TROY QUINN, MUSIC DIRECTOR DIGITAL PROGRAM
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Thank you and enjoy the performance!
Welcome.
As the holiday season brings thoughts of gratitude, all of us at The Venice Symphony are profoundly thankful for YOU our symphony family. Your patronage and generosity allow us to bring world-class symphonic performances to our community, and we are endlessly grateful for your support. Music Director Troy Quinn has planned a program of seasonal favorites that he and our orchestra can’t wait to share with you today.
Have you ever left a concert wishing you could tell the Maestro or our talented musicians how much you enjoyed the performance? Now is your chance!
This year, we invite you to join in our annual holiday appeal, “Notes of Gratitude.” Beyond your donation, we invite you to share a personal message of appreciation with YOUR Venice Symphony.
We encourage you to write your “Notes of Gratitude” for the Symphony— whether it’s a message for the Maestro, praise for our dedicated musicians and staff, or a reflection on how the music has inspired you. You may have received one of our notecards in the mail or you can pick one up from our Symphony staff in the lobby after today’s performance.
Your words will mean the world to us and inspire everyone who helps make the music happen.
With heartfelt gratitude and wishes for a wonderful holiday and a happy New Year.
Sincerely,
Christine Kasten, President/CEO The Venice Symphony
TROY QUINN, MUSIC DIRECTOR TROY QUINN, MUSIC DIRECTOR
Emmy-nominated conductor Troy Quinn has quickly established himself as one of his generation’s most versatile young artists. Lauded for his energetic and riveting, yet sensitive conducting, Quinn is in his seventh season as Music Director of the Venice Symphony in Florida. He is also in his eighth season as Music Director of the Owensboro Symphony in Kentucky and serves concurrently as the Pops Conductor of the Santa Rosa Symphony in California.
Quinn’s engagements have included performances with many prestigious orchestras in the United States, including the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra, Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia, and the Rhode Island Philharmonic, where he also serves as the Pops Conductor.
Equally at home in the pops and commercial world, Quinn has performed and recorded with some of the most popular artists of our time, including The Rolling Stones, The Beach Boys, Barry Manilow, Lee Greenwood, Josh Groban, Jennifer Hudson, and Michael Feinstein. As an accomplished vocalist, Quinn has also collaborated with such prominent maestros as Helmuth Rilling, Carl St. Clair, and Dan Saunders of the Metropolitan Opera. In addition to his concert work, Quinn has worked extensively in the television and recording industry, earning an Emmy nomination for the PBS special A Night at the Oscars with the Owensboro Symphony. He has made appearances on such hit television shows as Fox’s GLEE, NBC’s The Voice, and The Tonight Show with Jay Leno while recording on films like The Call of the Wild and Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull. He has also appeared at many of the world’s major music centers and at such famed venues as the Hollywood Bowl, Walt Disney Concert Hall, and Tanglewood, where Quinn made his Boston debut conducting the BUTI orchestra.
A native of Connecticut, Quinn pursued a bachelor of arts degree from Providence College where he was the recipient of the Leo S. Cannon award for superior achievement in the music field. He went on to earn his master’s degree with honors from the Manhattan School of Music, studying conducting with David Gilbert and voice with highly acclaimed Metropolitan Opera singer Mark Oswald. He completed his doctorate in conducting at the University of Southern California’s Thornton School of Music, where he studied with Larry Livingston and Jo-Michael Scheibe and was awarded the outstanding doctoral graduate of his class. Quinn has participated in numerous masterclasses as a conducting fellow, attending conducting institutes at the Royal Academy of Music, Eastman School of Music, and Bard Conservatory of Music. He has been mentored by such renowned conductors as Benjamin Zander, Neil Varon, and Leon Botstein. Quinn serves on the conducting faculty at the University of Southern California’s Thornton School of Music and has previously served as a faculty member at Providence College.
CONCERT PROGRAM
Alan Silvestri
December 20, 2024 I 7:30 pm
December 21, 2024 I 3:30 + 7:30pm
December 22, 2024 I 3:30 pm
Troy Quinn, Music Director
Spirit of the Season from The Polar Express
Key Chorale, Chorus
Traditional Good King Wenceslas arr. Joel Mott
Foster/Thompson-Jenner My Grown Up Christmas List
arr. Paul Murtha Liz Callaway, Vocalist
Flaherty/Ahrens
Flaherty/Ahrens
Once Upon a December from Anastasia
Liz Callaway, Vocalist
Key Chorale, Chorus
Journey to the Past from Anastasia
Liz Callaway, Vocalist
Arr. Paul Murtha A Festival of Lights
Key Chorale, Chorus
Lincoln Brewster Miraculum
arr. Joel Mott Miraculum
Marcus Ratzenboeck, Electric Violin
O’Neill/Kinkel/Tchaikovsky A Mad Russian’s Christmas arr. Bob Phillips Marcus Ratzenboeck, Electric Violin
Bradley Knight
INTERMISSION
Sing We Now of Christmas
Key Chorale, Chorus
Henry Mancini Carol for Another Christmas
Johnny Marks
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer arr. Richard Hayman
Leroy Anderson Sleigh Ride
Bradley Knight
The Joy of Christmas
Key Chorale, Chorus
Today’s performance will be approximately 90 minutes in length.
