Human Resources Manager, Webb Chemical Service Corporation
Larry Fife
Retired Infotainment Director, Siemens and Continental Automotive
Amy Hosford
General Manager, KN Literary Arts
Donna Joyce
Advancement Director, DOOR International
Stacy Mellema, CPA
Shareholder, Hungerford
Jason Olthoff
Vice President of Sales, Nichols
Emma Peterson
Director of Philanthropy, Trinity Health
Jennifer Ross
City Clerk, Muskegon Heights
Ryan Sterkenburg CTFA®, CISP®
VP / Senior Trust Administrator, Macatawa Bank
Thomas Trzaska
Chief Engineer, RENK America
West Michigan Symphony is an Equal Opportunity Employer and provides programs and services without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex or disability. Programs are funded in part by a grant from the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs with the generous support of the National Endowment for the Arts. Dates, artists and programs are subject to change.
Message from the Music Director
Meet the WMS Principal Musicians
West Michigan Symphony Musicians
Message from the CEO
West Michigan Symphony Annual Fund
West Michigan Symphony Endowment
West Michigan Symphony Legacy Giving
Tchaikovsky Winter Dreams
West Michigan Symphony 2024/25 Season
American Divas
Community Music Encounters
About West Michigan Symphony
West Michigan Symphony 2025/26 Season
The Block 2024/25 Season
MISSION
West Michigan Symphony connects and enriches our diverse community through the transformative power of music. We fulfill this primarily through three core offerings:
• Professional, live symphonic performances in a welcoming environment
• Inspired small ensemble performances in an immersive live listening room
• Learning activities that enrich the lives of children and adults through exploration, participation and performance
VISION
We are a catalyst for a musicinfused West Michigan: leading, facilitating, connecting and collaborating with the community to stimulate cultural vibrancy, inclusivity and pride of place.
Find Us Online
Website: westmichigansymphony.org
Facebook: facebook.com/wmsymphony
Facebook: facebook.com/AtTheBlock
Email: info@westmichigansymphony.org
Instagram: westmichigansymphony
Spotify: West Michigan Symphony
LinkedIn: West Michigan Symphony
MESSAGE
Dear Friends,
As winter continues its icy grip, your West Michigan Symphony is here to remind you that not all chills are bad. We hope the next two concerts of the season will give you goosebumps for all the right reasons.
First, we present “Winter Dreams,” an all-orchestral program showcasing the remarkable talents of our own West Michigan Symphony musicians. We start with Richard Wagner’s Overture to Rienzi -- his first major opera, and possibly the first time he realized that he was Wagner. Next, we whisk you to Hungary with Zoltán Kodály’s Dances of Galánta , a piece infused with such lively Hungarian melodies, it's as if the music itself were seasoned with paprika. And finally, we present Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 1, "Winter Dreams." If the winter is feeling chilly, Tchaikovsky will wrap you in a cozy blanket of Slavic melancholy and exuberance, filling the season with warmth and longing.
Then, it’s time to thaw out completely with “American Divas,” featuring Shayna Steele. She returns to us with her powerhouse vocals and signature charisma, celebrating the legendary divas who inspired her. From Whitney Houston’s soaring anthems to Aretha Franklin’s soul-stirring classics, Shayna will have you dancing in your seat and possibly rethinking your own karaoke ambitions. It’s a night of soul, blues, and unapologetic exuberance.
Whether you’re dreaming along with Tchaikovsky or channeling your inner diva with Shayna, we hope these concerts bring you joy, inspiration, and a beautiful sense of community. Thank you for being part of the West Michigan Symphony family. You make the music possible.
Scott Speck Music Director
Please see Scott Speck’s bio on page 32
MEET THE WMS PRINCIPAL MUSICIANS
Our musicians are West Michigan’s cultural ambassadors and a key part of its creative capital. In addition to WMS, our players teach privately and at major Michigan universities, perform with other orchestras, and appear as recitalists and chamber musicians across the Midwest and beyond.
