September-October 2025 Performances, Kansas City Symphony 2025-2026 Season

2025/26 SEASON

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Morgan Freeman’s

Symphonic Blues Experience PAGE

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Windborne’s The Music of Journey

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The Orchestra Games

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Chicken-Fried Rock

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Helzberg Hall Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts

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2025/26

KC Symphony Board of Directors Founded by R. Crosby Kemper, Jr.† in 1982 Board of Trustees established in 1983

Officers Linda Gill Taylor, Chair Kenneth V. Hager, Vice Chair & Secretary/Treasurer Michael M. Gentry, Vice Chair Jeff Hargroves, Vice Chair Marny Sherman, Vice Chair Directors Dr. Scott S. Boswell Sr. Grant Burcham Susan Chambers Timothy P. Cook Elizabeth Gray Scott Hughes Bebe Kemper Hunt Julian Kaplan Susan Newburger Joseph Nuñez Willy F. Pegues IV Andy Pence Linda S. Stevens Patrick A. Valadez Jesse Yukimura Ex Officio Shirley Bush Helzberg, Chair Emerita Daniel E. Beckley, President and CEO

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Past Board Chairs Paul H. Henson† 1983-85 R. Crosby Kemper, Jr.† 1985-87 Paul H. Henson† 1987-88 George E. Powell, Jr.† 1988-90 David W. Hunerberg 1990-95 Shirley Bush Helzberg 1995-2013 William M. Lyons 2013-19 Patrick McCown 2019-23 † In memoriam

Founding Directors In memoriam

Henry W. Bloch William N. Deramus III George C. Dillon James H. Hale Donald J. Hall Paul H. Henson R. Crosby Kemper, Jr. George E. Powell, Jr. George A. Russell Richard H. Spencer Richard J. Stern Foundation Board of Directors Christine Kemper, President Julia Irene Dennie-Kauffman, Vice President Russell W. Baker, Jr., Secretary/Treasurer Emily Hill David Powell Chris Schumm Linda S. Stevens, Auxiliary Representative Lori Feek, Foundation Coordinator

W W W. M J EW EL RY. C OM

2025/26

KC Symphony Staff Executive

Danny Beckley, President and CEO Young Young Wang, Assistant to the President AJ Harbison, Content Developer and Executive Support Specialist

Operations Kate Breytspraak, Director of Artistic Administration Stephanie Brimhall, Director of Education and Community Engagement Justin White, Director of Orchestra Personnel Elena Collins, Assistant Personnel Manager Jenna Dolinger, Production Manager Jackie Esquivel, Orchestra Operations Assistant Annie McPherson, Artist Liaison and Assistant to the Music Director Tyler Miller, Stage Manager Patrick Chamberlain, Artistic Advisor Patrice Sollenberger, Assistant Chorus Director Development Eva James Toia, Chief Development Officer Mark Laverentz, Manager of Corporate Partnerships Daniel Morel, Associate Director of Development Marcy Osburn, Donor Information Specialist Roslinde Rivera, Annual Fund Manager Nathan Shields, Manager of Leadership Giving

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Finance and HR Sara Lohe, Chief Financial Officer Katy Koepke, Accounting Manager Toni Stock, Senior Accountant Marketing and Sales Julius Lai, Chief Marketing and Experience Officer Rupal Gor, Vice President of Sales, PR and Partnerships Brandon Bamesberger, Video Production Director Austin Fransisco, Digital Content Specialist Hannah Goodwin, Digital Marketing Manager Clare Nunley, Graphic Designer Box Office Stephen Borodkin, Manager of Ticketing Services Sarah Martin, Assistant Manager of Ticketing Services Nora Kerwin, Receptionist and Office Coordinator Adeca Chareunsab, Customer Relations Representative Jacob Bross, Customer Relations Representative Catherine Cone, Customer Relations Representative William Landon, Customer Relations Representative Evan Nelson, Customer Relations Representative

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2025/26 Season

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2025/26

KC Symphony Orchestra Roster MATTHIAS PINTSCHER, MUSIC DIRECTOR FIRST VIOLINS Jun Iwasaki, Concertmaster Miller Nichols Chair Stirling Trent, Associate Concertmaster Sunho Kim, Assistant Concertmaster Anne-Marie Brown Michael Brown Betty Chen Anthony DeMarco Susan Goldenberg* Tomoko Iguchi Dorris Dai Janssen Filip Lazovski∆ Chiafei Lin Vladimir Rykov Alex Shum* SECOND VIOLINS Tamamo Someya Gibbs, Principal Carter Coleman, Associate Principal Kristin Velicer, Assistant Principal Minhye Helena Choi Mary Garcia Grant Kazato Inouye Rena Ishii Paul Kim Stephanie Larsen Jinyou Lee Sodam Lim Ayrton Pisco VIOLAS MingYu Hsu, Principal Duncan Steele, Associate Principal Jessica Nance, Assistant Principal Kent Brauninger Sean Brumble Marvin Gruenbaum Jenifer Houck Duke Lee Jesse Yukimura

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CELLOS Mark Gibbs, Principal Robert A. Kipp Chair Susie Yang, Associate Principal Richard Hill Chair Alexander East, Assistant Principal Maria Crosby John Eadie Lawrence Figg Sally Kim Meredith McCook Allen Probus DOUBLE BASSES Evan Halloin, Acting Principal Richard Ryan, Acting Associate Principal Nils Aardahl Lena Goodson∆ Joseph Nuñez Keith Wymer∆ FLUTES Michael Gordon, Principal Marylou and John Dodds Turner Chair Shannon Finney, Associate Principal Liz Teplitsky∆ PICCOLO Liz Teplitsky∆ OBOES Kristina Fulton, Principal Shirley Bush Helzberg Chair Alison Chung, Associate Principal Matthew Lengas ENGLISH HORN Matthew Lengas

CLARINETS Javier Morales-Martinez∆, Acting Principal Bill and Peggy Lyons Chair Raymond Santos‡ Trevor Stewart∆, Acting Associate Principal John Klinghammer E-FLAT CLARINET Trevor Stewart∆ BASS CLARINET John Klinghammer BASSOONS Ann Bilderback, Principal Barton P. and Mary D. Cohen Chair Thomas DeWitt, Associate Principal Maxwell Pipinich CONTRABASSOON Thomas DeWitt HORNS David Sullivan, Acting Principal Landon and Sarah Rowland Chair Elizabeth Gray, Acting Associate Principal David Gamble Stephen Multer, Associate Principal Emeritus Benjamin Bacni∆ TRUMPETS Julian Kaplan, Principal James B. and Annabel Nutter Chair Omri Barak^, Associate Principal Shea Kelsay∆ TROMBONES Evelyn Carlson, Principal Porter Wyatt Henderson, Associate Principal Joseph Maiocco^

BASS TROMBONE Joseph Maiocco^ TUBA Joe LeFevre, Principal Frank Byrne Chair TIMPANI Timothy Jepson, Principal Michael and Susan Newburger Chair PERCUSSION David Yoon, Acting Principal Justin Ochoa∆, Associate Principal Adrian and Nancy Kay Hertog Family Chair HARP Chai Lee^, Principal LIBRARIANS Elena Lence Talley, Principal Fabrice Curtis, Associate Principal DAVID T. BEALS III CONDUCTORS Luke Poeppel, Assistant Conductor Daniel Wiley, Associate Conductor

Justin White, Director of Orchestra Personnel Elena Collins, Assistant Personnel Manager Tyler Miller, Stage Manager Mark Watson, Assistant Stage Manager Kristina Banton, Lighting Designer * Non-Rotating Musician ^ New Member ‡ On Leave of Absence ∆ One-Year Member

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2025/26 Season

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5 -T I M E G R A M M Y ® W I N N I N G

SAMARA JOY

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2025 TICKETS NOW ON SALE • FOLLYTHEATER.ORG This project* is supported in part by the City of Kansas City, Missouri Neighborhood Tourist Development Fund

THE ESTATE OF JOAN HUBBARD HERB AND BONNIE BUCHBINDER

SPECIAL PRESENTATION

Morgan Freeman’s Symphonic Blues Experience Tuesday and Wednesday, September 2-3, 2025 at 7:00 p.m.