MUSICIANS
M u SIC DI re CTO r Troy Quinn David & Deborah West Chair
F I r ST V IOLIN
Marcus Ratzenboeck
Concertmaster
Paul & Linda Mulligan Chair
Hannah Cho
Associate Concertmaster
Stephen & Redenta Picazio Chair
Katherine Gilger
Assistant Concertmaster
Diane & James Crawford Chair
Erik Berg
Edward and Patricia Crary Chair
Sergio Carleo
Robert & Bonnie Anderson Chair
Francisco Diaz
Henry & Joan Hajdas Chair
Sardor Djumaev
Sidney & Suzanne Durham Chair
Misty Drake
Robert & Barbara McClure Chair
Benita Dzhurkova
Mark & Jeanne Polzin Chair
João Felipe da Fraga
Frank & Kathe Magadance Chair
Emin Huseynov
Albert & Susan DiGiacomo Chair
Evgeny Komarnitskiy
Maria Bradley & Martin Pfister Chair
Karissa Ratzenboeck
Joseph & Maureen Bentley Chair
Iryna Usova
Rev. Chris & Paula Gray Chair
Se COND V IOLIN
Amy Rawstron Watson, Principal
Beatrice Holt Chair
Wallace DePue, Assistant Principal
Barbara Freeman Chair
Samvel Arakelyan
Isabella Diaz
Jana Kaminsky
Ernest & Judith Bago Chair
Anna Khalikova
Elena Komarnitskaia
Jack & Beth Gehring Chair
Xiaomeng Ma
Nicole Rawley
Imanuel Sandoval
V IOLA
Paul Reynolds, Principal
Elliott & Dana Corn Chair
Ethan Durell, Assistant Principal
Fred & Cindy Gossman Chair
Yaniv Cohen
David Chivas & Ron Rice Chair
Roberto Henriquez
Brian & Ruth Smith Chair
Seongwoo Jeong
Monica MacMichael
Rafael Ramirez
Michael & Ginger O’Keefe Chair
Teal Vickery
Daphne Waggener
Ce LLO
Susan Debronsky, Principal
Thomas & Martha Galek Chair
Julia Tretyakova, Assistant Principal
Michael & Patricia Dunlap Chair
Oliver Cole
Anthony De Peña
Antonio Innaimo
Tadao Hermida Ito
Maida Hoag Atkins Chair
Helen Lewis
Rocio Mendoza-Silva
Chris Pegis
Emily Yoshimoto
B ASS
Christopher Riley, Principal
John Myers Chair
Trent Harper, Assistant Principal
Kenneth & Selma Bitz Chair
Kevin Gallagher
Jonathan Ingram
Laura Miranda
Jordan Nashman
F L u T e
Francesca Arnone, Principal
Robert & Debra Waldron Chair
MUSICIANS
2024-25 S EASON M USIC S PONSORS • Stephen and redenta Picazio
Angela Massey
Dennis & Marilyn Eshoo Chair
Jarrett May
Carole Raymond Chair
PICCOLO
Jarrett May
Carole Raymond Chair
O BO e
Amy Collins, Principal
George De Luisi Chair
Chanmi Kim
Patrick & Geri Allard Chair
Josh Hall
Schultz-Hill Foundation Chair
e NGLISH HO r N
Josh Hall
Schultz-Hill Foundation Chair
C LA r IN e T
Asher Carlson, Principal
Wesley John Schumacher Chair
Kelsey Castellanos
Dennis & Ruthanne Neeser Chair
Michael Drapkin
Vinod & Gail Sahney Chair
BASS CLA r IN e T
Michael Drapkin
Vinod & Gail Sahney Chair
B ASSOON
Patrick Broder, Principal
Stephen & Nancy Eibling Chair
Javi Rodriguez
Daniel Beilman
Stephen B. Hammond Chair
CONT r ABASSOON
Daniel Beilman
Stephen B. Hammond Chair
Horn
Joseph Lovinsky, Principal
Bill & Sara Gill Chair
Chase DeCarlo
Steve Easton Chair
Jennifer Miller
Floyd & Mary Juday Chair
William Bard
Margaret Dixon
Gerhard & Edith Mueller Chair
Tru MP e T
Kris Marshall, Principal
Henry & Barbara Price Chair
David Dash
Bert & Janetta Nicholson Chair
Kenneth Brown
Dean & Theresa Hilgers Chair
John Castleman
Jeff Wooldridge
Tr OMBON e
Joe Offner, Principal
Bill & Kitt Gamber Chair
Tom McNair
Teddy Arnold
BASS T r OMBON e
Chris Lundquist
Tu BA
Joseph Alvarez, Principal
Mick & Cindy Bryan Chair
T IMPANI
Gavin Dougherty, Principal
Joseph & Susan Wolters Chair
Julie Angelis Boehler
Per C u SSION
Dana Kimble, Principal
Robert Gilbert Storyk Chair
Al Lyman
Dr. Murray & Sharon Smith Chair
Michael Woods
Nick Bruno
William Brown
HA r P
Giuseppina Ciarla, Principal
Sean & Esther Kelly Chair
K e YBOA r D
Judi Glover, Principal Joanne Corcoran Chair
The Venice Symphony is a proud member of
GUEST ARTISTS
Tony Award nominee, Emmy winner and newly-minted Grammy nominee Liz Callaway made her Broadway debut in Stephen Sondheim’s Merrily We Roll Along. She has gone on to star in Baby, Miss Saigon, The Look of Love, The Three Musketeers, and for 5 years appeared as Grizabella in Cats. OffBroadway credits include The Spitfire Grill (Drama Desk nomination), Marry Me a Little, and Brownstone. She also appeared in A Stephen Sondheim Evening, the legendary Follies in Concert at Lincoln Center, and “Inside the Actor’s Studio: Stephen Sondheim.” Regional and international credits include the one-person play Every Brilliant Thing, Dot in Sunday in the Park with George, Eva Peron in Evita, Norma Desmond in Sunset Boulevard, and the European premiere of Sondheim on Sondheim at London’s Royal Festival Hall. Liz sang the Academy Award-nominated song “Journey to the Past” in the animated feature Anastasia. Other film work includes Jasmine in the two Aladdin sequels, The Swan Princess, Beauty and the Beast, and The Rewrite with The Hugh Grant. Her extensive concert and symphony career has included appearances in London, Paris, Iceland, Vietnam, Australia, China and nearly every major city in the U.S. She performs regularly with her sister Ann Hampton Callaway, as well as composer Stephen Schwartz, and has had the great pleasure of singing with Jimmy Webb, Paul Williams and the legendary Johnny Mathis. The Grammy-nominated “To Steve With Love: Liz Callaway Celebrates Sondheim” marks her eighth solo recording. See page 12 for a special video message from Liz Callaway.
