North Carolina Symphony 2019/20 Season of Celebration in Raleigh

GRANT LLEWELLYN, MUSIC DIRECTOR

JEAN-YVES THIBAUDET

RENÉE FLEMING

JAMES EHNES

PHILIPPE QUINT

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“It has been my great joy to form friendships with the musicians of our orchestra, with our guest artists, and with you — our devoted community.”

PERFORMING WITH RENÉE FLEMING IN 2015

PERFORMING THE PIRATES OF PENZANCE IN 2017

PERFORMING AT A CLASSICAL CONCERT IN 2007

PERFORMING AT A POPS CONCERT IN 2017

Dear friends, For nearly 16 years, I have had the incredible honor of serving as Music Director of the North Carolina Symphony. It has been my great joy to share inspiring music throughout this state — all the while, forming friendships with the musicians of our orchestra, with our guest artists, and with you, our devoted community.

It humbles me to see so many friends returning to grace our stage in the 2019/20 season: one exceptional soloist after another, including Renée Fleming, Branford Marsalis, Stephen Hough, James Ehnes, Jean-Yves Thibaudet, and more. And it will be my privilege to hear the insights that our own outstanding musicians will bring to our repertoire — in many cases, repertoire that has been particularly meaningful to me through the years. In crafting this season’s programs, I’ve reflected on unforgettable moments with NCS, and it has been my hope and belief that my favorites will be your favorites, as well.

PERFORMING WITH BRANFORD MARSALIS IN 2015

Elgar’s “Enigma” Variations, for instance, was one of the first works I conducted with NCS. Handel’s Messiah has been a refrain in my musical life and never ceases to amaze. A new choral work by North Carolina’s own Pulitzer Prize winner Caroline Shaw, co-commissioned by the Symphony, continues our commitment to women composers and to artists with ties to this state. Our season finale, pairing Stravinsky’s earth-shattering The Rite of Spring with Debussy’s Jeux and Wagner’s Prelude to Parsifal, is an audaciously ambitious program that I would only attempt with an orchestra I know as intimately as NCS — an orchestra that has soared to astonishing artistic heights.

I know that NCS will only continue to soar higher. World-renowned guest conductors such as Karina Canellakis, Rune Bergmann, and David Danzmayr take the podium this season with beautiful and thoughtful programs keenly aligned with our custom of bringing the very best to North Carolina.

This roster of remarkable musicians and leaders confirms the Symphony’s excellence today and going forward.

In the 2019/20 season, we celebrate the music that moves us, the artists who bring it to life, and the future of this great orchestra — don’t miss a moment.

With deep gratitude, GRANT LLEWELLYN, MUSIC DIRECTOR NORTH CAROLINA SYMPHONY

“For nearly 16 years, I have had the incredible honor of serving as Music Director of the North Carolina Symphony.“ ncsymphony.org | 919.733.2750

RALEIGH CLASSICAL MEYMANDI CONCERT HALL, RALEIGH WOOLNER STAGE

LUCILLE CHUNG

ALESSIO BAX

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PHILIPPE QUINT

Opening Weekend

CONCERTO FOR TWO PIANOS

FRI/SAT, SEPT 20-21, 2019 | 8PM Grant Llewellyn, conductor Alessio Bax, piano Lucille Chung, piano

G. Williams: Sea Sketches Poulenc: Concerto for Two Pianos Elgar: “Enigma” Variations

Be part of the excitement of opening night as husband-and-wife duo Alessio Bax and Lucille Chung join the North Carolina Symphony for Poulenc’s Concerto for Two Pianos — playful, impassioned, and sounding as if pulled straight from a dream. Plus, the “Enigma” Variations offer one delight after another, as Elgar shares musical portraits of friends and family with humor, tenderness, and sweeping emotion.

Weekend Sponsor: Clancy & Theys Construction Company 14 | 11 | 7A | 5

GRANT LLEWELLYN, MUSIC DIRECTOR

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RACHMANINOFF SYMPHONY NO. 2

FRI/SAT, OCT 11-12, 2019 | 8PM Rune Bergmann, conductor Philippe Quint, violin

Barber: Violin Concerto Chaplin: Suite for Violin and Orchestra Rachmaninoff: Symphony No. 2 14 | 11 | 9 | 7B | 4

MAHLER SYMPHONY NO. 5

FRI/SAT, NOV 1-2, 2019 | 8PM Karina Canellakis, conductor L. Boulanger: D’un soir triste Smyth: On the Cliffs of Cornwall Mahler: Symphony No. 5

Audience favorite Karina Canellakis returns to conduct Mahler’s Fifth Symphony. From the lone trumpet-call opening, to the irrepressible joy of the finale, Mahler’s Fifth is a transformative experience.

