early on, and to Carol Koby for interviewing John and Barbara DeMain on-air in December. Visit madisonsymphony.org/johndemain25recap to watch, read, and listen to these celebration stories. If you have a favorite John DeMain story you’d like to share with us, we are also still accepting story submissions! Visit madisonsymphony.org/johndemain25 to learn more and submit your story. Again, thank you for helping us make John DeMain’s 25th anniversary season a year to remember!
Madison Links Honors MSO With Community Service Award On Saturday, November 10, 2018, the Madison Metropolitan Chapter of The Links, Incorporated presented its annual Scholarship & Community Recognition Jazz Brunch. The Madison Symphony Orchestra was one of six honorees at the brunch, where Music Director John DeMain accepted a Distinguished Community Service Award for The Arts on behalf of the Madison Symphony PH OTO : ARROWSTA R PH OTOG RAP HY
Orchestra. Thank you to the Links, Incorporated for this recognition!
Gloria Ladson-Billings, John DeMain, and Madison Links, Incorporated President Julia Holman.
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Concerts
MARCH, APRIL, MAY CONCERTS
continued
Three Virtuosi continued
and Gershwin’s An American in Paris. I must
By John DeMain
well. And I wanted to do them on this special
confess that these are two favorites of mine as
competition in Paris, and was immediately
season. Who has not fallen in love with that
embraced as a work of great beauty and
beautiful melody that weaves its magical spell
craft. Josh is playing Vaughan Williams’ Tuba
to open Schubert’s masterpiece? The same
Concerto, the first concerto ever written for
can be said for that wonderful bluesy melody
the Tuba. Both the Debussy and Vaughan
that grabs us in the middle of the Gershwin
Williams pieces are being performed for the
and develops to a thrilling climax at the end.
very first time by the MSO. The orchestra is showcased on this concert with two of classical music’s most beloved
Celebrate with me our very special and beloved orchestra that thrills and moves us at every concert we hear them play.
compositions, Schubert’s Unfinished Symphony
Marc-André Hamelin continued
rating the 100th year anniversary of Debussy’s
After intermission, Hamelin returns to play
death in 1918, I wanted to play again his great
another personal favorite of mine, Ravel’s
tone poem La Mer. This work is a shining ex-
Concerto in G Major. The jazzy and bluesy
ample of Impressionism in music, as it con-
influences in the concerto come four years
jures up the many facets of the sea, and de-
after Gershwin’s An American in Paris, and
mands total virtuosity from the orchestra.
three years before Porgy and Bess. Clearly
Note the way the cellos are divided up in the
the popularity of jazz was finding its way into
first movement in such a way that only a first
concert compositions in a major way at this
class cello section can truly bring off. And
time. I think I’m particularly attracted to this
that last movement is one of the truly great
piece because of the wonderful melody that
storms portrayed in music.
spins its way through the second movement,
Hopefully we’ll have our usual April showers,
and the joyous virtuosity that makes up the
but leave the extremes of the sea to Debussy
last movement.
and the imagination of our audience.
Symphony of a Thousand continued
was marred only by Mahler’s health issues that
By John DeMain
18
Staying in the French genre, and commemo-
By John DeMain
would lead to his death eight months later.
conduct this amazing work for a second time,
The two-part symphony is divided between
and on the occasion of my 25th season with
the Pentecostal verse of Veni Creator Spiritu,
our orchestra.
and Goethe’s Faust. Employing both Latin and
The fact that I can share the stage with
German languages, the symphony, through
so many great instrumentalists, the Madison
the presence of eight vocal soloists, again
Symphony Chorus, joined by the Choral Union
is a journey that fascinates Mahler through
from UW-Madison, and the Madison Youth
so many of his symphonies: the hope for
Choirs only enhances my joy and gratitude
salvation and transition to the next life. I want
that my family and I have felt living here and
to thank the various choruses for the work
becoming Madisonians in the process.
they have done to prepare for this concert,
The huge resources required to perform
and thank once again our great musicians in
this work was in keeping with the trend at the
the orchestra for their passionate, committed
turn of the century to employ large orchestras
work over these past twenty-five years.
and choruses to thrilling effect. But Mahler
It has been quite a journey and is never
uses these resources in myriad ways, creating
over, but, certainly, the milestones that have
intimate and unusual tonal palettes as well
occurred over these years, too numerous to
as orchestral bombast. The response to this
mention, have provided me, and I hope, all of
symphony at its premiere was stupendous, but
you, with unforgettable memories. Thank you.
