OKCPHIL Holiday edition program #2 for the 24-25 season

POPS

POPS

Star Wars: Return of the Jedi In Concert NOV 30, 2024

A Very Merry Pops December 6-7, 2024 Featuring Ashley Brown and Tony DeSare PG. 31

Julian Pellicano, guest conductor PG. 25 F O R H O USE N OT E S SEE PAG E 2 3 .

T

H

WELCOME I

R

T

Y - S

I

X

T

H

S

E

A

S

O

N

JERROD SHOUSE, President Oklahoma Philharmonic Society, Inc. Welcome to the Oklahoma City Philharmonic! We are delighted to welcome our loyal season subscribers, our generous philanthropic partners, and our first-time attendees. The magic of tonight’s concert is made possible by year-round effort, dedicated volunteers, and numerous donors. Since ticket sales only cover a portion of our concert expenses, we extend our deepest gratitude to our donors and volunteers for their invaluable support of our mission.

This year marks the 36th season of the OKCPHIL, where we continue to inspire and bring joy to the community through the beauty of orchestral music. We take pride in our legacy and look forward to an exciting future. A crucial part of our vision is to enrich the cultural fabric of our community and to educate future generations about the profound value of music. In pursuit of this vision, the OKCPHIL is more committed than ever to creating programs and concert experiences that unite our entire community.

Thanks to the expertise and passion of our Music Director, Maestro Alexander Mickelthwate, and our dynamic and dedicated staff led by Executive Director, Brent Hart, this season promises something for everyone. Our Classics, Pops, and Discovery concerts are sure to delight audiences of all ages and tastes. We encourage you to invite someone new to join us at a future concert and help us cultivate the audiences of tomorrow.

On behalf of the entire Oklahoma City Philharmonic family, thank you for being here. We invite you to say “hello” to someone you haven’t met before and look forward to seeing you again soon!

GEETIKA VERMA, President Oklahoma City Orchestra League On behalf of the Oklahoma City Orchestra League, we are thrilled to welcome you to another inspiring year of music.

It is an honor to address you as the President of the Orchestra League.

Our league is a testament to the power of music to inspire, unite, and elevate the human spirit. As we embark on this new season, we are committed to fostering a community that celebrates excellence, innovation, and passion in orchestral music. Where words fail, music begins. It touches us emotionally and spiritually, uniting us in shared feeling and experience.

We invite you to join the league and support our musicians, promote educational initiatives, and bring the joy of orchestral performances to audiences far and wide. Thank you for being a part of this vibrant community. Let’s create harmonious and unforgettable experiences in the year ahead.

JAMES HULSEY, President Associate Board On behalf of the Associate Board, welcome to the OKC Philharmonic’s 2024-2025 Season! This season promises a rich tapestry of musical styles that celebrate diverse cultures and geographies, performed by world-class musicians. We are thrilled to present a lineup that ensures every concert is a journey through community and culture, leaving you with a smile each time!

At the OKCPHIL, the Associate Board is dedicated to fostering community, culture, and connectivity, especially among young professionals. We achieve this through the Overture Society, offering concert packages that includes 3-4 concerts paired with engaging social events. Stay connected with us on social media, explore our Overture web page, and join us for what promises to be an exhilarating season!

Thank you for joining us! Your presence and support at our concerts contribute significantly to the vibrant orchestral music scene in our thriving city. Sit back, 7 relax, and enjoy the show!

8

E XECUTIVE DIR ECTOR T

H

I

R

T

Y - S

I

X

T

H

S

E

A

S

O

N

BRENT HART

Dear Friends of the OKCPHIL, On behalf of the entire OKCPHIL family, welcome to our 2024-25 Season! We are thrilled to present another year of incredible performances and programs as we continue to serve our mission of bringing joy and inspiration through orchestral music to our community.

This season’s Classics Series features an array of inspiring programs, showcasing some of the most beloved works in the classical repertoire. Our concerts will feature a diverse range of instruments, including the organ, bagpipes, and sitar, along with beautiful violin performances by the renowned Midori and Sarah Chang. These compositions draw inspiration from nature, various cultures, and the unique sounds of the instruments themselves. We are excited to welcome Misha Dichter at the piano and Cameron Carpenter at the organ, performing extraordinary concertos. To learn more about the Classics programs, join us in the Concert Hall at 7:00 p.m. before each concert.

A highlight of our season is the World Premiere of American Indian Symphony, a new work by Chickasaw composer Jerod Tate. This symphony introduces native stories from different cultural regions across the country. We hope this piece resonates deeply with you and audiences worldwide. Our Classics Series will culminate with Richard Strauss’ Alpine Symphony, promising a breathtaking musical journey for us all.

The Chickasaw Nation Pops Series offers something for everyone, featuring the iconic music of your favorite artists and blockbuster Broadway musicals. Our cherished holiday tradition, A Very Merry Pops, will feature Ashley Brown and Tony DeSare for a soulful celebration of the season. We are also delighted to welcome back the immensely popular Pink Martini, who last captivated us in 2020!

At the Civic Center Music Hall and throughout our region, OKCPHIL remains committed to making music accessible through our Education and Community Engagement programs. From free outdoor orchestral concerts at Scissortail Park to music education programs and Youth Concerts for elementary school students, our initiatives enrich the lives of thousands of Oklahomans of all ages. Our Society of Strings program supports adult amateur string players, and our Young Musician Competition nurtures the talents of budding musicians.

We are deeply grateful for your ongoing loyalty, support, and generosity, which make all of this possible. Your ticket purchases, season subscriptions, and donations of all sizes enable us to deepen our impact on the community in countless ways.

Thank you for listening to our music, believing in our mission, and supporting us. I look forward to seeing you at our concerts throughout the season!

9

MUSIC DIR ECTOR T

H

I

R

T

Y - S

I

X

T

H

S

E

A

S

O

N

ALE XANDER MICKELTHWATE As he prepares for his seventh season leading the Oklahoma City Philharmonic, Maestro Alexander Mickelthwate has become part of the community.