14 | 11 | 9 | 7A

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NEW WORLD SYMPHONY

FRI/SAT, NOV 15-16, 2019 | 8PM

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André de Ridder, conductor

THE PLANETS

FRI/SAT, JAN 10 -11, 2020 | 8PM Gemma New, conductor Women of the North Carolina Master Chorale

Julia Wolfe: Big, Beautiful, Dark, and Scary Bartók: Music for Strings, Percussion, and Celesta Dvořák: Symphony No. 9 “From the New World”

Salina Fisher: Rainphase Debussy: Nocturnes Holst: The Planets

14 | 11 | 9 | 7B | 4

14 | 11 | 9 | 7B

STEPHEN HOUGH

BERNSTEIN & COPLAND

FRI/SAT, NOV 22-23, 2019 | 8PM Christian Reif, conductor Brian Reagin, violin

Barber: Overture to The School for Scandal McKay: Violin Concerto Copland: Symphony No. 2 “Short Symphony” Bernstein: Symphonic Dances from West Side Story 14 | 11 | 7A | 5

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HOUGH PERFORMS BRAHMS

FRI/SAT, JAN 24-25, 2020 | 8PM Grant Llewellyn, conductor Stephen Hough, piano

Farrenc: Overture No. 1 Schubert: Symphony No. 4 Brahms: Piano Concerto No. 2

The beauty of Brahms’ Piano Concerto No. 2 is brought to life by Stephen Hough, one of the most distinguished pianists of our time.

This immense concerto is paired with Schubert’s Symphony No. 4, which seems to suspend time with its long-arching melodies and surprising twists and turns.

14 | 7A | 5

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ncsymphony.org | 919.733.2750

2O19/2O SEASON OF CELEBRATION

RALEIGH CLASSICAL

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RACHMANINOFF PIANO CONCERTO NO. 3

FRI/SAT, FEB 28-29, 2020 | 8PM David Danzmayr, conductor Natasha Paremski, piano

MEYMANDI CONCERT HALL, RALEIGH WOOLNER STAGE

Lera Auerbach: Icarus Strauss: Suite from Der Rosenkavalier Rachmaninoff: Piano Concerto No. 3 14 | 11 | 9 | 7A

JEAN-YVES THIBAUDET

JAMES EHNES

NATASHA PAREMSKI

TCHAIKOVSKY SYMPHONY NO. 5

FRI/SAT, FEB 7-8, 2020 | 8PM Grant Llewellyn, conductor James Ehnes, violin

Prokofiev: Overture on Hebrew Themes Shostakovich: Violin Concerto No. 1 Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 5

Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 5 is a journey of haunting melodies, shocking climaxes, charming elegance, and joyful abandon. Shostakovich’s Violin Concerto No. 1 — a wild ride with a nearly nonstop solo line — is performed by the impeccable violinist and 2019 Grammy winner James Ehnes.

14 | 11 | 9 | 7B | 4

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THIBAUDET PERFORMS RAVEL

FRI/SAT, MAR 13-14, 2020 | 8PM Grant Llewellyn, conductor Jean-Yves Thibaudet, piano

Berlioz: Roman Carnival Overture Ravel: Piano Concerto in G Major Gershwin: “I Got Rhythm” Variations Roussel: Bacchus & Ariadne Gershwin: An American in Paris Concert Sponsor: Roux MacNeill Studio Interior Design 14 | 11 | 9 | 7B | 4

BEETHOVEN SYMPHONY NO. 7

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GRANT LLEWELLYN, MUSIC DIRECTOR

FRI/SAT, MAR 27-28, 2020 | 8PM Grant Llewellyn, conductor

Mozart: Overture & Ballet Music from Idomeneo Jennifer Higdon: Low Brass Concerto Beethoven: Symphony No. 7 14 | 7A | 5

