THE NEXT CHAPTER BEGINS
Music Director
Xian Zhang
Xian Zhang
Music Director
THE NEXT CHAPTER BEGINS
XIAN CONDUCTS
Music Director Xian Zhang conducts 10 monumental programs during her inaugural season at Benaroya Hall, from the Opening Night Concert to Beethoven’s enduring Ninth Symphony. And Xian brings Mahler’s complex Seventh Symphony back to our stage — our first performances of it in 20 years.
Experience
Opening NIGHT
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, AT 5PM
OPENING NIGHT CONCERT
Xian Zhang conductor
Simon Trpčeski piano Seattle Symphony
JESSIE MONTGOMERY Hymn for Everyone
GRIEG Piano Concerto
VERDI Overture to La Forza del Destino
SMETANA Šárka from Má vlast
WAGNER Prelude to Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg
Music Director Xian Zhang begins her inaugural season with a powerful Opening Night Concert celebrating destiny, drama and the power of music. Jessie Montgomery’s Hymn for Everyone is a meditation for orchestra. Bedřich Smetana depicts the female warrior Šárka, leading the way in a legendary uprising against men. Giuseppe Verdi and Richard Wagner bring operatic intensity. And our opening night soloist, the charismatic Simon Trpčeski, performs Edvard Grieg’s heroic Piano Concerto.
OPENING NIGHT GALA
Directly following the Opening Night Concert, it’s time to pop the champagne and celebrate in style the start of an exhilarating new season at Benaroya Hall. The Opening Night Gala is our signature black-tie event of the year — a must-attend evening of elegance and festivity. Together, we’ll toast Music Director Xian Zhang’s first season at a dazzling post-concert cocktail reception before sitting down to enjoy an exquisite meal by the team behind Harry’s Fine Foods and a private concert by guest pianist Simon Trpčeski in the beautifully transformed Samuel & Althea Stroum Grand Lobby. Join Xian and your Seattle Symphony for this unforgettable season kick-off!
Visit seattlesymphony.org/gala for information on packages and benefits.
Music Director Xian Zhang is generously sponsored by Dr. and Mrs. Charles and Lisa Simonyi and an anonymous donor.
Xian Zhang’s position is generously underwritten as the Harriet Overton Stimson Music Director.
Simon Trpčeski’s performance is generously sponsored by Paul Leach and Susan Winokur.
Simon Trpčeski and Concertmaster Noah Geller
Cellist Gabriel Cabezas is a prolific soloist and collaborator who co-founded the string quartet Owls and has appeared on studio releases by the likes of Phoebe Bridgers and Taylor Swift. We are thrilled to feature him as a Seattle Symphony Artist in Focus for the 2025/2026 season.
Artist in Focus Gabriel
Cabezas
September
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 10, AT 7:30PM
FLOW
IN CONCERT
WITH THE SEATTLE SYMPHONY
HOT TICKET FILM
Sunny Xia conductor
Seattle Symphony
Prepare to be transported by the breathtaking animated film Flow in its world premiere concert presentation at Benaroya Hall. This 2025 Oscar-winning animated film has captivated audiences worldwide with a story that follows a solitary cat navigating a post-apocalyptic world submerged in water.
Sunny Xia’s position is generously underwritten as the Douglas F. King Associate Conductor.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, AT 7:30PM
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 20, AT 8PM
XIAN CONDUCTS PICTURES AT AN EXHIBITION
SYMPHONIC SERIES
Xian Zhang conductor
Sphinx Soloists
Rubén Rengel violin
Melissa White violin
Celia Hatton viola
Gabriel Cabezas cello
Seattle Symphony
MICHAEL ABELS Delights and Dances
KODÁLY Dances of Galánta
MUSSORGSKY Pictures at an Exhibition (orch. Ravel)
Creative sparks fly as Music Director Xian Zhang conducts Pictures at an Exhibition, Mussorgsky’s compelling imaginary walk through a startling art gallery. The energy kicks off with Michael Abels’ delightful showpiece featuring an outstanding string quartet from the Sphinx Organization.
PLUS: Pre-Concert Talk begins one hour prior to each performance. Music Director Xian Zhang is generously sponsored by Dr. and Mrs. Charles and Lisa Simonyi and an anonymous donor.
Xian Zhang’s position is generously underwritten as the Harriet Overton Stimson Music Director.
Sphinx Soloists Rubén Rengel, Melissa White, Celia Hatton and Gabriel Cabezas’s performances are generously sponsored by Judith Fong and Mark Wheeler. Performances of Xian Conducts Pictures at An Exhibition are generously sponsored by Lyn and Jerry Grinstein.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, AT 7:30PM
ANDREW BIRD
WITH THE SEATTLE SYMPHONY PERFORMING THE MYSTERIOUS PRODUCTION OF EGGS HOT TICKET
Sarah Hicks conductor
Andrew Bird violin & vocals
Seattle Symphony
With a distinctive sound that resists categorization, GRAMMYnominated violinist, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Andrew Bird makes his debut with the Seattle Symphony. Balancing swelling sounds with jazz, folk and pop melodies in an unforgettable display of unique virtuosity, Bird celebrates the 20th anniversary of his acclaimed record, The Mysterious Production of Eggs
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, AT 8PM
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, AT 2PM
DANNY ELFMAN’S MUSIC FROM THE FILMS OF TIM BURTON
WITH THE SEATTLE SYMPHONY
Sarah Hicks conductor Seattle Symphony
Composer Danny Elfman and filmmaker Tim Burton have created a unique concert experience to celebrate their 25-year creative partnership. This live concert features Danny Elfman’s famous Tim Burton film scores — from Beetlejuice to The Nightmare Before Christmas — brought to life on stage by the Seattle Symphony and enhanced by visuals on the big screen of original sketches, drawings and storyboards.
Andrew Bird
Principal Viola Sayaka Kokubo was not very motivated to practice her instrument back in her school days, until a teacher encouraged her to switch from violin to viola and she fell in love with the gorgeous sound. Recently appointed to the role of principal, she continues to play a viola made by master craftsman Hiroshi Iizuka.
Principal Viola Sayaka Kokubo
Viola Olivia Chew considered careers in education, medicine, pharmacology, global health policy and arts administration. But she found herself spending all her time in the music buildings at school and realized that she wanted to put her whole heart into pursuing an orchestra career.
Viola Olivia Chew
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 2, AT 7:30PM
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 4, AT 8PM
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 5, AT 2PM
XIAN CONDUCTS RACHMANINOV
HOT TICKET
SYMPHONIC SERIES
Xian Zhang conductor
Alexander Malofeev piano
Seattle Symphony
MELISSA DOUGLAS Awaken
RACHMANINOV Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini
RACHMANINOV Symphony No. 2
Passionate, luxurious, melodic, yet dark and brooding — Rachmaninov’s style defines Romantic music. Music Director Xian Zhang is joined by the dazzling Alexander Malofeev, who takes on the fiery Rhapsody
PLUS: Pre-Concert Talk begins one hour prior to each performance.
GIVE: Supporters can go behind the scenes at an Open Rehearsal of this program. Visit seattlesymphony.org/rehearsals for details.
Music Director Xian Zhang is generously sponsored by Dr. and Mrs. Charles and Lisa Simonyi and an anonymous donor.
Xian Zhang’s position is generously underwritten as the Harriet Overton Stimson Music Director.
Alexander Malofeev’s performances are generously sponsored by Heidi Charleson and Lou Woodworth*.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 3, AT 10:30AM
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 4, AT 9:30, 10:30 & 11:30AM
THE BRASS: AROUND THE WORLD
TINY TOTS SERIES
John Turman host
Seattle Symphony brass quintet
It’s the first stop of the Tiny Tots Series! Time to put on your walking shoes and go globetrotting with the brass family.