The Venice Symphony Concertmaster
Marcus ratzenboeck is an accomplished violinist having performed in concert halls across the US and abroad. A successful orchestral, solo, chamber, and studio musician, Marcus remains an active performer in many genres. He graduated from Florida State University with a Bachelor of Music in Violin Performance and received his Master of Music degree from Indiana University where he was concertmaster of the IU Symphony and the Columbus (IN) Philharmonic. After
GUEST ARTISTS
studying with renowned teachers such as Yuval Yaron, Henryk Kowalski, and Eliot Chapo, Marcus was appointed Principal Second Violin of the Louisville Orchestra and Adjunct Professor of Violin at the University of Louisville. During his tenure, he was also a member of the acclaimed Louisville String Quartet and Concertmaster of the Louisville Bach Society. Marcus has participated in numerous music festivals including Tanglewood, American Institute of Musical Studies (Graz, Austria), Sarasota Music Festival, Hirosaki Chamber Music Festival (Japan), and Crested Butte (CO) Music Festival. Marcus served as the concertmaster of Spoleto (USA) for several seasons. Marcus has had an extensive and impressive recording and touring career having worked with several top major and independent record labels, producers, and publishers. He was a member of the platinum selling rock band, Tantric, earning top 5 spots in Billboard charts as well as MTV appearances. An experienced audio engineer and producer as well, Marcus has his own recording studio and entertainment production company, H&M ProductionsSRQ. Recent notables include Marcus as a feature soloist in a documentary movie “La Musica” performing the music of Astor Piazzola. Marcus served as guest concertmaster for the Albany (NY) Symphony in 2022, recording new works by the great John Williams. Also Marcus was guest Concertmaster for the Owensboro (KY) Symphony in 2023.
Key Chorale, the Suncoast’s premier symphonic chorus, is dedicated to transforming lives through innovative programming, artistic excellence, educational outreach and service to the community. Led by Joseph Caulkins, Key Chorale produces high quality collaborative musical events that engage and enrich our community. Through dynamic collaborations with Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, The Sarasota Ballet, The Venice Symphony, The Circus Arts Conservatory, and more, Key Chorale is able to create unforgettable programs that continue to push the boundaries of choral music.
ELLIOTT CORN
SPECIAL GUESTS
Did you know you can be a part of The Venice Symphony?
Every season our patrons have two opportunities to take the stage and share the spotlight with our talented musicians. Our Patron on Percussion joins The Symphony as a guest bass drum soloist, performing The Star Spangled Banner at one of our concerts at The Venice Performing Arts Center. Treat yourself—or a loved one or friend—to this memorable experience. If you’re itching to lead the orchestra, you can become a Guest Conductor by placing a winning bid during the live auction at our Spring Gala and lead The Venice Symphony in a spirited rendition of Sleigh Ride at one of our popular holiday concerts. No experience is necessary and includes a conducting rehearsal with Maestro Quinn himself.
For more information on these opportunities email: music@thevenicesymphony.org
Drum roll Please…
The rev. Canon Chris Gray is our Patron on Percussion, playing the bass drum on The National Anthem, Friday and Saturday evening. Chris grew up in Orlando, “before Mickey Mouse got there.” He served in Vietnam, and after graduating from the University of Central Florida, attended Nashotah House Theological Seminary. Chris was a parish priest in Port Orange, FL from 1979 to 1991, when he moved to Venice with his wife Paula and children Christopher and Margie. He served as the Senior Pastor at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Venice from 1991 until he retired in 2010. That same year, Chris said he “gave my wife the gift of season tickets to The Venice Symphony and we continue to attend every year.” The couple co-chaired The Symphony’s Jazz with Pizzazz fundraiser in 2017. Chris works part-time assisting at St Andrew’s, Boca Grande, serves on the Caldwell Trust Company Board, is Chaplain at the Venice Yacht Club, and a member of the Venice Nokomis Rotary.
The box office is open before the concert and during intermission. Late arrivals will be seated during musical breaks in the program. Please silence your cell phones during the concert. Food and beverages are not allowed in the concert hall. Please visit the information tables in the lobby. Enjoy the concert.