“It’s amazing, and also quite humbling,” Mickelthwate said. “My morning routine usually consists of studying at a local coffee shop. Quite often customers will approach me and say they saw me on television or on the side of a bus. To me, that signifies what we are doing at the OKCPHIL is resonating with the community, and making everyone feel welcome.”

The OKCPHIL has been a source of joy and inspiration for 36 years, enriching Oklahoma and its communities through orchestral music. When Mickelthwate came on board, he brought with him an eagerness to build on the successes of the past and pave the way for the future.

“Oklahoma City should be known as a breeding ground for fun and creativity,” he said. “That’s my thing. In our first season, we were always surprised how the audiences were really open to the contemporary. It’s crazy how embracing the audience is for adventurous, fun new things.”

Born and raised in Frankfurt, Germany, Mickelthwate grew up in a home filled with classical music. He received his degree from the Peabody Institute of Music, and has worked with orchestras in Atlanta, Winnipeg and Los Angeles.

He is Music Director Emeritus of the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra in Canada, and in 2022, accepted the position of Music Director for the prestigious Bear Valley Music Festival in Bear Valley, California. In early 2023, Mickelthwate traveled to Hanoi where he was Guest Conductor at the Vietnam National Symphony Orchestra.

Since he’s been in Oklahoma, Mickelthwate has received numerous awards and honors, including being named three time “The Face of Music” by 405 Magazine. Newspaper OKC Friday named him one of the “Top 50 Most Powerful,” and the Ladies Music Club of Oklahoma City lauded him “Musician of the Year.”

Accolades aside, one of Mickelthwate’s goals is to tell Oklahoma stories through music.

“When I first came to Oklahoma City, I read Sam Anderson’s book, ‘Boom Town,’ and from there I began studying Oklahoma’s colorful history,” he said. “We have so many great stories, and seeing them come to life through music is awe-inspiring. This season, we’ve programmed “World Premiere!” American Indian Symphony by Native American composer Jerod Tate. I want to continue bringing more of these stories to our audiences.”

When he’s not studying music or planning future OKCPHIL concerts, Mickelthwate is Artist in Residence at the University of Central Oklahoma where he enjoys working with the next generation of musicians, and conducting UCO’s symphony orchestra. After the music is over Mickelthwate loves spending time with his two sons, trying to beat them at ping pong, creating adventurous new recipes or improvising together on piano and guitar.

“My personal philosophy is that music has a way of reaching us in a way nothing else does,” Mickelthwate said. “It goes deep inside, creating and facilitating beauty in a harsh world. We want the Oklahoma City Philharmonic to be meaningful, to be fun and a place where we are all one. I have often said we feel the love, Oklahoma City. And we are giving it right back.

11

A S S O C I AT E C O N D U C T O R T

H

I

R

T

Y - S

I

X

T

H

S

E

A

S

O

N

DR . SHANTI SIMON Associate Conductor Dr. Shanti Simon joined the OKCPHIL team in September 2023, programming and conducting the Discovery Family Series concerts. Her engaging personality and lively programming resonate with children of all ages. She also conducts Youth Concerts for elementary school field trips at the Civic Center Music Hall, where thousands of students are captivated by hearing familiar songs performed by a live orchestra. Dr. Simon captures their full attention. This season, she will make her Pops debut conducting “Defying Gravity: Stephen Schwartz & Friends.”

“The OKCPHIL is a world-class orchestra and it is an honor to join this team of engaging professional musicians. We love sharing music with young people in a setting that resonates with their world view. Kids naturally move and engage with music in an uninhibited, inspiring way. They remind us professionals why we got into music in the first place – because music speaks to our souls deeply beyond the boundaries that words can reach. Music makes us want to move, to dance, and to sing. We are looking forward to an exciting season with you and the kids of all ages in your lives!,” said Simon.

In addition to her work with the OKCPHIL, Dr. Simon is the Director of Bands at the University of Oklahoma where she conducts the Wind Symphony and leads the graduate wind conducting program. Prior to joining the faculty at OU, Dr. Simon was the Flight Commander and Associate Conductor with The United States Air Force Academy Band in Colorado Springs. Before moving to Colorado, Simon served as Flight Commander and Associate Conductor with The United States Air Force Band in Washington, D.C., where she conducted performances in the national capital region and around the country including the 2011 National Tree Lighting Ceremony with the Airmen of Note, hosted by President Obama and the First Family. Dr. Simon was on the faculty of Shenandoah Conservatory as the Associate Director of Bands for the 20132014 academic year. In 2016, she deployed to the Middle East with the United States Air Force Central Command bands as the Officer-In-Charge, overseeing musical troop-support, community-outreach and partnership-building missions in seven countries.

Before joining the Air Force, Dr. Simon earned her MM and DMA degrees in conducting from the University of Minnesota where she studied with Craig Kirchhoff. She received her BME and BM degrees from Stetson University with Bobby Adams. Hailing from Florida, Simon served as the Associate Director of Bands at Vero Beach High School for four years, where her ensembles consistently earned top ratings in all areas of district and state assessment. Simon is active nationally and internationally as a guest conductor and clinician.

13

O K L A H O M A P H I L H A R M O N I C S O C I E T Y, I N C P R O V I D I N G

I N S P I R A T I O N

A N D

J O Y

T H R O U G H

O R C H E S T R A L

M U S I C

THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OFFICERS

LIFETIME DIRECTORS

Jerrod Shouse President

Jane B. Harlow Patrick Alexander

Jim Roth President Elect

DIRECTORS

Debbie McKinney Vice President Louise Cleary Cannon Treasurer Jennifer Schultz Kouandjio Secretary Jane Jayroe Gamble Immediate Past President

Tracey Budz Robert Clements Lawrence H. Davis Kevin Dunnington Joy Hammons Kirk Hammons Honorable Jerome A. Holmes James Hulsey Debra Kos

Kristian Kos Tom Lerum Matt Paque Craig Perry Sam Rainbolt Robert Ruiz Kelly Sachs Amalia Miranda Silverstein Doug Stussi Geetika Verma Evan Walter Travis Weedn Wendi Wilson

ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF John Allen General Manager

Jared Davis Patron Services Lead

Joel Levine Archivist/Historian

Jose Batty Music Librarian

Kate Furney Marketing Associate

Clint Moore Guest Artist Liaison

Austin Bewley Data Analyst

Daniel Hardt Finance Director

Mason Board Graphic Design and Digital Marketing Coordinator

Brent Hart Executive Director

Jenni Shrum Marketing and Public Relations Director

Blossom Crews Director of Development

Judy Hill Office Manager Chase Kerby Education Manager

Hannah Stewart Development Manager Valorie Tatge Orchestra Personnel Manager

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Classical KUCO 90.1 Morningstar Properties

Oklahoma City Police Association George Ryan

Stubble Creative, Inc. The Skirvin Hotel

Titan AVL

PHOTOGRAPHERS: Michael Anderson, Jesse Edgar Photography, Simon Hurst, and Shevaun Williams and Associates

THE OKLAHOMA PHILHARMONIC SOCIETY, INC. 424 Colcord Drive, Ste. B • Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73102 Tickets: (405) 842-5387 • Administration: (405) 232-7575 • Fax: (405) 232-4353 • www.okcphil.org

15

A F F I L I AT E D PA R T N E R S

Providing Leadership and Annual Support The Oklahoma City Philharmonic Foundation was established to provide leadership and endowment expertise to help ensure a stable financial base for orchestral music and musical excellence in Oklahoma City for generations to come.

Distributions from the Oklahoma City Philharmonic Foundation provide a meaningful and secure source of annual income for the Philharmonic’s operations, continually confirming the importance of endowment in an organization’s long-range planning and overall success.

Current officers and directors of the Oklahoma City Philharmonic Foundation are: OFFICERS

DIRECTORS

Douglas J. Stussi, President Charles E. Wiggin, First Vice President Jeff Starling, Second Vice President Louise Cleary Cannon, Treasurer Alice Pippin, Secretary

Steven C. Agee Patrick B. Alexander J. Edward Barth L. Joe Bradley Andre’ B. Caldwell Teresa L. Cooper Paul Dudman Jane Jayroe Gamble Mischa Gorkuscha

Jane B. Harlow Jean A. Hartsuck Michael E. Joseph Duke R. Ligon Penny McCaleb Erik Salazar Patrick E. Randall, II Richard Tanenbaum

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

OFFICERS

Geetika Verma President

James Hulsey President Desiree Singer Immediate Past President Mady Hendryx President-Elect Daniel Karami Secretary Kelsey Karper Marketing Chair Ashleigh Robinson Social Chair Members:

Debra Kos Immediate Past President Rachael Geiger President-Elect Orchestra League Office 424 Colcord Dr., Ste. B Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73102 Phone: (405) 232-7575 Fax: (405) 232-4353 e-mail: league@okcphil.org

Piper Allred Ragan Franklin 16

THE ORCHESTRA T

H

I

R

T

Y - S

I

X

T

H

S

E

A

S

O

N

ALEXANDER MICKELTHWATE, Music Director and Conductor JOEL LEVINE, Founder and Music Director Emeritus BRENT HART, Executive Director FIRST VIOLIN Marat Gabdullin, Acting Concertmaster, Gertrude Kennedy Chair Densi Rushing, Assistant Concertmaster Hong Zhu Beth Sievers Min Jung Kim Juan Moreno Ashley Cooper Halilu Zhang Lu Deng Lok-Hin Cheng SECOND VIOLIN Chandler Fadero, Principal, McCasland Foundation Chair Angélica Pereira, Assistant Principal Sophia Ro Sarah Sanford Brown Corbin Mace Catherine Reaves, Assistant Principal Emeritus Audrey Lee Yajing (Cindy) Zhang Paulo Eskitch VIOLA Royce McLarry, Principal Mark Neumann, Assistant Principal Joseph Guevara Kelli Ingels Steve Waddell Donna Cain Brian Frew CELLO Jonathan Ruck, Principal, Orchestra League Chair Kevin Flynn, Assistant Principal Valorie Tatge Emily Stoops Jim Shelley Angelika Machnik-Jones

Jean Statham Samantha Kerns

Mirella Gable* Matt Reynolds

BASS Anthony Stoops, Principal Larry Moore, Assistant Principal Christine Craddock Mark Osborn Taylor Dawkins DoYoun Kim

TRUMPET Karl Sievers, Principal Jay Wilkinson Michael Anderson

FLUTE Valerie Watts, Principal Parthena Owens Nancy Stizza-Ortega

TROMBONE Philip Martinson, Principal Hope Bellows John Allen, Bass Trombone TUBA Ted Cox, Principal

PICCOLO Nancy Stizza-Ortega

TIMPANI Jamie Whitmarsh, Principal

OBOE Lisa Harvey-Reed, Principal Rachel Maczko Katherine Casto

PERCUSSION Patrick Womack, Principal Stephanie Krichena Roger Owens

ENGLISH HORN Rachel Maczko

HARP Gaye LeBlanc, Principal

CLARINET Bradford Behn, Principal Tara Heitz James Meiller

PIANO Peggy Payne, Principal *on leave for 2024-25 season

BASS/E-FLAT CLARINET James Meiller BASSOON Rod Ackmann, Principal James Brewer Tyler Van Zuiden CONTRABASSOON Tyler Van Zuiden

PRODUCTION STAFF John Allen, General Manager Valorie Tatge, Personnel Manager Jose Batty, Librarian Clint Moore, Guest Artist Liaison Ken Dines, Stage Crew Leader

HORN Kate Pritchett, Principal, G. Rainey Williams Chair James Rester*

17

T

H

E

PL ANNED GIVING P

H

I

L

H

A

R

M

O

N

I

C

S

O

C

I

E

T

Y ,

I

N

C

.

The Oklahoma Philharmonic Society, Inc. is honored to recognize its Encore Society members — visionary thinkers who have provided for the future of the Oklahoma City Philharmonic through their estate plans.