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SCHEHERAZADE

FRI/SAT, APR 17-18, 2020 | 8PM Michał Nesterowicz, conductor

Fanny Mendelssohn: Overture in C Major Prokofiev: Piano Concerto No. 2 Rimsky-Korsakov: Scheherazade 14 | 11 | 9 | 7B

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THE RITE OF SPRING

FRI/SAT, MAY 15-16, 2020 | 8PM Grant Llewellyn, conductor

DASHON BURTON

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BEETHOVEN’S 9TH

FRI/SAT, MAY 1-2, 2020 | 8PM Grant Llewellyn, conductor Elizabeth Llewellyn, soprano Paula Murrihy, mezzo-soprano Nicholas Phan, tenor Dashon Burton, baritone North Carolina Master Chorale

Wagner: Prelude from Parsifal Debussy: Jeux Stravinsky: The Rite of Spring

In Paris of 1913, two drastically different ballets premiered and marked a new musical era. Debussy’s Jeux was utterly elegant; Stravinsky’s The Rite of Spring was raw and untamed. For his final statement as Music Director, Grant Llewellyn offers the striking combination of these two ballet scores, together with Wagner’s Prelude from Parsifal — his final masterpiece.

The program, and the season, concludes with the earth-shattering Rite.

Concert Sponsor: Galloway Ridge at Fearrington 14 | 11 | 9 | 7B | 5

Caroline Shaw: The Listeners Beethoven: Symphony No. 9

Experience the epic power and timeless message of humanity and brotherhood in Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 — building to a dramatic conclusion with the inspiring and monumental “Ode to Joy.” Plus, you’ll hear how North Carolina native and Pulitzer Prize winner Caroline Shaw combines unique vocal textures in her new choral work.

14 | 7A

ncsymphony.org | 919.733.2750

2O19/2O SEASON

CLASSICAL SEASON

CLASSICAL 14

CONCERTO FOR TWO PIANOS

FRI/SAT, SEPT 20-21, 2019

| 8PM

RACHMANINOFF SYMPHONY NO. 2

| 8PM

FRI/SAT, OCT 11-12, 2019

MAHLER SYMPHONY NO. 5

FRI/SAT, NOV 1-2, 2019

| 8PM

NEW WORLD SYMPHONY

FRI/SAT, NOV 15-16, 2019

| 8PM

BERNSTEIN & COPLAND

FRI/SAT, NOV 22-23, 2019

THE PLANETS

FRI/SAT, JAN 10-11, 2020

| 8PM

| 8PM

HOUGH PERFORMS BRAHMS

FRI/SAT, JAN 24-25, 2020

| 8PM

TCHAIKOVSKY SYMPHONY NO. 5

FRI/SAT, FEB 7-8, 2020

| 8PM

RACHMANINOFF PIANO CONCERTO NO. 3

FRI/SAT, FEB 28-29, 2020

| 8PM

THIBAUDET PERFORMS RAVEL

FRI/SAT, MAR 13-14, 2020

| 8PM

BEETHOVEN SYMPHONY NO. 7

FRI/SAT, MAR 27-28, 2020

SCHEHERAZADE

FRI/SAT, APR 17-18, 2020

BEETHOVEN’S 9TH

FRI/SAT, MAY 1-2, 2020

THE RITE OF SPRING

| 8PM

| 8PM

| 8PM

FRI/SAT, MAY 15-16, 2020

| 8PM

Dates, programs, artists, prices, & venues are subject to change

CLASSICAL 11

CLASSICAL 9

CLASSICAL 7A

CLASSICAL 7B

CLASSICAL 5

CLASSICAL 4

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • ncsymphony.org | 919.733.2750

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2O19/2O SEASON OF CELEBRATION

POPS

MEYMANDI CONCERT HALL, RALEIGH WOOLNER STAGE

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LESLIE ODOM, JR.

FRI/SAT, OCT 18-19, 2019 | 8PM Best known for his Tony-and Grammy Award-winning performance as Aaron Burr in the original cast of Broadway’s Hamilton and his part in the musical TV series Smash, Leslie Odom, Jr. joins the Symphony with a specially-curated selection of Broadway and jazz hits.

