2024-25 Bravo 4 (Nov 27-Dec 22)

safety of patrons, musicians, and staff is of the utmost importance.

the University of Rochester masking protocols and guidelines, masking is currently optional at Eastman Theatre.

The Orchestra 2024/25 SEASON

VIOLIN 1

Juliana Athayde+, Concertmaster

The Caroline W. Gannett & Clayla Ward Chair, funded in perpetuity

Shannon Nance, Assistant Concertmaster

Jeongwon Claire An Tigran Vardanyan

James Zabawa-Martinez

Thomas Rodgers

Anna Leunis

Molly McDonald

Kurt Munstedt

Perrin Yang

Jeremy Hill

An-Chi Lin

VIOLIN 2

Jeanelle Thompson, Principal

The Dr. Ralph F. Jozefowicz Chair, funded in perpetuity

Daryl Perlo, Assistant Principal

The James E. Dumm Chair, funded in perpetuity

Patricia Sunwoo

John Sullivan

Lara Sipols

Sooyeon Kim

Petros Karapetyan

Liana Koteva Kirvan

Margaret Leenhouts

Heidi Brodwin

Ellen Stokoe

VIOLA

Joshua Newburger, Principal

The William L. Gamble Chair, funded in perpetuity

Marc Anderson, Assistant Principal

Rebecca Christainsen

James Marshall

Olita Povero

Neil Miller

Melissa Matson

Ye In Son

David Hult

CELLO

Ahrim Kim, Principal

The Clara and Edwin Strasenburgh Chair, funded in perpetuity

Lars Kirvan, Assistant Principal

Samuel Pierce-Ruhland

Christopher Haritatos

Benjamin Krug

Jennifer Carpenter

Ingrid Bock

BASS

Cory Palmer, Principal

The Anne Hayden McQuay Chair, funded in perpetuity

Michael Griffin, Assistant Principal

Daniel Morehead

Edward Castilano

Fred Dole

Jeff Campbell+

Eric Polenik

FLUTE

Rebecca Gilbert, Principal

The Charlotte Whitney Allen Chair, funded in perpetuity

Sean Marron

Elise Kim

PICCOLO

Sean Marron

Elise Kim

OBOE

Erik Behr, Principal

The Dr. Jacques M. Lipson Chair, funded in perpetuity

Anna Steltenpohl

Megan Kyle

ENGLISH HORN

Anna Steltenpohl

CLARINET

Kenneth Grant, Principal

The Robert J. Strasenburgh Chair, funded in perpetuity

Kamalia Freyling

Andrew Brown

E-FLAT CLARINET

Kamalia Freyling

BASS CLARINET

Andrew Brown

BASSOON

Matthew McDonald, Principal

The Ron and Donna Fielding Chair, funded in perpetuity

Karl Vilcins

Martha Sholl

CONTRA-BASSOON

Karl Vilcins

HORN

Michael Stevens, Principal

The Cricket and Frank Luellen Chair

YiCheng Gong, Associate/Assistant/Utility

Maura McCune Corvington

Nathan Ukens

Stephen Laifer

TRUMPET

Douglas Prosser, Principal

The Elaine P. Wilson Chair, funded in perpetuity

Wesley Nance

Herbert Smith

Paul Shewan

TROMBONE

David Bruestle, Principal

The Austin E. Hildebrandt Chair, funded in perpetuity

Lisa Albrecht

Jeffrey Gray

BASS TROMBONE

Jeffrey Gray

TUBA

W. Craig Sutherland, Principal

The Rob W. Goodling Chair, funded in perpetuity

TIMPANI

Charles Ross, Principal

The Harold and Joan Feinbloom Chair, funded in perpetuity

PERCUSSION

Brian Stotz

The Barbara and Patrick Fulford Chair, funded in perpetuity

HARP

Grace Browning, Principal

The Eileen Malone Chair. A Tribute to Mr. and Mrs. Harcourt M. Sylvester

Rosanna Moore

KEYBOARD

Chiao-Wen Cheng+, Principal

The Lois P. Lines Chair, funded in perpetuity

PERSONNEL MANAGER

Fred Dole

PRINCIPAL LIBRARIAN

Kimberly Hartquist

Kathalee & Ian Hodge Library

Operation Endowment

STAGE MANAGERS

Danielle Suhr

Cederick Martinez

+ Eastman faculty

ANDREAS DELFS Music Director

The Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra’s 24/25 season marks a milestone for Music Director Andreas Delfs, whose debut with the RPO was November 17, 1994. Many return appearances and more than 25 years later, Maestro Delfs was announced as the RPO’s 13th music director in January 2021.

Since then, Delfs has been pivotal in leading the orchestra out of the depths of the pandemic through the RPO’s history-making 23/24 Centennial Season: breaking box-office records with blockbuster programming and A-list special guests, while also climbing to new artistic heights with world-premiere commissions and acclaimed community collaborations.

Not one to rest on the laurels of those successes, Delfs is using them to inspire the orchestra to thrive into its second century. “You always have to move forward,” he explained. “And the only way to follow a breath-taking anniversary season is to build on its momentum.”

Born in Flensburg, Germany, Delfs began studying piano and music theory at age five. By 20, he became the youngest music director in the history of the Hamburg University Orchestra. Following graduation from Hamburg Conservatory, he followed the recommendation of legendary German conductor Christoph von Dohnányi, and took off for New York, where he earned his master’s degree at Juilliard School of Music, studying under such legendary conductors as Jorge Mester, Sixten Ehrling, and Leonard Bernstein.

Delfs soon landed posts at the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra and the Swiss Youth Symphony Orchestra (SYSO). He served as general music director of Hannover, Germany, conducting the city’s renowned symphony orchestra and opera company.

As music director and conductor of the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, Delfs led the orchestra on its historic 1999 tour of Cuba, the first by an American orchestra in more than 37 years. During his tenure at the Milwaukee Symphony, he was instrumental in the symphony’s rise to national prominence.

Andreas Delfs has led scores of distinguished ensembles such as the London Philharmonic, Frankfurt Radio Symphony Orchestra, Los Angeles Philharmonic, and Chinese National Symphony Orchestra. He has partnered with world-renowned artists including Philip Glass, André Watts, Emanuel Ax, Joshua Bell, Hilary Hahn, Yo-Yo Ma, Lang Lang, and Renée Fleming.

His passionate and dramatic interpretations of the late romantic repertoire with orchestras in both North America and Europe have drawn critical acclaim, reflecting a constantly evolving artistic maturity marked by the insight, depth and integrity he brings to the podium.

While Delfs’ approach to conducting has been forged by decades of experience, his love of new music is undeniable. Over the last two seasons alone, he has overseen RPO commissions by such highly regarded composers as Derrick Skye, Roberto Sierra, James Lee III, and Aaron Jay Kernis.

He and wife Amy live east of Rochester in the hamlet of Pultneyville, surrounded by their children, a grandchild, and Casper the Spitz.

PHOTO:ALEXCASSETTI

Our Conductors

JEFF TYZIK Principal Pops Conductor

Grammy Award winner Jeff Tyzik is one of America’s most innovative and sought after pops conductors. Tyzik is recognized for his brilliant arrangements, original programming, and engaging rapport with audiences of all ages. Tyzik is celebrating 31 years as Principal Pops Conductor of the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra and also serves as Principal Pops Conductor of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra and Oregon Symphony. Tyzik made his debut with the New York Philharmonic in September 2023 and closed the 23/24 season conducting the Philadelphia Orchestra.

Frequently invited as a guest conductor, Tyzik has appeared with over 100 orchestras including the Boston Pops, Cincinnati Pops, New York Philharmonic, Milwaukee Symphony, Pittsburgh Symphony, Toronto Symphony, Indianapolis Symphony, Philadelphia Orchestra, Los Angeles Philharmonic, and the Royal Scottish National Orchestra. In May 2007, the Harmonia Mundi label released his recording of works by Gershwin with pianist Jon Nakamatsu and the RPO which stayed in the Top 10 on the Billboard classical chart for over three months. Alex Ross of The New Yorker called it “one of the snappiest Gershwin discs in years”.

In 2023, Jeff Tyzik launched his new publishing company TyzikMusic.com. This digital site features over 150 arrangements, orchestrations and compositions for Symphony Orchestra, Chamber Music ensembles, and Wind Ensemble.

Committed to performing music of all genres, Tyzik has collaborated with such diverse artists as Leslie Odom Jr., Megan Hilty, Chris Botti, Matthew Morrison, Wynonna Judd, Sutton Foster, Tony Bennett, Art Garfunkel, Dawn Upshaw, Marilyn Horne, Arturo Sandoval, The Chieftains, Mark O’Connor, Doc Severinsen, and John Pizzarelli. He has created numerous original programs that include the greatest music from jazz and classical to Motown, Broadway, film, dance, Latin, and swing. Tyzik holds Bachelor of Music and Master of Music degrees from the Eastman School of Music.

With co-producers Greenberg Artists and Schirmer Theatrical, Jeff Tyzik has created 20 new orchestra pops programs that have been presented by 150 orchestras in the past three seasons.

For more information about Jeff Tyzik, please visit www.TyzikMusic.com

CHRISTOPHER SEAMAN Conductor Laureate

The Christopher Seaman Chair, supported by Barbara and Patrick Fulford and The Conductor Laureate Society

Christopher Seaman was music director of the RPO from 1998-2011, and was subsequently named conductor laureate. During his 13-year tenure, the longest in RPO history, he raised the Orchestra’s artistic level, broadened its audience base, and created a new concert series. This contribution was recognized with an award from the American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers. In May 2009, the University of Rochester made him an honorary doctor of music.

Previous positions include music director of the Naples Philharmonic Orchestra (Florida) for 10 years, conductor-in-residence with the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, and artistic advisor of the San Antonio Symphony.

He is recognized for his wealth of repertoire, which ranges from baroque to contemporary, and in particular the works of Bruckner, Brahms, and Sibelius. Seaman also is highly regarded for his work with younger musicians, and he served as course director for the Symphony Services International Conductor Development Program (Australia) for many years.

Recent conducting engagements include the Aspen Music Festival, Detroit, Houston, St. Louis, Cincinnati, Milwaukee, and Seattle symphony orchestras; the Warsaw Philharmonic Orchestra, Kristians Symphony Orchestra, Orchestra of Opera North, and Orquestra Filarmônica de Minas Gerais in Brazil. He frequently visits Australia and Asia where he has conducted the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra and the National Taiwan, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, and Singapore symphony orchestras, among others.

JHERRARD HARDEMAN Assistant Conductor

The Louise and Henry Epstein Family Education and Community Engagement Chair Jherrard Hardeman begins his second season with the RPO as Assistant Conductor (The Louise and Henry Epstein Family Education and Community Engagement Chair). Hardeman serves as Music Director of the Rochester Philharmonic Youth Orchestra (RPYO).

A rising star in the symphonic world, Hardeman leads the RPO’s signature OrKIDStra family series, education concerts at Kodak Hall, concerts for the community and beyond, and our July summer series.

By his mid-teens, Detroit native Hardeman was already attracting national attention as a classical conductor, composer, and violinist. He studied orchestral conducting under internationally renowned conductor David Robertson at The Juilliard School. Hardeman notes he cannot overstate the importance of mentorships by conductors

Mei-Ann Chen, Music Director of the Chicago Sinfonietta, and Kevin Noe, Executive Artistic Director of the Pittsburgh New Music Ensemble.

Hardeman has appeared with the Seattle Symphony, Grosse Pointe Symphony, Juilliard Orchestra, Juilliard Jazz Orchestra, Baldwin Wallace Conservatory Symphony Orchestra, and the Longy Conservatory Orchestra. An innate leader, he has also formed and/or conducted orchestras at such prestigious institutions as the New England Conservatory of Music, Interlochen Center for the Arts, Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp, and the AVANTI Summer MusicFest.

RPO Board of Directors

Maintaining and operating the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra (Founded in 1923 —Incorporated in 1930)

OFFICERS

Diana Clarkson, Esq., Chair of the Board

Curtis S. Long, President & CEO

Cindy Yancey, Vice Chair of the Board

Kathy Lindahl, Vice Chair of the Board

Karen Kessler, Secretary

Richard Stein, Treasurer

Ross P. Lanzafame, Esq., Immediate Past Chair

TERM EXPIRES JUNE 2025

James Fulmer

Laurie A. Haelen

Ralph F. Jozefowicz. M.D.