Helzberg Hall, Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts Matthias Pintscher, Music Director and Conductor Heather Crosse, Bass Adrienne “Lady Adrena” Ervin, Vocals Adrian “Rev Slim” Forrest, Bass Jacqueline “Jaxx” Nassar, Guitar and Vocals Anthony “Big A” Sherrod, Guitar and Vocals Lee Williams, Drums Mark Yacovone, Keyboards

Selections will be announced from the stage.

There will be an intermission.

The 2025/26 season is generously sponsored by SHIRLEY and BARNETT C. HELZBERG, JR. Additional support provided by

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2025/26 Season

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026 SEASO -2 N 5 2

Presenting

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KANSAS CITY’S PREMIER PERFORMING ARTS PRESENTER SINCE 1965.

YO-YO MA

cello in solo recital Tues, December 2, 2025 7:00 PM

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2025/26 Season | kcsymphony.org

RESERVE TICKETS:

HJSERIES.ORG 816.415.5025

SPECIAL PRESENTATION

Morgan Freeman’s Symphonic Blues Experience MATTHIAS PINTSCHER

MUSIC DIRECTOR AND CONDUCTOR atthias Pintscher is the newly appointed music director of the Kansas City Symphony (KCS) as of the 2024/25 season. He launched his KCS tenure with a highly successful tour with the orchestra to Europe just before opening the season in Kansas City, with concerts at the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam, the Berlin Philharmonie and Hamburg’s Elbphilharmonie.

Highlights of the 2025/26 season include the world premiere of Pintscher’s new opera Das kalte Herz by the Berlin State Opera, which he composed and will conduct and which will reprise in a French version titled Nuit sans aube at the Opéra-Comique in Paris in the same season. He returns to the Los Angeles Philharmonic and the Philadelphia Orchestra and will be in his sixth year as creative partner at the Cincinnati Symphony.

Pintscher was formerly the music director of the Ensemble Intercontemporain, and has held several titled positions, including nine seasons as BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra’s artist-inassociation, principal conductor of the Lucerne Festival Academy Orchestra, music director for the 2020 Ojai Festival and season creative chair with the Tonhalle-Orchester Zürich.

Pintscher’s music is championed by some of today’s finest performing artists, orchestras and conductors, and has been performed by the Boston Symphony, Chicago Symphony, Cleveland Orchestra, New York Philharmonic, Berlin Philharmonic, London Symphony Orchestra, Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra and Orchestre de Paris, among many others. He has been on the composition faculty at the Juilliard School since 2014.

Matthias Pintscher is published exclusively by Bärenreiter and recordings of his works can be found on Kairos, EMI, Teldec, Wergo and Winter & Winter.

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SPECIAL PRESENTATION

Morgan Freeman’s Symphonic Blues Experience

Credits

The Morgan Freeman Symphonic Blues Team:

Morgan Freeman Symphonic Blues Ambassador, Narrator and Executive Producer Anthony “Big A” Sherrod, Guitar & Vocals Jacqueline “Jaxx” Nassar, Guitar & Vocals Keith Johnson, Guitar, Harmonica & Vocals Adrienne “Lady Adrena” Ervin, Vocals Adrian “Rev Slim” Forrest, Bass Mark Yacovone, Keyboard Lee Williams, Percussion Eric Meier, Executive Producer Howard Stovall, Production Manager and Executive Producer Nick Talbott, Producer Alina Scalora, Producer Martin Gellner, Music Director Tameal Edwards, Tour Manager Devi Reddy, Park Avenue Artists - Booking Manager Joe Brauner, Park Avenue Artists - Booking Manager

SILENT FILM + ORGAN

DOROTHY PAPADAKOS: THE LODGER Wednesday, October 22

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To our Creative Collaborators who have contributed to make “Morgan Freeman’s Symphonic Blues Experience” a reality:

MARTIN GELLNER

To our Music Director whose masterful blending of the Blues and the Symphony Orchestra make the most unlikely of musical combinations soar.

BOO MITCHELL AND ROYAL STUDIOS

To our master of vibe, Boo and his legendary Royal Studios in Memphis, Tennessee make the sounds of our project come fully to life.

STAX MUSIC ACADEMY

To the joyous kids of the Stax after-school music program who bring a wide smile to our faces whenever they turn up the volume.

DANNY ABRAHAM

WILLY BEARDEN

To a great southern storyteller, whose words make us all just want to go home to the Delta.

MAUDE SCHUYLER CLAY

To the camera whisperer, whose images bring the wonder of the Mississippi Delta into full focus.

KELLY DACHTLER AND LUMIO STUDIO

To our cinematic virtuoso who perfectly captures the storytelling of the Symphonic Blues Experience.

GROUND ZERO BLUES CLUB, CLARKSDALE

Where it all began, the best blues club on the planet. All are welcome!

To a pastor, sartorial soothsayer and crooner extraordinaire, Danny’s love of life has made us love him even more.

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SPECIAL PRESENTATION

Morgan Freeman’s Symphonic Blues Experience

Credits (cont.)

To our Sponsors who work tirelessly to bring tourism and economic opportunity to the Mississippi Delta:

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VISIT MISSISSIPPI

MEMPHIS TOURISM

Mississippi, often hailed as the birthplace of America’s music, offers visitors a rich tapestry of cultural heritage, from the legendary blues trails of Clarksdale to the vibrant coastal towns along the Gulf. Its deeprooted musical traditions, historic landmarks, and warm Southern hospitality make it a compelling destination for travelers seeking authentic experiences.

By partnering with “Morgan Freeman’s Symphonic Blues Experience,” Mississippi proudly showcases its profound influence on global music and reaffirms its commitment to preserving and celebrating its unique cultural legacy.

“Morgan Freeman’s Symphonic Blues Experience” is proudly supported by Memphis Tourism, the official destination marketing organization for Memphis and Shelby County. Memphis Tourism helps amplify the city’s rich musical heritage—from the blues of Beale Street to the soul of Stax—by partnering with cultural experiences that celebrate its global influence. Their support ensures that the legacy of Memphis continues to inspire audiences across the country.

Learn more about the city’s music, food, and culture.

2025/26 Season | kcsymphony.org

VISIT CLARKSDALE “Morgan Freeman’s Symphonic Blues Experience” is honored to partner with Visit Clarksdale, the official tourism organization for Clarksdale, Mississippi—widely recognized as the “Home of the Blues.” Clarksdale’s rich musical heritage, vibrant cultural scene, and iconic landmarks like the Delta Blues Museum and the legendary Crossroads make it a pilgrimage site for blues enthusiasts worldwide. Visit Clarksdale plays a pivotal role in preserving and promoting this legacy, offering visitors an authentic glimpse into the birthplace of the blues.