Concert Sponsor: Causey Aviation - Private Jet Management POPS 6 EVENING SERIES | PICK YOUR OWN

HOLIDAY POPS

FRI, DEC 13, 2019 | 8PM SAT, DEC 14, 2019 | 3PM & 8PM North Carolina Symphony Children’s Chorus Jeremy Tucker, chorus director

This annual tradition is getting bigger and better and will feature all your festive musical favorites, plus the NCS Children’s Chorus, carolers, falling snow, a sing-a-long, a chorus line of dancing Santas, and a few surprises to make your holiday bright!

POPS 6 EVENING SERIES | 3 MATINEE SERIES | PICK YOUR OWN

The Tony Award-winning star of Hamilton LESLIE ODOM, JR.

MICHAEL CAVANAUGH

GRANT LLEWELLYN, MUSIC DIRECTOR

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THE MUSIC OF ELTON JOHN

FEATURING MICHAEL CAVANAUGH FRI/SAT, JAN 17-18, 2020 | 8PM

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A RODGERS & HAMMERSTEIN CELEBRATION

FRI, MAR 6, 2020 | 8PM SAT, MAR 7, 2020 | 3PM & 8PM Oscar Hammerstein III, host

Cavanaugh, his energetic band, and the North Carolina Symphony will pay tribute to Sir Elton John’s greatest hits, including “Rocket Man,” “Tiny Dancer,” “Candle in the Wind,” “Crocodile Rock,” “Bennie and the Jets,” and more!

Starring Oscar Andy Hammerstein III, grandson of the beloved librettist and lyricist Oscar Hammerstein II, this concert is a favorite for audiences of all ages! You’ll thrill to the legendary team’s brilliant music with songs from their celebrated collaborations such as South Pacific, The Sound of Music, State Fair, The King and I, Carousel, and Oklahoma!

Concert Sponsor: BlueCross BlueShield of NC POPS 6 EVENING SERIES | PICK YOUR OWN

Valentine’s Weekend

POPS 6 EVENING SERIES | 3 MATINEE SERIES | PICK YOUR OWN

SWING IS THE THING

FRI, FEB 14, 2020 | 8PM SAT, FEB 15, 2020 | 3PM & 8PM Dave Bennett, clarinet and vocals Julie Jo Hughes, vocals Stephen Sayer, dancer Chandrae Roettig, dancer Karine Hermes, dancer Hunter Krikac, dancer

Jump, jive, and swing from the 1940s right into the jukebox tunes of the ‘50s and ‘60s with hits like “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy,” “Great Balls of Fire,” and “Rock Around the Clock.” Dancers, vocalists, and clarinet sensation Dave Bennett join in the fun.

POPS 6 EVENING SERIES | 3 MATINEE SERIES | PICK YOUR OWN

An unforgettable cinematic concert experience!

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“STAR WARS: THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK” IN CONCERT FRI/SAT, APR 24-25, 2020 | 8PM

The saga continues with Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back. After the destruction of the Death Star, the Empire has regrouped — with Darth Vader leading the hunt for Luke Skywalker. Don’t miss one of the most popular films of all time shown on the big screen with John Williams’ unforgettable score — from the brassy and foreboding Imperial March to the noble Yoda’s Theme — performed live by the North Carolina Symphony.

Presentation licensed by Disney Concerts in association with 20th Century Fox, Lucasfilm Ltd., and Warner/Chappell Music. © 2019 & TM LUCASFILM LTD. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED © DISNEY

POPS 6 EVENING SERIES | PICK YOUR OWN

Subscribe to all 6 concerts for the best seats at the best prices!

Dates, programs, artists, prices, & venues are subject to change

ncsymphony.org | 919.733.2750

2O19/2O SEASON OF CELEBRATION

YOUNG PEOPLE’S CONCERTS MEYMANDI CONCERT HALL, RALEIGH WOOLNER STAGE

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HALLOWEEN SPOOKTACULAR

THE COMPOSER IS DEAD

BY NATHANIEL STOOKEY WITH TEXT BY LEMONY SNICKET

SAT, OCT 26, 2019 | 1PM & 4PM Wesley Schulz, conductor

This Halloween weekend, help discover who killed the composer, as our detective interrogates each section of the orchestra to determine whodunit. Join us as Lemony Snicket’s popular children’s book The Composer is Dead comes to life with music by Nathaniel Stookey, plus all your Halloween favorites. Enter our costume contest and enjoy a variety of fun activities before show time!