Karen Kessler

Ross P. Lanzafame, Esq.

Deborah Onslow

Ronald E. Salluzzo

Jason Thomas

TERM EXPIRES JUNE 2026

Daisy R. Algarin

Diana Clarkson, Esq.

George Daddis

Catherine Frangenberg

Allyson Hiranandani

Dr. Diane Lu

Sujatha Ramanujan

Elizabeth F. Rice

Dr. Eva P. Sauer

George J. Schwartz, M.D.

Richard Stein

Thomas Warfield

Dr. James Watters

TERM EXPIRES

JUNE 2027

Brian Bennett

Kimberly Gangi

Catherine Gueli

Emerson Fullwood

Paulette Gissendanner

Zuzanna Kwon

Katherine Lindahl

Jack McGowan

Sidney Sobel, M.D.

Cindy Yancey

EX-OFFICIO

Patrick Fulford

Chairperson, Honorary Board

Lars Kirvan

Orchestra Representative

Erik Behr

Orchestra Representative

Ross P. Lanzafame, Esq., Immediate Past Chair

Curtis S. Long

President & CEO

Kate Sheeran

Dean, Eastman School of Music

HONORARY BOARD

Patrick Fulford, Chairperson, Honorary Board

Stephen B. Ashley

Nancy Beilfuss*

James M. Boucher

Paul W. Briggs*

William L. Cahn

Louise Epstein

Joan Feinbloom

Ilene Flaum

Betsy Friedman

Ronald A. Furman*

Mary M. Gooley*

Suzanne Gouvernet*

David C. Heiligman

A. Thomas Hildebrandt

Harold A. Kurland, Esq.

Dr. Dawn F. Lipson

Jacques M. Lipson, MD*

Cricket and Frank Luellen*

Elizabeth F. Rice

Nathan J. Robfogel, Esq.

Jon L. Schumacher, Esq.

Katherine T. Schumacher

Betty Strasenburgh*

Josephine S. Trubek

Suzanne D. Welch

Patricia Wilder*

Deborah Wilson

Robert Woodhouse

The RPO expresses its gratitude to all those who have served as Honorary Board members in the past.

PAST RPO CHAIRPERSONS

1930–32: Edward G. Miner*

1932–34: Simon N. Stein*

1934–38: George E. Norton*

1938–41: Leroy E. Snyder*

1941–42: Frank W. Lovejoy*

1942–43: Bernard E. Finucane*

1943–46: L. Dudley Field*

1946–48: Edward S. Farrow, Jr. *

1948–51: Joseph J. Myler*

1951–52: Joseph F. Taylor*

1952–55: Raymond W. Albright*

1955–57: Arthur I. Stern*

1957–59: Thomas H. Hawks*

1959–61: Walter C. Strakosh*

1962–63: Ernest J. Howe*

1963–65: O. Cedric Rowntree*

1965–67: Frank E. Holley *

1967–69: Thomas C. Taylor*

1969–71: Thomas H. Miller*

1971–72: Mrs. Frederick J. Wilkens*

1972–73: Edward C. McIrvine

1973–74: Robert J. Strasenburgh*

1974–75: John A. Santuccio

1975–76: Robert J. Strasenburgh*

1976–78: Dr. Louis Lasagna*

1978–80: Edward C. McIrvine

1980–82: Peter L. Faber

1982–84: Paul F. Pagerey*

1984–85: Peter L. Waasdorp*

1986–89: Robert H. Hurlbut*

1989–91: Paul W. Briggs*

1991–93: Karen Noble Hanson*

1993–95: Ronald E. Salluzzo

1995–98: A. Thomas Hildebrandt

1998–00: Harold A. Kurland, Esq.

2000–04: David C. Heiligman

2004–06: Ingrid A. Stanlis

2006–09: James M. Boucher

2009–11: Suzanne D. Welch

2011–13: Elizabeth F. Rice

2013–15: Dr. Dawn F. Lipson

2015-17: Jules L. Smith, Esq.

2017-19: Ingrid A. Stanlis

2019-24: Ross P. Lanzafame, Esq.

* Deceased

SEASON

& SERIES SPONSORS:

SEASON SPONSOR

PHILHARMONICS SERIES SPONSOR

POPS SERIES SPONSORS

SUNDAY MATINEES AT NAZ SERIES SPONSOR

CONCERT SPONSORS: GALA

OFFICIAL HOSPITALITY PARTNER

OFFICIAL HOTEL PARTNER

SEASON MEDIA SPONSORS RPYO SPONSOR GOVERNMENT

CONNECT

KODAK HALL

Tara Simoncic, conductor

ROCHESTER CITY BALLET

Shannon Purpura, artistic director

Megan Kamler, artistic director

John Deming, ballet master

Timothy Draper, founder/choreographer

Bach Children’s Chorus

Karla Krogstad, founder and director

ROCHESTER CITY BALLET COMPANY MEMBERS:

Olivia Bevilacqua, John Deming, Katherine Duffy, Samantha Howe, Megan Kamler, Adam Kittelberger, Lydia Marbach, Shannon Purpura, Anna Turani

ROCHESTER CITY BALLET APPRENTICES:

Samantha Goodelle, Lily Janneck, Elizabeth Pinel, Marlena Roberts, Sofia Stitz

ROCHESTER CITY BALLET JUNIOR APPRENTICES:

Sophia Barnard-DeCann, Jessica Bealer

CHOREOGRAPHY: Timothy Draper, Jamey Leverett

PRODUCTION STAFF CREDITS :

Technical Director, Lighting Design, Set Design: Gordon J. Estey

Costume Design, Set Design: Sylvia Hanlon

Assistant Technical Director: Tyler J. Struble

Lighting Director: Jerry Smith

Stage Manager: Alexis Miller

Assistant Stage Manager: Athan Marzen

DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR: Katherine Duffy

COMPANY MANAGER: Jaimee Hauck

HEAD OF WARDROBE: Deena Rodriguez

WARDROBE ASSISTANTS: Michelle Higgins, Jacqueline Hennessy, Laurie Shin

PHOTOGRAPHERS: Erich Camping, Thomas Rodriguez

ASL INTERPRETER: Brittany Benson

STAGE MANAGER: Alexis Miller

COMPANY REHEARSAL ASSISTANT: Fidel E. Orrillo

REHEARSAL ASSISTANTS:

Olivia Bevilacqua, Lydia Marbach, Samantha Howe, Christopher Collins, Katherine Duffy, Adam Kittelberger, Fidel E. Orillo, Anna Turani

We kindly ask you to please silence all cellphones and electronic devices. Also, please note that photography and video recordings are prohibited during the performance.

PROGRAM NOTES

ABOUT THE NUTCRACKER

Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky (1840-1893) was commissioned to write the music for The Nutcracker in 1891. Originally based on the E.T.A Hoffman novel The Nutcracker and the King of Mice, The Nutcracker ballet debuted in St. Petersburg on December 17, 1892 and has gone on to become one of the most popular holiday spectacles.

ACT I

It is Christmas Eve, and Dr. and Frau Stahlbaum hold a large party. Their children, Clara and Fritz, await their friends’ arrival. Mysterious Uncle Drosselmeyer arrives and interrupts the festivities with the “Spirit of Christmas” and other magical gifts, including a toy Nutcracker for Clara. Later that night, Clara returns to the drawing room to fetch her Nutcracker and soon falls asleep with it beside her. Suddenly, the room is invaded by mice. Clara’s toy soldiers come to life, and the Nutcracker turns into a soldier who battles the mice. Victorius, with Clara’s help, the Nutcracker transforms into a prince who invites Clara to the Kingdom of Sweets. During the journey, they pass through a snow-covered forest.

ACT II

In the Kingdom of Sweets, Clara and her Prince are welcomed by the Sugar Plum Fairy, who presents a grand celebration in Clara’s honor. The sweets of many nations entertain them: Spanish Chocolate, Chinese Tea, Arabian Coffee, and French Mints. The celebration culminates with the Sugar Plum Fairy’s romantic pas de deux with her Cavalier. Following a reprise, Clara and her Prince must go. Amid wistful goodbyes, they leave the magical land.

ARTISTS

ABOUT ROCHESTER CITY BALLET

Rochester City Ballet (RCB) is excited to return again to our annual holiday collaboration with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra! RCB’s mission is to create inspiring, entertaining, and educational experiences through the art of dance while providing the highest level of artistic and technical excellence. RCB is a professional ballet company that brings the best of traditional classical ballet and innovative contemporary performances to audiences in Rochester and throughout Upstate New York.

Rochester City Ballet’s rich history began in 1987 when it was founded by Timothy M. Draper as a student-based company. Upon the death of its founder in 2003, RCB contracted professional dancers, achieving status as the only professional ballet company in Western New York. In July 2010, RCB presented its first New York City season and in July 2013, Jacobs Pillow Dance Festival selected RCB to perform in the Inside/Out series. The company has become a nationally significant dance company and a cherished cultural institution in the Finger Lakes region.

From classical to contemporary, cutting edge to theatrical, Rochester City Ballet is an eclectic and versatile company that offers something for everyone. The repertoire ranges from full-length, classical canonical works, such as Sleeping Beauty, The Nutcracker, Firebird, Cinderella, and Paquita, to masterworks by renowned choreographers including George Balanchine, Salvatore Aiello, and Gerald Arpino. In addition, RCB regularly commissions original works by established and emerging choreographers, including commissioning choreographers from among the RCB roster of artists.

Each and every child deserves to experience the joy of dance. RCB is committed to making dance accessible through its educational and community outreach, with programming in the Rochester City School District, Boys & Girls Club, Mary Cariola Center, community centers, colleges, and specially produced sensory friendly productions that allow families with special needs to experience the joy of live dance.

CAST

ACT ONE

THE PARTY SCENE:

MAID .............................................................................................................................................................................Kristen Wegman

CLARA ............................................................................................................................. Anna Shin (Wed 7pm / Fri 2pm / Sat 7pm) Natalie Wildenhaus (Fri 7pm / Sat 2pm / Sun 2pm)

FRITZ: ..................................................................................................................... Marko Koković (Wed 7pm / Fri 2pm / Sat 7pm) Julian Shand (Fri 7pm / Sat 2pm / Sun 2pm)

FRAU STAHLBAUM Katie Miller

DR. STAHLBAUM ........................................................................................................................................................................ Sam Sit

PARTY CHILDREN

Annabelle Barney, Branwen Hull, Natalie Lappas, Lola Maroney, Emily Righter, Andrea Campbell, Emily Batcheldor, Emma Clausen, Elsa Nolan, Danielle Gorka, Sarafina Carlo, Sophia Thackray

PARTY PARENTS

Laurel Yartz, Caren Gellin, Whitney Thackray, Denitza Straub, Alexandra Wlostowski, Melissa Sanchez, Bryant Shin, Kiyomi Oliver, Michael Gauss, Michael Tedone, Brian Persons, Alan Jonason

HERR DROSSELMEYER .................................................................................................................................................... Fidel E. Orillo

MAGICAL DOLLS .......................................................................................................................................... Lilly Hall, Nathan Talledo

HARLEQUIN DOLL............................................................................................. Marlena Roberts (Wed 7pm / Fri 2pm / Sat 7pm) Samantha Howe (Fri 7pm / Sat 2pm / Sun 2pm)

CHRISTMAS SPIRIT: ................................................................................... Samantha Goodelle (Wed 7pm / Fri 2pm / Sat 7pm) Lydia Marbach (Fri 7pm / Sat 2pm / Sun 2pm)

THE BATTLE SCENE:

NUTCRACKER PRINCE ................................................................................................................................................. Nathan Talledo

MOUSE KING ................................................................................................................................................................... Lukas Figliozzi

TREE PRESENTS ................................................................................................................ Gabby Wilson, Lia Kessler, Summer Kroll

MICE.........................................Adelaide Burleigh, Gracie DiPalma, Paige Schaffer, Kai Furuta, Morgan Green, Sofia Bonafonte

SOLDIERS ........................................................... Gabby Wilson, Lia Kessler, Stella Wisnowski, Ashley Dennstedt, Summer Kroll Anabelle Barney (Wed 7pm / Fri 2pm / Sat 7pm) Marko Koković (Fri 7pm / Sat 2pm / Sun 2pm)

CANNON PUSHER ................................................................................................................................... Branwen Hull, Julian Shand

LAND OF SNOWFLAKES:

SNOW KING .....................................................................................................