SPECIAL GUESTS
Guest
Conductor David Joyner • Friday Dec. 20 at 7:30pm
David Joyner is the owner and President of Joyner Family Insurance, an independent insurance agency in Venice that proudly supports numerous non-profit organizations in our local community, including The Venice Symphony. David has been a leader and board member with numerous organizations around the Venice area. In his spare time, David loves to play golf, watch sports, and enjoys music—but most importantly, he loves spending time with his wife, Caitlin, and their two sons, Austin (17) and Miles (13). Interestingly, David met his wife through the music program at Wake Forest and formerly was a concert pianist, which gave him the special opportunity to perform a piano concerto with The Venice Symphony as a guest soloist during his time as a college student.
Guest
Conductor Roger
Effron
• Saturday Dec. 21 at 3:30pm
Born and raised in Cincinnati, (OH), Roger Effron worked for the Cincinnati Public Schools serving as a junior high principal and the district’s Personnel Director. Upon retirement in 1992, Effron taught a full schedule at Xavier University primarily in the Graduate’s program Education Admiration Department. Since moving to Venice in 2006, he has become quite active in the community, serving throughout the years as Chair of the City’s Parks and Recreation Committee; Board Member, Venice Hospital; Member, City of Venice Citizen Advisory Board; Board Member, Venice Symphony and President of the Venetian Golf and River Club’s Community Association. He is looking forward to being part of the Venice Symphony’s Holiday Concert making his debut as a guest conductor—for just one piece.
Guest
Conductor Craig Riley • Sunday Dec. 22 at 3:30pm
Craig Riley and his wife Karen came to the Gulf Coast and to Venice just three years ago and found it a perfect place for retirement and for their children and grandchildren having moved from those cold rainy grey days in the State of Washington. They blame good friends, Tom and LouAnn Fitch, for getting them involved in The Symphony and they are so pleased that they did. They live on the Island as Craig is an avid open water swimmer—that’s one of the things he finds so special about Venice.
CONCERT NOTES
My Grown-Up Christmas List
Written by David Foster and Linda Thompson-Jenner in 1990 My Grown-Up Christmas List was first recorded by Natalie Cole. Amy Grant’s 1999 version brought the song widespread recognition, and it has since been covered by numerous artists.
The song expresses heartfelt, adult wishes for peace, love, and understanding, moving beyond material gifts to focus on the deeper values of Christmas. With its emotional depth and universal appeal, it has become one of the most cherished modern Christmas songs.
Once Upon a December Journey to the Past
The movie Anastasia is known for its musical score, with several memorable songs, including Journey to the Past and Once Upon a December. The music was composed by Stephen Flaherty, and the lyrics were written by Lynn Ahrens. The soundtrack became quite popular and is often regarded as one of the highlights of the film. Click to here for a special message from Liz Callaway, voice of Anastasia, and our special guest artist.
Loosely inspired by the real-life story of Grand Duchess Anastasia Romanov, the youngest daughter of Tsar Nicholas II of Russia, Anastasia was produced by 20th Century Fox and was the first animated feature film to be produced by the studio. It marked a departure from traditional Disney films, with Fox seeking to compete in the animation market.
The film was directed by Don Bluth and Gary Goldman. The screenplay was written by Susan Gauthier and Bruce Graham. The movie tells a fictionalized
version of her survival after the execution of her family during the Russian Revolution, which has been a subject of mystery and intrigue for many years. The film inspired a Broadway musical adaptation in 2017, which offered a more historically grounded version of the story, yet still maintained the spirit of the original animated film.
A Festival of Lights
CONCERT NOTES
This medley of traditional Hanukkah songs, arranged by Paul Murtha, includes Ma’oz Tzur (Rock Of Ages), S’vivon Sov (Dreydl Spin), Mi Y’malel (Who Can Retell), and Oh, Hanukka, Oh, Hanukka.
Composer, arranger Paul Murtha (b. 1960) in Johnstown, PA is a versatile composer/arranger, who is in constant demand in both professional and educational circles.
From 1990 to 1996, Paul served as the Chief Arranger at the United States Military Academy Band at West Point, NY. He served on the arranging staff of The United States Army Band “Pershing’s Own”, in Washington, D.C. from 1996 to 2001 and then served as the band’s Chief Arranger from 2001 to 2016. Paul’s work with the National Symphony Orchestra includes arrangements for artists such as Trace Adkins, Jordin Sparks, Gloria Estefan, Gladys Knight, and Huey Lewis and the News, for nationally televised events including “A Capitol Fourth” and the “National Memorial Day Concert.”
CONCERT NOTES
A Mad Russian’s Christmas
Photo from the original production of The Nutcracker (Imperial Mariinsky Theatre, Saint Petersburg, 1892)
This arrangement by Bob Phillips takes its inspiration from the music of Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, specifically from his famous ballet “The Nutcracker”, composed in 1892.
The title A Mad Russian’s Christmas refers to the vibrant, energetic, and sometimes over-the-top approach that Phillips brings to his arrangement. The term “mad” could allude to the energetic and chaotic nature of the music, emphasizing a playful, high-energy interpretation of Tchaikovsky’s elegant original themes. The inclusion of “Russian” in the title is a nod to Tchaikovsky’s heritage, as he was a renowned Russian composer, and his music often carries the emotional depth and grandeur associated with Russian classical music.