Concert Sponsor: Wegmans

Series Sponsor

Dance with the Symphony!

HAPPY FEET TO A LATIN BEAT

SAT, JAN 4, 2020 | 1PM* & 4PM Platypus Theatre

This interactive concert will bring audiences to their feet and dancing in the aisles when Max — an energetic but impulsive young boy — makes his way onto the stage to “help” the orchestra. Soon Max is on a whirlwind adventure that takes him from the concert hall to the vibrant lands of LatinAmerican culture and music.

SENSORYFRIENDLY CONCERT

Concert Sponsor: Wegmans *Sensory-Friendly Performance A concert designed to create a performing arts experience that is welcoming to all families, including children with autism or other sensory sensitivities.

GRANT LLEWELLYN, MUSIC DIRECTOR

FAIRY TALES & DRAGONS

SAT, APR 4, 2020 | 1PM & 4PM Wesley Schulz, conductor Triangle Youth Ballet

Come dressed as your favorite fairy-tale character or dragon-trainer and enter the magical realm of mystery and imagination with music from beloved tales such as Sleeping Beauty, Frozen, The Sorcerer’s Apprentice, and How to Train your Dragon.

Concert Sponsor: Wegmans

See all three for just $52!* *Price does not include tax

2O19/2O SEASON OF CELEBRATION

FRIDAY FAVORITES MEYMANDI CONCERT HALL, RALEIGH WOOLNER STAGE

ENIGMA VARIATIONS

FRI, SEPT 20, 2019 | NOON Grant Llewellyn, conductor G. Williams: Sea Sketches Elgar: “Enigma” Variations 6 | 3A

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NEW WORLD SYMPHONY

FRI, NOV 15, 2019 | NOON André de Ridder, conductor

Bartók: Selections from Music for Strings, Percussion, and Celesta Dvořák: Symphony No. 9 “From the New World”

Subscribe to all 6 concerts for only $105* That’s just $17.50 a ticket! *Price does not include tax.

Valentine’s Day

SWING IS THE THING

FRI, FEB 14, 2020 | NOON

Dave Bennett, clarinet and vocals Julie Jo Hughes, vocals Stephen Sayer, dancer Chandrae Roettig, dancer Karine Hermes, dancer Hunter Krikac, dancer

Jump, jive, and swing from the 1940s right into the jukebox tunes of the ‘50s and ‘60s with hits like “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy,” “Great Balls of Fire,” and “Rock Around the Clock.” Dancers, vocalists, and clarinet sensation Dave Bennett join in the fun.

6 | 3B

6 | 3B

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Selections From

HANDEL’S MESSIAH

FRI, DEC 6, 2019 | NOON

Grant Llewellyn, conductor Ellie Dehn, soprano Jennifer Johnson Cano, mezzo-soprano Andrew Owens, tenor Federico de Michelis, bass-baritone North Carolina Master Chorale Handel: Selections from Messiah

One of the most inspiring works of music ever conceived, Handel’s masterpiece is full of passion and drama — the perfect way to celebrate the holiday. Don’t miss the iconic, exultant “Hallelujah Chorus” with the North Carolina Symphony and the North Carolina Master Chorale.

6 | 3A

Dates, programs, artists, prices, & venues are subject to change

AN AMERICAN IN PARIS

FRI, MAR 13, 2020 | NOON Grant Llewellyn, conductor

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Selections From

SCHEHERAZADE

FRI, APR 17, 2020 | NOON

Berlioz: Roman Carnival Overture Roussel: Bacchus & Ariadne Gershwin: An American in Paris

Michał Nesterowicz, conductor

6 | 3B

Love and conquest come alive in selections from a colorful, evocative, and descriptive score guaranteed to capture the imagination of everyone — the spectacular showpiece Scheherazade.

Fanny Mendelssohn: Overture in C Major Rimsky-Korsakov: Selections from Scheherazade

6 | 3A

2O19/2O SEASON OF CELEBRATION

SPECIAL EVENT CONCERTS MEYMANDI CONCERT HALL, RALEIGH WOOLNER STAGE

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FAMILY FUN 4 EVERYONE

SENSORY-FRIENDLY CONCERT SAT, SEP 14, 2019 | 1PM Grant Llewellyn, conductor

This concert experience is designed to be welcoming to all families— including children and adults with autism or other sensory sensitivities.