Adam Kittelberger (Wed 7pm / Fri 2pm / Sat 7pm) John Deming (Fri 7pm / Sat 2pm / Sun 2pm)

SNOW QUEEN .....................................................................................................

Samantha Howe (Wed 7pm / Fri 2pm / Sat 7pm)

Katherine Duffy (Fri 7pm / Sat 2pm / Sun 2pm)

SNOWFLAKES

Sienna Ardizzone , Sophia Barnard-DeCann, Lundyn Blackman, Lilly Hall, Gwendolyn Nellis, Agnieszka Rynkowski, Vittoria Santonastaso, Riley Hammond, Emily Jonason, Kate Shin, Lillian Guass, Mya Cowick, Summer Kroll, Emily Talledo, Katelyn Ramirez, Mia Worthington

CAST

ACT TWO

THE KINGDOM OF SWEETS:

ARCHANGELS ................ Adelaide Burleigh, Katherine Quigley, Lia Kessler, Morgan Green, Ashley Dennstedt, Paige Schaffer

LEAD ANGELS Sophia Bonafonte, Leela Brush, Branwen Hull, Stella Wisnowski, Gracie DiPalma, Natalie Lappas

CHERUBIM .............................................. (CAST A) Margaret Chamberlain, Adriana Cattat, Jana Minsterman, Morgan Ireland, Emma DeMulder, Quinlan McGarry, Evelyn Lankford, August Herter , Alaina Buscemi, Maiya Holman, Olivia Glow, Cecelia Mencucci, Gia Maroney, Alison Makovec, Vivian Prevosti, Danielle Gorka, Sophia Thackray, Amelia Marte, Addilyn Reinbold, Magnolia Eason

CHERUBIM ........................... (CAST B) Margaret Chamberlain, Adrianna Cattat , Jana Minsterman, Eloise Kowal, Eva Straub, Quinlan McGarry, Lily Kranitz , Hazel Morgan, Tirzah Johnson, Olivia Tallman, Lauren Enser, Emily Righter, Gia Maroney, Dorothy Smith, Clara Moore-Watson, Chiarina Chinappi, McKenna Peschken, Emma Clausen, Kamea Johnson, Catherine D’Angelo

CHERUBIM ......................................... (CAST C) Sarafina Carlo, Emily Batcheldor, Arwyn Fox, Eleanor Grailer, Olivia Palentino, Lillian Warren, Alivia Kennedy, Fae Hoisington, Tirzah Johnson, Olivia Tallman, Lauren Enser, Emily Righter, Magnolia Eason, Dorothy Smith, Clara Moore-Watson, Chiarina Chinappi, McKenna Peschken, Emma Clausen, Kamea Johnson, Catherine D’Angelo

CAST A: Wed 7pm / Sat 2pm

CAST B: Fri 2pm / Sat 7pm CAST C: Fri 7pm / Sun 2pm

HOLLY SPRITES ................................................ (CAST A) Noelle Thackray, Nolan Minsterman, Alexa McFarland, Erica Ferrara, Lillian Herter, Evie Kocher, Chloe Daniel, Scarlett Ewell, Alysia Marte, Lyza Baker, Oakley Reinbold

HOLLY SPRITES .............. (CAST B) Aurora Fox, Bryce Sprouse, Olivia Sprouse, Harper Sytsma, Lylah Nutting, Jovie Morgan, Maia Hennessy, Esme Leites, Marley Dryer, Madeleine Ficicchia-Horvath, Isabella Beale, Finley Frey, Mabel Grailer

HOLLY SPRITES ...................................................... (CAST C) Mae Cartier, Annora Odrzywolski, June Banning, Harper Sytsma, Lylah Nutting, Jovie Morgan, Maia Hennessy, Esme Leites, Marley Dryer, Avery Sabocheck, Isabella Beale, Finley Frey

CAST A: Wed 7pm / Sat 2pm CAST B: Fri 2pm / Sat 7pm CAST C: Fri 7pm / Sun 2pm

LEAD PAGES .................................................................................................Clara O’Neil (CAST A) Wed 7pm / Fri 7pm / Sat 2pm Keira Stone (CAST B) Fri 2pm / Sat 7pm / Sun 2pm

PAGES .......................... (CAST A) Molly Gorka, Rowan Francis, Lyla Daniel, Penelope Conlan, Olivia Piano, Naomi Farnsworth, Isla Istvan, Johnny Banning, Mackenzie Makovec, Madelyn Bonno

PAGES ........................ (CAST B) Emersyn Ficicchia-Horvath, Harper Sullivan, Elliott Panda, Alise Davis, Evangeline Stanford, Madeleine Bourget, Rebecca Bauer, Johnny Banning, Vivienne Phichith, Emilia Higman

CAST A: Wed 7pm / Fri 7pm / Sat 2pm

CAST B: Fri 2pm / Sat 7pm / Sun 2pm

LEAD SPANISH.................................................................................................................................Marlena Roberts , Lukas Figliozzi

CAST

SPANISH CORPS .................................................................................................................... Vittoria Santonastaso, Emily Jonason Katelyn Ramirez (Wed 7pm / Fri 2pm / Sat 7pm) Emily Talledo (Wed 7pm / Fri 2pm / Sat 7pm) Lilly Gauss (Fri 7pm / Sat 2pm / Sun 2pm) Lundyn Blackman (Fri 7pm / Sat 2pm / Sun 2pm)

ENGLISH TOFFEE.........................................................................................................................................................Samantha Howe

CHINESE TEA ........................................................................................................ Lydia Marbach (Wed 7pm / Fri 2pm / Sat 7pm) Jessica Bealer (Fri 7pm / Sat 2pm / Sun 2pm)

CHINESE CORPS .................... Summer Kroll, Mya Cowick, Gabby Wilson, Emmie Whyte, Isabelle Marshall, Katherine Quigley

RUSSIAN TREPAK ..............................................................................................................................................................Lily Janneck

ARABIAN COFFEE.............................................................................................Olivia Bevilacqua (Wed 7pm / Fri 2pm / Sat 7pm) Anna Turani (Fri 7pm / Sat 2pm / Sun 2pm) Jared Allan-Brunson (Wed 7pm / Fri 2pm / Sat 7pm) Adam Kittelberger (Fri 7pm / Sat 2pm / Sun 2pm)

ARABIAN CORPS ......................................... Adelaide Burleigh, Sofia Bonafonte, Paige Schaffer, Lia Kessler, Stella Wisnowski Leela Brush (Fri 7pm / Sat 2pm / Sun 2pm) Ava Kane (Wed 7pm / Fri 2pm / Sat 7pm)

FRENCH MINTS ............................................................................. Siena Ardizzone, Lilly Hall, Gwendolyn Nellis, Agnieszka Rynkowski Kate Shin (Wed 7pm / Fri 2pm / Sat 7pm) Riley Hammond (Fri 7pm / Sat 2pm / Sun 2pm)

GINGER BABIES ................ Danielle Gorka, Elsa Nolan, Natalie Lappas, Andrea Campbell, Sarafina Carlo, Emily Righter, Emma Clausen, Emily Batcheldor, Annabelle Barney, Branwen Hull, Kai Furuta Julian Shand (Wed 7pm / Fri 2pm / Sat 7pm) Marko Koković (Fri 7pm / Sat 2pm / Sun 2pm)

MOTHER GINGER........................................................................................................................................................ Melissa Sanchez

DEW DROP FAIRY ............................................................................................................. Megan Kamler (Wed 7pm / Fri 2pm / Sat 7pm) Shannon Purpura (Fri 7pm / Sat 2pm / Sun 2pm)

FLOWERS .... Olivia Bevilacqua, Anna Turani, Samantha Goodelle, Sofia Stitz, Elizabeth Pinel, Lily Janneck, Marlena Roberts Lydia Marbach (Wed 7pm / Fri 2pm / Sat 7pm) Samantha Howe (Fri 7pm / Sat 2pm / Sun 2pm)

SUGAR PLUM FAIRY .......................................................................................... Katherine Duffy (Wed 7pm / Fri 2pm / Sat 7pm) Megan Kamler (Fri 7pm / Sat 2pm / Sun 2pm)

CAVALIER............................................................................................................................... John Deming (Wed 7pm / Fri 2pm / Sat 7pm) Jared Allan Brunson (Fri 7pm / Sat 2pm / Sun 2pm)

ROSE WALTZ FINALE ........................................................................................................................................................... Entire Cast

Children appear courtesy of the Timothy M. Draper Center for Dance Education and Alaina Visalli Dance Company, Articul8, Ashford Dance Company, A Time for Dance, Avon Dance Emporium, Center Stage Dance Company, Dance Connection, Dance Images, Dancletics of Rochester, Dimensions in Dance, Dynamic Dance Studio, Elite Studio of Dance, Finger Lakes Ballet Academy, Hochstein, KMS Dance Academy, Krystal’s Dance Centre, LAW Dance Studio, Leap of Faith Dance Studio, Legacy Dance Academy, Little Red Dance Studio, Odasz Dance Theatre, Palmyra Macedon Conservatory of Dance, Patty Flowerday School of Dance, Phelps Community Center, Tammy Allen Dance Academy, The Dancing Place Dance Academy, The Turning Pointe Dance Studio, Sea Her Shine, Spins Dance Studio, Strike it Up Artistic Center, Studio East Dance Company, Studio K Dance and Fitness, Studio 19 Dance Company, TNT Dance Explosion, 25 North Dance

ARTISTS

TARA SIMONCIC, conductor

Groundbreaking conductor Tara Simoncic was the first woman to conduct the prestigious American Ballet Theatre in the company’s 85-year history. She is known for her unique connection with musicians and audience members, bringing passion, warmth, and clarity to every performance.

Ms. Simoncic regularly appears with the world’s most renowned companies. In 2016, she made her debut with the New York City Ballet conducting Balanchine’s Nutcracker. Since then, she stepped in at the last minute to conduct the world premiere of Standard Deviation at Lincoln Center in 2023. She also toured twice with the NYC Ballet to the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.

She has been the conductor of the Flexible Orchestra, a contemporary ensemble in New York City, since 2003 where she works closely with composers to champion new works specifically written for the group. She has recently guest conducted the Portland Symphony, the Bridge Musik Chamber Orchestra, Camerata Nova at The Manhattan School of Music, and Orquesta Sinfónica Nacional de México.

Ms. Simoncic is currently in her sixth season as Music Director of the Louisville Ballet. This fall marked her third season conducting one of New York City’s most beloved modern dance companies, the Paul Taylor Dance Company, with the Orchestra of St. Luke’s at Lincoln Center. She has served as Music Director of Ballet West in Salt Lake City and has been a recurring guest conductor with the New York City Ballet, American Ballet Theatre, San Francisco Ballet, Teatro Colón’s Ballet Estable, Cincinnati Ballet, Atlanta Ballet, and the Compañia Nacional de Danza in Madrid.

This season, she is thrilled to make debuts with the Joffrey Ballet, Orquestra Jovem do Estado of São Paulo, and the Houston Ballet.

Ms. Simoncic has a Bachelor’s degree in Trumpet Performance from the New England Conservatory, a Master’s of Music in Orchestral Conducting from Northwestern University, and a Professional Studies Diploma in Orchestral Conducting from the Manhattan School of Music. In 2011, she received the Bruno Walter Scholarship Award to study with Marin Alsop at the Cabrillo Festival of Contemporary Music

TARA SIMONCIC

ARTISTS

SHANNON PURPURA, artistic director

Shannon Purpura received her dance training in Rochester, NY. In high school, she performed alongside RCB in notable roles that include Lead Spanish Hot Chocolate in The Nutcracker, Daniel Gwirtzman’s Encore, and George Balanchine’s Serenade. After training, Ms. Purpura attended the University of Arizona on scholarship where she received her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance after just two and a half years. While at the University of Arizona, she performed River North Dance Chicago’s Evolution of a Dream, George Balanchine’s Rubies, Ernie Flatt’s Firebird, as well as many soloist roles in works by Michael Williams and James Clouser. Shannon also choreographed a solo that was selected to premier at the Stevie Eller Dance Theatre in 2014.