Sing We Now of Christmas
The Joy of Christmas
Bradley Knight is particularly famous for his choir arrangements, like the ones included in this concert. He has contributed to the creation of numerous orchestral and choral arrangements for worship services, Christmas concerts, and other religious events.
His arrangements often combine the joyful celebration of Christmas with themes of hope, peace, and the birth of Christ, which are central to the Christmas narrative in the Christian faith. These arrangements are frequently used in Christmas Eve services, Advent celebrations, and holiday concerts. The music serves not only as a backdrop for the Christmas message but also as a way to engage the congregation through uplifting melodies and stirring orchestration.
CONCERT NOTES
Sleigh Ride
Written by Leroy Anderson, Sleigh Ride is one of his most famous and enduring compositions. Anderson was an American composer and conductor, known for compositions that often featured catchy, whimsical melodies. He formed the idea for the piece during a heat wave in July 1946, and finished it in February 1948. Its first performance was by the Boston Pops Orchestra, with Arthur Fiedler conducting, on May 4, 1948. It was intended to be part of an album of Anderson’s light orchestral music and meant to evoke the feeling of a winter sleigh ride, capturing the joy and fun of the season. Although the song is often associated with Christmas and appears on Christmas compilation albums, its lyrics, written by Mitchell Parish in 1950, do not mention any holidays.
Don’t Miss Our Pre-Concert Talks
Join Music Director Troy Quinn, soloists and musicians for a casual, entertaining and informative talk and Q&A. This is a free half-hour program before every concert, and you do not need a concert ticket or reservation. Open seating is in the orchestra level of the concert hall.
SPONSORED BY
CHAIR SOCIETY
The Venice Symphony Chair Society is dedicated to supporting the Symphony today and in the future. Members have the opportunity to sponsor a musician’s chair in the orchestra, attend exclusive events with Maestro Troy Quinn and Symphony musicians and more.
Patrick & Geri Allard*
Dale & Carolyn Anderson^
Robert & Bonnie Anderson^*
Bob Armstrong
Maida Hoag Atkins*
Ernest & Judith Bago^*
Russell & Barbara Bahner
Roxanne Baker
Sandra Barrie
Warren Benson
Joe & Maureen Bentley^*
Kenneth & Selma Bitz*
Steven & Kathleen Black
William & Cindy Bouman
Robert & Sharon Boynton
Maria Bradley & Martin Pfister*
William Brand & Patricia Bullock
Pat Brandt
Marjorie Brooks
Mick & Cindy Bryan*
Gayle & Keith Cain
Edmund Campbell Jr.^
Paul Campbell
Betty Castigliano^
David Chivas & Ron Rice*
Elliott & Dana Corn^*
Katharine Couchot
Edward & Patricia Crary*
Diane & James Crawford*
George De Luisi*
Susan DiGiacomo*
Gilbert & Carol Drendel
Michael & Patricia Dunlap^*
Sidney & Suzanne Durham^*
Steve Easton*
Stephen & Nancy Eibling*
Dennis & Marilyn Eshoo*
Chet & Patsy Fennell
Diane & Mark Fennelly
Felicia & John Ferrara
Patricia Fjetland & Linda Newton
Barbara Freeman^*
Thomas & Martha Galek*
Jason Gallourakis
Bill & Kitt Gamber*
Jack & Beth Gehring*
Marc & Marsha Gerken
Bill & Sara Gill^*
Fred & Cindy Gossman*
Joseph & Marietta Graber
Rev. Chris & Paula Gray*
James & Anne Grubb
Henry & Joan Hajdas^*
Stephen B. Hammond*
David & Joan Heald
Dean & Theresa Hilgers*
Byron & Janet Hill
Gary Hill & John Schultz*
Barbara Hoecker
Beatrice Holt^*
Quint Jackson
Clyde Johnson
Les & Elaine Jones
Robert & Lili Jones
Floyd & Mary Juday^*
Carol Karakashian
2024-25 MEMBERSHIP
Doug & Dana Kasl
Sean & Esther Kelly*
George & Sue Kennedy
Billie & Lee King
Pat Knasiak
Donna Kubik
Joe & Janice LaFramboise
John & Beverly Larson
Gordon & Joan Lehman
Tim & Christine Madigan
Patricia Madyda
Frank & Kathe Magadance*
Marcia Major
Jane Marcin
Peter & Linda Marion^
Barbara & Sil Martinage
Linda Masterson
Denise & Tom Mattmuller
Robert & Barbara McClure*
Michael & Anita McRobert
Jon Metzger^
Gerhard & Edith Mueller^*
Paul & Linda Mulligan*
John Myers*
Dennis & Ruthanne Neeser^*
Bert & Janetta Nicholson*
Michael & Ginger O’Keefe*
Nick & Kate Pachota
John & Helen Pape^
Linda Patriarca^
Donna Perkins^
Joe & Melanie Piacentino
Stephen & Redenta Picazio^*
Mark & Jeanne Polzin*
Henry & Barbara Price^*
Carole Raymond^*
Howard & JoAnne Reed
Dr. Jim Renz
Steve Robbins
Rev. Judith Roberts
Ken & Abbey Sadler
Vinod & Gail Sahney*
Kenneth & Jerrilyn Schulze
Tom & Anne Sherman
Brian & Ruth Smith*
Dr. Murray & Sharon Smith*
Lucinda Spaney
Arthur & Mary Spears
Paul & Charlene Turczyn
Debra Waldron*
Margaret Weiss
Dave & Deborah West*
Malcolm Williamson
Anita Wilson
Joseph & Susan Wolters*
^Charter Members
*Denotes Chair Sponsors
EXPERIENCE • ENGAGE • CONNECT
Stay connected with The Venice Symphony even after the concert ends!