Sponsored by Darlene Collet in memory of Lee Collet
Second Violin
Amanda Dykhouse principal
Warner Norcross + Judd LLP
Endowed Chair
Mark Portolese assc. principal
Sponsored by Joanna Norris
Carmen Abelson asst. principal
Katie Bast
Sponsored by David & Darcy Dye
Patrick Foley
Karen-Jane Henry
Sponsored by Elinore Verplank
Natalie Hockamier
Sponsored by Mark & Karla Lange
Britta Bujak Portenga
Sponsored by Waddell & Reed Financial Advisors Jackie Engel, CFP®
Viola
Arturo Ziraldo principal
Sponsored by Jan & Laura Deur
Rebecca Boelzner assc. principal
Sponsored by Anonymous
Jason Butler asst. principal
Csaba Erdélyi
Sponsored by JoLee Wennersten
Josh Holcomb
Carlos Lozano
Rebecca Miller
WEST MICHIGAN SYMPHONY MUSICIANS
Cello
Alicia Gregorian Sawyers principal
Sponsored by Steve & Deb Olsen
Igor Cetkovic assc. principal
Sponsored by David & Darcy Dye
Cameron Slaugh asst. principal
Sponsored by Dr F Remington & Ginny Sprague
Lee Copenhaver
Sponsored by Dr Mark D & Kristina M Clark
Karen Krummel
Sponsored by Susan Rehrer
Abigail Monroe
Sponsored by Cynthia Mazurek
Grace Mockus
Calin Muresan
Sponsored by Elinore Verplank & Thomas Knight
Bass
Robert Johnson principal Frank E. & Flora M. Johnson Endowed Chair
Nicholas De Laurentis assc. principal
Brett Armstrong
Stephen Reichelt
Cole Sheffer
Flute
Jill Marie Brown principal
Sponsored by Anonymous
Marissa Olin
Sponsored by Mary E Malek
Leslie Deppe piccolo
Sponsored by David & Beth Pickard
Oboe
Asako Furuoya principal
Sponsored by Joanne & Amy Bensinger
Natalie Feldpausch
Sponsored by Ellie Williams
Clarinet
Jonathan Holden principal
Sponsored by Susan Cloutier Crain
Stephanie Hovnanian
Sponsored Anonymously in honor of Jane Blyth
Lisa Raschiatore bass clarinet
Sponsored by Don & Kathy Dahlstrom matched by the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation
Bassoon
Chloe Robbins principal
Sponsored by Sheila & Patrick Miller
Jason Kramer
Sponsored by Eric & Merica Dobry
Horn
Paul Clifton-O’Donnell principal
Jeffrey Lake Johnson Endowed Chair
Greg Bassett
Sponsored by Allen & Sandy Beck
Lisa Honeycutt
Sponsored by Allen & Sandy Beck
Leah Brockman
Sponsored by Karen & John Wells
Trumpet
Bill Baxtresser principal
Sponsored by Roger & Rebecca Tuuk
Ethan Adams
Sponsored by Thomas Knight
Kai-Chun Chang
Trombone
Edward Hickman principal
Sponsored by Stephen & Debra Jackson
Joe Radtke
Carter Woosley bass trombone
Sponsored by Joel & Linda Engel
Tuba
Riley Lindsey principal
Sponsored by Dr. Chris Jansen-Yee
Timpani
Leo Taylor principal
Douglas & Janet Hoch Endowed Chair
Percussion
Matthew Beck principal Sponsored by Jill Sanders
Jordan Berini
Eric Jones
Sponsored by Cornelia Holley & Sheryl Wescott
Harp
Sylvia Norris principal
Sponsored by Valerie & Fred Church-McHugh
Music Librarian
Amanda Dykhouse
Musical Chairs: Sponsor a musician for the season. Endow for a lifetime. For more information, contact Andy Buelow at 231.726.3231 or abuelow@westmichigansymphony.org.
MESSAGE FROM THE CEO
The music of ABBA played by a full symphony. An “Audience Choice” Masterworks opening where you help decide the program. Themes from favorite superhero films paired with sparkling symphonic gems. The world’s greatest classical guitarist performing sizzling Spanish music. The recently announced 2025-2026 Season has all this and more. See page 34 for an outline.