Following graduation, Ms. Purpura returned to Rochester to join the RCB, as a company member, in 2015. Since joining RCB, she has performed soloist roles such as Dew Drop Fairy, English Toffee, Chinese Tea, Christmas Spirit, Harlequin, Russian Trepak, and Spanish Hot Chocolate in The Nutcracker. Contemporary works include Jamey Leverett’s featured soloist in My Songs Plead Softly, Images, Katarzyna Skarpetowska’s Terminus, Salvatore Aiello’s The Waiting Room, and David Palmer’s Rite of Spring. She has also performed leading roles in Robert Gardner’s Carmen as Carmen, The Sleeping Beauty as Carabosse, David Palmer’s Under the Moonlight: A Tribute to David Bowie. Shannon, along with other RCB company dancers, founded the Roc Dance Collective in 2022 to help make performance art more accessible to younger audiences in Rochester.

In August 2023, Shannon and Megan Kamler were announced as the Artistic Directors of Rochester City Ballet. Ms. Purpura has choreographed numerous works for Rochester City Ballet including “Peter & the Wolf” which premiered with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra in January 2024. In April 2024, Shannon was commissioned by the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra to create works for the Eclipse Spectacular: Symphonic Celebration performance at the Blue Cross Arena.

MEGAN KAMLER, artistic director

Ms. Kamler joined Rochester City Ballet in 2011 after receiving her training at the Timothy M. Draper Center for Dance Education and the University of Arizona where she earned her BFA in Dance. She received additional training at the National Ballet School of Canada summer intensive on scholarship and the summer intensives of Ballet Austin and the Ellison Training Program in New York City.

While at the University of Arizona she performed highlighted roles such as Choleric in Balanchine’s Four Temperaments, Big Swan in Swan Lake, and the Friend in Carmina Burana. Following her college graduation she was invited to perform with Art.if.act Dance in an 18-city tour of China.

With the Rochester City Ballet she has performed as the Maid, Harlequin, English Toffee, Magical Doll, Italian Ice, Dew Drop, Snow Queen, and Sugar Plum Fairy in The Nutcracker, Anna in The Blood Countess, Kitri in Don Quixote, Cinderella in Cinderella, and Elegy Girl an Waltz Girl in Balanchine’s Serenade. Contemporary roles with RCB include 4Play, New York CityScapes, Bravo! Colorado, InCantation, Katarzyna Skarpetowska’s Terminus, The Ugly Duckling by Jimmy Orrante, Slightly Sinful by Danny Rosseel, and Bach de Trois by Nikolai Kabaniev. More recently she has had the opportunity to perform soloist roles in both new and previous works by David Palmer and Yanis Pikieris such as Under the Moonlight, Summer of Love, Mist, Green Eggs and Ham, and Adiemus.

SHANNON PURPURA MEGAN KAMLER

ARTISTS

JOHN DEMING, ballet master

John is a Rochester, New York native. He received his training at the Draper Center for Dance Education and later the Boston Ballet as a trainee on a full scholarship.

After leaving Boston, John joined the Carolina Ballet in Raleigh North Carolina under the direction of Robert Weiss. While in Raleigh he danced in numerous ballets such as Romeo & Juliet, Sleeping Beauty, Four Seasons, The Nutcracker, as well as George Balanchine’s Rubies and Brahms Schoenberg Quartet.

In 2014, John joined Ballet Memphis. While in Memphis John performed soloist and principal roles such as Benvolio & Romeo in Steven McMahon’s production of Romeo & Juliet, Harlequin, Nutcracker Prince & Spanish Chocolate in Steven McMahon’s The Nutcracker. John also worked with many choreographers from around the country such as Matthew Neenan, Jennifer Archibald, Mark Godden, Reggie Wilson, Gabrielle Lamb, and Uri Sands.

In 2018 John was contracted by Rochester City Ballet. In his 5 years in Rochester he has been cast in classical and neoclassical ballets by David Palmer, Julia Erickson, George Balanchine, Robert Gardner, Salvatore Aiello, Jimmy Orante, and Jared Brunson. Additionally, John has danced principal roles in some of the most classic ballets such as Sleeping Beauty, The Nutcracker, Swan Lake, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, The Firebird and Raymonda Suites. John is currently both Company Dancer and Ballet Master with Rochester City Ballet.

TIMOTHY DRAPER, founder, choreographer (1954-2003)

Timothy Draper began his training in Rochester, New York under the tutelage of Olive McCue with Mercury Ballet and Kathleen Crofton with the Festival Ballet of New York. He pursued his dance education in New York City with the Joffrey School of Ballet, Harkness House for Ballet Arts, and Steps followed by an extensive performance career with Israel Ballet, the Puerto Rican Dance Theatre, and Les Ballet Trockadero de Monte Carlo.

After serving as Ballet Master of Dance Miami and Co-Director of Fort Lauderdale Ballet, Mr. Draper returned to Rochester with a passion for dance excellence and a vision for creating both a school with world class instruction and a permanent ballet company for the Rochester community.

Timothy Draper’s dream in 1987 evolved into the Rochester City Ballet of today. With his guidance and expertise, RCB grew from modest beginnings to now delighting thousands of viewers at their annual collaboration with the RPO of The Nutcracker, and has presented performances throughout central and western New York.

JOHN DEMING TIMOTHY DRAPER

ARTISTS

RCB COMPANY DANCERS

OLIVIA BEVILACQUA

JOINED RCB: 2024

FAVORITE ROLE TO PERFORM: ARABIAN COFFEE

JOHN DEMING

JOINED RCB: 2018

FAVORITE ROLE TO PERFORM: SPANISH HOT CHOCOLATE

KATHERINE DUFFY

JOINED RCB: 2017

FAVORITE ROLE TO PERFORM: SNOW QUEEN

SAMANTHA HOWE

JOINED RCB: 2021

FAVORITE ROLE TO PERFORM: SNOW QUEEN

MEGAN KAMLER

JOINED RCB: 2011

FAVORITE ROLE TO PERFORM: THE MAID & DEW DROP FAIRY

ADAM KITTELBERGER

JOINED RCB: 2005

FAVORITE ROLE TO PERFORM: SNOW KING

LYDIA MARBACH

JOINED RCB: 2017

FAVORITE ROLE TO PERFORM: WALTZ OF THE FLOWERS

SHANNON PURPURA

JOINED RCB: 2014

FAVORITE ROLE TO PERFORM: DEW DROP FAIRY

ANNA TURANI

JOINED RCB: 2022

FAVORITE ROLE TO PERFORM: ARABIAN COFFEE

RCB APPRENTICES

MARLENA ROBERTS

SOFIA STITZ

RCB JUNIOR APPRENTICES

SOPHIA BARNARD-DECANN

JESSICA BEALER

SAMANTHA GOODELLE

LILY JANNECK

ELIZABETH PINEL

ARTISTS

KARLA

KROGSTAD, founder and director

Karla Krogstad earned degrees in piano performance and music theory from the New England Conservatory of Music, the University of Connecticut, and the Eastman School of Music. Before founding the Bach Children’s Chorus in 1988, Ms. Krogstad taught piano privately and was organist and choir director of the Genesee Baptist Church in Rochester. More recently, she has focused her professional activities to specialize in child pedagogy. She is an active composer and arranger for children’s voices and is certified in the Orff method of teaching.

Ms. Krogstad has received the “Friend of Foreign Language” and “Culture Through the Arts” awards from the New York State Association of Foreign Language teachers for her work with children in various languages. She has conducted the Bach Children’s Chorus in such diverse works as Carmina Burana of Carl Orff, the Waltz of the Snowflakes from Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker, and the War Requiem of Benjamin Britten. For  Bach Children’s Chorus audition information, please contact: bachkidsusa@yahoo.com.

THE BACH CHILDREN’S CHORUS OF ROCHESTER

The Bach Children’s Chorus (BCC), in residence at the Kanack School of Musical Artistry, is Western New York’s premier children’s classical music vocal ensemble. The girls and boys in the Chorus range in age from 5 to 14. Founded by its current director, Karla Krogstad, in 1989, the BCC has continued in its traditions and standards of excellence for over 32 years. The BCC has performed annually in the Nutcracker Ballet with the RPO for over 25 years. Also with the RPO, the Chorus has sung in Carmina Burana, and in Howard Hanson’s opera “Merry Mount”, performed both in Eastman Theatre and Carnegie Hall in 2014. For audition information, please contact: bachkidsusa@yahoo.com.

Nora Allison

Angelina Batz

Elena Carrillo

Nina Carrillo

Raina Chen

Lucy Cohen

Breanna Cohen

Rayva Deshmukh

Rinah Gosha

Michelle Han

William Han

Ivy Justice

Anastasia Kulya

Hannah Kulya

Teagan O'Connor

Lilliana Palermo

Liam Palermo

Aiden Park

David Park

Ryan Park

Elsie Retzner

Ling Rostad

Noa Schlagman

Jay Schreiber

Pascal Schreiber

Quinten Schreiber

Grace Seo

Laya Winn-Desai

Emmett Xu

Theodore Zubin

KARLA KROGSTAD

THUR DEC 12 7:30 PM

KODAK HALL AT EASTMAN THEATRE

Christopher Warren-Green, conductor

Nicole Cabell, soprano

Cody Bowers, countertenor

John Tessier, tenor

Matthew Rose, bass

Michael Leopold, theorbo and baroque guitar

Rochester Oratorio Society

PART I

Arioso (Tenor): Comfort ye my people

Sinfonia

Arioso (Tenor): Comfort ye my people

Aria (Tenor): Ev’ry valley shall be exalted

Chorus: And the glory of the Lord

Recitative (Bass): Thus saith the Lord

Aria (Bass): But who may abide the day of His coming

Chorus: And he shall purify

Recitative (Alto): Behold, a virgin shall conceive

Aria (Alto) and Chorus: O thou that tellest good tidings to Zion

Arioso (Bass): For behold, darkness shall cover the earth

Aira (Bass): The people that walked in darkness

Chorus: For unto us a child is born

Pifa

Recitative (Soprano): There were shepherds abiding in the field

Recitative (Soprano): And the angel said unto them

Arioso (Soprano): And suddenly, there was with the angel

Chorus: Glory to God

Air (Soprano): Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion

Recitative (Alto): Then shall the eyes of the blind

Aria (Soprano & Alto): He shall feel His flock

Chorus: His yoke is easy

INTERMISSION

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THUR DEC 12

7:30 PM

KODAK HALL AT EASTMAN THEATRE

PART II

Christopher Warren-Green, conductor

Nicole Cabell, soprano

Cody Bowers, countertenor

John Tessier, tenor

Matthew Rose, bass

Michael Leopold, theorbo and baroque guitar

Rochester Oratorio Society

Chorus: Behold the Lamb of God

Air (Alto): He was despised

Chorus: Surely he hath borne our griefs

Chorus: And with His stripes we are healed

Chorus: All we like sheep

Recitative (Tenor): All they that see Him

Chorus: He trusted in God

Recitative (Tenor): Thy rebuke hath broken His heart

Arioso (Tenor): Behold, and see if there be any sorrow

Recitative (Soprano): He was cut off

Arioso (Soprano): But Thou didst not leave His soul in Hell

Chorus: Lift up your heads

Aria (Bass): Why do the nations so furiously rage

Chorus: Let us break their bonds asunder

Recitative (Tenor): He that dwelleth in Heaven

Air (Tenor): Thou shalt break them with a rod of iron

Chorus: Hallelujah

PART III

Air (Soprano): I know that my Redeemer liveth

Chorus: Since by man came death

Recitative (Bass): Behold, I tell you a mystery

Air (Bass): The trumpet shall sound

Chorus: Worthy is the Lamb.

SEASON SPONSOR:

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ARTISTS

CHRISTOPHER WARREN-GREEN, conductor

British conductor Christopher Warren-Green is Principal Conductor and Music Director of the London Chamber Orchestra in the UK and Conductor Laureate of the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra in North Carolina following a twelve-year tenure as Music Director. Warren-Green is Chair of the Foundation for Young Musicians, and in 2022, he celebrated a professional career spanning 50 years.

2024/25 season highlights include returns to Pacific Symphony Orchestra, Rochester Philharmonic, two visits to the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra, as well as to the Romanian Radio Chamber Orchestra. Further highlights include engagements with the London Philharmonic Orchestra at the Royal Albert Hall where Warren-Green conducts Gustav Holst’s The Planets, as well as Royal Philharmonic Orchestra at the Barbican conducting Beethoven’s infamous Symphony No.9.