At this one-hour, fun-filled performance, enjoy classical family favorites with your North Carolina Symphony.

SENSORYFRIENDLY CONCERT

This concert is made possible by a grant from The William R. Kenan, Jr. Charitable Trust.

Concert Sponsor: BlueCross BlueShield of NC.

NEW SHOW!

Thanksgiving Week

One Night Only

VIDEO GAMES LIVE

SAT, OCT 5, 2019 | 8PM

Tommy Tallarico, host, creator, and producer

Experience music from the most popular video games of all time with the North Carolina Symphony, featuring MarioTM, ZeldaTM, Halo®, Warcraft®, Final Fantasy®, and more! Gamers and non-gamers alike will be dazzled by synchronized cutting-edge video screen visuals, state-of-the-art lighting, and special on-stage interactive segments.

CIRQUE DE NOEL

WED, NOV 27, 2019 | 3PM FRI, NOV 29, 2019 | 3PM & 7:30PM SAT, NOV 30, 2019 | 3PM

The circus meets the symphony! Stunning aerial feats, mind-boggling contortions, and jaw-dropping juggling acts will take your breath away — and with these awe-inspiring acrobatics accompanied by musical holiday favorites, this event is sure to fill you and your family with the wonder of the season. Come early to meet Santa in the lobby!

Concert Sponsor: BlueCross BlueShield of NC

GRANT LLEWELLYN, MUSIC DIRECTOR

Be sure to ask about family pricing!

HANDEL’S MESSIAH

FRI/SAT, DEC 6-7, 2019 | 8PM Grant Llewellyn, conductor Ellie Dehn, soprano Jennifer Johnson Cano, mezzo-soprano Andrew Owens, tenor Federico de Michelis, bass-baritone North Carolina Master Chorale Handel: Messiah

One of the most inspiring works of music ever written, Handel’s masterpiece is full of passion and drama — the perfect way to celebrate this holiday season.

Don’t miss Handel’s exultant “Hallelujah Chorus” with the North Carolina Symphony and the North Carolina Master Chorale.

An unforgettable cinematic concert experience!

“STAR WARS: THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK” IN CONCERT SUN, APR 26, 2020 | 7PM

The saga continues with Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back. After the destruction of the Death Star, the Empire has regrouped — with Darth Vader leading the hunt for Luke Skywalker. Don’t miss one of the most popular films of all time shown on the big screen with John Williams’ unforgettable score — from the brassy and foreboding Imperial March to the noble Yoda’s Theme — performed live by the North Carolina Symphony.

Presentation licensed by Disney Concerts in association with 20th Century Fox, Lucasfilm Ltd., and Warner/Chappell Music. © 2019 & TM LUCASFILM LTD. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED © DISNEY

BRANFORD MARSALIS

New Year’s Eve

VIENNA WITH A TWIST

TUES, DEC 31, 2019 | 8PM

To welcome 2020, we take you back to the Roaring ‘20s with jazzy Big Band classics that will put the swing in your New Year’s Eve! Plus, the time-honored tradition of Viennese waltzes will make this a night you’ll remember well into the New Year.

Dates, programs, artists, prices, & venues are subject to change

GALA EVENING WITH RENÉE FLEMING, BRANFORD MARSALIS, AND FRIENDS

SAT, MAY 9, 2020 | 7PM

RENÉE FLEMING

Grant Llewellyn, conductor Renée Fleming, soprano Branford Marsalis, saxophone

Secure your seats for this very special one-night-only event when two superstars, Renée Fleming and Branford Marsalis, share the stage with the North Carolina Symphony under the baton of Grant Llewellyn.

ncsymphony.org | 919.733.2750

UNC REX HEALTHCARE PRESENTS

SYMPHONIE FANTASTIQUE AND “PLAY WITH THE PROS”

Four Seasons Weekend!

PIAZZOLLA’S FOUR SEASONS VIVALDI’S FOUR SEASONS

FRI, JUNE 7, 2019 | 7:30PM

SAT, JUNE 8, 2019 | 7:30PM

Symphonie fantastique by Berlioz is a bewitching masterpiece, based on the composer’s dramatic unraveling by unrequited love. Also, see your friends and neighbors on the stage as “citizen musicians” perform with the North Carolina Symphony during “Play with the Pros.”