CROSSROADS ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP

“Morgan Freeman’s Symphonic Blues Experience” is proud to partner with the Crossroads Economic Partnership, a driving force behind Clarksdale, Mississippi’s economic revitalization and cultural preservation. As the city’s leading economic development and chamber organization, the Crossroads Economic Partnership fosters innovation, supports local businesses, and promotes Clarksdale’s rich musical heritage on a global stage.

Their commitment to nurturing creative industries and honoring the Delta’s legacy makes them an ideal partner in bringing this transformative musical experience to life.

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2025/26 Season

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BE LIKE BRYAN: Join the organ, eye and tissue donor registry.

Bryan Busby

Chief Meteorologist and Green Ribbon Champion

The medical team stood ready to give my goddaughter a heart. It never came.

In September 2021, my beautiful petite, 20-year-old dancer goddaughter’s body would wait no more.

I was devastated. For several weeks, I had watched the care team treat Helena Francine Nicole like a queen.

For many years, I have been a registered donor and advocate — asking friends, colleagues and viewers to consider doing the same. But this personal loss hit me hard. Her loss has me doubling down on my efforts to ensure no one else is ever in our position.

All I felt was sadness because the question of “how to save a life” should have been easy to answer. However, we lost Helena simply because of the lack of a suitable heart. Spare another family the grief and pain and join the donor registry.

– Bryan Busby

Join the organ, eye and tissue donor registry:

ShareLifeMidwest.com

SPECIAL PRESENTATION

Morgan Freeman’s Symphonic Blues Experience

Program Note A NOTE FROM MORGAN FREEMAN ey y’all, welcome to our Symphonic Blues Experience, a unique combination of classic orchestral sounds blended with the emotion and authenticity of the blues.

These two music genres couldn’t be more different. One was born in the gilded concert halls of Europe, the other in the sweltering fields of the American South. So when my partners and I set out to work on this project, we asked ourselves, “Could these divergent sounds come together? Could these talented musicians, from all walks of life, strike a resonant chord and find just the right harmony?”

The answer, we believe, is a resounding yes.

Born from struggle and shaped in the heart of the Mississippi Delta, the blues is more than a sound, it’s proof of survival. It’s the story of people who turned hardship into something powerful, who found beauty in their sorrow, and who sang out loud when the world tried to keep them quiet.

But the blues didn’t stay put. It didn’t just linger on the dusty roads or front porches of the Delta. It traveled up the river, across the country, and eventually around the world. With every stop, it left its mark, shaping jazz, rock & roll, R&B, and soul. The blues laid the foundation for so much of the music we know today, but somehow its roots are often forgotten, its storytellers left unsung.

This is their story: the sound of America’s past and present, the heartbeat of a culture that refused to be forgotten.

So please, sit back, relax and enjoy the Symphonic Blues Experience.

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SPECIAL PRESENTATION

Morgan Freeman’s Symphonic Blues Experience

Musician Bios MORGAN FREEMAN

Morgan Freeman, a proud son of the Mississippi Delta, is renowned not only as an Academy Award®-winning actor and narrator of unforgettable gravitas, but also as a tireless champion of the music and culture that shaped his upbringing. Raised amid the soulful rhythms and storytelling traditions of the Delta, Freeman’s lifelong love for the blues runs as deep as his iconic voice. Beyond his legendary film career, he has dedicated himself to preserving this musical heritage, most notably as co-founder of the Ground Zero Blues Club in Clarksdale, a lively sanctuary for authentic Delta blues and a launchpad for local talent.

As co-producer of “Morgan Freeman’s Symphonic Blues Experience,” he brings his vision and unmistakable presence to the stage, blending cinematic flair with the heart of the blues. As Freeman likes to say, “If you want to understand the blues, you don’t just listen — you feel it.

And if you’re lucky, you get to narrate it too.”

HEATHER CROSSE, Bass

Heather Crosse was born and raised in Louisiana and picked up her first instrument at age 10. In 2008, she moved to Clarksdale, Mississippi to chase her musical dreams, and she’s been making her mark ever since. With over four decades of experience, Heather is a seasoned singer, songwriter, bass player and music teacher, as well as the band leader of her longtime soul-blues band, Heavy Suga’ & The SweeTones, which she’s led for 18 years. She also plays with Big A & The Allstars and teaches bass at the Pinetop Perkins Foundation Workshop. In 2014, she signed with the German blues label Ruf Records, which released her debut album “Groovin’ At The Crosse Roads.” The following year, she hit the road with Ruf’s “Blues Caravan: Girls With Guitars” tour. Wherever she goes, Heather proudly represents Clarksdale on stages around the world.

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ADRIENNE “LADY ADRENA” ERVIN, Vocals

Lady Adrena’s music is making waves across the U.S., France and the U.K., blending life stories into powerful blues tunes. From 2015 to 2016, she lit up stages alongside legends like Anthony Hamilton, Betty Wright, The BarKays and Lakeside. In 2018, she took second place at the Vicksburg International Blues Challenge, which inspired her to return to her gospel roots and take a deeper dive into traditional blues. Her first blues single, “Good Girl Gone Bad,” was produced by Mr. Sipp, followed by the hit “Recipe for the Blues” with Sweet Success Records in 2021. That same year, she added the title “Lady” to her name, stepping boldly into the spotlight as a true blues artist. Her latest album, “Better Days,” recorded at Memphis’ iconic Royal Studios and produced by Boo Mitchell, reflects her mission to bring healing through music. You’ll hear the influence of greats like Koko Taylor and Aretha Franklin — soul and grit in perfect harmony.

ADRIAN “REV SLIM” FORREST, Bass

Adrian Miles Forrest, better known as Rev Slim, was born and raised in Grenada, Mississippi, where he grew up surrounded by gospel quartet music. After graduating from Grenada High, Slim studied music education at Mississippi Valley State University in Itta Bena, Mississippi, where he sharpened his skills in arranging and recording. Adrian’s career has taken him across genres, from hiphop and gospel to Southern soul and traditional blues. He’s worked with big names like Ice T, Bootsy Collins, Kierra Sheard, Eminem, Willie Clayton and more. In 2022, he earned Grammy® recognition for his work with Sir the Baptist and Tennessee State University. That same project was honored on the House Floor in D.C. and added to the Congressional Book of Records. He’s also been recognized at home, earning honors from the City of Grenada and the Grenada Baptist District.

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SPECIAL PRESENTATION

Morgan Freeman’s Symphonic Blues Experience

Musician Bios (cont.)

JACQUELINE “JAXX” NASSAR, Guitar and Vocals

Jacqueline “Jaxx” Nassar is a powerhouse guitarist, vocalist and songwriter hailing from Clarksdale, Mississippi — the very heart of the Delta Blues. A former standout of the Delta Blues Museum’s education program, Jaxx was personally awarded the inaugural Robert Johnson Award for Youth Excellence by Morgan Freeman. Over the years, she’s taken the stage alongside legends like B.B. King and Paul Simon, captivating audiences with her fierce musicianship and magnetic stage presence.

Rooted in the Blues but unbound by genre, Jaxx brings a raw, soulful energy to every performance, channeling the spirit of the Delta with every note.

ANTHONY “BIG A” SHERROD, Guitar and Vocals

Anthony “Big A” Sherrod is a multiinstrumentalist and international touring artist who personifies the living legacy of Delta Blues. A native of Clarksdale, Mississippi, Sherrod’s journey began at just 5 years old when he picked up the bass under the guidance of his mentor, the legendary Mr. Johnnie Billington. As the godson of blues icon Big Jack Johnson and a proud graduate of the Delta Blues Museum’s educational program, Sherrod embodies a direct line to the greats who shaped the genre. His performances carry the soul of the Delta in every note, keeping the tradition alive while inspiring the next generation of blues artists.