PLUS: Pre-Concert Activities, including crafts and instrument discovery, begin 30 minutes prior to the performance.
The Arakawa Foundation proudly supports the Seattle Symphony’s Youth Education Partnerships. Additional support is provided by Delta Air Lines.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 8, AT 7:30PM
LEA SALONGA: STAGE, SCREEN & EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN
Lea Salonga vocals
Musical theatre royalty and official Disney Legend Lea Salonga is bringing her acclaimed tour to North America in 2025. Fans will experience musical classics from Salonga’s iconic roles, including songs from Miss Saigon, Les Misérables, Aladdin and Mulan, newfound favorites from the critically acclaimed Broadway and West End hit Stephen Sondheim’s Old Friends, and more.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, AT 8PM
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 11, AT 2PM
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 12, AT 2PM
Warner Bros. Discovery presents Bugs Bunny at the Symphony
SEATTLE POPS SERIES
George Daugherty conductor
Seattle Symphony
This new edition of the beloved concert celebrates Bugs Bunny’s 85th Anniversary. Classic Looney Tunes are projected on the big screen and their iconic scores are played live by the Seattle Symphony.
Created by George Daugherty & David Ka Lik Wong.
LOONEY TUNES and all related characters and elements © & TM Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. (s25)
George Daugherty’s performances are generously sponsored by Susan Y. Buske.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 16, AT 7:30PM
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 18, AT 8PM
HANDEL MUSIC FOR THE ROYAL FIREWORKS
SYMPHONIC SERIES
Ivars Taurins conductor
Joseph Adam organ
Seattle Symphony
HANDEL Organ Concerto, Op. 7, No. 4
TELEMANN Wassermusik
HASSE Sinfonia in G minor
HANDEL Music for the Royal Fireworks
Ivars Taurins conducts a majestic program of German Baroque music, encompassing Handel’s bright-hued Music for the Royal Fireworks and stately Organ Concerto, as well as Telemann’s Wassermusik
PLUS: Pre-Concert Talk begins one hour prior to each performance.
The Seattle Symphony’s organ programming is generously supported by the Fluke | Gabelein Organ Endowment.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 18, AT 11AM
PETER AND THE WOLF
FAMILY CONCERTS SERIES
Sunny Xia conductor
Seattle Symphony
Take a journey into the woods with the beloved folk tale of Peter and the Wolf. Sergei Prokofiev’s inventive storytelling pairs all the fanciful characters with musical instruments to help young listeners identify the many sounds of the orchestra.
PLUS: Pre-Concert Activities, including crafts and instrument discovery, begin one hour prior to the performance.
Sunny Xia’s position is generously underwritten as the Douglas F. King Associate Conductor.
The Arakawa Foundation proudly supports the Seattle Symphony’s Youth Education Partnerships. Additional support is provided by Delta Air Lines.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 23, AT 7:30PM
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25, AT 8PM
VAUGHAN WILLIAMS A SEA SYMPHONY
SYMPHONIC SERIES
Gemma New conductor
Gabriel Cabezas cello
Wendy Bryn Harmer soprano
Jarrett Ott baritone
Seattle Symphony Chorale
Seattle Symphony
GABRIELLA SMITH Lost Coast
VAUGHAN WILLIAMS A Sea Symphony
Ralph Vaughan Williams gives voice to the drama of the ocean in A Sea Symphony, his only full choral symphony, while Gabriella Smith’s Lost Coast for cello and orchestra expresses wonder and grief about Earth’s last wildernesses.
PLUS: Pre-Concert Talk begins one hour prior to each performance.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, AT 7 & 9PM
GABRIELLA SMITH & GABRIEL CABEZAS
| SERIES
Gabriella Smith vocals, violin & electronics Gabriel Cabezas cello & electronics
Composer Gabriella Smith and Artist in Focus Gabriel Cabezas collaborate in the immersive Octave 9 space.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 26, AT 2PM
MONDAY, OCTOBER 27, AT 7:30PM
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 28, AT 7:30PM
A Pirate’s Life
Lisa Briggs archaeologist Pirates might be reduced to a Halloween costume for some people, but they are a year-round fascination for archaeologist and National Geographic Explorer Lisa Briggs. We go on assignment with her to explore how pirating shaped the Roman Empire, meet the Pirate Queen of China and follow the most famous renegade, Blackbeard.
Media Sponsors:
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 30, AT 7:30PM
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 31, AT 8PM
CORALINE
IN CONCERT WITH THE SEATTLE SYMPHONY FILM
Seattle Symphony
Produced by TCG Entertainment, this special presentation of the acclaimed stop-motion animated film Coraline will feature the full movie screened in its entirety. Bruno Coulais’ haunting and whimsical film score will be performed live in the concert hall by the Seattle Symphony — a perfect spooky season treat!
Cello Katherine Audas begins her third year with the Seattle Symphony in the 2025/2026 season, where she has the rarified position of performing in the orchestra with her identical twin, Violin Jacqueline Audas.
Cello Katherine Audas
Associate Conductor Sunny Xia takes the podium for the Tchaikovsky Violin Concerto program in the Symphonic Series, as well as leading the orchestra for the joyful fourpart Family Concerts Series. (See pages 13, 23, 35 and 50 for details.)
Associate Conductor Sunny Xia
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 1, AT 8PM
THE DECEMBERISTS
WITH THE SEATTLE SYMPHONY HOT TICKET
Edwin Outwater conductor
The Decemberists
Seattle Symphony
Known for their sweeping narratives and meticulously crafted songs, The Decemberists will join forces with the Seattle Symphony for a one-night-only performance. Featuring lush symphonic arrangements of selections from their expansive catalog, this special collaboration reimagines the band’s music in a bold new light.
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, AT 7:30PM
FROM ANTONÍN DVOŘÁK TO BÉLA BARTÓK
CHAMBER SERIES
Seattle Symphony musicians
DVOŘÁK Terzetto in C major for Two Violins and Viola BARTÓK String Quartet No. 1 in A minor LOEFFLER Two Rhapsodies for Oboe, Viola and Piano
Seattle Symphony musicians select exciting and challenging works to perform together in this self-curated series.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 6, AT 7:30PM
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, AT 12 NOON SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 8, AT 8PM
TCHAIKOVSKY VIOLIN CONCERTO
SYMPHONIC SERIES
Sunny Xia conductor
Simone Lamsma violin
Seattle Symphony
HOLMÈS La nuit et l’amour
TCHAIKOVSKY Violin Concerto
DVOŘÁK Symphony No. 8
Simone Lamsma performs Tchaikovsky’s glorious Violin Concerto under the baton of Seattle Symphony Associate Conductor Sunny Xia. Dvořák’s folk melody-filled Eighth Symphony evokes the beauty of the composer’s native Bohemia.
PLUS: Pre-Concert Talk begins one hour prior to each performance.
GIVE: Supporters can go behind the scenes at an Open Rehearsal of this program. Visit seattlesymphony.org/rehearsals for details.
Sunny Xia’s position is generously underwritten as the Douglas F. King Associate Conductor.
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, AT 7:30PM
PIANIST PIERRE-LAURENT AIMARD
IN RECITAL
IN RECITAL SERIES
Pierre-Laurent Aimard piano
Pianist Pierre-Laurent Aimard is a renowned interpreter of both historical and contemporary repertoire. Here he performs the latter half of J.S. Bach’s The Well-Tempered Clavier, showcasing the full harmonic spectrum of the keyboard.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 13, AT 7:30PM
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 15, AT 8PM
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 16, AT 2PM
BEETHOVEN & BRUCKNER
SYMPHONIC SERIES
David Danzmayr conductor
Yulianna Avdeeva piano
Seattle Symphony
BEETHOVEN Piano Concerto No. 3
BRUCKNER Symphony No. 4
Yulianna Avdeeva returns to Benaroya Hall, fresh off her stunning solo recital debut with us last season, and tackles Beethoven’s stormy Piano Concerto No. 3. Then, Bruckner’s Fourth Symphony transports us to a mythic medieval countryside.