Anonymous (3)

Joel Levine and Don Clothier

Steven C. Agee, Ph.D.

John and Caroline Linehan

Linda and Patrick Alexander

Mr. and Mrs. Marvin C, Lunde, Jr.

Gary and Jan Allison

Mrs. Jackie Marron

Louise Cleary Cannon

Mr. and Mrs. John McCaleb

Mr. and Mrs. Robert H. Clements

Mrs. Jean McLaughlin

Thomas and Rita Dearmon

W. Cheryl Moore

Dr. and Mrs. James D. Dixson

Carl Andrew Rath

Dr. Ralph and Lois Ganick

Mrs. Cathy Reaves

Hugh Gibson

Mrs. Lil Ross

Pam and Gary Glyckherr

Dr. Lois Salmeron

Carey and Gayle Goad

Mr. and Mrs. William F. Shdeed

Ms. Olivia Hanson

Doug and Susie Stussi

Jane B. Harlow

Larry and Leah Westmoreland

Dr. and Mrs. James Hartsuck

Mr. John S. Williams

Mr. and Mrs. Michael E. Joseph

Mrs. Carolyn Zachritz

THANK YOU The Oklahoma Philharmonic Society, Inc. is grateful for the support of caring patrons who want to pass on a legacy of extraordinary music to future generations. You can join this special group of music enthusiasts by including a gift for the OKC Philharmonic’s future in your own will or estate plan. For more information on how to become an Encore Society member, contact the Philharmonic’s Development Office at (405) 232-7575.

18

M E E T O U R FA M I LY THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE MUSIC

MAT THEW RE YNOLDS

KATE FURNE Y

French Horn OKCPHIL Musician

Marketing Associate OKCPHIL Staff

Hello! My name is Matthew Reynolds and I am the 4th French Horn for the OKCPHIL and Assistant Professor of Horn at the University of Oklahoma. My college horn professors were Jeffrey Powers (retired) at Baylor University, Dr. Nicholas Smith (retired) at Wichita State University, and Dr. Kristy Morrell at the University of Southern California.

Hello! My name is Kate, and I was born and raised in Dallas, Texas. I didn’t arrive in Oklahoma until I moved here to attend the University of Oklahoma. I received my bachelor’s degree with a major in Creative Media Production and a minor in Entrepreneurship. While I was in school, I was heavily involved in multiple student and professional groups. After graduation, I decided that Oklahoma City was the place for me.

I have also played with many other professional orchestras such as the Tulsa Symphony, Wichita Symphony, Waco Symphony, Wichita Grand Opera, Downey Symphony, and Los Angeles Doctors Symphony, just to name a few. I am also a freelance musician, performing in smaller groups such as church services, recording projects, pop gigs, and more.

Before my teaching position at OU, I taught private lessons to students of all ages for 10 years, and continue to do so in my free time. During my time at OU so far, I have been a featured soloist with the Symphony Band at OU, was invited as a guest artist at the 2024 Midsouth Horn Conference and 2024 International Horn Symposium, and have also been invited to perform and give masterclasses at several universities such as the University of LouisianaMonroe and University of Arkansas.

I’m a huge film nerd, and it’s amazing to see how a great score can bring a film to life. So, when I saw there was an open position in marketing at the OKC Philharmonic, I knew it would be the perfect place for me! I love the work we do and the team that makes it all happen.

Outside of the office, I’m usually pretty busy either keeping up with friends or perfecting my newest hobby.

I enjoy video games, reading, and baking, as well as volleyball and dance!

19

G I F T S TO T H E P H I L The Oklahoma City Philharmonic gratefully acknowledges the commitment and generosity of individuals, corporations, foundations, and government agencies that support our mission. To help us provide inspiration and joy to the community through live orchestral performances and a variety of education and community engagement programs, please contact the Philharmonic’s Development Office at (405) 232-7575.

This Annual Fund recognition reflects contributions made in the 2024-25 Season through October 7, 2024.

If your name has been misspelled or omitted, please accept our apologies and inform us of the error by calling the phone number listed above. Thank you for your generous support!

Providing leadership support.

UNDERWRITER $25,000 - $49,999 Dr. Margaret Freede-Owens and Daniel Owens Dr. Amalia Silverstein E.L. and Thelma Gaylord Foundation Oklahoma City Philharmonic Foundation Robert Glenn Rapp Foundation The Ann Lacy Foundation GUARANTOR $10,000 - $24,999 Linda and Patrick Alexander Lawrence H. & Ronna C. Davis

Gerald Gamble and Jane Jayroe Gamble Jane B. Harlow Barbara and Edward Krei Joel Levine and Don Clothier Larry and Polly Nichols The Salmeron Family Susie and Doug Stussi John Walker Ad Astra Foundation American Fidelity Foundation Devon Energy Corporation OG&E Oklahoma City Community Foundation W&W Steel, LLC

BENEFACTOR $5,000 - $9,999 Steven C. Agee, Ph.D. Margaret and John Biggs Dr. and Mrs. L. Joe Bradley Martha and Ronnie Bradshaw Louise Cleary Cannon and Gerry Cannon Mr. and Mrs. Robert H. Clements Terri Cooper Mr. David Daugherty Darleene Harris Ruth Mershon Fund Glenna and Dick Tanenbaum Clements Foods Foundation Mekusukey Oil Company, LLC

CORPORATIONS, FOUNDATIONS & GOVERNMENT AGENCIES

20

SUSTAINERS $2,500 - $4,999

ASSOCIATES $1,500 - $2,499

Oklahoma Allergy & Asthma Clinic Oklahoma Craft Omni Hotels

AEIOU Foundation Dr. Elliott Schwartz and Pam Shanklin Bank of Oklahoma M.V. Williams Foundation Inc.

G I F T S TO T H E P H I L INDIVIDUALS

Providing essential support for the Annual Fund.