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LEE WILLIAMS, Drums

Lee Williams was born and raised in Clarksdale, Mississippi, right in the heart of a musical legacy. He got his start banging on buckets in the street at just 8 years old, until his cousin, Anthony Sherrod, brought him into Mr. Johnnie Billington’s School of Blues.

Over the years, Lee has played in bands like Razorblade & The Deep Cuts with Josh “Razorblade” Stewart, Dr. Mike and Big T, and The Family with Terry “Big T” Williams. He’s been a regular at Ground Zero Blues Club since day one, sharing the stage with blues legends like Charlie Musselwhite and Bob Margolin. These days, Lee gives back by teaching drums at the Delta Blues Museum’s Music Education Program and the Pinetop Perkins Foundation Workshop. He’s also been a core part of Heavy Suga’ & The SweeTones for the past 18 years, contributing to songwriting, arrangements and vocals. You can also catch him playing with Big A & The Allstars … and with anyone else who needs a drummer.

MARK YACOVONE, Keyboards

Mark Yacovone is a Mississippi-based keyboardist and recording artist best known for his soulful work on piano, organ and accordion, and for a brief cameo on the reality series “Gene Simmons: Family Jewels.” A longtime member of the Thacker Mountain Radio Hour house band, he’s shared stages and studios with artists like Mojo Nixon, Jody Williams, Joe Osborn, Buddy Cage, Maria Muldaur and Jack Sonni of Dire Straits. Mark brings decades of groove, grit and musical range to every performance.

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SPECIAL PRESENTATION

Morgan Freeman’s Symphonic Blues Experience

Musician Bios (cont.)

MARTIN GELLNER, Composer, Conductor and Music Director

Martin Gellner is an acclaimed Austrian composer, conductor and orchestrator whose work bridges classical precision with cinematic flair. Trained at the Mozarteum University in Salzburg and the University of Music and Performing Arts in Vienna, Gellner has collaborated with renowned ensembles including the Vienna Philharmonic and the Prague Philharmonic Orchestra. A creative force behind large-scale productions, he brings depth and dynamism to every score — most recently serving as arranger for “Hans Zimmer Live.” With “Symphonic Blues,” Gellner lends his mastery to reimagining Delta classics with sweeping orchestral power, creating a sound that’s both rooted and revelatory.

FILM + LIVE ORCHESTRA

TOP GUN: MAVERICKTM IN CONCERT Friday through Sunday, October 17-19

A Royal Albert Hall production in association with esk film.

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YOUR EVENT VISIONS COME TO LIFE AT UNITY VILLAGE

Versatile indoor and outdoor spaces for intimate conversations or large-scale events, within an inclusive and accessible environment.

Explore our trails, gardens, fountains, and labyrinth. Stay at our full-service hotel, with free parking and a scenic 9-hole golf course.

At Unity Village, we’re committed to helping you host unforgettable events.

Ask about the new R.D. Goppert Event Center

Learn more at unityvillage.org/events 1901 NW Blue Pkwy., Unity Village, MO 64065

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POPS SERIES

Windborne’s The Music of Journey Friday and Saturday, September 19-20, 2025 at 8:00 p.m.

Sunday, September 21, 2025 at 2:00 p.m.

Helzberg Hall, Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts Brent Havens, Guest Conductor and Arranger Juan Del Castillo, Lead Vocals Justin Avery, Keyboards/Background Vocals George Cintron, Guitar/Background Vocals Dan Clemens, Bass/Background Vocals Powell Randolph, Drums/Background Vocals

Selections will be announced from the stage.

There will be an intermission.

The 2025/26 season is generously sponsored by SHIRLEY and BARNETT C. HELZBERG, JR. Additional support provided by

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2025/26 Season

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POPS SERIES

Windborne’s The Music of Journey BRENT HAVENS

GUEST CONDUCTOR AND ARRANGER erklee-trained arranger/ conductor Brent Havens has written music for orchestras, feature films and virtually every kind of television. His TV work includes movies for networks such as ABC, CBS and ABC Family Channel Network, commercials, sports music for networks such as ESPN and even cartoons. Havens has also worked with the Doobie Brothers and the Milwaukee Symphony, arranging and conducting the combined group for Harley Davidson’s 100th Anniversary Birthday Party Finale attended by over 150,000 fans. He has worked with some of the world’s greatest orchestras including the Royal Philharmonic and BBC Concert Orchestra in London, City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (Birmingham, England), Malaysian Philharmonic, Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, Minnesota Orchestra, Pittsburgh Symphony, Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, Houston Symphony, Atlanta Symphony, Baltimore Symphony, Dallas Symphony, Fort Worth Symphony, Nashville Symphony, Orchestra of Opera North in Leeds, England and countless others.

Havens recently completed the score for the film “Quo Vadis,” a Premier Pictures remake of the 1956 gladiator film. In 2013 he worked with the Baltimore Symphony and the NFL’s Baltimore Ravens to arrange and produce the music for the Thanksgiving Day halftime show between the Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers, adapting both classical music and rock songs into a single four-minute show.

Havens is arranger and guest conductor for all of Windborne Music’s symphonic rock programs.

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JUAN DEL CASTILLO LEAD VOCALS

uan Del Castillo is a singersongwriter born and raised in San Diego, California. He began making music at a very young age.

As a child, Juan sang in choir and performed in plays and musicals. He also acted in television shows and commercials throughout his teens.

Juan is a polished, dynamic showman whose passion for performing, natural charisma and innate ability to completely captivate audiences with his stage presence have led him down a path of artistry and success.

A recording artist, formerly on Sony’s BMG US Latin label, Juan’s vocal timbre, range and fierce control have more recently drawn comparisons to former Journey frontman Steve Perry.

Juan is also the founder and lead vocalist for the internationally touring DSB Band, hailed by Ryan Seacrest and Mark Cuban’s AXS TV as “The World’s Greatest Journey Tribute Band.”

Juan is thrilled to share his talents and honored to perform with Windborne and Journey’s catalogue of timeless classics.

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FAMILY SERIES

The Orchestra Games Sunday, September 28, 2025 at 2:00 p.m.

Helzberg Hall, Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts Daniel Wiley, David T. Beals III Associate Conductor John Klinghammer, Narrator John Williams

Olympic Fanfare and Theme

Gregory Smith The Orchestra Games John Klinghammer, narrator George Bizet Jeux d’enfants, op. 22

I. March II. Berceuse III. Impromptu V. Gallop Vangelis arr. Henry Mancini

Chariots of Fire

Albert von Tilzer arr. Steven Rosenhaus

“Take Me Out to the Ballgame”

The 2025/26 season is generously sponsored by SHIRLEY and BARNETT C. HELZBERG, JR. Additional support provided by

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2025/26 Season

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FAMILY SERIES

The Orchestra Games DANIEL WILEY

DAVID T. BEALS III ASSOCIATE CONDUCTOR aniel Wiley is a dynamic conductor quickly establishing himself across North America.

He has appeared with leading ensembles including the Cincinnati Symphony, Cincinnati Ballet, Kansas City Symphony, Nashville Symphony, Indianapolis Symphony, Minnesota Orchestra, Calgary Philharmonic, Toledo Symphony, Wichita Symphony, Orchestra Iowa, Quad City Ballet, Salisbury Symphony, Windsor Symphony Orchestra, Windsor Abridged Opera, London Symphonia, Boise Philharmonic, Abilene Philharmonic, Meridian Symphony (ID), Equilibrium Ensemble and University of North Florida Opera.