Copland: El Salón México Piazzolla: The Four Seasons of Buenos Aires Moncayo: Huapango Copland: Three Latin American Sketches Golijov: Last Round Arturo Márquez: Danzón No. 2

Mendelssohn: Overture to A Midsummer Night’s Dream Handel: Suite No. 1 from Water Music Vivaldi: The Four Seasons

Family Fun Event!

Sway to sultry tangos as Argentina’s most famous composer, Piazzolla, paints vivid musical images of his homeland in The Four Seasons of Buenos Aires, featuring Grammy-nominated violinist Jennifer Frautschi.

The playful rhythms, familiar dance tunes, and fiery passion of works by Copland, Márquez, and more will transport you to Latin America in this snappy, sizzling program.

SAT, MAY 25, 2019 | 7:30PM Wesley Schulz, conductor

A SPACE SPECTACULAR

SAT, JUNE 1, 2019 | 7:30PM Keitaro Harada, conductor

The Symphony performs selections from Holst’s The Planets, the Star Wars saga, and more — plus, costumed Star Wars characters from the 501st Legion will be on site for photo opportunities and the Morehead Planetarium will host astronomy fun for all ages.

Concert Sponsor: Residence Inn Raleigh Downtown

Joshua Gersen, conductor Jennifer Frautschi, violin

Joshua Gersen, conductor Jennifer Frautschi, violin

Subscribe now— Lawn Flex 10-pack only $210* That’s just $21 a ticket!

Hurry! This special price ends on May 20, 2019.

In one of the most popular violin concertos ever written, Vivaldi evokes the sounds of the world’s natural wonders — singing birds in springtime, raging summer thunderstorms, autumnal countryside scenes, and the icy beauty of winter.

Mendelssohn echoes Vivaldi’s talent for musical storytelling in his ethereal Overture to A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

Concert Sponsor: Deloitte

CLASSICS UNDER THE STARS

SAT, JUNE 15, 2019 | 7:30PM Wesley Schulz, conductor

Join us under the stars as we share great moments in classical music, with selections by Mozart, Beethoven, and more — including Rossini’s William Tell Overture.

Pack a picnic and enjoy a night out with us.

Concert Sponsor: Galloway Ridge at Fearrington

JENNIFER FRAUTSCHI PRESENTED BY

GRANT LLEWELLYN, MUSIC DIRECTOR

SERIES SPONSORED BY

INSTRUMENT ZOO SPONSORED BY

HOSTED BY

BEN FOLDS

BROADWAY’S GREATEST HITS

SAT, JUNE 22, 2019 | 7:30PM

SAT, JUNE 29, 2019 | 7:30PM

North Carolina native Ben Folds — singer, songwriter, and pianist — performs with the North Carolina Symphony in an electric crossover concert event. Don’t miss your chance to hear him live in concert performing his hits through the years — plus, as always, a few surprises!

Experience the show-stopping tunes you love from Broadway’s biggest hits! Spend an evening with songs from Wicked, The Phantom of the Opera, Chicago, Cats, The Lion King, Les Misérables, Mamma Mia!, and Beauty and the Beast.

Edwin Outwater, conductor

Concert Sponsor: BlueCross BlueShield of NC

Michael Krajewski, conductor Julie Reiber, vocals Rodney Ingram, vocals

Free concert with fireworks!

INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION

THUR, JULY 4, 2019 | 7:30PM Wesley Schulz, conductor Lindsay Kesselman, soprano

A Triangle tradition! Join us for a salute to the red, white, and blue as we honor the birthday of the U.S.A. with patriotic favorites, highspirited classics, and a fireworks display over Symphony Lake.

RUSSIAN NIGHTS

SAT, JULY 6, 2019 | 7:30PM Akiko Fujimoto, conductor

Shostakovich: Festive Overture Borodin: In the Steppes of Central Asia Rimsky-Korsakov: Russian Easter Festival Overture Glinka: Overture to Ruslan & Ludmila Khachaturian: Adagio of Spartacus & Phrygia Tchaikovsky: Waltz & Polonaise from Eugene Onegin Tchaikovsky: 1812 Overture

THE MUSIC OF CHICAGO WITH BRASS TRANSIT

FRI, JULY 12, 2019 | 7:30PM

The legendary band Chicago melded the musical diversity of their beloved city into an iconic sound, with rock ‘n’ roll melodies and unforgettable horns. Together with the Symphony, Chicago tribute band Brass Transit performs hits including “Saturday in the Park,” “25 or 6 to 4,” “If You Leave Me Now,” and “You’re the Inspiration” — to take you back to the most memorable times of your life.