Warren-Green has conducted eminent orchestras around the world, including The Philadelphia Orchestra, Minnesota Orchestra, Macao Orchestra, Detroit, Houston, St. Louis, Toronto, Milwaukee, Seattle, and Vancouver symphony orchestras, and National Symphony Orchestra in Washington D.C. In the UK, Warren-Green has worked with Philharmonia, London Philharmonic, Royal Liverpool Philharmonic, and Royal Scottish National Orchestras. In Europe, he has conducted Orchestre National de Belgique, Beethoven Orchestra Bonn, Orchestre National de Montpelier, Zürcher Kammerorchester, RTÉ Symphony Orchestra, Iceland Symphony Orchestra, and in East Asia the Hong Kong Philharmonic, NHK Symphony, Yomiuri Nippon, Singapore, Sapporo, and KBS symphony orchestras.

NICOLE CABELL, soprano

Nicole Cabell, who earned a Bachelor of Music degree from Eastman in 2001, is returning to the school with an appointment as Assistant Professor of Voice. Named 2005 BBC Cardiff Singer of the World, Ms. Cabell’s ensuing career has taken her to the most important opera stages and concert halls in the world, including the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden; the Metropolitan Opera; Lyric Opera of Chicago; Deutsche Opera Berlin; Tetro Colòn Buenos Aires; and many more. As a concert soloist and recitalist, she has sung throughout the United States, Europe, and Canada. Her recordings include Soprano, an opera recital disc debut for Decca; Silver Rain, songs of Ricky Ian Gordon; Chanson D’Avril; Mademoiselle— Première Audience, Unknown Music of Nadia Boulanger for Delos; and Musetta in La Bohème with Anna Netrebko and Rolando Villazon, as well as in La Bohème: The Film.

CODY BOWERS, countertenor

Described as “a voice of rare beauty” (Seen and Heard International), award-winning countertenor Cody Bowers is a Sullivan Foundation Award winner, a National Semifinalist in the Metropolitan Opera Laffont Competition, and a George London Foundation Finalist Award Recipient. In the 23-24 performance season, he debuted at Lincoln Center with the New York Philharmonic in Handel’s Israel in Egypt and with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra in Jonathan Leshnoff’s The Sacrifice of Isaac. Mr. Bowers has performed at prestigious venues including The Metropolitan Opera, San Francisco Opera, and Carnegie Hall. He is also an active member of celebrated ensembles like the Blue Heron Renaissance Choir and Apollo’s Fire Baroque Orchestra.

CHRISTOPHER WARREN-GREEN

NICOLE CABELL

ARTISTS

JOHN TESSIER, tenor

The Juno Award-winning Tenor, John Tessier, has garnered international attention and praise for the beauty and honesty of his voice, for a refined style and artistic versatility, and for his handsome, youthful presence in the lyric tenor repertoire. He has worked with many of the most notable musicians of our day including Plácido Domingo, Lorin Maazel, Emmanuel Haim, Valery Gergiev, Charles Dutoit, Leonard Slatkin, Bryn Terfel, Sir Thomas Allen, Thomas Hampson, Pinchas Zukerman, Itzhak Perlman, Deborah Voigt, Samuel Ramey, Bobby McFerrin, John Nelson, Franz Welser-Möst, Donald Runnicles, Robert Spano, Dame Kiri Te Kanawa, Dame Gwyneth Jones, Carlos Alvarez, and Bernard Labadie. Appearances of the recent past and near future include performances at the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, Wiener Staatsoper, Carnegie Hall, Teatro Colon, Oper Frankfurt, Grand Théâtre de Genève, English National Opera, Washington National Opera, Seattle Opera, the New York Philharmonic, Wiener Musikverein, National Symphony Orchestra, San Francisco Symphony, Philadelphia Orchestra, Cleveland Orchestra, Royal Liverpool Philharmonic, Orchestre National de Lyon, Ensemble Orchestral de Paris, and the Toronto Symphony Orchestra. Equally comfortable in the genres of opera, oratorio, and recital, Mr. Tessier is also an award-winning professor at the University of Alberta and is in high demand for coaching, master classes, and private consultations. His discography includes recordings on the Decca, Naxos, Telarc, BIS, Challenge Records, and Dorian labels.

MATTHEW ROSE, bass

British bass Matthew Rose studied at the Curtis Institute of Music before becoming a member of the Young Artist Programme at the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden.

Matthew’s international career has seen him enjoy a close relationship with The Metropolitan Opera, for whom he gave his 100th performance in 2022. His roles there include Filippo II and Monk (Don Carlos), Raimondo (Lucia di Lammermoor), Claudio (Agrippina), Masetto and Leporello (Don Giovanni), Oroveso (Norma), Ashby (La Fanciulla del West), Talbot (Maria Stuarda), Bottom (A Midsummer Night’s Dream), Night Watchman (Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg), Frère Laurent (Roméo et Juliette), and Colline (La bohème).

The 2024/25 season includes returning to the role of Fasolt in Das Rheingold for the Bayerische Staatsoper, and performances of Rocco in Fidelio with the Opéra National de Bordeaux.

On the concert platform, Matthew sings Bruckner’s Mass No. 3 with the SWR Symphonieorchester, Mussorgsky’s Songs and Dances of Death with the London Philharmonic Orchestra, and returns to Winterreise in performances across the United Kingdom.

JOHN TESSIER

MATTHEW ROSE

ARTISTS

MICHAEL LEOPOLD, theorbo and baroque guitar

Michael Leopold holds both an undergraduate degree in music and a master’s degree in historical plucked instruments from American Universities as well as a degree in lute and theorbo from L’Istituto di Musica Antica of the Accademia Internazionale della Musica in Milan, Italy. Originally from Northern California and after living in Milan, Italy for 16 years and Canada for 5 years, he now resides in the United States. He has performed both as a soloist and as an accompanist throughout Europe, Australia, Japan, South America, Mexico, Canada, and the United States.

Michael has played with a number of leading Italian early music groups, including Concerto Italiano, La Risonanza, La Venexiana and La Pietà de’ Turchini and several American period-instrument ensembles. He has also collaborated with several orchestras and opera companies, including Orchestra Verdi di Milano, Opera Australia, San Francisco Opera, Barcelona Opera, Los Angeles Opera, Houston Grand Opera, Washington National Opera, Glimmerglass Opera, Chicago Opera Theater, Gulbenkian Mùsica, Houston Symphony, Minnesota Orchestra, Nashville Symphony, Cincinnati Opera, and Portland Opera. His performances in operas have been noted in various reviews, “Michael Leopold was a standout on theorbo, providing some of the most sensitive and heartfelt musical moments of the evening,” (Kathryn Bacasmot, Chicago Classical Music 1 May 2012.Teseo, Chicago Opera Theater) and “High marks especially to the marvelous theorbo, lute and baroque guitar specialist, Michael Leopold, whose recitatives added dazzling color.” (Harvey Steiman, Seen and Heard International 7 November 2011. Xerxes, San Francisco Opera).He can be heard in recordings on the Stradivarius, Glossa, Naïve, Linn, Avie, Centaur, and Naxos labels.

MICHAEL LEOPOLD DANIELE GOBBIN

ARTISTS

ERIC TOWNELL, artistic director

A versatile and dynamic musician, conductor Eric Townell became the third Music Director in the 77-year history of the Rochester Oratorio Society (ROS) in 2006. He has led the ROS in subscription concerts, regional outreach performances, live radio broadcasts, televised concerts, commissions of new work, collaborative concerts with the region’s leading arts organizations and with the University of Rochester Humanities Center, award-winning tours to Beijing and Shanghai for the 2008 Olympic Cultural Festival and to Eastern European capitals.

He has prepared the ROS for numerous appearances with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra, and New York State Ballet. His choral and orchestral performances with the Oratorio Society have been heard nationally via WXXI’s “Performance Rochester” series.

An experienced and effective communicator on music and arts topics, Eric has offered pre-concert chats, creative consultation, and program annotation for the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, and several other ensembles and chamber music series. He is a frequent arts commentator on WXXI Public Broadcasting and producer and host of “In the Spotlight,” an arts magazine program distributed via cable access television stations throughout WNY. His orchestral and choral conducting were the subject of the 1994 Wisconsin Public Radio broadcast “Music from Wisconsin: A Wisconsin Conductor.”

ERIC TOWNELL

ARTISTS

THE ROCHESTER ORATORIO SOCIETY

SOPRANOS

Laura Anders

Sara Anthony

Karen Bailey-Francois

Cecilia Beach

Tania Beghini

Barbara Bissell-Erway ♪

Elizabeth Brault

Laurel Buckwalter

Caris Burton

Miriam Cowans

Luanne Crosby

Karen Crummins

Lisa deBlieck ♪

Ash Deharder

Emilia Del Vecchio

Karen Dey ♪

Sharon Dumbleton

Amy Ewell ♪

Nancy Fink

Maria Foti

Paulette Gissendanner

Liane Grasso

Kaleigh Green (Choral Scholar)

Diane Hamilton

Lilith Hart ♪

Erica Hoenig

Shari Holzer ♪♪♪♪♪

X’zaya Ivy

Cora Jackson ♪♪♪

Rebecca Johnson

Beth Keefer

Jane Keller

Suzan Keng

Kristin Kerr

Katelynn Kochalski

Katie Kovacs (Choral Scholar)

Jo Ann Lampman ♪♪♪♪♪

Annette Leopard

Ruth Mance

Sarah Miller

Leta Mueller ♪♪♪

Mary Ann Nazzaro ♪♪♪

Wendy Nelson

Kristina Phillips

Susan Reindel

Ann Robinson ♪

Alison Romano

Pamela Rosen

Elise Rosenfeld ♪♪♪♪

Judith Schewe

Katherine Schumacher ♪♪♪

Maura Slon ♪

Kelly Smeltzer

Mary Taylor-James

Cynthia Towler

Lorraine Tyra

Vicky Wadsworth

Julia Weston-Town

Laura Wilks

Christine Whitbourne

June White

Roni Yahav

Denise Yarbrough ♪

ALTOS

Deborah Loo Anderson ♪♪

Dianne Bailey ♪

Angela Bartlow

Sarah Blood

Lynn Brussel ♪♪

Donna Budgeon ♪

Jane Capellupo ♪♪♪♪♪

Jenifer Cheney ♪

Mary Ellen Coleman

Francheska Diaz

Carol Elliott ♪♪♪♪♪

Sarah Engel

Kety Esquivel

K. Sue Geier ♪

Maryellen Giese ♪♪

Susan Gilday

Kathleen Green ♪

Barbara Hellwig ♪♪♪

Carol Herford

Jennifer Horn ♪

Carole Huther ♪♪♪

Lois Johnson

Margaret Kaminsky

Barbara Kassnoff

Julie Kirkwood

Lisa Klein

Nina Koski

Rev. Lisa Lancaster

Anna Lieser

Sue Lione

Erika Masters

Honey Meconi

Larisa Melder

Sandy Moncrief ♪

Dorothy Needler ♪

Virginia Payne ♪♪♪

Patricia Sanborn ♪♪♪

Molly Sanchez ♪

Ursala Scholz

Nancy Schreiber ♪

Grace Seiberling ♪

Mary Avis Seitz

Deb Stiker

Deborah Sullivan

Robin Townell ♪

Cheri Trimble

Monica Tyne ♪

Patricia Van Dussen ♪♪♪

Susan Walders

Betty Wells ♪

Jennifer Whitney

Susan Woodhouse

TENORS

John Buckwalter

Evan Burnett

Mark Darling

Richard Gudgel

Richard Johnson

James Kirkwood

Colleen Knapp

Greg Madejski

Daniel McInerney ♪♪♪

Charles Meyer ♪

Craig Mix

Jeffrey Moran

Simone Picciolo ♪♪

Jeffery Snarr

Keith Van Nostrand

Samuel Wersinger

Virginia Wohltmann ♪♪♪♪

BASSES

Brandon Bartlett

Alan Bartlow, Sr. ♪♪

Philip Burke

Timothy Coleman ♪

Douglas Constable ♪♪♪♪

Peter Gaess ♪

Ernest Goetz

Scott Griswold

Christian Haller ♪♪♪

Harry Hellwig ♪♪♪

Frederick Jefferson

Stanley Jones

Alan Kaminsky

Roy Kirvan

Dean Latten

Roger Leighton

Robert Leopard

Eric Logan

David Prener

Vicente Reyes

Jonathan Sacks

Stephen Schaefer

Robert Slon ♪

Steven Smith ♪♪♪

Richard Sterns

William Tyra

Rob White

Ted White

Benjamin Willmott

Jeffrey Wright ♪♪

10 Year Member ♪

20

30

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SUN DEC 15 2 PM

NAZARETH UNIVERSITYBESTON HALL

Andreas Delfs, conductor

For Andreas Delfs’ biography, please see page 5. Michael Stevens, horn

JOHANN Orchestral Suite No. 1 in C Major, 18:00

SEBASTIAN BACH BWV 1066

I. Ouverture

II. Courante

III. Gavotte

IV. Forlane

V. Passepied

VI. Bourrée

ARTHUR Romanza for Horn and String Orchestra 9:00 BUTTERWORTH

INTERMISSION

FRANZ SCHUBERT Symphony No. 6 in C Major, D.589 28:00

I. Adagio. Allegretto

II. Andante

III. Scherzo. Presto

IV. Allegro moderato

SEASON SPONSOR: SERIES SPONSOR:

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MATINEES AT NAZ: BACH & SCHUBERT

SUNDAY

ARTISTS

MICHAEL STEVENS, horn

Michael Stevens joined the Rochester Philharmonic as principal horn in 2023. He has performed as guest principal horn with the San Francisco Symphony and the Auckland Philharmonia, and has also performed with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Detroit Symphony Orchestra, and the Grand Teton Music Festival Orchestra. Prior to joining the RPO, he was a member of the Civic Orchestra of Chicago.