Daniel currently serves as the associate conductor of the Kansas City Symphony and music director of the Salisbury Symphony, Anderson Symphony and West Valley Symphony. Previous appointments include assistant conductor of the Cincinnati Symphony and Pops, May Festival and Jacksonville Symphony; associate conductor of the Windsor Symphony Orchestra; and music director roles with the Windsor Symphony Youth Orchestras, Windsor Symphony Community Orchestra and Texas Academy of Mathematics and Science Youth Orchestra. He has also served as visiting professor and wind ensemble conductor at the University of Windsor’s School of Creative Arts, education conductor for London Symphonia and conductor for Windsor Abridged Opera.

In April 2024, Daniel made a notable subscription debut with the Cincinnati Symphony, stepping in at the last minute to lead a program featuring Schoenberg’s Verklärte Nacht and Brahms’ Violin Concerto with Augustin Hadelich. His performance was praised as “seamless and intelligent” and for “bringing out the best in the orchestra’s musicians” (Cincinnati Business Courier).

A prizewinner at both the Smoky Mountain International Conducting Institute and Competition and the Los Angeles International Conducting Competition, Daniel also has a strong background in contemporary music. He has conducted world premieres through the Composing in the Wilderness program at the Fairbanks Summer Arts Festival in Alaska and worked with the Musicbed Music and Film Corporation in Fort Worth, Texas.

A former public-school music teacher, Daniel remains passionate about supporting young musicians, frequently serving as a guest clinician for student ensembles across North America.

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JOHN KLINGHAMMER

NARRATOR AND KCS THIRD/BASS CLARINET hird/Bass Clarinetist with the Kansas City Symphony since 2017, John Klinghammer has also served as Acting Associate Principal/E-flat Clarinet for the KCS during the 2014/15 and 2016/17 seasons. From 2001 through 2014 he held the position of Assistant Principal/E-flat Clarinet with the Omaha Symphony. John received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Oregon and master’s and doctoral degrees from the University of Southern California. He is a student of Yehuda Gilad.

As a younger man in high school and college, John spent much of his time acting in plays and musicals in various hometown community theaters and at the University of Oregon. Productions included The Grapes of Wrath, Into the Woods, Macbeth, Orphans and Working, among others. He has been lucky enough to exercise his theater muscles over the years in countless orchestral educational productions, including narrating the Kansas City Symphony’s recent production of Lemony Snicket’s The Composer Is Dead.

John lives in Brookside with his wife, Kansas City Symphony cellist Maria Crosby, and their two sons.

Check out our other Family concerts this season!

Carnival of SUN NOV 9 the Animals

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2025

SUNDAY, MARCH 1, 2026

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“Where Words Fail, Music Speaks” - Hans Christian Anderson

. . . and so does Fine Jewelry

Lilliane’s THE

JOY OF JEWELRY

A Kansas City Original Since 1965

9437 Mission Rd Leawood, KS • 913.383.3376 • lillianesjewelry.com

SPECIAL PRESENTATION

Chicken-Fried Rock Saturday, October 4, 2025 at 8:00 p.m.

Helzberg Hall, Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts Luke Poeppel, David T. Beals III Assistant Conductor Travis Birch, Vocals Chris Blem, Vocals Carole J. Bufford, Vocals Scott Coulter, Vocals John Boswell, Piano

Selections will be announced from the stage.

There will be an intermission.

The 2025/26 season is generously sponsored by SHIRLEY and BARNETT C. HELZBERG, JR. Additional support provided by

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SPECIAL PRESENTATION

Chicken-Fried Rock

Musician Bios TRAVIS BIRCH, Vocals

With deep roots in Christian and country music, Travis Birch’s range and tone allow him to cross into various other genres as well. Residing in Nashville for the past 25 years, Birch has performed at nearly every notable venue, from the bustling streets of Broadway to the intimate setting of the Bluebird Cafe. He has had the privilege of opening for, and sharing stages with, iconic artists like Martina McBride, Merle Haggard, Kenny Chesney and The Oak Ridge Boys.

CHRIS BLEM, Vocals

Chris Blem is one of Disney’s favorite voices and has traveled the globe singing with some of the world’s most prestigious symphony orchestras including the Tokyo Philharmonic, Evergreen Orchestra (Taipei), Metropolitan Orchestra (Singapore), Neverland Orchestra (Tokyo), Buffalo Philharmonic, Fort Wayne Philharmonic and Encore Orchestra (Walt Disney World). He is the founder and creative director of The Network, which helps artists amplify their voices through thoughtful curation of their visual and online story. He is a graduate of the University of Cincinnati CollegeConservatory of Music.

CAROLE J. BUFFORD, Vocals

Carole J. Bufford has become one of the most sought-after young performers in the New York cabaret and jazz scene and in 2020 was awarded the prestigious American Traditions Vocal Competition Gold Medal. Her recent shows, “Speak Easy” (featuring the Grammy® Award-winning Vince Giordano and The Nighthawks) and “Body & Soul,” earned her rave reviews across the board, including from the New York Times and the Wall Street Journal. Carole is the recipient of Nightlife, Bistro and BroadwayWorld Awards for outstanding vocalist.

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SCOTT COULTER, Vocals

Scott Coulter is one of New York’s most honored vocalists, having received five MAC Awards, five Bistro Awards and two Nightlife Awards for outstanding vocalist and an Emmy® nomination for his performance in “American Song” on PBS. He spent a record-setting eight months at Feinstein’s in New York City performing the revue “11 O’Clock Numbers at 11 O’Clock,” which he also co-created, directed and musically arranged.

Academy Award®-winner Stephen Schwartz has said, “One of the greatest things that can happen to a composer is to have his music interpreted by Scott Coulter.” Scott is founder and owner of Spot-On Entertainment and Spot-On Arts Academy.

JOHN BOSWELL, Piano

John Boswell has served as musical director for Judy Collins, Andy Williams, Bob Newhart, Scott Coulter, Maude Maggart, Faith Prince, Carmen Cusack, Babbie Green, Jason Graae and a host of other fine talents.

Recent concerts with symphonies have included “Jerry Herman: The Broadway Legacy Concert,” “Blockbuster Broadway!,” “Sheena Easton and Scott Coulter: The Spy Who Loved Me” and “Scott Coulter’s Music of the Knights.” While a student at UCLA, John received the Frank Sinatra Award for popular instrumentalists.

SPOT-ON ENTERTAINMENT

Scott Coulter’s Spot-On Entertainment is a concert production and booking company based in New York City. Special composer tribute shows include “Defying Gravity: Stephen Schwartz and Friends” and “Jerry Herman: The Broadway Legacy Concert” (which is co-produced by Spot-On and the ASCAP Foundation). Spot-On concerts often feature an educational component that results in local artists appearing on stage with members of the Spot-On family. It is our goal to inspire and pass the torch to the next generation.

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We are Missouri’s

TOP MED SCHOOL FOR PRIMARY CARE

KANSASCITY.EDU 40

2025/26 Season | kcsymphony.org

2025/26

About the Kansas City Symphony only its 43rd season, the Kansas City Symphony has already become one of America’s most vibrant major orchestras and has gained national and international recognition. With the 2024/25 season, the Symphony welcomed conductor and composer Matthias Pintscher as its new music director. Pintscher regularly conducts many of the world’s best orchestras and opera companies and ranks as one of the world’s foremost composers of orchestral music.