About the Madison Symphony Orchestra With a mission to produce high-quality performances and to educate and entertain audiences of all ages, the Madison Symphony Orchestra enters its 93rd season in 2018–2019 and celebrates Music Director John DeMain’s 25th anniversary with us. Hailed as “a gifted orchestra builder” by The New York Times, Maestro DeMain has grown the Symphony to be one of America’s leading regional orchestras, enriching the cultural and educational environment of Madison and the surrounding area with exquisite performances of the great masterworks and top-tier guest artists from around the world. In addition, our Education and Community Engagement Programs bring the joy of music to more than 25,000 children and adults annually. These programs are consistently recognized by national agencies including the National Endowment for the Arts and the League of American Orchestras. As a resident company of the Overture Center for the Arts, we call Overture Hall home to all Madison Symphony Orchestra concerts, and all concerts featuring the MSO's Overture Concert Organ. Joined by the world’s leading guest artists, we are proud to present performances designed to delight your ears and deliver an acoustical experience unlike any other in this world-class concert hall. We invite you explore this page and all the ways you can experience the magic of the Madison Symphony Orchestra, and learn
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more by visiting our website at madisonsymphony.org.
TICKET INFORMATION BUY SINGLE TICKETS
GROUP PRICING
Single tickets for all Symphony concerts and Overture Concert Organ performances are available at madisonsymphony.org and through the Overture Center Box Office.
Groups of 10 or more receive a 25% discount for Symphony concerts or Organ performances. Group rate symphony tickets start at just $13.50. Buy tickets and learn more. Call (608) 260-8880 x222 or visit madisonsymphony.org/groups.
Symphony Single tickets for 2018–2019 season concerts are $18–$93. Seniors (62 and over) and students save 20% in select seating areas. Students can also purchase up to two $15 or $20 Student Rush tickets on the day of the concert at the Overture Center Box Office. Discounts are subject to availability and cannot be combined. Organ All tickets to any 2018–2019 Overture Concert Organ performances are just $20. Students can purchase up to two $10 Student Rush tickets on the day of the concert at the Overture Center Box Office. Discounts are subject to availability and cannot be combined. FLEX–TICKETS & GIFT CERTIFICATES Flex-Tickets are a booklet of 10 ticket vouchers in A, B, or C/D seating sections. Find out more and purchase online at madisonsymphony.org/flex. Gift certificates good for individual MSO concerts are available through the Overture Center Box Office at (608) 258-4141.
CONTACT Madison Symphony Orchestra Administrative Office 222 W. Washington Ave., Suite 460 Madison, WI 53703 Subscriptions/Info: (608) 257-3734 info@madisonsymphony.org madisonsymphony.org Overture Center Box Office 201 State St. Madison, WI 53703 Single Tickets: (608) 258-4141 Ticket Office Hours: Mon. – Fri., 11:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sat. 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Additional hours on Sunday event days. overture.org connect
#madisonsymphony
The SCORE is published three to four times per concert season for members and friends of the Madison Symphony Orchestra. Subscribe to the print and/or the online edition at madisonsymphony.org/ score Editor: Amanda Dill Creative Director: Peter Rodgers Design: Bob Marshall Contributing Writers: Cathy Buege Amanda Dill John DeMain Rick Mackie Casey Oelkers Peter Rodgers Kathryn Schwarzmann Greg Zelek
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222 W. Washington Ave. Suite 460 Madison, WI 53703
O U R 2 0 1 9 – 2 0 2 0 S E A S O N I S O N T H E H O R I ZO N . . . W H E R E W I L L T H E M U S I C TA K E YO U ? Be on the lookout for the new brochure and announcement of guest artists and programs in March! The journey begins in September 2019. Mark your calendar now.
2020
SEPTEMBER 27–29 O C TO B E R 1 8 – 2 0 N OV E M B E R 8 – 1 0 DECEMBER 13–15
JANUARY 19 FEBRUARY 14–16 MARCH 6–8 APRIL 3–5 M AY 1 – 3
PHOTO: AMANDALYNN JONES
2019
Go to m a d i s o n sym p h o ny.org/ 19 - 2 0 for the latest information.