PLUS: Pre-Concert Talk begins one hour prior to each performance.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, AT 7 & 9PM
| SERIES
Curtis Stewart violin & electronics
CURTIS STEWART of Love.
Violinist and composer Curtis Stewart weaves a single poem of prayer into a requiem to cherish life, time and lifetimes.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 20, AT 7:30PM SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 22, AT 8PM
MACKEY SAXOPHONE CONCERTO
SYMPHONIC SERIES
Lawrence Renes conductor
Timothy McAllister saxophone
David Gordon trumpet
Stefan Farkas English horn
Seattle Symphony
COPLAND Quiet City
STEVEN MACKEY Anemology: Concerto For Saxophone (Seattle Symphony Co-commission)
JOHN ADAMS Harmonielehre
Lawrence Renes conducts John Adams’ dazzlingly cinematic Harmonielehre; Steven Mackey’s brand-new Saxophone Concerto for world-renowned soloist Timothy McAllister; and Aaron Copland’s melancholy urban fantasy, Quiet City
PLUS: Pre-Concert Talk begins one hour prior to each performance. David Gordon’s position is generously underwritten as the Boeing Company Principal Trumpet.
Performances of Steven Mackey’s Anemology: Concerto for Saxophone are generously underwritten by the Richard E. Lang and Jane Lang Davis Living Music Program.
Pierre-Laurent Aimard
Xian Conducts
The next chapter begins as Music Director Xian Zhang conducts 10 spectacular programs during her inaugural season. Creative sparks will fly as she introduces Seattle audiences to Qigang Chen’s Iris Dévoilée (Iris Unveiled) and Steven Mackey’s RIOT. Her concerts culminate in perhaps the most famous of all symphonies, Beethoven’s Ninth.
SEPTEMBER 13
OPENING NIGHT CONCERT
SEPTEMBER 18 & 20
PICTURES AT AN EXHIBITION
OCTOBER 2, 4 & 5 RACHMANINOV
FEBRUARY 12, 14 & 15
FEBRUARY 19–21 SCHUMANN & BEETHOVEN
APRIL 23 & 25 DANIIL TRIFONOV
APRIL 30, MAY 2 & 3 MOZART
MAY 28–31 GERSHWIN
JUNE 11 & 13 MAHLER 7
JUNE 18–21 BEETHOVEN 9
Music Director Xian Zhang is generously sponsored by Dr. and Mrs. Charles and Lisa Simonyi and an anonymous donor.
Xian Zhang’s position is generously underwritten as the Harriet Overton Stimson Music Director.
Music Director
Xian Zhang
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 4, AT 7:30PM
BEN FOLDS
WITH THE SEATTLE SYMPHONY
HOT TICKET
Edwin Outwater conductor
Ben Folds piano & vocals
Seattle Symphony
Composer, singer-songwriter and pianist Ben Folds joins the Seattle Symphony for a concert program blending his intimate narrative style of alt rock with expansive orchestra arrangements.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 5, AT 8PM
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6, AT 8PM
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 7, AT 2PM
DISNEY’S THE MUPPET CHRISTMAS CAROL
IN CONCERT LIVE TO FILM WITH THE SEATTLE SYMPHONY
FILM
Seattle Symphony
A holiday classic comes to Benaroya Hall this season as The Muppet Christmas Carol comes to life on the big screen, accompanied live by the Seattle Symphony! This beloved adaptation of Dickens’ timeless tale features Kermit the Frog as Bob Cratchit and Michael Caine as Scrooge.
Presentation licensed by Disney Concerts. © Disney
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6, AT 11AM & 1PM
THE SNOWMAN
HOT TICKET FILM
FAMILY CONCERTS SERIES
Sunny Xia conductor
Ryan Chung piano – 2025/2026 Young Artist
Seattle Symphony
Celebrate the holidays with our beloved family tradition — the classic children’s film The Snowman. A young boy builds a snowman that comes to life and takes him on an adventure to the North Pole.
PLUS: Pre-Concert Activities, including crafts and instrument discovery, begin one hour prior to the performance.
Sunny Xia’s position is generously underwritten as the Douglas F. King Associate Conductor.
The Arakawa Foundation proudly supports the Seattle Symphony’s Youth Education Partnerships. Additional support is provided by Delta Air Lines.
Stuart Chafetz with the Seattle Symphony
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 10, AT 7:30PM
WITH RENÉE ELISE GOLDSBERRY
AND THE SEATTLE SYMPHONY
HOT TICKET
Stuart Chafetz conductor
Renée Elise Goldsberry vocals Seattle Symphony
Tony Award winner Renée Elise Goldsberry — best known for her star-making role as Angelica Schuyler in Hamilton — joins the Seattle Symphony for an unforgettable evening at Benaroya Hall featuring selections from her Broadway and TV catalog as well as new holiday tunes from her upcoming Christmas album.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 12, AT 10:30AM SATURDAY, DECEMBER 13, AT 9:30, 10:30 & 11:30AM
THE WINDS: WINTER WONDERLAND
TINY TOTS SERIES
John Turman host Seattle Symphony wind quintet
Celebrate the holiday season through song and dance with the wind family!
PLUS: Pre-Concert Activities, including crafts and instrument discovery, begin 30 minutes prior to the performance.
The Arakawa Foundation proudly supports the Seattle Symphony’s Youth Education Partnerships. Additional support is provided by Delta Air Lines.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 12, AT 8PM
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 13, AT 8PM
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14, AT 2PM
HOLIDAY POPS
SEATTLE POPS SERIES
Stuart Chafetz conductor
Ryan Silverman vocals
Scarlett Strallen vocals
Seattle Symphony
There’s no place like Benaroya Hall for the holidays! Seattle favorite Stuart Chafetz returns to Benaroya Hall to conduct this dazzling program full of popular holiday favorites and yuletide cheer.
THURSDAY DECEMBER 18, AT 7:30PM
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 20, AT 8PM
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 21, AT 2PM
HANDEL MESSIAH
Nicolas Ellis conductor
Myriam Leblanc soprano
Jennifer Johnson Cano mezzo-soprano
Andrew Haji tenor
Kevin Deas bass-baritone
Seattle Symphony Chorale
Seattle Symphony
Handel’s Messiah is a matchless December tradition. The exquisite choral writing and the wildly famous “Hallelujah” chorus — featuring the Seattle Symphony Chorale and a strong cast of vocal soloists — honor Handel’s greatest work.
Handel’s Messiah is generously sponsored by Stephen Whyte in memory of Gwendolyn Jones Whyte.
Seattle Symphony Chorale
The Hot Sardines
MONDAY, DECEMBER 22, AT 7:30PM
A FESTIVAL OF LESSONS & CAROLS
Jacob Winkler conductor Northwest Boychoir Vocalpoint! Seattle Northwest Sinfonia
The remarkably talented and endearing Northwest Boychoir returns to Benaroya Hall for a beloved tradition of lessons and carols. In this program, they present the story of the Nativity through readings, choral settings and audience carols.