Michael grew up in East Islip, NY in a family of musicians. He earned a Bachelor’s degree from Northwestern University. His primary teachers include Gail Williams, Jon Boen, Javier Gandara, and Barbara Currie.

MICHAEL STEVENS

PROGRAM NOTES

JOHANN SEBASTIAN BACH

Orchestral Suite No. 1 in C Major, BWV 1066 (around 1725)

B. EISENACH, GERMANY March 21, 1685

D. LEIPZIG, GERMANY July 28, 1750

Bach’s orchestral suites are modeled after the French dance suite, a group of contrasting dances in duple or triple meters that share a key. But even on Bach’s first attempt at an orchestral suite—the C major suite, BWV 1066, he looked past some of the usual dances (Courante, Gavotte, Bourrée) in favor of peripheral options. For instance, he brought in the unusual Forlane, a fast-paced city dance from Venice, marked by jubilant dotted rhythms, to add excitement and drama to his suite. It is, indeed, the kind of dance that would encourage anyone to add a little pick-up to their walk. The C major suite is written for two oboes, bassoon, strings, and continuo (a group of instruments, usually lower strings and harpsichord, that provide harmonic grounding). The two oboes and bassoon get lots of time in the spotlight as a trio section that trades off with the full orchestra—especially in the opening overture—which brings this orchestra suite close in construction to the Baroque concerto grosso, a concerto for a group of instruments.

ARTHUR BUTTERWORTH

Romanza for Horn and String Orchestra (1951)

B. NEW MOSTON, MANCHESTER, ENGLAND August 4, 1923

D. EMBSAY, CRAVEN, NORTH YORKSHIRE November 20, 2014

Butterworth’s Romanza for French horn and string orchestra, written in 1951, one of Butterworth’s earlier works, exudes the so-called natural English language and countryside settings that seem to be one of the hallmarks of Butterworth’s music and English music more broadly. The atmospheric work hinges around a lilting opening melody that goes on a breezy, episodic journey, with undeniable influence from Vaughan Williams. Despite Butterworth’s brass-band background, the horn here is not militaristic or brash. Rather, Butterworth highlights the horn’s incandescent tone quality and capacity for sustained lyricism.

FRANZ SCHUBERT

Symphony No. 6 in C Major, D. 589 (1817-1818)

B. HIMMELPFORTGRUND, AUSTRIA January 31, 1797

D. VIENNA, AUSTRIA November 19, 1828

Schubert was clearly influenced by Gioachino Rossini, whose operatic music was popular in 19th-century Vienna. “You cannot deny that he has extraordinary genius,” Schubert supposedly said of Rossini. Schubert’s Symphony No. 6, which is sub-titled the “Little C Major” (differentiating it from the grand Symphony No. 9, also in C major), could easily be the score to a Rossini opera with its lightheartedness and humor, instruments each a character in the drama.

The first movement opens with grand chords, whereafter the winds and strings pass off easy melodies until the movement is off into a playful allegro—the exchanges of major and minor drive the drama as much as the personalities written into the melodies. The second movement, Andante, starts politely but then develops into a banter between instruments driven by triplets with some fiery interruptions. The third movement scherzo springs into action with a skipping presto tempo, which Schubert contrasts with a quieter, suspended midsection trio. The final movement—Allegro moderato—finishes the symphony with a similar light character that characterizes the work as a whole but with exciting contrasts that build towards a thrilling end.

Program notes by Anna Reguero, PhD, a Rochester-based arts writer and music scholar.

GALA HOLIDAY POPS

Jeff Tyzik, conductor

For Jeff Tyzik’s biography, please see page 6.

Juliana Athayde, violin

Concertmaster, The Caroline W. Gannett & Clayla Ward Chair

Erik Behr, oboe

Principal, The Dr. Jacques M. Lipson Chair

Kaia Behr, cello

George DeMott, vocals

Festival High School Chorale

Brenda Nitsch, festival chorale director

Anthony D’Agostino, festival chorale director

Erik

Kaia

8 PM

21

2 PM SAT DEC 21

8 PM

DEC 22

2 PM

KODAK HALL AT EASTMAN THEATRE

TRADITIONAL

Jeff Tyzik, conductor

For Jeff Tyzik’s biography, please see page 6.

Juliana Athayde, violin

Concertmaster, The Caroline W. Gannett & Clayla Ward Chair

Erik Behr, oboe

Principal, The Dr. Jacques M. Lipson Chair

Kaia Behr, cello

George DeMott, vocals

Festival High School Chorale

Brenda Nitsch, festival chorale director

Anthony D’Agostino, festival chorale director

Carol of the Drum 6:00 (ARR. TYZIK)

PIOTR ILYICH

Waltz of the Flowers from The Nutcracker 7:00 TCHAIKOVSKY

FRANZ SCHUBERT Ave Maria 4:00 (ARR. TYZIK) Festival High School Chorale

George DeMott, voice

TRADITIONAL

We Wish You A Merry Christmas 2:30 (ARTHUR HARRIS) Festival High School Chorale

ADOLPHE ADAM O Holy Night 6:00 (ARR. GARY FRY) Festival High School Chorale

MARTIN & BLANE Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas 3:10 (MOLLY IJAMES) Festival High School Chorale

GEORGE FREDERIC Hallelujah Chorus from Messiah (Gospel) 5:00 HANDEL Festival High School Chorale (ARR. TYZIK)

ROBERT BURNS Auld Lang Syne 5:00 (ARR. TYZIK) Festival High School Chorale

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ARTISTS

JULIANA ATHAYDE, violin

Concertmaster, The Caroline W. Gannett & Clayla Ward Chair

Appointed concertmaster of the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra in 2005 at the age of 24, Juliana Athayde became the youngest person and first female to hold the position since the orchestra’s founding in 1922. She has appeared as guest concertmaster with the Houston, San Diego, Kansas City, and Santa Barbara symphonies, as well as the National Arts Center Orchestra in Ottawa, Ontario. She has also performed with The Cleveland Orchestra in the United States and Europe.

A native of the San Francisco Bay Area, Ms. Athayde made her solo debut at the age of 16 performing with the San Francisco Symphony and has been praised by critics for her “power and precision,” “melting lyricism,” and “larger than life” performances. A passionate advocate for contemporary music, Athayde’s numerous solo appearances with the RPO have covered a wide range of composers and include multiple world premieres: Allen Shawn’s violin concerto (2010), Jeff Tyzik’s Jazz Concerto for Violin (2016), and Roberto Sierra’s violin concerto (2022), all commissioned by the RPO and written specifically for her. Athayde has also performed as a soloist with orchestras throughout the United States and is in demand as a chamber musician. Notable collaborations include Jean-Yves Thibaudet, Vadim Gluzman, Michael Tilson Thomas, Paul Neubauer, Anton Nel, Orion Weiss, Shai Wosner, Joseph Silverstein, Orli Shaham, Jon Nakamatsu, William Preucil, Jon Kimura Parker, and Anthony McGill. Together with her husband, RPO principal oboist Erik Behr, Ms. Athayde demonstrates her commitment to fostering a thriving classical music scene in the community and serves as Co-Artistic Director of the Society for Chamber Music in Rochester.

A dynamic teacher, Ms. Athayde is Associate Professor of Violin at the Eastman School of Music and serves on the faculty at music festivals throughout the United States, including Carnegie Hall’s National Youth Orchestra and the National Orchestral Institute + Festival with Music Director Marin Alsop. She has held visiting faculty positions at both the Cleveland Institute of Music and Cornell University, and has guest taught at Rice University’s Shepherd School of Music. Ms. Athayde holds a B.M. from the University of Michigan where she studied with Paul Kantor, and both M.M. and A.D. degrees from the Cleveland Institute of Music, studying with former Cleveland Orchestra Concertmaster, William Preucil, where she was the first graduate of CIM’s Concertmaster Academy. A fellow at the Aspen Music Festival and School for six years, Ms. Athayde was awarded the prestigious Dorothy DeLay fellowship in 2005 and was invited to deliver the festival’s convocation speech in 2010.

Summer festival residencies include San Diego’s Mainly Mozart Festival and the Sun Valley Music Festival in Idaho where Ms. Athayde is a frequently featured soloist and chamber musician. She can be heard on multiple RPO recordings for the Harmonia Mundi label and is also featured on a recording of Stravinsky’s L’Histoire du Soldat with the Eastman Virtuosi. Ms. Athayde performs on a J.B. Vuillaume violin and a Jean Dominique Adam bow.

JULIANA ATHAYDE KATE LEMMON

ARTISTS

ERIK BEHR, oboe

Principal, The Dr. Jacques M. Lipson Chair

Erik Behr has held the position of Principal Oboe at the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra since 2007, after serving as Principal Oboe at the Houston Grand Opera and Houston Ballet. He has also served as a guest principal with several orchestras, including the San Francisco Symphony, the Atlanta Symphony, the Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra, and the Nashville Symphony. During the summer season, Behr is the principal oboe of the Sun Valley Music Festival and played for many years with the Mainly Mozart Festival Orchestra. Additionally, he has performed at the Edinburgh International, Casals, Maribor, and Spoleto festivals.

Behr’s extensive repertoire includes a variety of concerto performances, including the premiere of Allen Shawn’s Oboe Concerto in 2018, which was commissioned for Behr and the RPO. Behr and his wife, RPO Concertmaster Juliana Athayde, serve as Co-Artistic Directors of the Society for Chamber Music in Rochester. In 2017, Behr premiered Guggenheim Fellow Adam Roberts’ Oboe Quartet, commissioned for Behr and SCMR. Behr recorded this work with the JACK Quartet and it was released by New Focus Recording in late 2021. Behr is committed to promoting new music, having works written for him by composers such as Jeff Tyzik’s Dance Suite for oboe and orchestra (2020) and Jim Willey’s Oboe Quartet (2021).

Behr’s musicianship has garnered praise from critics, who have described his playing as “bold and graceful” (Washington Post), “immaculate” (Sunday Tribune), and commended his “tremendous musicianship and sense of style” (Irish Examiner), as well as his “ease and eloquence” (Rochester Democrat and Chronicle).

Currently, Behr serves as an Adjunct Professor at Roberts Wesleyan College, and has served as a guest oboe teacher at the Cleveland Institute of Music, Oberlin Conservatory of Music, and Rice University. Behr has also held a position on the oboe faculty at the University of Houston and served as a visiting lecturer at Cornell University. During the summer, Behr teaches at the National Orchestral Institute + Festival and Carnegie Hall’s NYO-USA, as well as giving masterclasses internationally. Behr holds a B.M. (cum laude) from Arizona State University, a M.M. from Temple University, and a D.M.A. from Rice University, having studied with Robert Atherholt, Richard Woodhams, and Martin Schuring.