SUSTAINER $2,500-$4,999 Anonymous Albert and Virginia Aguilar Dr. and Mrs. Dewayne Andrews Dr. and Mrs. John C. Andrus Mr. J. Edward Barth Betty D. Bellis-Mankin Donna and Nels Bentson Dr. and Mrs. Philip C. Bird Robert and Karen Browne Family Fund Phil G. and Cathy Busey Mr. and Mrs. David C. DeLana Mr. Sidney G. Dunagan Druanne and David Durrett Dr. Thurma J. Fiegel Mr. and Mrs. Joseph M. Fleckinger Fred and Karen Hall Kirk Hammons Dr. James Hartsuck Colonel (ret.) Dean and Mrs. Jeanne Jackson Tom and Cindy Janssen Kathy and Terry Kerr Tom and Jane Lerum Mari Cook Medley Mr. Charles Oppenheim Phil and Alice Pippin Jerry and Jan Plant Mr. H.E. Rainbolt Mr. Larry Reed Mrs. Lil Ross Ernesto and Lin Sanchez Dr. and Mrs. Hal Scofield Jeff and Kim Short John and Katherine Spaid Mr. and Mrs. John E. Stonecipher John Stuemky and James Brand Billie Thrash Janie Pryor Tubb Mrs. June Tucker Dr. James and Mrs. Elizabeth Wise Ms. Jeanise Wynn

ASSOCIATE $1,500 - $2,499 Nancy and Louis Almaraz

Ms. Beth M. Alonso Zonia Armstrong Dr. Mary Zoe Baker Dr. Sterling and Cheryl Baker Mr. J. Edward Barth Dr. and Mrs. William L. Beasley William Beck Nick and Betsy Berry Dr. and Mrs. Charles Bethea Bart Binning Dr. Robert and Kristin Blakeburn Ms. Pamela Bloustine Mike and Dawn Borelli Mr. and Mrs. Del Boyles Mrs. Phyllis L. Brawley Mrs. Carole S. Broughton Mr. and Mrs. Pete Brown William Cameron J. Christopher and Ruth Carey Ms. Janice B. Carmack Drs. Fong Chen and Helen Chiou Mrs. Nancy Coleman Cynthia Cortright Patricia Czerwinski Chuck Darr William E. Davis and Margaret H. Davis - Charles and Libbi Davis Legacy Fund Ms. Vickie Dennis Gary and Fran Derrik Mr. Joel Dixon Dr. Matthew Draelos and Mrs. Jenie Draelos Nancy Payne Ellis Dr. and Mrs. Royice B. Everett Paul and Debbie Fleming Mr. and Mrs. Kelly George Natalie Kurkjian and Christopher Geyer Mrs. Ann Felton Gilliland Mr. Kent Graham Dr. Stephen Hamilton and Dr. Pamela Craven Hamilton David and Sandra Haskett Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence K. Hellman Walt and Jean Hendrickson Frank and Bette Jo Hill Mr. and Mrs. Joe R. Homsey, Jr. Thomas and Elizabeth Hrubik Leslie and Cliff Hudson

David and Vicki Hunt Ashley Hurley Mary L. Jarvis Mr. and Mrs. Carlos Johnson Zach Johnson Kim and Michael Joseph Mike and Kay Kellogg Drs. Dan and Diana Kennedy Aaron and Jennifer Ketter David Kinnard Debra Klingenhoffer Debra and Kristian Kos Mike and Kay Lacey Richard and Dr. Barbara Masters William and Oxana Matthey Mr. and Mrs. John A. McCaleb Cindy and Johnny McCharen Debbie McKinney John and Anna McMillin Robert and Kathy Mendez Sandra Meyers Tom and Katherine Milam Peggy and Tom Miller Betsy Mitschke and Steven Helt Dustin and Krystal Murer Dr. Gene L. Muse Steven Newell and Deborah Naylor Edward Oliver and Harriet Lord Kathleen Oliver Fatima Abrantes-Pais Deann Merrit Parham Mrs. Pat Potts Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth R. Rees Tracey Romberger Donald Rowlett Patricia and Larry Sanford Maria and Fred Schmitt Mary and John Seward Emma and John Shelton Robert and Susan Shoemaker Jamie and Jerrod Shouse Rick and Amanda Smith Donald J. Smock, M.A. Susan Sutter Mr. James Taylor Michelle Tompkins Robert and Sharon Varnum Tony and Pam Dela Vega Drs. Bobby and Geetika Verma Mrs. Judie Webb CONTINUED ON PAGE 39

21

H O U SE N OT E S T

H

I

R

T

Y - S

I

X

T

H

S

E

A

S

O

N

RESTROOMS are conveniently located on all levels of the theater. Please ask your usher for guidance.

LATECOMERS and those who exit the theater during the performance may be seated during the first convenient pause, as determined by the management.

ELECTRONIC DEVICES must be turned off and put away during the performance (no calling, texting, photo or video use please).

BEVERAGES: Bottled water is permitted in the theater at the Classics Series concerts. Beverages are permitted in the theater at the Pops Series concerts; however, bringing coffee into the theater is discouraged due to the aroma.

SMOKING in the Civic Center Music Hall is prohibited. The Oklahoma City Philharmonic promotes a fragrance-free environment for the convenience of our patrons.

FIRE EXITS are located on all levels and marked accordingly. Please note the nearest exit for use in case of an emergency.

ELEVATORS are located at the south end of the atrium lobby of the Civic Center Music Hall.

CHILDREN of all ages are welcome at the Philharmonic Discovery Family Series and Holiday Pops performances; however, in consideration of the patrons, musicians and artists, those under five years of age will not be admitted to evening Classics and Pops concerts unless otherwise noted.

BOOSTER SEATS for children are available in the Civic Center lobby. Please inquire at the Box Office.

STUDENT RUSH TICKETS are available with a high school or university I.D. and email address at the box office 1 hour prior to the start of each Philharmonic performance. Or may be purchased online the Wednesday prior to each concert for $11. Limit: 2 tickets per I.D. Tickets are offered based on availability only and seats may be located throughout the theatre.

VIDEO MONITORS are located in the lobby for your convenience.