Stop by our tables in the VPAC lobby or visit thevenicesymphony.org to learn more about our many programs:
Friends of The Venice Symphony
Become an ambassador of The Venice Symphony. Our Friends meet each month to plan fundraisers, socials, and other Symphony events. Volunteer in the Symphony office, at concerts, and educational events.
Patrons on Percussion
Join our Patrons on Percussion (POPS) program and be our guest bass drum soloist, playing The Star Spangled Banner at one of our concerts at The Venice Performing Arts Center. (No experience necessary … we’ll provide coaching.)
Chamber Musicians & ensembles
Members of The Venice Symphony are available to perform at your special event. Whether it’s a soloist to serenade your guests or a jazz ensemble for larger parties, we will find the perfect musicians for your needs.
Musician Host Program
Our musicians travel from all over the world to perform for you in Venice, FL. Through the Musician Host Program, select patrons and volunteers share their homes and experiences with visiting musicians to provide a rehearsal space and a “home away from home.”
Chair Society
Invest in excellence when you join this ensemble of our most loyal and passionate concertgoers. Many Chair Society members go the extra mile in their giving to sponsor a chair in the orchestra. This additional investment helps significantly to cover production costs necessary to provide the highest standard of concerts.
COMMUNITY OF CONTRIBUTORS
we gratefully acknowledge contributions and support received
June 1, 2024 - November 22, 2024
Corporations & Businesses
Capstan Financial Consulting Group
Exelon Corporation
FourThought Private Wealth
Johnson & Johnson
Joyner Family Insurance
Neal Communities
Saltwater Promotions
The Coca-Cola Company
Foundations
Community Foundation of Sarasota County
Davis Family Charitable Foundation
Gehring Family Foundation
Gulf Coast Community Foundation
Schultz-Hill Foundation
Sommer Family Foundation
The Patterson Foundation
Venice Golf & Country Club Foundation
Government
Sarasota County Tourist Development Tax Revenues
Organizations
Venice-Nokomis Rotary
Individual Giving
John Myers
Stephen & Redenta Picazio
Elliott & Dana Corn
Dr. Jonathan & Mrs. Sophia Fong
Thomas & Martha Galek
Stephen B. Hammond
Michael & Bonnie Hartley
Floyd & Mary Juday
V I r T u OSO • $5,000 - $9,999 M A e ST r O • $20,000 - $49,999
Linda & Paul Mulligan
David & Deborah West C ONC er TMAST er • $10,000 - $19,999
Anonymous
John & Chris Behnke
William G. Blomquist
Maria Bradley & Martin Pfister
Mick & Cindy Bryan
Joanne Corcoran
Diane & James Crawford
Steven & Nancy Eibling
Steve & Laura Enz
Dale & Carolyn Anderson
Kenneth & Selma Bitz
Berta Campagna
Sue Chapman & Robert Brooke
David Chivas & Ron Rice
Edward & Patricia Crary
George De Luisi
Michael & Patricia Dunlap
Dennis & Marilyn Eshoo
Bill & Kitt Gamber
Beatrice Holt
Frank & Elaine Pagliaro
Dale & Nancie Shellenbaum Trust
In memory of Nancie
Lucinda Spaney
Patricia Fjetland & Linda Newton
Gary Hill & John Schultz
Paul & Marilyn Hollowell
Sean & Esther Kelly
Donna Kubik
Michael & Anita McRobert
Dennis & Ruthanne Neeser
Carole Raymond
Timothy D. Jackson
Susan & Joseph Wolters Pr INCIPAL • $2,500 - $4,999
Robert & Barbara McClure
Susan & Gene McGowan
Gerhard & Edith Mueller
Mark & Jeanne Polzin
Henry & Barbara Price
Maxine Slattery
Dr. Murray & Sharon Smith
Scott & Karen Sommer
Debra Waldron
Or CH e ST r A • $1,000 - $2,499
Patrick & Geri Allard
Robert & Bonnie Anderson
Don & Darla Anthony
Maida Hoag Atkins
Ernest & Judith Bago
Joe & Maureen Bentley
Karen Booth
William Brand & Patricia Bullock
Debra Buttaggi
Paul Campbell
Stephanie Campbell
Michael Davis & Barbara Hutchinson
Susan DiGiacomo
Sidney & Suzanne Durham
Steve Easton
Roger & Sally Effron
Mark & Lees Ferguson
Barbara Freeman
Jack & Beth Gehring
Chris & Paula Gray
COMMUNITY OF CONTRIBUTORS
Orchestra continued
Henry & Joan Hadjas
Robert Hardy
John Haseltine
John & Maureen Heakin
David & Joan Heald
Joyce Heimonen
John & Betty Herr
Dean & Theresa Hilgers
Robert & Barbara Hintze
Barbara Hoecker
Doug & Dana Kasl
Sara & Curtis Kasten
Linda A. Knecht
Linda Lally
Nancy & Martin Lyons
Frank & Kathe Magadance
Charles & Joanne Marginot
Ruth McEntee
Jon Metzger
Paul Michael & Betty Morton
Bert & Janetta Nicholson
Michael & Ginger O’Keefe
Stephen & Kay Olah
David Peterson & Margaret Towers
Gary & Nancy Prior
Paul & Mary Ellen Quigley
Dr. Jim Renz
Laura Robinson
Vinod & Gail Sahney
Kenneth & Jerrilyn Schulze
Brian & Ruth Smith
Melvin Storm
Robert & Susan Vedder