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 31, AT 9PM
NEW YEAR’S EVE WITH THE HOT SARDINES
Enrico Lopez-Yañez conductor
The Hot Sardines
Seattle Symphony
Dress to impress and join the Seattle Symphony and The Hot Sardines for a jazz revival party at Benaroya Hall as we close out 2025 in style! Directly following the concert, kick up your heels and stay for our New Year’s Eve party, with dancing, champagne and revelry in the Samuel & Althea Stroum Grand Lobby as we count down to midnight and ring in 2026 together.
Community concerts
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 29, AT 7:30PM
COMMUNITY CONCERT IN TUKWILA
VENUE: FOSTER HIGH SCHOOL AUDITORIUM
Sunny Xia conductor
Seattle Symphony
Mason Nguyen viola – Key to Change student
FRIDAY, MARCH 6, AT 7:30PM SIDE-BY-SIDE WITH RENTON HIGH SCHOOL ORCHESTRA
VENUE: RENTON IKEA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
Sunny Xia conductor
Seattle Symphony
Jackson Bores conductor Renton High School Orchestra
FRIDAY, APRIL 10, AT 7:30PM
COMMUNITY STAGES FUND:
FIFTH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION
VENUE: S. MARK TAPER FOUNDATION AUDITORIUM, BENAROYA HALL
Sunny Xia conductor
Seattle Symphony Community Stages Fund Awardees
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, AT 7:30PM
COMMUNITY CONCERT AT BENAROYA HALL
FEATURING THE CHIEF SEALTH HIGH SCHOOL ORCHESTRA
VENUE: S. MARK TAPER FOUNDATION AUDITORIUM, BENAROYA HALL
Sunny Xia conductor Chief Sealth High School Orchestra
Jorge Morales conductor Seattle Symphony
MONDAY, JUNE 8, AT 7:30PM
MERRIMAN-ROSS
FAMILY YOUNG COMPOSERS WORKSHOP CONCERT
VENUE: ILLSLEY BALL NORDSTROM RECITAL HALL, BENAROYA HALL
Sunny Xia conductor Seattle Symphony musicians
Sunny Xia’s position is generously underwritten as the Douglas F. King Associate Conductor.
The Arakawa Foundation proudly supports the Seattle Symphony’s Youth Education Partnerships. Additional support is provided by Delta Air Lines.
The Merriman-Ross Family Young Composers Workshop is generously underwritten by Pamela Merriman, Sonja Ross, and Kelley Ross. Additional support is provided by Patricia M. Davis, Ann Holbrook, and Michel and Christine Suignard.
Seong-Jin Cho
January
FRIDAY, JANUARY 2, AT 8PM
MORGAN FREEMAN’S SYMPHONIC BLUES EXPERIENCE
IN CONCERT WITH THE SEATTLE SYMPHONY
HOT TICKET FILM
Martin Gellner conductor
Morgan Freeman narrator
Seattle Symphony
For Morgan Freeman, the Mississippi Delta isn’t just the birthplace of the Blues — it’s home. As a co-founder of the Ground Zero Blues Club, Freeman has dedicated himself to celebrating the musicians who have shaped this powerful genre. This immersive production blends the soulful sound of Mississippi Delta blues with cinematic storytelling and the grandeur of a symphony orchestra.
THURSDAY, JANUARY 8, AT 7:30PM SATURDAY, JANUARY 10, AT 8PM
BERNSTEIN & RACHMANINOV
SYMPHONIC SERIES
Alevtina Ioffe conductor
Vadim Gluzman violin
Seattle Symphony
BARBER Intermezzo from Vanessa
BERNSTEIN Serenade (after Plato’s Symposium) RACHMANINOV Symphony No. 3
Dive into the richly textured works of 20th-century titans Leonard Bernstein and Sergei Rachmaninov. Bernstein’s Serenade, ranging from contemplative to jazzy and sprightly, showcases the virtuosity of violinist Vadim Gluzman. Rachmaninov’s Third Symphony offers mesmerizing contrasts of haunting and playful melodies.
PLUS: Pre-Concert Talk begins one hour prior to each performance.
TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, AT 7:30PM
AN EVENING WITH SEONG-JIN CHO IN RECITAL
HOT TICKET
Seong-Jin Cho piano
Dazzling pianist Seong-Jin Cho returns to the Benaroya Hall stage for a solo recital that showcases the Romantic sound worlds of Chopin, Schumann and more.
SUNDAY, JANUARY 25, AT 2PM
MONDAY, JANUARY 26, AT 7:30PM
TUESDAY, JANUARY 27, AT 7:30PM
Chasing Monarchs
Jaime Rojo photographer
Fifty years after the startling discovery that monarch butterflies spend winters in the forests of Mexico, photographer and National Geographic Explorer Jaime Rojo reveals this winged wonder of the insect world in new ways with never-before-seen visuals.
Media Sponsors:
THURSDAY, JANUARY 29, AT 7:30PM
SATURDAY, JANUARY 31, AT 8PM
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 1, AT 2PM
THE KANNEH-MASONS PLAY BEETHOVEN TRIPLE CONCERTO
SYMPHONIC SERIES
Kahchun Wong conductor
Isata Kanneh-Mason piano
Braimah Kanneh-Mason violin
Sheku Kanneh-Mason cello
Seattle Symphony
ARNOLD Peterloo Overture
BEETHOVEN Triple Concerto
BARTÓK Concerto for Orchestra
Beloved cellist Sheku Kanneh-Mason returns to Benaroya Hall with siblings Isata (piano) and Braimah (violin) to play Beethoven’s unique and vibrant Triple Concerto.
PLUS: Pre-Concert Talk begins one hour prior to each performance.
GIVE: Supporters can go behind the scenes at an Open Rehearsal of this program. Visit seattlesymphony.org/rehearsals for details.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 30, AT 8PM
AN EVENING WITH NICOLA
BENEDETTI
IN RECITAL
IN RECITAL SERIES
Nicola Benedetti violin
Alexei Grynyuk piano
Sought-after violinist Nicola Benedetti presents an intimate recital program featuring Sarasate’s dazzling Carmen Fantasy, plus works by Bloch, Ponce, Maxwell Davies and more.
Nicola Benedetti
YOUR EVERYDAY YOUR NIGHT OUT YOUR COMMUNITY YOUR BENAROYA HALL
Amplify is a capital campaign that will enhance your Benaroya Hall experience from the moment you enter, creating more welcoming spaces that reflect our vibrant community and transforming this downtown landmark into a premier, must-visit destination.
Discover what’s next and join us today!
February
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 7, AT 11AM
THE ORCHESTRA SWINGS
FAMILY CONCERTS SERIES
Sunny Xia conductor
Seattle Symphony
Get ready to swing along with the jazzy rhythms of the orchestra! We’ll explore this distinctive musical style with songs by George Gershwin, Wynton Marsalis, Duke Ellington and more in a joyful, jazz-filled program curated by Carnegie Hall.
PLUS: Pre-Concert Activities, including crafts and instrument discovery, begin one hour prior to the performance.
Sunny Xia’s position is generously underwritten as the Douglas F. King Associate Conductor.
The Arakawa Foundation proudly supports the Seattle Symphony’s Youth Education Partnerships. Additional support is provided by Delta Air Lines. The Orchestra Swings was created by Carnegie Hall’s Weill Music Institute.
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 12, AT 7:30PM
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 14, AT 8PM
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 15, AT 2PM
XIAN CONDUCTS IRIS UNVEILED
SYMPHONIC SERIES
Xian Zhang conductor
Meng Meng Peking opera singer
Mei Gui Zhang soprano
Tess Altiveros soprano
Yang Jin ( 杨瑾 ) pipa
Chang Jing zheng
Cathy Yang erhu
Seattle Symphony
QIGANG CHEN Iris Dévoilée (Iris Unveiled)
SHOSTAKOVICH Symphony No. 5
Xian Zhang introduces Seattle audiences to the complex, seductive music of Peking opera with Qigang Chen’s Iris Dévoilée (Iris Unveiled). Writing for Peking and Western-style singers and traditional Chinese instruments, he evokes Iris, the Greek goddess of the rainbow, and a vision of the “eternal feminine.” Balancing this unique sound world is the dark drama and ecstatic finale of Shostakovich’s Fifth Symphony.