Live music brings humanity together to share beauty. People are hungry for authentic experiences of community. At WMS, we collaborate with the excellent Frauenthal management at every concert to provide a welcoming, inclusive gathering space in the heart of Muskegon’s revitalized downtown.
Just a block away, WMS’s live listening room The Block offers a rich spate of jazz, classical and “curious.” Where else can you sit at a table in elegant but casual ambiance, sip your favorite drink and listen to world-class musicians just a yard or two away? In the words of one patron, “It’s like being in a club in Chicago!” Visit page 35 for upcoming programs.
A growing number of young people and adults are learning, exploring and performing via the Community Music Encounters. Enrollment in Tune Up, Children’s Choir, and Debut Strings is at an all-time high of 126 students. The Link Up recorder program is up to 50 schools—including districts in Muskegon, Ottawa, Newaygo, Kent, Mason and Oceana counties. A record number of people of all ages are attending Lunch 'n Learn, hosted by Scott Speck on Wednesday noon prior to every Masterworks concert. Adults are picking up their long-neglected instruments in anticipation of playing side-by-side with WMS professionals at this summer’s daylong Rusty Musicians experience. Go to page 13 for more information.
A few years ago, the Australia Cultural Council unveiled their Artistic Vibrancy Framework, which has since been adopted by a number of US cultural organizations—including WMS—as a way to plan, measure and assess artistic impact. It identified an artistically healthy organization as one that supports the development of art and artists; connects deeply with audiences; and contributes to a vibrant community culture.
At WMS, we are striving to be faithful to that calling through our vision of a catalyst for a music-infused West Michigan. We thank you for being part of this vibrant musical community and invite you to explore taking a deeper dive. Interested? Call me. (231) 726-3231
Andrew Buelow President/CEO
abuelow@westmichigansymphony.org
WEST MICHIGAN SYMPHONY
Your WMS honors and recognizes our most loyal patrons – our subscribers. You’ve seen the many faces of the orchestra through time, seen us through financial successes and challenges, artistic triumphs and disappointments. But always with unwavering commitment, encouragement and support. You are our greatest fans. Thank you!
40+ Years
Karla Bates
Ron & Ann Marie Brown
Timothy & Anne Erickson
Pat Johnson
John & Jessie Martin
John & Barbara Mullally
Joanna Norris
William & Erika Paulson
William Randall
Rem & Ginny Sprague
Stephen & Gwynne Schoff
Judith Tierney
Jane Wright
30+ Years
Magical Moment:
Tearing up with a lump in one's throat by the end of Samuel Barber's Adagio for Strings! Such an excellant performance!
- Amy Klop
20+ year subscriber
Share Your Story Here!
Magical Moment:
I love the introductions and seeing all the musicians on stage excited to be a part of something so professional. So fortuante to have Scott Speck and such a beautiful theater to perfom in Muskegon.
- Joanne VanOordt
20+ year subscriber
Curtis Chambers
Susan Cloutier Crain
Charles Tindall & Susan Rogalla Tindall
Kay VanderWall
20+ Years
William Baldridge
Karla Brown
Rudolph & Patricia Chmelar
Anne Dake
Amy Klop
Steve & Cindy Movesian
Joanne VanOordt
Susan Rehrer
Al Steinman
JoLee Wennersten
Brewster & Mary Ellen Willcox
10+ Years
Steve & Martha Bartlett
Jack Brown
Don & Kathy Dahlstrom
Patricia Dee
David Dietrich & Mary Jo Thies Dietrich
Gregory & Kathleen Edwards
Wally & Jane Ewing
Robert & Mary K Hogan
Marcia Howe
Donna & Scott Lachniet
Paul & Winnie McNergney
Laird Schaefer
Jocelyn Shaw & Doug Hannink
Joanie Smith
Peggy Tully
Roger & Becky Tuuk
5+ Years
Agnes De Boer
Sally Dunn & Douglas Doering
Carol & Ross Feltes
Lisa Henry
Jean Regester
Diana Wojton
Partial list, representing those who responded to 85th anniversary subscriber survey.