WHEELCHAIR AVAILABLE SEATING – Persons using wheelchairs or with walking and climbing difficulties will be accommodated when possible. Those wishing to use the designated wheelchair sections may purchase the wheelchair space and a companion seat. Please inform the Philharmonic or Civic Center Box Office staff of your need when ordering tickets so that you may be served promptly and appropriately. Please request the assistance of hall ushers to access wheelchair seating.

HEARING LOOPS have been installed. Ask your audiologist to activate the telecoil in your hearing aid or cochlear implant. Due to the mechanics of the stage, the hearing loops do not reach the pit section but are available at the Box Office and the Thelma Gaylord Performing Arts Theatre. The copper wire in the floor and telecoil work together to connect the hearing device to the theater’s sound system using a magnetic field which dramatically improves sound clarity for patrons using hearing devices.

LOST & FOUND is located in the Civic Center office (405-594-8300) weekdays 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

PHILHARMONIC TICKET OFFICE may be contacted by calling 405-TIC-KETS (405-842-5387) or you can visit the Philharmonic Ticket Office located on the first floor of the Arts District Garage at 424 Colcord Drive in Suite B. The Philharmonic Ticket Office is open Monday through Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and by phone on concert Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

CIVIC CENTER BOX OFFICE hours are Monday through Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and two hours prior to each performance. (405-594-8300) ARTISTS, PROGRAMMING, AND DATES SUBJECT TO CHANGE.

23

JOHN WILLIAMS STAR WARS: RETURN OF THE JEDI IN CONCERT Feature Film with Orchestra

N O V E M B E R

3 0 ,

2 0 2 4 ,

2 : 0 0

A N D

8 : 0 0

P . M .

JULIAN PELLICANO, CONDUCTOR

© 1983 & TM LUCASFILM LTD

Presentation licensed by Disney Concerts in association with 20th Century Fox Film Corp., Lucasfilm Ltd., and Warner/Chappell Music. © All rights reserved.

THERE WILL BE ONE INTERMISSION

THANK YOU TO

POPS SERIES SPONSOR

25

S T A R

W A R S :

CREDITS

R E T U R N

O F

T H E

J E D I

I N

C O N C E R T

Star Wars Film Concert Series Star Wars: Return of the Jedi Starring Mark Hamill Harrison Ford Carrie Fisher Billy Dee Williams Anthony Daniels As C-3po

Co-Starring David Prowse Kenny Baker Peter Mayhew Frank Oz

Directed by

Richard Marquand

Produced by

Howard Kazanjian

Screenplay by

Lawrence Kasdan and George Lucas

Story by

George Lucas

Executive Producer George Lucas

Music by

John Williams MPAA PG Rating

Presentation Licensed by

Original Motion Picture Soundtrack available at Disneymusicemporium.com

26

S T A R

COMPOSER

W A R S :

R E T U R N

O F

T H E

J E D I

I N

C O N C E R T

JOHN WILLIAMS In a career spanning more than six decades, John Williams has become one of America’s most accomplished and successful composers for film and the concert stage. He remains one of our nation’s most distinguished and contributive musical voices. He has composed the music for more than one hundred films, including all nine Star Wars films, the first three Harry Potter films, Schindler’s List, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, Jaws, Jurassic Park, Saving Private Ryan, Lincoln, Close Encounters of the Third Kind, Superman and the Indiana Jones films. He served as music director of the Boston Pops Orchestra for fourteen seasons and remains their Laureate Conductor. He has composed numerous works for the concert stage including two symphonies and more than a dozen concertos commissioned by some of America’s most prominent orchestras. He has received five Academy Awards and fifty-four Oscar nominations, seven British Academy Awards, twenty-five Grammys, four Golden Globes, and five Emmys. His other honors include the Kennedy Center Honors, the National Medal of Arts, an honorary KBE from Queen Elizabeth II, the Life Achievement Award from the American Film Institute, Spain’s Princess of Asturias Award for the Arts, and the Gold Medal from the UK’s prestigious Royal Philharmonic Society.

27

G U E S T C O N D U C TO R

S T A R

W A R S :

R E T U R N

O F

T H E

J E D I

I N

C O N C E R T

JULIAN PELLICANO Known for his versatility across a broad spectrum of genres, dynamic interpretations and meticulous technique, American-Canadian conductor Julian Pellicano has been recently appointed to the conducting staff of the National Ballet of Canada and is Music Director and Principal Conductor of Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet. Bringing an incisive musicality and collaborative spirit to every performance, he has built a wide-ranging international career leading the Winnipeg Free Press to proclaim that “his versatility is truly astonishing.”

Associate conductor of the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra from 2013 - 2024, Julian conducted hundreds of performances on all of the orchestra’s various series, contributed to the development of the orchestra’s programming and established himself in the community as an ambassador for the WSO. As a guest he has conducted orchestras and ballet companies across North America and abroad.

Highly experienced with live-to-film performances, Mr. Pellicano’s film project credits encompass more than 25 titles including many legendary films scored by John Williams, recent blockbusters, and classic films of the “Golden Age” of Hollywood.

Julian Pellicano studied conducting at the Yale School of Music with Shinik Hahm and he studied percussion at the Peabody Conservatory, the Royal College of Music in Stockholm, Sweden, and at the Yale School of Music. As a percussionist, he has performed in concert halls and festivals in North America, Europe and Asia. He also holds a degree in philosophy from The Johns Hopkins University.

28

S T A R

W A R S :

CREDITS

R E T U R N

O F

T H E

J E D I

I N

C O N C E R T

Star Wars Film Concert Series Star Wars: Return of the Jedi Production Credits President, Disney Music Group Ken Bunt SVP/GM, Disney Concerts Chip McLean Supervising Technical Director Alex Levy – Epilogue Media Film Preparation Ramiro Belgardt Business Affairs, Lucasfilm Rhonda Hjort Chris Holm For Booking Inquires: Emily.Yoon@TeamWass.com

Music Preparation Mark Graham Matthew Voogt JoAnn Kane Music Service Disney Music Library Operations, Disney Concerts Brannon Fells Royd Haston Marketing & Publicity Lisa Linares Lillian Matulic

VP, Disney Concerts Gina Lorscheider Business Affairs, Disney Concerts Darryl Franklin Leigh Zeichick Neiloofar Sajedi Narine Minasian Elena Contreras Addison Granillo Christy Swintek Svetlana Tzaneva Business Affairs, Warner-Chappell Scott McDowell

29

A VER Y MERR Y POPS D E C E M B E R 6, 2 0 2 4 , 8 : 0 0 P. M .