PLUS: Pre-Concert Talk begins one hour prior to each performance. Music Director Xian Zhang is generously sponsored by Dr. and Mrs. Charles and Lisa Simonyi and an anonymous donor.
Xian Zhang’s position is generously underwritten as the Harriet Overton Stimson Music Director.
Horn
John Turman
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 19, AT 7:30PM
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 20, AT 12 NOON
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 21, AT 8PM
XIAN CONDUCTS SCHUMANN & BEETHOVEN SYMPHONIC
SERIES
Xian Zhang conductor
Jan Vogler cello
Seattle Symphony
NOKUTHULA NGWENYAMA Primal Message
R. SCHUMANN Cello Concerto
BEETHOVEN Symphony No. 4
His Fourth Symphony sees Beethoven at his sunniest, brimming with good humor and geniality. Robert Schumann insisted that his Cello Concerto was “jolly,” but its deeper drama reveals otherwise. Nokuthula Ngwenyama’s intriguing Primal Message was inspired by our 1974 interstellar radio message to the nearby Hercules cluster of stars.
PLUS: Pre-Concert Talk begins one hour prior to each performance. Music Director Xian Zhang is generously sponsored by Dr. and Mrs. Charles and Lisa Simonyi and an anonymous donor.
Xian Zhang’s position is generously underwritten as the Harriet Overton Stimson Music Director.
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 22, AT 2PM
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23, AT 7:30PM
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, AT 7:30PM
Adventures in Caving
Robbie Shone photographer
National Geographic Explorer Robbie Shone has illuminated and photographed scenes in the world’s deepest, largest and longest cave systems. He reveals never-before-seen visuals from 7,000 feet below ground and shares the stories behind his breathtaking features for National Geographic magazine.
Media Sponsors:
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27, AT 7 & 9PM
MEMORY GAPS
Alex Weston piano
| SERIES
Cecilia Ruiz book & illustrations
Joshua William Gelb stagecraft & animation
Seattle Symphony musicians
ALEX WESTON Memory Gaps
Composer/pianist Alex Weston presents darkly humorous miniportraits based on Cecilia Ruiz’s The Book of Memory Gaps.
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27, AT 8PM
PATTI
LUPONE
MATTERS OF THE HEART
Patti LuPone vocals
Patti LuPone is a true icon of the American stage. A three-time Tony Award winner, she has dazzled audiences for decades with her unforgettable voice, commanding presence and fearless portrayals of complex characters, from her breakout role as Eva Perón in Evita to acclaimed performances in Gypsy and Company. Catch this Broadway legend for one night only at Benaroya Hall.
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27, AT 10:30AM SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 28, AT 9:30, 10:30 & 11:30AM
THE STRINGS: TRAVEL THROUGH TIME
TINY TOTS SERIES
John Turman host
Seattle Symphony string quartet
Join the string family as it embarks on a musical journey throughout the ages.
PLUS: Pre-Concert Activities, including crafts and instrument discovery, begin 30 minutes prior to the performance.
The Arakawa Foundation proudly supports the Seattle Symphony’s Youth Education Partnerships. Additional support is provided by Delta Air Lines.
Principal Tuba John DiCesare once struck up a conversation with a man who had never been to the orchestra, and invited him to Benaroya Hall. “He absolutely loved it,” recounts John. “I think people want to like the music. And they do like it, if they give themselves the chance.”
Principal Tuba John DiCesare
THURSDAY, MARCH 5, AT 7:30PM
SATURDAY, MARCH 7, AT 8PM
BACH, BUSONI & BRAHMS
SYMPHONIC SERIES
Daniele Rustioni conductor
Francesca Dego violin
Seattle Symphony
J.S. BACH Ricercare a 6 (orch. Webern)
BUSONI Violin Concerto
BRAHMS Piano Quartet No. 1 (orch. Schoenberg)
Francesca Dego proves her power to fascinate with Busoni’s darkly Romantic Violin Concerto. The program also includes Schoenberg’s arrangement of Brahms’ masterful Piano Quartet No. 1 and Webern’s moody chamber orchestra arrangement of J.S. Bach’s Ricercare a 6 from The Musical Offering.
PLUS: Pre-Concert Talk begins one hour prior to each performance. Francesca Dego’s performances are generously sponsored by Stephen Elop and Susan Johannsen.
SUNDAY, MARCH 8, AT 2PM
PIANIST CONRAD TAO IN RECITAL
HOT TICKET
IN RECITAL SERIES
Conrad Tao piano
Drawing inspiration from poetry and fairy tales, pianist and composer
Conrad Tao combines Western classical tradition and contemporary musical storytelling for this dazzling solo recital featuring works by Brahms, Ravel and more.
TUESDAY, MARCH 10, AT 7:30PM
FROM HEINRICH KAMINSKI TO WILL LANGLIE MILETICH
CHAMBER SERIES
Seattle Symphony musicians
WILL LANGLIE MILETICH Bully Mammoth
KAMINSKI Quartet for Piano, Clarinet, Viola & Cello
BEETHOVEN String Quartet No. 12 in E-flat major
Seattle Symphony musicians select exciting and challenging works to perform together in this self-curated series.
Lang Lang
THURSDAY, MARCH 12, AT 7:30PM
FRIDAY, MARCH 13, AT 12 NOON SATURDAY, MARCH 14, AT 8PM
LISZT & KODÁLY
SYMPHONIC SERIES
Kevin John Edusei conductor Haochen Zhang piano
Seattle Symphony
LISZT Les Préludes
LISZT Piano Concerto No. 1
R. STRAUSS Till Eulenspiegel’s Merry Pranks
KODÁLY Háry János Suite
Following the orchestra’s performance of Liszt’s Les Préludes, Haochen Zhang performs the composer’s First Piano Concerto. Kodály’s Háry János Suite depicts comical folk tales.
PLUS: Pre-Concert Talk begins one hour prior to each performance.
THURSDAY, MARCH 19, AT 7:30PM
SATURDAY, MARCH 21, AT 8PM
STRAVINSKY THE FIREBIRD
SYMPHONIC SERIES
Andrew Litton conductor
Janai Brugger soprano
Seattle Symphony Chorale
Seattle Symphony
RAVEL Le Tombeau de Couperin
POULENC Stabat Mater
STRAVINSKY The Firebird Suite (1945)
Andrew Litton conducts the classic Firebird Suite, drawn from the dazzling ballet that shot Stravinsky to fame overnight. The Seattle Symphony Chorale joins the orchestra for Poulenc’s Stabat Mater.
PLUS: Pre-Concert Talk begins one hour prior to each performance.
FRIDAY, MARCH 20, AT 8PM
AN
EVENING
WITH LANG LANG IN RECITAL
HOT TICKET
Lang Lang piano
The inimitable Lang Lang returns to Seattle for a one-night-only solo engagement. In this program, he pairs classical piano repertoire from Mozart and Beethoven with the sounds of Spain.
SUNDAY, MARCH 22, AT 2PM
MONDAY, MARCH 23, AT 7:30PM
TUESDAY, MARCH 24, AT 7:30PM
Discovering the Galapagos
Alex Hearn marine ecologist
The Galapagos sparked our understanding of evolution and adaptation 175 years ago. Now, with marine ecologist and National Geographic Explorer Alex Hearn as an expert guide, discover the Galapagos anew as we explore the groundbreaking science that’s happening with Darwin’s finches, giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and other remarkable wildlife.