Continually creating live music experiences in Helzberg Hall, located in the prestigious Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, the Symphony serves Kansas City’s metro population of more than 2.2 million people as well as welcoming visitors from around the globe.

The Symphony’s 80 full-time musicians from around the world bring a diverse and dynamic range of musical experiences to our audiences in both orchestral and chamber music formats each season. In addition to concerts in Helzberg Hall, Symphony musicians perform throughout the region on our portable stage, the Mobile Music Box. The Symphony also serves as the orchestra for the Kansas City Ballet and the Lyric Opera of Kansas City, adding to the rich cultural experiences that these organizations offer to the community.

Top international soloists perform with the Kansas City Symphony every season, including brilliant classical musicians, popular singer/ songwriters, rock bands and other creative performers. The Symphony also performs live soundtracks for a variety of fan-favorite films, with the movie projected on a giant screen above the stage.

Music connects us; it has the unique ability to draw us closer to our inner selves and also closer to one another, transcending our differences. Every Kansas City Symphony concert will take you on an emotional journey — a journey that’s deeply personal but also a journey that we all experience together as one.

We’re happy you are here. We are your Kansas City Symphony.

FOR MORE INFORMATION,

please visit kcsymphony.org kcsymphony.org |

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2025/26

Symphony Society Contributors The list of individual contributors includes gifts of $2,500 or more received during our 2024/25 season.

Gary C. Robb and Anita Porte Robb Wallace and Mary Fern Souder Anonymous (2) Anonymous Randy and Mary Ann St. Clair Virginia and Charles Clark Phil and Alice Bixby Jonathan and Paul DeBruce and The Brandmeyer Family Meredith Sternberg Linda Woodsmall-DeBruce / Marian Wood Bump Linda S. Stevens ◊ The DeBruce Foundation Grant and Wendy Burcham Robert M. Suhre ◊ Barnett and Shirley Helzberg ◊ Kenny and Sherrie Burgess Marilyn McConnell Susan and Charles Chambers Bill and Marilyn Taylor ◊ Steve and Linda Taylor Michael A. Waterford Tim Cook Melanie and Curtis and Lillian Cooper H. Wayne Thompson, Jr. William and Dorothy Curry Ann Marie Trask COMPOSER’S CIRCLE Paul and Lynn Douthat ($50,000 to $99,999) John M. and Mary Ann Edgar / Marylou Turner ◊ Chasitie and Michael Walden / Ann Baum / Edgar Law Firm LLC Burgess Family Foundation G. Kenneth and Ann Baum Howard and Anne Elsberry Connie Walker Philanthropic Fund Sue Ann and Daniel Walker ◊ Web and Tracy Bixby Richard Fagerberg J.B.† and Anne Hodgdon Michael D. Fields ◊ Min and Fan Kao Bill and Christy Gautreaux CRESCENDO CIRCLE Mr.† and Mrs. Stuart Knutson Michael and Sara Gentry ($6,000 to $12,499) Bill and Peggy Lyons ◊ Kenneth and Marilyn Hager Anonymous (3) Lorraine Martin ◊ Donald Hall, Sr.† Jean and Tom McDonnell Hargroves Family Foundation M. Wayne Alexander and John W. Braum ◊ Virginia Merrill† Charles and Barbara Haviland Scott and Bernadette Ashcraft Betty C. Scott ◊ Dr. Sara Hicks and Sara and Stephen Balawajder Dana Seeley Mr. Michael O’Connell Brian and Jennifer Blake Vera and Mike† Seeley Liz and John Hjalmarson Dr. Carol Blum and John and Marny Sherman Dr. James M. and Mr. Steven Wilson Kent Sunderland Grace G. Hobbs II Dr. Valerie Chow and Ellen and Irv Hockaday ◊ Judge Jon R. Gray (ret) Chris and Adele Hodgdon ◊ Martha Comment MUSICIAN’S CIRCLE Sharon and John Hoffman Bunni and Paul Copaken ($30,000 to $49,999) Rod and Susan Kelley Robert Cross June Beaver Kirk Foundation / Judy Kirk Uta Cross David A. Cooley, M.D. Carol and John Kornitzer Michael and Diane Dark J. Scott Francis, Daniel and Jan Lewis Discretionary Fund / Carl Manning and Dana Fields Richard and Maureen Durwood Foundation Francis Family Foundation Ford and Christine Maurer Warren and Jenny Erdman Michael and Marlys Haverty Pat and Beth McCown Michael and Melanie Fenske Michael† and Mike and Jan McGraw Byron and Dana Fink Susan Newburger ◊ John and Jackie Middelkamp Shelly Freeman and Betsy Piebenga Edward P. Milbank Kimberly Jones Charlotte and Bob Ronan ◊ Sue and Lewis Nerman Suzanne Frisse ◊ Lyman and Sally Ott ◊ Jacob Gerson George and Wendy Powell ◊

MAESTRO’S CIRCLE ($100,000 and Above)

BRAVURA CIRCLE ($12,500 to $29,999)

◊ Sempre Society † In memoriam 42

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James Gerson Greg and Barbara Storm John and Lynn Gerson Ann and John Sundeen, Jr. Levi and Emily Gerson David and Meg Swant Gregory E. Gille Sven and Julia Sykes Peter and Chris Godfrey Mary and Al Tikwart Myonza Gray Robert and Merrill Walz ◊ Edmund and Michiko Gross Gena and Steven Williams Christopher and John and Karen Yungmeyer Marsha Haufler James Heryer and Annette Evans OVERTURE CIRCLE Heidelmann Jackson ($3,500 to $5,999) Family Fund / Anonymous Kelda Jackson and Patty Aenchbacher Georg Heidelmann Mr. and Mrs. James Andrews Kim and Ted Higgins Richard and Emily Ballentine Bill and Irma Lou Hirsch Leonard and Irene Bettinger Linda Houston Foundation Philanthropic Fund of the Beth Ingram Jewish Community Roger and Sandy Jackson Foundation of Greater Tom and Madeline Johnson Kansas City Steve Joss ◊ Doug and Cindy Brown Nancy L. Kain ◊ Wendy and Troy Burgess ◊ Dr. Andrew Kao Mary Canham Julie Kemper Foyer and Robert L. Claassen Jean-Charles Foyer Donna Gould Cohen Bruce and Janet Kernes Jane and George Cornwell Kirk Foundation Dr. and James C. Kogel ◊ Mrs. Thomas P. Cummings Mordy Kopperman Nancy Doty Davis Lois Lacy Cary and Pam DeCamp Michael and Patricia Manners Steven DeWilde and Doug and Nina McKenna Bradley Pearson JoZach Miller and Peter Bali Mark and Lisa Ebbitts Dr. and Mrs. Fred Neuer Constance B. Fayen George and Cynthia Norton Ellen Feldhausen George and Suzy Pagels Joerg and Christa Finger Bobby and Eleanor Patton Marilyn A.W. and Dr. Ron and Donna Patton ◊ Norman E. Gaar, Esq.† ◊ John and Linda Perkins Mark and Nancy Gilman Drs. Sanford and Dr. and Mrs. Elizabeth Peterson Charles W. Gorodetzky Sarah, Joseph, Pamela and Dr. Robert Graham and Donald Raffurty Dr. Jane E. Henney Greg and Caroline Reintjes Denise Griffey and Jill Ingram Reynolds Leon Langlitz ◊ Sid and Jeannine Richison Dr. Allen and William and Nancy Scheerer ◊ Mrs. Gail Gutovitz Ken Schmitz Chuck and Karen Haber James and Katherine Schorgl Katie and Aaron Hackman Suzanne Shank and Dr. Richard and Julie Hellman John Lohmeyer Pamela T. Henderson Dr. Elisa S. Silverstein Bradley and Karen Hodges