•

D E C E M B E R 7, 2 0 2 4 , 2 : 0 0 P. M . A N D 8 : 0 0 P. M .

ALEXANDER MICKELTHWATE, CONDUCTOR

Featuring Ashley Brown and Tony DeSare

THIS CONCERT IS GENEROUSLY SPONSORED BY:

Pre-Concert lobby entertainment generously provided by “VOICES” under the direction of J. Mark Taylor.

31

PROGRAM

A VERY MERRY POPS

Featuring Ashley Brown and Tony DeSare program to be chosen from the following

A Christmas Festival Tactus

Most Wonderful Time of the Year Ashley Brown & Tony DeSare

Winter Wonderland

Ashley Brown & Tony DeSare

I Wonder as I Wander Ashley Brown

Santa Claus is Comin to Town Tony DeSare

Secret of Christmas Ashley Brown

Deck the Halls Tony DeSare

Let it Snow

Ashley Brown & Tony DeSare

Kris Kringle’s Okie Jingles

Race Dance Collective’s Red Dirt Tap Company

Happy Holidays/It’s the Holiday Season Ashley Brown & Tony DeSare

Baby It’s Cold Outside

Ashley Brown & Tony DeSare

Sleigh Ride Tony DeSare

Christmas for You and Me Tony DeSare

12 Days of Christmas Holiday Hits

Ashley Brown & Tactus

21 Versions of Jingle Bells Tony DeSare

O Holy Night

Ashley Brown & Tactus

Jingle Jangle Sing Along

Ashley Brown & Tony DeSare

Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas 32

Ashley Brown & Tony DeSare

GUEST ARTIST A

V E R Y

M E R R Y

P O P S

A SHLE Y BROWN Ashley Brown originated the title role in Mary Poppins on Broadway, for which she received Outer Critics, Drama League, and Drama Desk nominations for Best Actress. Ms. Brown also starred in the national tour of Mary Poppins, garnering a Garland award for “Best Performance in a Musical.” Ms. Brown’s other Broadway credits include Belle in The Beauty and The Beast and the national tour of Disney’s On The Record. Ms. Brown most recently starred as Mother Abbess in multiple Tony Award-winning director Jack O’Brien’s new production of The Sound of Music. Starring in the Lyric Opera of Chicago’s production of Oklahoma brought her further critical acclaim. She previously played Magnolia opposite Nathan Gunn in Francesca Zembello’s Showboat at the Lyric Opera of Chicago. Ms. Brown has performed with virtually all of the top orchestras in North America, including the Boston Pops, the New York Philharmonic, The Hollywood Bowl Orchestra at Disney Hall, The Pittsburgh Symphony, the New York Pops at Carnegie Hall (five times), Fort Worth Symphony, the Cincinnati Pops, Philadelphia Orchestra (two times), the Milwaukee Symphony, the Indianapolis Symphony (three times), Seattle Symphony, the Houston Symphony, Vancouver Symphony, Jacksonville (twice), and the Philly Pops. She has also performed with the BBC orchestra opposite Josh Groban. Ms. Brown made her solo concert debut at The Kennedy Center as part of Barbara Cook’s Spotlight Series, and has appeared in New York City at prestigious venues including Feinstein’s at the Regency and Birdland. Other projects include star turns in The Golden Apple at City Center Encores, Hello Dolly at The Goodspeed Opera House, The Sound of Music at the St. Louis MUNY (for which she won a Kevin Kline award), Limelight at the La Jolla Playhouse, and her own PBS special entitled “Ashley Brown: Call Me Irresponsible,” which received a PBS Telly Award. Other television credits include NBC’s The Sound of Music. Ms. Brown is the voice of Disneyland’s 60th anniversary celebrations, singing the newly-penned Richard Sherman song “A Kiss Goodnight.” Both Ms. Brown’s album of Broadway and American Songbook standards “Speak Low” and her newly recorded Christmas EP “The Secret of Christmas” are available on Ghostlight/Warner Brothers. Ms. Brown is a graduate of the Cincinnati Conservatory of Music.

33

GUEST ARTIST A

V E R Y

M E R R Y

P O P S

TONY DES ARE Tony DeSare performs with infectious joy, wry playfulness and robust musicality. Named a Rising Star Male Vocalist in Downbeat magazine, DeSare has lived up to this distinction by winning critical and popular acclaim for his concert performances throughout North America and abroad. From jazz clubs to Carnegie Hall to Las Vegas headlining with Don Rickles and major symphony orchestras, DeSare has brought his fresh take on old school class around the globe. DeSare has four top ten Billboard jazz albums under his belt and has been featured on the CBS Early Show, NPR, A Prairie Home Companion, the Today Show and his music has been posted by social media celebrity juggernaut, George Takei. DeSare has also collaborated with YouTube icons Postmodern Jukebox. DeSare’s Lush Life recording, debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard Traditional Jazz Chart and he released Song Diaries Vol. 2 in early 2022, now streaming on all platforms.

Notwithstanding his critically acclaimed turns as a singer/pianist, DeSare is also an accomplished award-winning composer. He not only won first place in the USA Songwriting Contest, but has written the theme song for the motion picture, My Date with Drew, several broadcast commercials and has composed the full soundtracks for the Hallmark Channel’s Love Always, Santa, Lifetime’s Nanny Nightmare and Lifetime’s new A Welcome Home Christmas. His sound is romantic, swinging and sensual, but what sets DeSare apart is his ability to write original material that sounds fresh and contemporary, yet pays homage to the Great American Songbook. His compositions include a wide-range of romantic, funny, and soulful sounds that can be found on his top-selling recordings.