Media Sponsors:
FRIDAY, MARCH 27, AT 7 & 9PM
THE PIANO // RE-IMAGINED
| SERIES
Natalie Tenenbaum piano, voice & electronics
Pianist and singer-songwriter Natalie Tenenbaum reimagines classical works in a post-classical piano recital like no other.
Note: this program will be announced from stage.
FRIDAY, MARCH 27, AT 8PM
SATURDAY, MARCH 28, AT 2PM
SUNDAY, MARCH 29, AT 2PM
PEANUTS 75TH ANNIVERSARY SYMPHONIC CONCERT
SEATTLE POPS SERIES
Seattle Symphony
Charlie Brown, Snoopy and friends join the Seattle Symphony for a symphonic celebration of the Peanuts 75th Anniversary. With live actors, an animated backdrop and Vince Guaraldi’s beloved and timeless music, you won’t want to miss this special celebration.
GIVE: Supporters can go behind the scenes at an Open Rehearsal of this program. Visit seattlesymphony.org/rehearsals for details.
April
TUESDAY, APRIL 7, AT 7:30PM
FROM RUTH GIPPS TO VIVIAN FUNG
CHAMBER SERIES
Seattle Symphony musicians
GIPPS Quintet for Oboe, Clarinet and String Trio
HINDEMITH Morgenmusik
KEVIN DAY Ignition
VIVIAN FUNG Frenetic Memories for Clarinet and String Quartet
Seattle Symphony musicians select exciting and challenging works to perform together in this self-curated series.
THURSDAY, APRIL 9, AT 7:30PM
SATURDAY, APRIL 11, AT 8PM
RACHMANINOV SYMPHONIC DANCES
SYMPHONIC SERIES
Peter Oundjian conductor
Svet Stoyanov percussion
Noah Geller violin
Seattle Symphony
JOAN TOWER Suite from Concerto for Orchestra
CHRISTOPHER THEOFANIDIS Double Concerto (Seattle Symphony Co-commission, West Coast Premiere)
RACHMANINOV Symphonic Dances
Rachmaninov’s final orchestral work warmly evokes his own life and his lost homeland. The Seattle Symphony also presents Joan Tower’s exciting Concerto for Orchestra Suite as well as the West Coast premiere of Christopher Theofanidis’ Double Concerto for world-renowned percussionist Svet Stoyanov and Concertmaster Noah Geller.
PLUS: Pre-Concert Talk begins one hour prior to each performance.
GIVE: Supporters can go behind the scenes at an Open Rehearsal of this program. Visit seattlesymphony.org/rehearsals for details.
Noah Geller’s position is generously underwritten as the David & Amy Fulton Concertmaster.
Principal Timpani
Eric Schweikert developed an interest in percussion while attending music camp in middle school. “It looked so fun … I started lessons a few months later and I never looked back.”
Principal Timpani
Eric Schweikert
Associate Conductor
Sunny Xia
FRIDAY, APRIL 10, AT 7:30PM
COMMUNITY STAGES FUND: FIFTH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION
COMMUNITY CONCERTS
Sunny Xia conductor Community Stages Fund Awardees
Seattle Symphony
The Seattle Symphony is proud to mark the fifth anniversary of its Community Stages Fund (CSF) initiative, which aims to amplify the voices of the Puget Sound area and give back to the community members who have helped shape and grow our region’s unique musical and cultural landscape.
See page 27 for more FREE Community Concerts. Sunny Xia’s position is generously underwritten as the Douglas F. King Associate Conductor.
THURSDAY, APRIL 16, AT 7:30PM
SATURDAY, APRIL 18, AT 8PM
SUNDAY, APRIL 19, AT 2PM
MENDELSSOHN A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM
SYMPHONIC SERIES
Nicholas McGegan conductor
Sarah Larsen mezzo-soprano
Seattle Symphony Chorale, Upper Voices
Seattle Symphony
MENDELSSOHN The Fair Melusine
MENDELSSOHN Three Motets, Op. 39 (arr. McGegan)
MENDELSSOHN A Midsummer Night’s Dream
William Shakespeare and Felix Mendelssohn provide the perfect fusion of language and music in A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Singers, actors and orchestra bring this famous comedy to life. The orchestra also performs Mendelssohn’s beautiful Three Motets for upper voices. PLUS: Pre-Concert Talk begins one hour prior to each performance.
THURSDAY, APRIL 23, AT 7:30PM
SATURDAY, APRIL 25, AT 8PM
XIAN CONDUCTS SAINT-SAËNS FEATURING DANIIL TRIFONOV
SYMPHONIC SERIES
Xian Zhang conductor
Daniil Trifonov piano
Seattle Symphony
FAURÉ Pavane
SAINT-SAËNS Piano Concerto No. 2
FRANCK Symphony in D minor
Join Music Director Xian Zhang and superstar pianist Daniil Trifonov for an evening of French elegance. Saint-Saëns’ quick wit provides the perfect vehicle for one of the world’s greatest pianists. Fauré’s Pavane serves as a serene prelude. And Franck’s Symphony, his only one, reveals a composer questing to deliver music for the soul.
PLUS: Pre-Concert Talk begins one hour prior to each performance. Music Director Xian Zhang is generously sponsored by Dr. and Mrs. Charles and Lisa Simonyi and an anonymous donor.
Xian Zhang’s position is generously underwritten as the Harriet Overton Stimson Music Director.
Daniil Trifonov’s performances are generously sponsored by Patricia Tall-Takacs and Gary Takacs.
FRIDAY, APRIL 24, AT 7 & 9PM
THROUGH HER WINDOW: PART II
| SERIES
Mary Lynch VanderKolk oboe
Demarre McGill flute
Paige Roberts Molloy piano
Principal Oboe Mary Lynch VanderKolk leads an ongoing project to unite powerful and eloquent female-identifying musical voices.
Principal Oboe Mary Lynch VanderKolk’s position is generously supported by anonymous donors.
Daniil Trifonov
SUNDAY, APRIL 26, AT 2PM
MONDAY, APRIL 27, AT 7:30PM
TUESDAY, APRIL 28, AT 7:30PM
Uncovering our Concrete Jungle
Chris Schell urban ecologist
Thinking that wildlife lives “somewhere else” is an easy mistake. Chris Schell has dedicated his work to understanding and celebrating the surprising wildlife in our backyards. But this show isn’t only an exploration of animal behavior. We go on assignment with Schell to discover the unexpected story of how American history has shaped urban wildlife.
Media Sponsors:
THURSDAY, APRIL 30, AT 7:30PM
SATURDAY, MAY 2, AT 8PM
SUNDAY, MAY 3, AT 2PM
XIAN CONDUCTS MOZART
SYMPHONIC SERIES
Xian Zhang conductor Benjamin Lulich clarinet
Seattle Symphony
ROSSINI Overture to The Italian Girl in Algiers
MOZART Clarinet Concerto
MOZART Symphony No. 35, “Haffner”
MOZART Symphony No. 39
A program of brilliant music by two prodigies of their respective eras: Mozart and Rossini. The Italian Girl in Algiers was a big hit for Rossini, rollicking along with good fun and humor. Principal Clarinet Benjamin Lulich is our featured soloist in Mozart’s Clarinet Concerto, some of the most sublime music ever written.
PLUS: Pre-Concert Talk begins one hour prior to each performance.
Music Director Xian Zhang is generously sponsored by Dr. and Mrs. Charles and Lisa Simonyi and an anonymous donor.
Xian Zhang’s position is generously underwritten as the Harriet Overton Stimson Music Director.