Pegge Hudgins Dr. Randall and Doranne Hudson ◊ Quinton and Kristen Huffman ◊ Randy and Kelly Huffman Vicki and Harold James Allen and Carol Jenks Dick and Sandy Jones Dr. Newton Jones and Mr. James Corrick Dr. Robert Klein Dr. Barbara Lukert and Estate of Mary Stoskopf Martha, Greg, and Terri Maddux Pete and Michelle Mirakian Pam and Jim Nolan Christopher and Megan Olvera Nancy Panzer-Howell Willy Pegues and Hayat Abdullahi Leslie Pfriem Patricia Raffel Reses Apfel Family / Jacqueline D. Reses Fred and Susan Reynolds ◊ Scott and Beth Riekeman Michelle and Chuck Ritter Lisa and Charles Schellhorn Randy Sedlacek and Mary Ventura Clarence E. Simmons, Jr. Joe and Susan Sims ◊ Louis and Sharon Smith Susan and Tuck Spaulding Jeannine Strandjord Sue Strickler Fr. Paul Turner John and Angela Walker Steven and Janet Walker Dr. Mark and Mary Ellen Walton Chris Wasmund Howard and Irene Weiner Janice White John and Mary Sue Williams Claire† and Russell Wilson George and Beverley Wilson Dave and Shirley Wurth Bernie Young and Sandra Holt Karl and Beth Zobrist

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2025/26

Symphony Society Contributors (cont.)

FANFARE CIRCLE ($2,500 to $3,499) Anonymous (2) Drs. Kathy M. Krause and Dr. and Susan and Ho Anthony Ahn Robert H. Lee Mrs. Steven Romondo Joe and Malinda Algaier Norman and Dr. Thomas Russell Steve and Jeri Allison Margaret Kressmann ◊ Nelson and Rachael Sabates Ida B. Anderson Ermalyn Kubart and Glen and Susan Sands Bruce and Gerry Barker Clinton Ludeman Jim and Barb Scherer Scott and Robin Boswell Dr. and Mrs. Steven B. Laster Janice and Mark Schonwetter Tom and Judy Bowser ◊ Larry and Marilyn Lewis Don W. Shanks ◊ Cheryl and Barry Brady Bruce and Priscilla Long Dr. John Sheets and Robert and Pamela Bruce Tim and Martha Madderom Dr. Joy Stevenson Stephen and Susan Bubb Donna and Rex Martin Christopher and Lisa Sirridge Gerard and Judy Bukowski Mr. and Rick and Betsey Solberg ◊ Steve and Sally Burk Mrs. Barry C. Mayhew Drs. David E. and Forrest Chumley and Michael and Julie McCann Frances G. Sternberg Barbara Valent William McCollum and Connie Stirgus-Marley Ron and Kim Coker Diana Hadl Tate Family Foundation Jeff Cotter and Karen Suhre Julia and Dennis Meyer Don and Cathy Thomson Suzanne Crandall Pam and Joe Meyer Darrel and Linda Thomssen Una Creditor ◊ Sharon Milens Dr. Angela and Bill Dickinson and Donald and Linda Milligan Mr. Patrick Valadez Barbara Loots Teresa and James Minton Deanna and Carol and Mark Dirkes Gloria Mueller Larry Van Cleave Dr. Margaret Estrin Drinkwine Linda and George Neill Dale E. Walker and Mr. Frank Drinkwine Dr. Mark Neustrom Myron and Nicole Wang Lisa and Buzzah Feingold Dr. Jayne Opeña Bumgarner Dr. and Brad and Mary Footh and Mr. Jerry Bumgarner Mrs. Terrence R. Ward Bradley and Theresa Freilich Mr. and Mr. and Mrs. William F. Webb Mark Gardner Mrs. Charles Penner Heinz Wehner and Sally Groves Howard Pitler Judith Biggs Susan and Zack Hangauer Melodie A. Powell and Charles and Linda Wells John Hardesty and Jerry L. Short Sheila Wikas ◊ Marilyn Macha William and Stacy Pratt Mark and Heather Winiarski Charles and Mary Kay Horner Kathryn and James Prevost Jerry and Tammy Wood M. Indellicate Joseph and Kelly Privitera Dr. Michael J. and Mr. Michael Kauphusman and David Raffel Cindy S. Wurm Dr. Sandra Archer Philip and Nancy Reicher John and Carol Yorke John and Ann Kenney Dennis and Palle Rilinger ◊ Allan King and Nancy Bean Constance Roeder ◊ ◊ Sempre Society † In memoriam

We are grateful for all donations. We make every effort to list donors accurately. Space limitations, however, don’t allow us to print every gift in the program book. If we have omitted a name, or if you would like to modify your listing, please call 816.218.2624.

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Premier Senior Living in the Heart of Kansas City

Saint Luke’s Bishop Spencer Place, located near the Country Club Plaza, provides easy access to nearby arts and culture. Our residents enjoy monthly programming full of musicians, artists, and more.

Our vibrant community offers an independent lifestyle backed by a full spectrum of health care services as part of Saint Luke’s.

Our on-site care options include:

Independent and assistedliving Skilled nursing and rehabilitation Memory care Schedule a tour today 816-595-5878 BishopSpencerPlace.org kcsymphony.org |

2025/26 Season

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2025/26

Foundations and Organizations The list of foundation and organization contributors includes gifts received during our 2024/25 season.

46

MAESTRO’S CIRCLE ($100,000 and Above)

BENEFACTOR ($10,000 to $24,999)

City of Kansas City, Missouri DeBruce Foundation Hall Family Foundation Kansas City Symphony Alliance Muriel McBrien Kauffman Family Foundation Bebe and Crosby Kemper Foundation for the Arts, UMB Bank n.a., Trustee William T. Kemper Foundation — Commerce Bank, Trustee Missouri Arts Council Richard J. Stern Foundation for the Arts — Commerce Bank, Trustee Symphony League

Anonymous The Cross Foundation The Ronald D. Deffenbaugh Foundation Elsberry Family Foundation Fondation Foyer, Julie Kemper Foyer and Jean-Charles Foyer The Ingram Family Foundation Kirk Foundation Oppenstein Brothers Foundation Victor E. and Caroline E. Schutte Foundation Ralph L. Smith Illumination Fund

COMPOSER’S CIRCLE ($50,000 to $99,999) Kansas City Symphony Guild Kao Family Foundation National WWI Museum and Memorial Neighborhood Tourist Development Fund, City of Kansas City, Missouri The Seeley Foundation

Almy Legacy Fund Gerson Family Foundation McCown Family Foundation Bill McGlaughlin Education Fund Louis and Frances Swinken Supporting Foundation of the Jewish Community Foundation of Greater Kansas City

MUSICIAN’S CIRCLE ($25,000 to $49,999)

SUSTAINER ($1,000 to $4,999)

Marion and Henry Bloch Family Foundation Curry Family Foundation Arvin Gottlieb Charitable Foundation, Peter W. Brown, Barton J. Cohen, UMB Bank, n.a., Trustees Michael and Marlys Haverty Family Foundation Fund Frank and Margaret G. McGee Fund National Endowment for the Arts Pemberton Family Charitable Foundation J.B. Reynolds Foundation The Sosland Foundation Mark Edelman Theater Fund at the Jewish Community Foundation of Greater Kansas City

The Breidenthal-Snyder Foundation R.A. Long Foundation Miller Nichols Charitable Foundation Henry E. Wurst Family Foundation

2025/26 Season | kcsymphony.org

PATRON ($5,000 to $9,999)

TAKE CENTER

STAGE Connect with Your Audience this Season and Advertise in Kansas City’s Top Theater and Performance Venues.