Concert Sponsor: RGA Investments

Presentation

ANNUAL BEACH PARTY STARRING THE EMBERS

SAT, JULY 20, 2019 | 7:30PM

Beach music in your Carolina soul? You won’t want to miss this Summerfest tradition as we welcome The Embers to the stage to make the whole family smile, sing along, and dance on the lawn until the stars come out.

The North Carolina Symphony will not perform at this concert.

Concert Sponsor: Raleigh Windows & Siding

BEN FOLDS THE EMBERS

*Price does not include tax Dates, programs, artists, prices, & venues are subject to change

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SEASON TICKETS

IN PERSON North Carolina Symphony State Headquarters 3700 Glenwood Avenue Suite 130 Raleigh, NC 27612

CLASSICAL SERIES

YOUNG PEOPLE’S SERIES

14-Concert Subscription. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $385 - $770 11-Concert Subscription. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $295 - $610 9-Concert Subscription. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $251 - $485 7-Concert Subscription. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $216 - $411 5-Concert Subscription. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $163 - $249 4-Concert Subscription. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $148 - $217

3-Concert Subscription (choose 1PM or 4PM). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $52

POPS SERIES 6-Concert Evening Subscription. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $230 - $430 5-Pick Your Own Pops Evening Subscription . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $200 - $290 4-Pick Your Own Pops Evening Subscription . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $188 - $236 3-Pick Your Own Pops Evening Subscription . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $138 - $180 3-Concert Matinee Subscription. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $131 - $226

CHOOSE YOUR OWN 4 Vouchers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $187 6 Vouchers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $276 8 Vouchers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $336 Choose Your Own: Choose from Classical, Select Pops*, Friday Favorites, Young People’s Concerts — even select Special Event Concerts* — and save up to 30% off the regular ticket price. Plus, receive the benefits of being a subscriber! Buy at least four vouchers and secure your savings. Mix and match your tickets in any combination. Pick the concerts whenever you’re ready! *Some exclusions and upgrade fees may apply.

Completely customize your pops series with a Pick Your Own package of 3 or more concerts

SUMMERFEST

FRIDAY FAVORITES SERIES

10 Lawn Flex passes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . just $21 each ($210 total) Individual ticket prices. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . range from $32-$53

6-Concert Subscription. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $105 3-Concert Subscription. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $82

SPECIAL EVENT CONCERTS IN RALEIGH FAMILY FUN 4 EVERYONE Thanksgiving Week SENSORY-FRIENDLY CONCERT CIRQUE DE NOEL SAT, SEP 14, 2019 | 1PM

VIDEO GAMES LIVE

SAT, OCT 5, 2019 | 8PM

WED, NOV 27, 2019 | 3PM FRI, NOV 29, 2019 | 3PM & 7:30PM SAT, NOV 30, 2019 | 3PM

Prices do not include sales tax.

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HANDEL’S MESSIAH

FRI/SAT, DEC 6-7, 2019 | 8PM New Year’s Eve

VIENNA WITH A TWIST TUES, DEC 31, 2019 | 8PM

GRANT LLEWELLYN, MUSIC DIRECTOR

“STAR WARS: THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK” IN CONCERT SUN, APR 26, 2020 | 7PM

GALA EVENING WITH RENÉE FLEMING, BRANFORD MARSALIS, AND FRIENDS SAT, MAY 9, 2020 | 7PM

Thank you to the generous individuals, businesses, foundations, and community partners who support the North Carolina Symphony through contributions each season.

CORPORATE SUPPORT $1OO,OOO+ $25,OOO+

$7O,OOO+

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$1O,OOO+

The performances highlighted in this brochure, along with our extensive music education program and community engagement initiatives, are made possible with the combined support of ticket buyers and donors.

Help enrich the lives of North Carolinians through music by adding a gift to your ticket purchase or visiting ncsymphony.org/donate.

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