KAIA BEHR, cello

Born to musician parents (RPO Concertmaster, Juliana Athayde and RPO Principal Oboe, Erik Behr), Kaia Behr has been expressing herself through music from a young age. She is currently a fifth grade student at St. Louis Catholic School and has been playing cello for the past five years, studying with former RPO Assistant Principal Cellist Kathy Kemp at the Hochstein School of Music. Singing is another musical passion of Kaia’s and she recently enjoyed her first lead role as Belle in her school’s musical production of Disney's Beauty and the Beast. Kaia is a Harry Potter enthusiast and in her free time, she loves to build Lego, ride her bike and play outside with her younger sister, enjoy a good book or lead family game nights. This is Kaia’s first professional appearance, and she couldn’t be more excited to share the stage with her parents, the wonderful musicians of the RPO (who have known Kaia since she was little) and RPO Principal Pops Conductor Jeff Tyzik, who is an important part of her life.

ERIK BEHR

KAIA BEHR

ARTISTS

GEORGE DEMOTT, vocals

A mix of classic masculinity and charm, George DeMott captures the essence of the great singers of days gone by with his unique contemporary style. Singing opera to pop and everything in between, his performances have captured the hearts of listeners around the world. Classically trained, he holds degrees from UC Santa Barbara and the prestigious Eastman School of Music. In the opera world, he has performed several classic Tenor roles with Orlando, Glimmerglass, Virginia, Illinois, and others. Most recently, George joined the team at Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra as a development officer where he is honored to further the mission of music at such an esteemed anchor in Rochester’s cultural arts community.

Although he enjoys singing many styles of music, his heart and voice shine in the new Pop-Opera genre best reflected in his work with the dynamic vocal trio, POPERAZZI. This energetic and versatile trio has performed with some of the top orchestras in North America including Atlanta, Philadelphia, Edmonton, Naples, Houston, Indianapolis, Jacksonville, Corpus Christi, Pasadena, Detroit, and more. Although being born and raised in Rochester, NY, George spent 11 years based in Las Vegas where he put his talents to work performing at resorts and casinos as well as corporate venues there.

George has also been a featured guest entertainer aboard several cruise ships, namely Crystal Cruises, bringing his love of Pop-Opera to audiences all over the world.

BRENDA

NITSCH, festival chorale director

Brenda Nitsch recently retired from Webster Thomas High School where she was director of choral activities. She also directed and produced the annual spring musical and served as the music department Lead Teacher.

Under the direction of Mrs. Nitsch, Webster Thomas High School soloists and ensembles performed regularly at school, community, NYSSMA, and NAfME sponsored events. Past performance highlights include NYSSMA Major Organization (gold with distinction), NYSSMA Winter Conference, NAfME AllEastern Conference (Rhode Island), New York State Board of Education Convention, RPO Harry Potter and The Prisoner of Azkaban (film with orchestra and choir), The Cathedral of St. John the Divine (NYC), Riverside Church (NYC), Salem United Methodist Church (NYC), and St. Patrick’s Cathedral (NYC). Select Choir performed/collaborated with several collegial ensembles and directors including Eastman School of Music, Houghton College, SUNY Fredonia, and Nazareth College University. Mrs. Nitsch’s students were consistently chosen to represent Thomas High School in NYSSMA Area All-State and Conference All-State choirs as well as in NAfME All-Eastern and All-National ensembles.

Mrs. Nitsch has served as guest clinician/presenter at college workshops and NYSSMA conferences, guest conducted several senior high and junior high all-county choirs, and for eight years co-taught the Eastman School of Music Secondary Choral Methods class with Dr. Philip Silvey. In 2008 Mrs. Nitsch was the recipient of the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra Outstanding Musician Educator Award in Choral Music.

Currently, Mrs. Nitsch is the alto soloist at Asbury United Methodist Church, supervises Nazareth University secondary choral student teacher candidates and sings in the Rochester vocal chamber ensemble, Madrigalia. She enjoys yoga, kayaking, hiking, and spending time with grandson Martin.

Mrs. Nitsch holds a Bachelor of Music from Marywood University, a Master of Science in Music Education from Mansfield University, and a Master of Music in Vocal Performance from Eastman School of Music.

GEORGE DEMOTT

BRENDA NITSCH

ARTISTS

ANTHONY D’AGOSTINO, festival chorale director

Mr. D’Agostino is currently the Jr. High Choir Director at Victor Central School District. D’Agostino teaches 7th Grade Chorus, 8th Grade Chorus, and general music. He also serves as the Music Director for the Jr. High Musicals. While under his direction, Mr. D’Agostino’s students have earned high marks at NYSSMA Solo Festival Adjudications and earned Superior ratings at Music in the Parks Festivals.

Before coming to Victor, Mr. D’Agostino served as the 7-12 Choral Director at Dansville Central School District, conducting the 7/8 Jr. High Chorus, High School Mixed Chorus, Treble Chorus, and Chamber Singers. Students of Mr. D’Agostino have been invited to perform in the Junior High School Area All-State, Senior High Area All-State, Conference All-State, and ACDA Summer, Eastern Division and National Honor Choirs. Students have also been invited to sing with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra as part of the Gala Holiday Pops Chorus under the direction of Mrs. Amy Story, Mr. Harold McAuliffe and Mr. Jeff Tyzik.

Mr. D’Agostino also serves as the Middle School/Jr. High R&R Chair for the American Choral Directors’ Association New York Chapter. He is an active clinician and conductor for Jr. High & High School Area AllState and All-County Choirs throughout the New York Region.

Mr. D’Agostino is an Adjunct Professor at Finger Lakes Community College in Canandaigua, NY. He works with the Select Chamber Group Finger Lakes Camerata.

Mr. D’Agostino earned his Music Education & Performance degrees from Mansfield University with a Bachelor’s in Piano Performance & Music Education and a Master’s from Boston University in Music Education.

ANTHONY D’AGOSTINO

ARTISTS

2024 FESTIVAL HIGH SCHOOL CHORALE

SOPRANOS

Evelyn Aiezza

Sydney Burnett

Rebecca Camilleri

Kathryn Carroll

Keagan Conklin

Emma Davies

Molly Donovan

Katie Evans

Kariana Fenton

Jamie Fetzner

Savannah Fish

Lauren Forrett

Delaney Gallahan

Leah Genge

Kiersten Gingrich

Mia Gray

Brooklynn Hand

Brooke Henchen

Zoe Klingman

Harley Kramer

Madilyn Law

Mairi Linden

Nora Lindsay

Aiveyona Lloyd

Sarah Luna

Norah Manurung

Ryann Murdock

Olivia Newman

Elise Noyes

Ava Ruggles

Isabella Sanginario

Alaynna Selvek

Breanna Shaver

Grace Slocum

Paige Sugarman

Holly Thiel

Lacey Vitch

Scarlett Wilder

ALTOS

Jade Akerfelt

Ava Blount

Ashley Bonenfant

Jada Bradley

Violet Brooks

Caroline Burse

Hannah Cousins

Mazie De Luccio

Talia DeCoursey

Riya Dixit

Isabella Eichelberger

Leticia Gensch

Kylie Gravino

Renee Groesbeck

Claire Hancey

Hannah Harmon

Bailey Harris

Alison Henry

Toria Holcomb

Casey Howe

Seerat Kaur

Madison Kulp

Finn Lowe

Alexis MacDonald

Katherine (Katie) Murty

Tessa Natale

Emma Newark

Haylee Pacheco

Allison Patrick

Shyanne Pilozzi

Eleanor Pratt

Lucy PriceMarten

Marleigh Priest

Laura Reynolds

Makayla Richardson

Kara Salvesen

Bella Schott

Madeline Seddon

Kayla Smith

Alyson Wood

Caspian Wunder

TENORS

Merrick Bathgate

Theo Bonshak

Taryn Campbell

Braeden Christensen

Cate Daley

Elijah DiRenzi

Ziyad ElOuardighini

Will Geiger

Charles (Parker) Gibbs

Michael Giordano

Alston Hernandez

Jacob Hinman

Lil Iannazzi

Logan Igler

Collin Isaacs

Ziad Khan

Colton Lamb

Logan Lane

Jackson Lovullo

Will McLaughlin

Cavan McNeil

Charlie Meyer

Dylan Parker

William Quan

Anna Reilly

Colin Ritchie

Jessica Roos

Careem Rutledge

Dakota Saar

Krishna Tangirala

Riley Tompkins

Angel (Kai) Torres

Ashonce Torrey

Aiden Tyson

Sam Vanderlinde

Brody Walrath

Emersyn (Eme) Warner

BASSES

Griffin Allen

Manny Boadu

Casey Bronson

Cole Burke

Levi Choi

Nakoa Cotton

Jared Crystal

Marcus Haffner

Keon Hill

Aidan Kelley

Aiden Laber

Michael Leonard

Ronan Martinez

Cavan McNeil

Ian Mellott

Ty Naffziger

Mason O’Connell

Schultz Owen

Paul Pago

Giovanni Parent

Tanner Peters

Jayden Smith

Ethan Stein

Zachary Thomas Teerlinck

Colin Tenny

Jacob Thomas

Jose Valentin

Nicholas Walczak

Graham Wohlers

Kaiden Wolf

Ryan Years

ZiYang Zou

Participating Schools: Avon, Bloomfield, Brighton, Brockport, Caledonia Mumford, Canandaigua, Churchville-Chili, Eastridge, Fairport, Greece Athena, Greece Olympia, Holley, Manchester-Shortsville, Medina, Newark, North-Rose Wolcott, Pavilion, Penfield, Pittsford Sutherland, Spencerport, Victor, Waterloo, Webster Schroeder, Webster Thomas, Williamson

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from October 1, 2023 through October 31, 2024

SYMPHONY

($50,000 AND ABOVE)

CORPORATE PARTNERS, FOUNDATIONS, AND ORGANIZATIONS

The Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra gratefully acknowledges the following corporate, foundation, and community organizations for their generous support. Please contact the Development Office at development@rpo.org with questions or corrections. Listings are in recognition of our current donors in the 2024-25 Concert Season (July 1, 2024 through October 31, 2024).

Glover-Crask Charitable Trust& Gouvernet Fund for the Arts at RACF& Lisk Morris Foundation, Inc. & M&T Bank

CONCERTO

($25,000–$49,999)

Canandaigua National Bank & Trust

Kimbo il Café di Napoli

MusicPower.org

St. Ann’s Community Wegmans Food Markets

SONATA

($10,000–$24,999)

The Gertrude Chanler RPO Fund at the Rochester Area Community Foundation Constellation Brands

ESL Charitable Foundation

LSI Solutions, Inc.

Pittsford Federal Credit Union^ TwoPoint Capital Management

SUITE

($5,000–$9,999)

Grace & Disgrace

Heathwood Assisted Living & Memory Care

Andrea Holland Coaching Hoselton Auto Mall

Spindler Family Foundation

St. John’s

OVERTURE

($3,000–$4,999)

Akerman, LLP

Leading Edge Advising & Development RE/MAX Realty Group

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The Bank of Castile, a Tompkins Community Bank

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Riedman Foundation

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Chipotle Mexican Grill^

Victor and Helen Geisel Foundation, Inc.^

Fred M. and Lurita D. Wechsler

Memorial Fund

West Rush Media, LLC

MATCHING GIFT COMPANIES

Charities Aid Foundation of America

Johnson and Johnson Matching Gift Foundation

Scan to view the full listing from October 1, 2023 through October 31, 2024

MAESTRO’S CIRCLE LEADERSHIP GIVING SOCIETY

The Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra gratefully acknowledges the generous individuals listed here who help us continue to enrich and inspire the community through the art of music. While space only permits us to list pledged gifts made at the Benefactor level and above in the printed program book, we value the generosity and vital support of all donors and have moved all donors from Contributor amount and above to be listed in our digital edition donor roll on www.rpo.org/donor-recognition. Please contact us at development@ rpo.org questions or corrections. Listings are in recognition of our current donors in the 2024-25 Concert Season (July 1, 2024 through October 31, 2024).

MAESTOSO ($50,000 AND ABOVE)

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Christine Colucci

Mary Cowden

Karen Duguid and Wallace Johnson& The Dumm Family

Mr. and Mrs. James T. Englert&

Dr. and Mrs. Elmar Frangenberg&^L

Betsy and Jay*Friedman&

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Anonymous

Anne and Steve* Bauer

Diana R. Clarkson, Esq. and James Donnelly& Emerson and Vernita Fullwood& Jeffrey and Lynne Halik&

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Anonymous

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Carol and John Bennett&

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Dave and Jan Angus

Anonymous

Marvin L. Becker and Daryl Kaplan

Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Bielaska, Jr.