Contact Christin Painter at: christin@kcindependent.com • 816-471-2800 x218 • kcindependent.com

2025/26

Business Alliance Corporate Contributions The list of corporate contributors includes gifts received during our 2024/25 season.

BUSINESS ALLIANCE MAESTRO’S CIRCLE ($100,000 and Above)

BUSINESS ALLIANCE PRINCIPAL PARTNER ($5,000 to $9,999)

Bank of America Hallmark Corporate Foundation

Ash Grove Cement Company Associated Audiologists, Inc. Burns & McDonnell Claridge Court Country Club Bank Dollar, Burns, Becker & Hershewe Forvis Mazars Hallmark Cards, Inc. HMXLive Humana Kansas City Life Insurance Company Kansas City University Mark One Electric Company, Inc. Optum Parisi Coffee Polsinelli Renewal by Andersen Restless Spirits Distilling U.S. Engineering Holdings

BUSINESS ALLIANCE COMPOSER’S CIRCLE ($50,000 to $99,999) Ford Motor Company Kansas City PBS Webster House Garage, LLC

BUSINESS ALLIANCE PLATINUM PARTNER ($25,000 to $49,999) The H & R Block Foundation Helzberg Diamonds PNC Foundation Union Station

BUSINESS ALLIANCE GOLD PARTNER ($10,000 to $24,999) AdventHealth BlueScope Foundation Cerris Edgar Law Firm LLC / John and Mary Ann Edgar Evergy JE Dunn Construction Company KC Parks and Recreation Kissick Construction Company Kornitzer Capital Management / Carol and John Kornitzer McCownGordon Construction Spencer Fane LLP UMB Bank, n.a.

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BUSINESS ALLIANCE PARTNER ($3,000 to $4,999) Adams Brown Wealth Consultants Atomic Cowboy Black & McDonald Brown & Brown CBIZ Commerce Bank EPR Properties Foley Equipment Gill Studios, Inc. Global Prairie Kansas City Bier Company KurlCultureKC Lamp Rynearson Civil Engineering & Land Surveying Price Brothers Management Company Shook, Hardy & Bacon L.L.P. State Street Straub Construction Company, Inc.

BUSINESS FRIEND ($500 to $2,999) Alice Scooper’s Ice Cream Co. American Century Investments AM CPA Amos Family Funeral Home Anderson and Associates Barnes & Thornburg LLP Bizz & Weezy Confections Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas City Blue Sky Advisors, LLC BRR Architecture Dillingham Enterprises, Inc. DL & CL Investments Excel Constructors Fairway Creamery Footprints Heroes Home Gate Garmin Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce Green Dirt on Oak Heartland Coca-Cola Bottling Co. Heavenly Homes Team Real Estate HFG Architecture His & Her Fitness J. Rieger & Co. John Rufenacht Assoc. Inc. Katie Grimes CrossCountry Mortgage Lifted Spirits Distillery

Lockton Companies Inc. LuLu’s Thai Noodle Shop McQuaid Brothers Remodeling Merrill Lynch/David Voysey Metcalf Auto Plaza Michelle Deutch D.D.S. Mission Farms Mixture Neon Palm Ice Northern Trust Oak & Steel Payne & Jones, Chartered Foundation Pulse Design Group Rank & Roberts Real Estate Reliant Financial Services SageView Advisory - Kansas City SHS MedTech Consulting Sugar + Sky LLC Taco Naco KC The Homesteader Cafe LLC Union on the Hill Walz Tetrick Advertising Wandering Vine Warriors’ Ascent West Bottoms Whiskey Co. Wis-Pak Brands - BUBBL’R

SPECIAL PRESENTATION

ON STAGE: GEORGE LI

Wednesday, October 29

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sept. 5 - dec. 28

kansascityzoo.org/glowild

presents the 2025-26 season:

Celebrate an international cultural exchange through music, dance and theatre as Kansas City prepares to step onto soccer’s biggest stage.

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in rags or riches, love is magic

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2025/26

Emergency Evacuation Procedure The Kauffman Center is equipped with advanced life-safety early alert systems. Each performance hall is designed with emergency exits in case of an evacuation. In the event of severe weather, shelter in place inside the hall, not in a lobby area, and await further instructions.

In the event of an emergency, the performance will be interrupted. Horns and strobes will sound. Emergency instructions will be delivered from the stage.

Please remain seated as staff use an appropriate amount of investigational time to verify the source of the alarm.* Should an evacuation be necessary, lighted red (Muriel Kauffman Theatre) and green (Helzberg Hall) exit signs will lead patrons to one of eight emergency exit paths.

Patrons who are not able to safely and comfortably navigate stairs should remain in the venue near one of the marked “Emergency Evacuation Assistance” areas. First responders will evacuate those requiring assistance immediately upon their arrival.

Elevators, primary entrances and the Brandmeyer Great Hall staircase are NOT used in the case of an emergency evacuation.

For more information on emergency evacuation procedures, visit kauffmancenter.org/policies.

* Kauffman Center’s emergency egress plan, which includes an appropriate amount of investigational time to verify the source of an alarm, was developed with the assistance of the Kansas City, MO Fire Marshall’s Office.

POPS CONCERT

90s MIXTAPE

Friday through Sunday, October 24-26

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PARK UNIVERSITY INTERNATIONAL CENTER FOR MUSIC

2025-26 CONCERT SEASON September 5, 2025, 1900 Building

Molly Carr, Viola and Anna Petrova, Piano

October 3, 2025, Graham Tyler Memorial Chapel

Park ICM Orchestra Fall Concert Guest Conductor Timothy Hankewich

October 23, 2025, 1900 Building

Shmuel Ashkenasi, Violin, with ICM Faculty

November 13, 2025, 1900 Building

1900 BUILDING Mission Woods, KS

Stanislav Ioudenitch Piano Studio

December 5, 2025, Graham Tyler Memorial Chapel

An Intimate Christmas with the ICM Orchestra Conductor Steven McDonald

January 23, 2026, 1900 Building Ben Sayevich, Violin and Lolita Lisovskaya-Sayevich, Piano

February 6, 2026, Graham Tyler Memorial Chapel

KAUFFMAN CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS Kansas City, MO

Park ICM Orchestra Valentine Concert Guest Conductor Filippo Ciabatti

March 13, 2026, 1900 Building ICM String Studios

March 21, 2026, Kauffman Center Stanislav & Friends Gala

April 17, 2026, Graham Tyler Memorial Chapel

Park ICM Orchestra Season Finale Guest Conductor Jason Seber

May 1, 2026, 1900 Building Behzod Abduraimov, Piano

GRAHAM TYLER MEMORIAL CHAPEL Parkville, MO

All concerts begin at 7:30 p.m. except for Stanislav & Friends which begins at 7 p.m.

ICM.PARK.EDU

LEAWOOD TOWN CENTER PLAZA • OAK PARK MALL LIBERTY WILSHIRE PLAZA • 39TH STREET — INDEPENDENCE SUMMITWOODS CROSSING • ZONA ROSA