David & Beverley Wimberly
Judy Wolf
Richard Yow
Janice Zarro
Su STAIN er • $500 - $999
Russell & Barbara Bahner
Roxanne Baker
Suzanne Biviano
William & Cindy Bouman
Robert & Sharon Boynton
Gayle & Keith Cain
Keith & Shirley Campbell
Kristine Cottrill
Douglas & Patricia Crawford
Bob Denmead
Tony Dolejs
Mike & Marty Dolley
Gilbert & Carol Drendel
Chet & Patsy Fennell
Felicia & John Ferrara
Sanford Feuer & Bonnie Morley
John Fippen
Robert & Susan Foster
Jason Gallourakis
Marc & Marsha Gerken
Joseph & Marietta Graber
James & Anne Grubb
Rita Hebel
Byron & Janet Hill
Les & Elaine Jones
Robert & Lili Jones
David & Caitlin Joyner
George & Sue Kennedy
Billie & Lee King
Janice & Joe LaFramboise
John & Beverly Larson
Gordon & Joan Lehman
Christine Madigan
Peter & Linda Marion
Don & Ann Martin
Denise & Tom Mattmuller
Patricia McClure
Douglas & Mitti Meyers
Nick & Kate Pachota
John & Helen Pape
Joe & Melanie Piacentino
Howard & JoAnne Reed
John & Jacklyn Ruthman
Ken & Abbey Sadler
Gerard & Joanne Scannell
Tom & Anne Sherman
Paul & Charlene Turczyn
Frank & Alberta Viola
Daniel & June Walcott
Robert & Lynda Weston
Malcolm Williamson
COMMUNITY OF CONTRIBUTORS
Gale & Anne Adams
Jack Adornetto
Michael & Mary Alexander
Elaine Anderson
Judith Anderson
Virginia Lee Anderson
Robert & Charlene Arena
Bob Armstrong
Michael & Beverly Austin
Kathy Baer
Bernard & Monica Baker
John & Wendy Baker
Paul & Jean Ballas
Sandra Barrie
Gerry & Lynn Baskin
Bill Baxter
Myrna Bedford
Robert & Leanne Belancik
Warren Benson
Linda Bentley
Joy Berlin
Fred & Dorothy Bingman
Robert & Kathleen Bittner
Steven & Kathleen Black
Linda K. Bogner
Pat Brandt
Kathleen Broder
Don & Jean Broman
Marjorie Brooks
Anne Burbine
Brad Bush
Rosemary Bussiere
Christine Cairns
William & Linda Cantrell
Frank & Mary Catalano
Richard & Caryle Cirello
Jeff Compton & Tamra McNamara
Katharine Couchot
Eleanor & James Crawford
Patricia Crisafulli
Helen Crompton
Janet Dapkunas
Norma & Bruce Dayton
Evelyn Delph & Roger Hilfiker
Helen Dennis
Geoff & Julie Dobson
Andrew & Karen Durette
Marsha Edgerton
Kathy Engle
John & Jane Farley
Jocelyne Favorite
Harvey & Barbara Feltquate
Jeff & LaRue Fields
Lewis & Helen Fincke
Terry & Brenda Foster
Dreama Fumia
Carla & Jerry Gabbard
Dennis & Barbara Gahry
Al & Peg Gatto
Cynthia & Robert Gilchrest
Robert & Jane Goldsmith
Peter Goldthwaite
Karen Gonzales
Cathi Grote
Jan Gurdjian
Earl & Phyllis Hannum
Jane Hardy
James Henry
Elizabeth Hoffman
Virginia Hofford
Barbara B. Howe
Carol & Larry Humes
Quint Jackson
Terry & Cheryl Jardis
Brenda Jennings
Bill & Lois Johanns
Clyde Johnson
Carol Karakashian
Susan Kiley
Patricia Knasiak
Pieter & Susan Kohnstam
Deborah Kostroun
Thomas Kueny & Sally Johnson
Cora Kukula
Bob Kunath
Frank & Rosalie Kunsman
George & Jacqueline Lincoln
Edward & Marlene Lipman
Jeanette Little
Judy Livingston
Judith Lowes & Douglas Lynn
Don & Jan Lutz
Anthony Madera
Patricia Madyda
COMMUNITY OF CONTRIBUTORS
Supporter continued
Aldo & Catherine Magnanini
Marcia Major
Jane Marcin
Barbara & Sil Martinage
Linda Masterson
Kathy McCarthy
Dawn & Michael Miller
Jean Miller
Frances Mogelnicki
Robert & Marilyn Moist
John & Linda Moore
Joan Moran
David & Mary Ann Nelson
Martha Ness
Charles & Betty Newsom
Barbara & Edward O’Brian
Joseph & Patricia Paganini
Linda Patriarca
Larry Patton
Eleanor Perfetto
Donna Perkins
Robert & Ann Porawski
Mark & Jackie Puccinelli
Barbara Quinn
Donald & Cynthia Richardson
Anita Riska
Steve Robbins
Judith Roberts
Robert & Antoinette Ross
Joseph Rue
Sharon Rugh
Whitney Sale
Marion Sautner & Virgilio Beruffi
Jim & Lynne Schaeffer
Peter & Beth Ann Schnorf
Gene & Winnie Scuteri
Steve & Jan Simon
Mary Jane Smith
Barry & Jean Smithies
Frank & Kateri Snow
Arthur & Mary Spears
Robert & Carol Speir
Helen Spindler
Jean Spitzer
Dan & Nancy Spohn
Mona Strahlman
Don & Leslie Titzel
Inia Tunstall
Susan Van Wieren
Linda Varone
Melissa Wall
Winthrop & Vanessa Wassenar
Susan Weiner
Margaret Weiss
David & Loretta Whitney
Anita Wilson
Katherine Wolyniak
Judith Wood
John & Toni Yahres
I N Me MO r IAM
Julie & Howard Benario in memory of Amelia “Dutchy” Davis
Linda K. Bogner in memory of Alan Bogner
Frank & Mary Catalano in memory of Amelia “Dutchy” Davis
Michael Davis & Barbara Hutchinson in memory of Amelia Davis
Patricia & Mickey Dunlap in memory of Amelia “Dutchy” Davis
Donna Kubik in memory of husband Thomas E. Kubik
Norm & Judy Mindel in memory of Amelia “Dutchy” Davis
If you believe there is an error or omission in this list, please call Jon DeVries or Holly Anderson at 941-207-8822.