Jamie Block

Stuart* and Betsy Bobry

Mr. and Mrs. Paul W.* Briggs

Peter W. Briggs

Andrew J. Burke, RE/MAX Realty Group

Ann Burr and A. Vincent Buzard

Keith and Joan Calkins

Dr. Thomas and Ann Caprio

Barbara A. Colucci^

Karen E. Dau

Nancy and Sreeram Dhurjaty

Louise W. Epstein

Gerald G. Estes

Barbara and Patrick Fulford&

Marjorie and James Fulmer&

Mr. and Mrs. Ronald A. Furman**&

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Amy R. Hecker and Howard S. Decker&

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Pace Family Fund&

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Gary B. Schaefer

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Joan M. Schumaker

David and Grace* Strong

Glen and Lynne Suckling

Mimi and Sam Tilton

David and Julie Weinstein

Eleanor Williams

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PHILHARMONIC FRIENDS

Daisy AlgarinS

Marvin and Frederica Amstey

Anonymous

Joseph* and Nancy Briggs

Josephine Buckley

Brian and Mary Jane Burke

Bruce and Shirley Burritt

William T. Chandler

Clark Family Fund at the Rochester Area

Community Foundation

Beth R. CrossS

Roy Czernikowski and Karin Dunnigan

Judy and Joe Darweesh

Mr. and Mrs. Steven DeSmitt

David and Anne Ferris

Jim and Steph Fischer

M. Fitzpatrick

Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Forsyth

Jonathan Foster

Sandra and Neil Frankel

Emerson and Vernita Fullwood&

Jerry J. Gambino, Jr.

Linda G. Gillim

John and Roslyn Goldman

Jeanne and Bob Grace

Susan and James Haefner

Joan Hallenbeck

Martin and Sherrie Handelman

BENEFACTOR ($500-$999)

Barbara Agor

Anonymous

Maureen Baran

Kathleen C. Barbehenn

Jim and Linda Baroody

Hays and Karen Bell

Donald and Mary BoydS

Paula and James* Briggs

Henra S. Briskin

Eileen Buholtz

Brendan and Suzanne Casey

Alan Cohen and Nancy Bloom

Elison and Donald Cramer

Mrs. Joan Dalberth

Daniel and Susan DimpflS

Sherman and Anne Farnham

Joan and Harold* Feinbloom

Evan and Elvira* Felty

Susan and Leslie Foor

Ann and Steve Fox

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Richard T. Galvin

Kimberly and Lou Gangi

M. Lois Gauch

Paulette GissendannerS

Dr. and Mrs. William Grace

Russell and Kathleen Green

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Mr. and Mrs. Joseph R. Hanna

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James and Betsy Hoefen

Sheila Hollander

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Dr. Tomas Hernandez and Dr. Keith Reas

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Drs. Ryan and Makiko Hoefen^

Dr. Marvin and Nancy* Yanes Hoffman

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Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence S. Iwan

La Marr J. Jackson, Esq.

Dr. and Mrs. Harold Kanthor

Judy and Norm Karsten

Heidi Katz and Carl Chiarenza

Karen and Laurence Kessler

Ann Knigge and Al Buckner

Lynn Krauss-Prince

Deanna and Charles Krunsenstjerna

John and Lisa Lacci

Donna M. Landry

Jennifer Leonard and David Cay Johnston

Kathy J. Lindsley

John and Jane Littwitz

Curtis and Elizabeth Long&S

Patrick Macey and Jeremiah Casey

Saul and Susan Marsh

Richard and Kate Massie

Andrew and Kay Melnyk

Deanne Molinari

Mr. and Mrs. Paul F. Morgan

Pastor and Mrs. Donald Muller

Dr. Dewey Jackson

Bruce Jacobs

Mr. Gilbert F. Jordan

Connie KaminskiS

Barbara and Robert Kay

Michael and Joann Keefe

Mr. and Mrs. James E. Keenan

Mr. Edward Klehr

Mr. and Mrs. Leon Kopf, Jr.

Ellen C. Lewis

Sarah F. Liebschutz, PhD

Dr. and Mrs. Norman R. Loomis

John and Judy Lynd

David J. Mack

Frank Maley

Bryan Maslin and Jane Flasch-Maslin

Tom and Emily McCall

David and Dorcas McCartney

Jonathan Mink and Janet Cranshaw

David and Monika M. MullenS

Thomas C. Munger

Dr. Philip S. Nash

Maureen and Steve Neumaier

Peggy and David Oakes

Mr. Donald W. and Jo-Ann R. O’Brien

W. Smith and Jean O’Brien

Margie O’jea

Debra and George Orosz

Tom Parker

Glen Pearson

Robert and Penny Peterson

Thomas W. Petrillo and William R. Reamy

Richard and Susan Reed

Stan and Anne Refermat

Paul Marc and Pamela Miller Ness&

Helene Newman

Deborah Onslow&S

Douglas and Rose Peet

Dick and Cathy Rasmussen

Josh Reynolds

Nancy and Art Roberts

Joan and James* Ryan, Sr.

Paul and Barbara Schmied

Peter Schott and Mary Jane Tasciotti

Mr. and Mrs. William Schultz

Anthony and Gloria Sciolino

Dr. Jenny C. Servo and Mr. John Servo

Hezekiah and Ann Marie Simmons

Kathie Snyder

Phillip and Karen Sparkes

David Spector

Sandra and Richard Stein&

Nancy Stevens and David Williams

James and Barb* Walker

Philip and Marilyn Wehrheim Fund

Ed and Wilma Wierenga

Beatrice and Michael Wolford

Norman J. Wright

Laura and Joel Yellin

Bill and Wende Young

Dr. Gerald and Maxine Rosen

Richard and Margery Rosen

Dr. and Mrs. G. Theodore Ruckert

Tom and Ellen Rusling

Hon. Franklin T. and Cynthia Russell

Nancy and David Schraver

David and Naomi Schrier

Theresa A. Seil and Debra Celestino

Donna Broberg Shum

Abby and David Stern

David and Carol Teegarden

Jeffrey J. Thompson

John* and Janet Tyler

Dr. William M. Valenti

Vic Vinkey

Stephen H. and Jody Waite

Brian and Jean Waldmiller

Mr. and Mrs. William Wallace

Marsha Walton

Dale and Lorraine Whittington

Susan and Paul Wilkens

David and Donna Willome

Robert A. Woodhouse&

Jim* and Barb Woods

Jeff Wright and Betty Wells

Caroline and Richard Yates

& Denotes donor(s) has/have contributed to the RPO& Comprehensive Capital Campaign

S Denotes donor(s) has/have a recurring Sustaining Circle contribution to the RPO * Denotes donor(s) is/are deceased. ^ Denotes donor(s) has/have contributed to the Rochester Philharmonic Youth Orchestra (RPYO).

Scan to view the full listing from October 1, 2023 through October 31, 2024

IN MEMORY OF…

Elizabeth Affolter

Don and Jeanne Worboys

Joanne Anderson

Dolores Young

Paul W. Briggs

Beatrice Briggs

Eleanor Conte

George Conte

Dr. Salvatore Dalberth

Joan Dalberth

Valera D’Esopo

Barbara Grajewski

Elvira R. Felty

Evan Felty

Johanna M. Gambino

Jerry J. Gambino, Jr.

Scan to view the full listing from October 1, 2023 through October 31, 2024

BRAVO TRIBUTES

The Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra gratefully acknowledges the following individuals and organizations for their generous support by honoring or remembering in memory of, the individuals listed below. Listings are in recognition of our current donors in the 202425 Concert Season (July 1, 2024 through October 31, 2024).

Tribute gifts are a special way to remember loved ones or commemorate special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, births or graduations. If you would like to make a memorial or honorarium gift, please visit www.rpo.org/donate or contact the Development office at 585/454-7311 ext. 249 or email development@rpo.org.

Jane L. Garrett

Michael Garrett

Richard C. Hastings

Glenda Hastings

Donald Heinle

Stephen and Ann Martin

David L. Hunley, Sr.

Karen Stafford

Dr. Anthony Leone, Jr.

Norma Leone

Edna Lovell

Carol Lovell

Robert Marx

Frances Marx

Hon. Michael Miller

Edward Doherty and Patrice Mitchell

Evelyn Frazee and Thomas Klonick

H. Robert and Joyce Herman

John and Tobie Olsan

Eric and Elizabeth Rennert

Nathan and Susan Robfogel

Nellie J. Rosenberg

Anthony and Gloria Sciolino

Sue Thering

Joseph T. Pagano, Jr.

Nancy Pagano

Eileen Ramos

Maria C. Leonardo

Albert Serenati

Nancy Snyder and Family

Kenneth Slining

David Hathaway

James E. Woods

Barbara Woods

IN HONOR OF…

Laurie Haelen’s Birthday

Donna Cator

John Frost

Dean Hutchinson

Kevin D. Kinney

Catherine D. Noble

James P. Terwilliger

Jennifer A. Yance

Elizabeth Zammit

Ross P. Lanzafame, Esq.

Dr. William Valenti

Nancy E. Scher

Harvey Simmons

RPO GEORGE EASTMAN LEGACY SOCIETY

Members of the RPO George Eastman Legacy Society are true believers in the power of music. The RPO George Eastman Legacy Society honors those individuals who remember the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra through a planned gift. The RPO’s team of development professionals are available to work with you and your advisors to create a plan that will help you meet your financial and philanthropic goals. For more information, please contact the Development Office at 585.454.7311.

ABOUT US

Since its founding by George Eastman in 1922, the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra has been committed to enriching and inspiring our community through the art of music. Currently celebrating our Centennial Season, the RPO is dedicated to maintaining its deep commitment to artistic excellence, educational opportunity, and community engagement.

Today, the RPO presents up to 120 concerts per year, serving nearly 170,000 people through ticketed events, education and community engagement activities, and concerts in schools and community centers throughout the region. Nearly one-third of all RPO performances are educational or community-related. In addition, WXXI 91.5 FM rebroadcasts approximately 30 RPO concerts each year. For more information, visit rpo.org.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

TICKETS: The RPO Patron Services Center is located at 255 East Avenue in the back of the Farash Place building in downtown Rochester. Free parking is available in a small lot between the parking garage and building. Open Monday through Friday 10 AM–5PM.

NIGHT-OF-CONCERT PURCHASES: RPO will-call tickets and concert tickets are available at the RPO tables in the Eastman Theatre Box Office lobby starting 90 minutes prior to concert time.

PARKING: Paid parking for Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre is available at the East End Garage, located next to the theatre. Open entrances/exits change frequently while the garage is under construction. Visit rpo.org/parking for the most recent updates. Paid parking for the Performance Hall at Hochstein is available at the Sister Cities Garage, located behind the school at Church and Fitzhugh Streets.

PRE-CONCERT TALKS: All ticketholders are welcome to attend free pre-concert talks held one hour before all Philharmonics concerts and all Jeff Tyzik-conducted Pops concerts. Ticketholders are asked to sit anywhere they would like in the orchestra level of the theatre, then head to their reserved seat for the concert.

SERVICES FOR PATRONS WITH DISABILITIES: Wheelchair locations and seating for those with disabilities are available at all venues; please see the house manager or an usher for assistance. Elevators are located in the Eastman Theatre Box Office lobby. A wheelchair-accessible restroom is available on the first floor.

SERVICES FOR HARD-OF-HEARING PATRONS: Audio systems are available at Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre; headsets may be obtained from an usher prior to the performance.

CHANGING SEATS: If you find it necessary to be reseated for any reason, please contact an usher who will bring your request to the House Manager.

LOST AND FOUND: Items found in Kodak Hall will be held at the Eastman Theatre Box Office, 433 E. Main Street. For more info, call 585-274-3000.

ELECTRONIC DEVICES: The use of cameras or audio recording equipment is strictly prohibited. Patrons are asked to silence all personal electronic devices prior to the performance.

REFRESHMENTS: Food and drink are not permitted in the concert hall, except for bottled water. Refreshments are available for purchase in Betty’s Café located on the orchestra level of Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre.

TICKET DONATION: If you are unable to attend a concert, please consider donating your tickets to us as a tax-deductible contribution. Return your tickets to the RPO no later than 2 PM the day of the performance to make them available for resale.

GROUP SALES: Groups of 10 or more are eligible for discounts starting at 20%! Contact Group and Corporate Sales Manager: Sal Uttaro at suttaro@ rpo.org | Office: (585) 454-7311 ext. 267 | Mobile: (585) 530-0865

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