Benjamin Lulich’s position is generously underwritten as the Mr. & Mrs. Paul R. Smith Principal Clarinet.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: SEATTLE SYMPHONY CHORALE
Voices take center stage! Discover everything from Vaughan Williams’ dramatic A Sea Symphony to Beethoven’s epic and joyful Ninth Symphony. The Seattle Symphony Chorale is featured on these dazzling programs that are sure to shake the rafters of Benaroya Hall.
DECEMBER 18, 20 & 21
&
JUNE 18–21 XIAN CONDUCTS BEETHOVEN 9
FRIDAY, MAY 1, AT 10:30AM
SATURDAY, MAY 2, AT 9:30, 10:30 & 11:30AM
THE PERCUSSION: RHYTHMS OF THE WILD
TINY TOTS SERIES
John Turman host
Seattle Symphony percussion quartet
Explore the sights and sounds of the animal kingdom with the percussion family.
PLUS: Pre-Concert Activities, including crafts and instrument discovery, begin 30 minutes prior to the performance.
The Arakawa Foundation proudly supports the Seattle Symphony’s Youth Education Partnerships. Additional support is provided by Delta Air Lines.
SATURDAY, MAY 9, AT 11AM
PHILHARMONIA FANTASTIQUE
FILM
FAMILY CONCERTS SERIES
Sunny Xia conductor
Seattle Symphony
Follow a magical sprite on a musical journey where animation meets live action! This special multimedia concerto portrays the four families of the orchestra alongside a charming animated film, demonstrating how all the diverse instruments come together to make an orchestra.
PLUS: Pre-Concert Activities, including crafts and instrument discovery, begin one hour prior to the performance.
Sunny Xia’s position is generously underwritten as the Douglas F. King Associate Conductor.
The Arakawa Foundation proudly supports the Seattle Symphony’s Youth Education Partnerships. Additional support is provided by Delta Air Lines.
Philharmonia Fantastique was written by composer Mason Bates, and cocreated with director Gary Rydstrom and animation director Jim Capobianco.
TUESDAY, MAY 12, AT 7:30PM
FROM ERIC EWAZEN TO AMANDA HARBERG
CHAMBER SERIES
Seattle Symphony musicians
AMANDA HARBERG Trio for Bassoon, Horn and Piano
ERIC EWAZEN Trio for Bassoon, Horn and Piano
BRAHMS String Quartet No. 2 in A minor
Seattle Symphony musicians select exciting and challenging works to perform together in this self-curated series.
Bass Jennifer Godfrey began playing with the Seattle Symphony over two decades ago. The 2025/2026 season marks her impressive 26th season with the orchestra.
Bass
Jennifer Godfrey
Flute Bridget Pei is the newest member of the Seattle Symphony’s flute section. When she’s not playing the flute, Bridget can be found spending her time cooking or planning her next multiday backpacking trip.
Flute Bridget Pei
SUNDAY, MAY 17, AT 2PM
MONDAY, MAY 18, AT 7:30PM
TUESDAY, MAY 19, AT 7:30PM
Adventure For Change
Gregg Treinish ecologist
Whether they’re hiking frozen peaks in the backcountry or kayaking remote rivers, biologist and National Geographic Explorer Gregg Treinish and his team are on a mission to collect samples at some of the most difficult places to reach on the planet. Follow a series of adventures as Treinish delivers to scientists the raw data that could change our understanding of the world around us.
Media Sponsors:
THURSDAY, MAY 28, AT 7:30PM
FRIDAY, MAY 29, AT 12 NOON
SATURDAY, MAY 30, AT 8PM
SUNDAY, MAY 31, AT 2PM
XIAN CONDUCTS GERSHWIN
HOT TICKET SYMPHONIC SERIES
Xian Zhang conductor
Hélène Grimaud piano
Seattle Symphony
GERSHWIN Piano Concerto in F
GERSHWIN Porgy and Bess: A Symphonic Picture
GERSHWIN An American in Paris
A feast of George Gershwin, opening with a pianistic tour de force — the Concerto in F, in the hands of the incomparable Hélène Grimaud. Porgy and Bess captures all the energy and poignancy of Gershwin’s famed opera, including Summertime and I Got Plenty o’ Nuttin’
An American in Paris depicts a stroll through Paris streets — any homesickness blown away by French exuberance and street noises, even the honking of Parisian taxis.
PLUS: Pre-Concert Talk begins one hour prior to each performance.
GIVE: Supporters can go behind the scenes at an Open Rehearsal of this program. Visit seattlesymphony.org/rehearsals for details.
Music Director Xian Zhang is generously sponsored by Dr. and Mrs. Charles and Lisa Simonyi and an anonymous donor.
Xian Zhang’s position is generously underwritten as the Harriet Overton Stimson Music Director.
June & July
FRIDAY, JUNE 5, AT 8PM
SATURDAY, JUNE 6, AT 8PM
SUNDAY, JUNE 7, AT 2PM
LET’S MISBEHAVE: THE SONGS OF COLE PORTER
SEATTLE POPS SERIES
Stuart Chafetz conductor
Tony DeSare piano & vocals
Aubrey Logan trombone & vocals
John Manzari tap dance & vocals
Seattle Symphony
Cole Porter’s songbook has inspired countless artists across the decades. Join Tony DeSare, Aubrey Logan and John Manzari as they reimagine hits like “I Get a Kick Out of You,” “I’ve Got You Under My Skin,” “Anything Goes” and many more with the Seattle Symphony.
Performances of Let’s Misbehave: The Songs of Cole Porter are generously sponsored by the James D. and Sherry Raisbeck Foundation.
THURSDAY, JUNE 11, AT 7:30PM
SATURDAY, JUNE 13, AT 8PM
XIAN CONDUCTS MAHLER 7
SYMPHONIC SERIES
Xian Zhang conductor
Seattle Symphony
MAHLER Symphony No. 7
Mahler’s Seventh begins with a nighttime journey on the water, gliding through a world of feverish imagination. Drawn by its emotional complexity, Music Director Xian Zhang wanted her first Mahler symphony in Seattle to be his Seventh — our first performances of it in 20 years.
PLUS: Pre-Concert Talk begins one hour prior to each performance.
Music Director Xian Zhang is generously sponsored by Dr. and Mrs. Charles and Lisa Simonyi and an anonymous donor.
Xian Zhang’s position is generously underwritten as the Harriet Overton Stimson Music Director.
Aubrey Logan
Jerod Impichchaachaaha' Tate
FRIDAY, JUNE 12, AT 10:30AM SATURDAY, JUNE 13, AT 9:30, 10:30 & 11:30AM
TINY ORCHESTRA: ALL TOGETHER NOW!
TINY TOTS SERIES
John Turman host Seattle Symphony musicians
Join us for a big musical party as all the families of the orchestra — the brass, winds, strings and percussion — come together to perform!
PLUS: Pre-Concert Activities, including crafts and instrument discovery, begin 30 minutes prior to the performance.
The Arakawa Foundation proudly supports the Seattle Symphony’s Youth Education Partnerships. Additional support is provided by Delta Air Lines.
FRIDAY, JUNE 12, AT 7 & 9PM
THE MUSIC OF JEROD IMPICHCH A ACHAAHA' TATE | SERIES
Jerod Impichchaachaaha' Tate narration
Seattle Symphony musicians
JEROD IMPICHCHA ACHAAHA' TATE
Talowa' Hiloha (Thunder Song)
MoonStrike
Dream World
Abitahánta': The Hunter Who Was Not So Great
This intimate evening showcases the chamber music works of composer Jerod Impichchaachaaha ' Tate (Chickasaw).