SUPPORT THE SYMPHONY
Your personal investment is the reason The Venice Symphony delivers exceptional concerts and affordable music education. Together, musical excellence is sustained and lives transformed.
Annual Fund – The Venice Symphony’s primary source of operating revenue and outreach. Contributions may be given monthly, quarterly or annually.
Donor Advised Funds and IrA Distributions – A contribution from an IRA or DAF is an excellent way to achieve your charitable giving objectives. *
employee Match – Many corporations will match their current employee’s or retiree’s donation. This can potentially double or triple the amount you give.
Living Trusts and Bequests – Pledge a will bequest or name The Venice Symphony as a beneficiary of a retirement or life insurance plan. *
New! Monthly Giving Option – An easy and affordable way to offer support! Simply select monthly recurring payments when giving online or when visiting or calling our administrative offices.
Play it Forward - Donate an instrument and help make a difference for a young musician in our community.
Small Business and Corporate engagement – Strengthen your community by offering support through concert sponsorships, participating in special events, advertising or other unique opportunities. Let’s curate a doable option for your business!
Stock and Securities – Gifts of appreciated stocks are welcomed and may be advantageous to the donor from a tax point of view. *
For more information on any of these opportunities, speak with a Development Team member by calling 941-207-8822 or visit our Administrative Offices.
*Because each situation is different, please consult your tax advisor about tax benefits.
A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION #CH5442 AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE (800-435-7352) WITHIN THE STATE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.
941-207-8822
January 6, 2025 I 10:30AM
UPCOMING EVENTS
Friends of The Venice Symphony Meeting
William Jervey Library
For Information email: jcastleman@thevenicesymphony.org
January 10 & 11 2025
Sports orchestrated
Venice Performing Arts Center
Tickets & Information: thevenicesymphony.org/events
January 12, 2025 I 3:30pm
Capstan Financial Chamber Series
Venice Symphony String Quartet
Wellen Park, Solis Hall
**Free Concert**
Visit: thevenicesymphony.org
January 23, 2025
Friends wine & Coffee
Venice Wine and Coffee Company
For Information email: jcastleman@thevenicesymphony.org
January 30th, 2025 I 6PM
Chair Society rehearsal Gathering
Building 42 & Venice Performing Arts Center
For Information email: handerson@thevenicesymphony.org
ADMINISTRATION & STAFF
2024-2025
The Venice Symphony Board of Trustees
Officers
Bob Hite, Chair
Brad Speckerman, Vice Chair
Penny Corell, Secretary
Tom Fitch, Treasurer
Members
Susan DiGiacomo
Jennifer Douglas
Roger Effron
Marc Gerken
Steven Ledbetter
Denise Mattmuller
Paul McCullough
Cole McHargue
Peter Oliger
Nick Pachota
Casey Riley
Ken Sadler
Our MISSION
The Venice Symphony exists to inspire and transform lives through exceptional musical experiences.
Our VISION
Uniting Through Music
executive Office
Christine Kasten, President/CEO
Candace Kurtz, Manager of Office Operations
Artistic Operations
Dana Kimble, Vice President of Artistic Operations
Tim Ferguson, Production Manager and Senior Education Consultant
Al Lyman, Principal Librarian
Terry Williams, Assistant Librarian
Patricia Dunlap, Musician Host Program Coordinator
Music education, Community engagement
John Castleman, Director of Education and Outreach
Christopher Riley, Symphonic Strings Conductor
David Wing, Concert Winds Conductor
Development
Holly Anderson, Vice President of Philanthropy
Jon DeVries, Director of Development
Finance
Erica Downs, Finance Manager
Marketing
Dania Hammad, Director of Marketing and Communications
Alison Posner-Solares, Patron Services and Ticketing Manager
Stacy Rector, Graphic Designer
Judith Engle-Purple, Graphic Designer