DeSare’s forthcoming appearances include the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, Houston Symphony, Nashville Symphony, Virginia Symphony and Artis-Naples/Naples Philharmonic.

DeSare releases new recordings, videos of standards and new originals regularly on his YouTube channel, Apple Music and Spotify. Follow Tony on Facebook, Instagram and subscribe on YouTube to stay connected.

Tony DeSare is a Yamaha Artist.

34

GUEST ARTIST A

V E R Y

M E R R Y

P O P S

RACE DANCE COLLECTIVE RACE Dance Collective is a 501c3 nonprofit whose mission is to ignite social awareness and change through dance performance, education, and community engagement. Established in 2008, RACE has redefined the traditional dance company model by integrating professional dancers and recreational adult movers throughout its community into its comprehensive programming. This approach ensures that individuals of all skill levels can benefit from and engage with dance to support an inclusive and more connected community. Since its founding, RACE has produced over 40 full-length performances, including the popular holiday event RACE’s Hip-Hop Nutcracker. RACE productions have engaged over 10,000 audience members and employed over 500 local artists, while its community dance studio, RACE the Space, provides over 500 classes annually to over 3,200 dance enthusiasts across the metro.

Tonight’s performance features RACE Dance Collective’s Red Dirt Tap Company: Megan Murry Sheri Hayden Emily Paige Cleek Judge Kabrick Ashlee Harder Ira McCurry Choreographed by Megan Murry and Shery Hayden

TACTUS Tactus Chamber Orchestra & Vocal Ensemble is dedicated to providing concert experiences that are engaging, exciting and inspiring. Rooted in the classical tradition, Tactus performs great music on innovative concert programs with repertoire including music that is more than a thousand years old as well as music that is brand new. With a flexible roster of professional artists from Oklahoma and around the country, Tactus builds its ensembles around the music of a given concert, allowing for flexibility, collaboration, and artistry at the highest level. Known for innovative programming, Tactus concerts often combine music with images and poetry to create a compelling audience experience. Said one recent concertgoer, “It was sublime. I truly felt like I was taken on a musical journey.”

The 2024-25 season includes a performance of Handel’s Messiah in the original baroque style, as well as the world premiere of Songs of the Prairie, a multimedia concert of music inspired by the ecosystem of the great plains, composed by Music Director Warren Puffer Jones.

Tactus (pronounced tock-tooss) is a Latin word meaning touched, moved or felt. In musical usage, it refers to the pulse or beat that undergirds every piece of music.

More information at www.tactusensemble.org.

35

G I F T S TO T H E P H I L INDIVIDUALS

Continued from page 21

Bob and Tammy Weiss Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth K. Wert Larry L. and Leah A. Westmoreland Drs. Ryan Williams and Melissa Plamann Mrs. Carol Wright Blake and Nancy Yaffe

FRIEND $1,000 - $1,499 Hugh G. and Sharon Adams Glenn and Debra Blumstein Rev. Dr. Carl Bosteels, D.Min. Louise Cheek Dr. Thomas Coniglione William Cook Dr. and Mrs. Ralph G. Ganick George M. and Jo Hall Mr. Mark Harder The Honorable Jerome A. Holmes Lois and Roger Hornbrook Sharon and Charles Johnson Brenda and Kent Johnson Mary Jane Lawson Sharon and Ken Lease Brad and Janet Marion Dr. Scott McCalla and Ms. Leslie McCalla William and Marilyn North Dr. Carl Rubenstein Elizabeth Ruam John and Hattie Santore Mary Sherman Chris and Lisa Steves Reta and Richard Strubhar Bo Taylor Mr. Phillip S. Tomlinson

PARTNER $500 - $999 Dr. Gillian Air Mrs. Arden Barrett Ms. Susan Coatney Joseph and Valerie Couch Ms. Betty Crow Patricia Edwards Mr. and Mrs. Keith G. Golden Dr. Nancy and Capt. George Hector David and Marilyn Henderson Becky McNeese William McNeese Virginia Meade Mr. and Mrs. K. T. Meade, Jr. Jim Murtaugh Michael and Ginger Penn Carol Sander

MEMBER $250 - $499 John and Nancy Alsup Judy Barnett Brent D. Bell, D.O. Ryan Bunyan Ms. Carol Combs Mark Doescher Audie Dorrough Mrs. Betty Foster Steven Graham and Vicky Leloie Kelly Herbert M. Graves Marsha and John Greiner David Lynch Allison A. Matoi Rick Spence Greg Taber Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Towell

39

G I F T S TO T H E P H I L SPECIAL GIF TS Honor loved ones, celebrate occasions, recognize achievements, and support the Philharmonic’s mission.

In Memory of Jean Hartsuck Mr. J. Edward Barth Mrs. Jane B. Harlow Mrs. Lil Ross Dr. Lois Salmeron Susie and Doug Stussi

In Memory of June Parry Gayle and Richard Parry In Memory of Renate Wiggin Donald Wiggin

THANK YOU! The OKCPHIL gratefully acknowledges the generosity of individuals who have chosen to return concert tickets as a donation.

This recognition reflects contributions made for the 24-25 season and are listed through October 7, 2024.

Anonymous Dr. and Mrs. Dewayne Andrews Mr. J. Edward Barth Betty Bellis-Mankin Louise Cheek Dr. Thomas Coniglione Dr. Nancy Dawson Mark Doescher Dr. and Mrs. Royice B. Everett Mr. and Mrs. John Francis Kirk Hammons Frank and Bette Jo Hill

40

Mary Ann Holdrege Mr. and Mrs. Stephen G. LaFollette Mr. and Mrs. John A. McCaleb Debra and Don Nevard Dr. and Mrs. Olaseinde Sawyerr Mr. Fred Schneider Jamie and Jerrod Shouse Rick and Amanda Smith Jonathan and Andrea Stone Robert and Tammy Weiss Phillip and Ashton Whaley Mrs. Carolyn Zachritz