THURSDAY, JUNE 18, AT 7:30PM
FRIDAY, JUNE 19, AT 8PM
SATURDAY, JUNE 20, AT 8PM
SUNDAY, JUNE 21, AT 2PM
XIAN CONDUCTS BEETHOVEN 9
HOT TICKET
SYMPHONIC SERIES
Xian Zhang conductor
Alicia Olatuja mezzo-soprano
Steven Mackey electric guitar
Toni Marie Palmertree soprano
Jennifer Johnson Cano mezzo-soprano
Robert Pomakov bass
Seattle Symphony Chorale
Seattle Symphony
STEVEN MACKEY RIOT
BEETHOVEN Symphony No. 9, “Choral”
The ultimate symphony — Beethoven’s Ninth, — featuring an all-star cast. Revolutionary, epic and at 200 years old, still as driven as Beethoven’s own sense of our shared destiny. Music Director Xian Zhang pairs it with Artist in Focus Steven Mackey’s RIOT, a work that places race and resilience in the foreground.
PLUS: Pre-Concert Talk begins one hour prior to each performance.
GIVE: Supporters can go behind the scenes at an Open Rehearsal of this program. Visit seattlesymphony.org/rehearsals for details.
Music Director Xian Zhang is generously sponsored by Dr. and Mrs. Charles and Lisa Simonyi and an anonymous donor.
Xian Zhang’s position is generously underwritten as the Harriet Overton Stimson Music Director.
Performances of Xian Conducts Beethoven 9 are generously sponsored by the Nesholm Family Foundation.
Artist in Focus Steven Mackey
Principal Trombone
Ko-Ichiro Yamamoto knows that sitting in the orchestra gives him arguably the best seat in the house. Ko says, “I get to hear everything on the stage and I can feel the audience’s reactions to our playing. It’s unbelievable. I love these moments.”
Principal Trombone
Ko-ichiro Yamamoto
FRIDAY, JUNE 26, AT 8PM
SATURDAY, JUNE 27, AT 8PM
SUNDAY, JUNE 28, AT 2PM
INDIANA JONES AND THE RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK™
LIVE IN CONCERT WITH THE SEATTLE SYMPHONY FILM
Seattle Symphony
Experience Steven Spielberg’s iconic 1981 film on the big screen while the Seattle Symphony performs John Williams’ GRAMMYwinning score live in the concert hall, bringing to life the thrilling exploits of the intrepid archaeologist, Indiana Jones.
Presentation licensed by Disney Concerts. © & TM LUCASFILM
FRIDAY, JULY 10, AT 8PM
SATURDAY, JULY 11, AT 8PM
SUNDAY, JULY 12, AT 2PM
HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON
IN CONCERT WITH THE SEATTLE SYMPHONY FILM
Constantine Kitsopoulos conductor Seattle Symphony
The beloved DreamWorks animated feature How To Train Your Dragon soars into Benaroya Hall for a special summer presentation. The Seattle Symphony performs John Powell’s epic and emotionally rich score live in the concert hall as the film plays overhead on the big screen.
How To Train Your Dragon
How to buy tickets
☑
SEATING INFORMATION AT BENAROYA HALL
S. MARK TAPER FOUNDATION AUDITORIUM
The S. Mark Taper Foundation Auditorium is the main auditorium for most Seattle Symphony performances and has a capacity of 2,500 seats.
Partial View: A limited portion of the stage may not be visible. Indicates wheelchair-accessible seating.
ILLSLEY BALL NORDSTROM RECITAL HALL
The Illsley Ball Nordstrom Recital Hall is designed for chamber groups and other smaller ensembles, and has a capacity of 540 seats.
OCTAVE 9: RAISBECK MUSIC CENTER
Octave 9: Raisbeck Music Center offers an immersive environment with state-of-the-art acoustic and projection systems; seating capacity varies by program.
Student/Senior Tickets: Student and Senior discount tickets may be purchased to most Symphony performances, subject to availability, starting two hours prior to performance start time. In-person sales only.
Children: Children 5 years of age and older are welcome at all performances. Children of all ages are welcome at Family Concerts and Tiny Tots performances. All children must have tickets.
Refunds and Exchanges: All ticket sales are final. Seattle Symphony and National Geographic Live subscribers may request FREE ticket exchanges. Non-subscribers may request ticket exchanges for a $15 fee per exchange request.
Ticketing Fees: Tickets include a $6 facility fee for the preservation of Benaroya Hall, and a 15% handling fee. The facility fee is stepped down to $4 for Recital Hall concerts and $3 for Octave 9 concerts and children’s concerts. Handling fees are waived for in-person sales at the Ticket Office or Ticket Concierge Station.
Payment: Cash and card (Discover, Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Apple Pay)
All artists, repertoire and prices subject to change.
The Seattle Symphony is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Tax ID# 91-0667412. The Symphony is registered with Washington State’s Charities Program as required by law. Additional information is available by calling 800.332.4483 or visiting www.sos.wa.gov/charities.
PLAN YOUR VISIT TO BENAROYA HALL
GUIDE TO BENAROYA HALL
Location: Benaroya Hall is located in downtown Seattle, bounded by Union and University streets, and by Second and Third avenues. Public entrances are along Third Avenue. The light rail tunnel entrance for Symphony Station is at the corner of Second Avenue and University Street.
Getting to Benaroya Hall: Visit seattlesymphony.org/planyourvisit/ directions for information on arriving by bus, light rail or car.
Food & Beverage: Full-service dining, relaxed café dining and lobby bars are all available prior to most Symphony concerts. Delicatus café is open weekdays, 11am–3pm, at the corner of Second Avenue and University Street.
PARKING
At Benaroya Hall: Cars enter the Benaroya Hall parking garage from Second Avenue, just south of Union Street.
Prepaid Parking: Purchase a parking pass with your concert ticket to ensure you have a space on the night or day of your concert.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Cameras, Recorders, Mobile Phones and Watch Alarms: The use of cameras or audio recording equipment is strictly prohibited. Patrons are asked to turn off all portable electronic devices prior to the performance.
Coat Check: A complimentary coat check is available for most performances in The Boeing Company Gallery along Third Avenue.
Emergency Phone Number: Please leave the appropriate venue phone number and your exact seat location (aisle, section, row, seat number) with your care provider so we may easily locate you in the event of an emergency:
S. Mark Taper Foundation Auditorium, 206.215.4825; Illsley Ball Nordstrom Recital Hall, 206.215.4776; Octave 9: Raisbeck Music Center, 206.215.4769.
Late Seating: For the comfort and listening pleasure of the audiences in the auditorium, late-arriving patrons will be seated at appropriate pauses in the performance.
Lost and Found: Patrons should check with the Head Usher immediately following the performance, or call Benaroya Hall security at 206.215.4715.
Photos: Brandon Patoc: p. 24
Carlin Ma: pp. 5, 16, 44, 49
James Holt: front cover, pp. 2, 20, 36, 63
Jonathan Pendleton: pp. 25, 38, 43, 58
Karya Schanilec: pp. 9, 10, 15, 51, 52
YOU MAKE THE MUSIC POSSIBLE!
From symphonic favorites to big bands and classic rock to today’s cutting-edge artists, the Seattle Symphony shares music to fit every taste. As a nonprofit arts organization, every concert we present at Benaroya Hall is made possible by generous people like you.
When you join us as a Friend of the Symphony, you’re helping to support live music in the heart of Seattle. You’ll also enjoy donor benefits — like our popular Open Rehearsals — all season long!
Unlock exclusive perks and unique experiences with your gift of $120 or just $10 per month.
SCAN TO GIVE
Visit us online to explore all the benefits we offer to enhance your Symphony experience — and add a gift with your order today!
Music Director Xian Zhang in rehearsal with the orchestra