West Michigan Symphony Annual Fund
Your annual contributions to West Michigan Symphony help to sustain a vital community resource. Just over 60% of contributions to WMS come from individual patrons, with the remainder generated from corporate and foundation support. We extend our deepest appreciation to you for helping make WMS a cultural touchstone in our community.
The listings below represent total pledges and gifts by each patron household from Dec 1, 2023 through Feb 7, 2025. This includes our Annual Fund, other special initiatives and events. In particular, we wish to express our gratitude to Mike and Kay Olthoff for their support of our November-December Matching Challenge campaign.
We have given careful attention to ensure a complete and accurate list. Please notify us of any inaccuracies by calling 231.726.3231.
$10,000 and up
Anonymous (3)
Dr Mark D & Kristina M Clark
Jan & Laura Deur
Stephen & Debra Jackson
Daniel & Sheryl Kuznar
Steve & Deb Olsen
Mike & Kay Olthoff
Brad & Kathleen Playford
Jocelyn Shaw & Doug Hannink
Jack & Becky Slimko
Peter M Turner
$5,000-$9,999
Jane Blyth
George W & Lori Lynn Cannon III
Susan Cloutier Crain
Deborah DeVoursney
William & Mary Lou Eyke
Bob & Heather Garretson
James & Susan Geisler
Carl & Sylvia Hansen
Robert & Clara Harrell
Nelson & Elizabeth Huldin
Wendy M Kersman
Patrick & Sheila Miller
Mike Muskovin
Joanna Norris
Jason & Jamye Olthoff
Barbara Potuznik
Susan Rehrer
Jill Sanders
Sawyer Family Fund of CFFMC
Scott Speck
Liz & Tom Trzaska
Roger & Rebecca Tuuk
Elinore Verplank
JoLee Wennersten
$2,500-$4,999
Anonymous
Cindy Ackerman
Melisa Baker
Allen & Sandy Beck
Amy Bensinger
Joanne Bensinger
Brian & Jill Boersema
Pete & Sherry Brown in memory of Marilyn Andersen
Dana & Claudia Bryant
Andy & Beth Buelow
Gordon & Mary Buitendorp
Bob & Charlotte Chessman
Valerie Church-McHugh & Fred McHugh
Darlene Collet
Mary Douville
Robert & Cathleen Dubault
Kevin & Annette Even
Larry & Lynette Fife
Mark & Jennifer Gross
Gwen & Jeff Hazekamp
Bruce & Donna Hood
Amy & William Hosford
Ed Hunt & Nancy McCarthy in memory of Donna Little
Paul & Karen Jackson in memory of Dr Michael Smith
Patricia Johnson
Rob & Julie Johnson
Kate Kesteloot Scarbrough
Ratan & Vicky Khatri
Rich & Nancy Klassen
Lois Lydens
John & Jessie Martin
Chris McGuigan & Gary Neal
Bonnie Olson Memorial Fund
Frank & Emma Peterson
Tom Schaub & Mary Price
Laura Schultz in memory of Jack Schultz
Sam Slaughter & Anne Lehker
Dr Michael & Marijean Smith
Dr F Remington & Ginny Sprague
Susan & Stephen Struck
Brad & Erika Vanbergen
Karen & John Wells
Jan Witt
Jim & Linda Zolman
$1,000-$2,499
Charles Alstrom
Susan & Frank Bednarek Fund of the CFFMC
Herb & Anne Bevelhymer
Dave Bishop
Susan Blake
Nick Bolema
Ron & Ann Marie Brown
Janice Buck
Amy Conn Tenny in memory Jeff Conn
Don & Kathy Dahlstrom
Anne M Dake in memory E Allan Dake
Eric & Merica Dobry
Deb & Chris Drake
Joel & Linda Engel
Charles & Patti Fisher
Charles & Lynn Freeman
Evelyn Geile
David F Gerdes & Carolyn Smith-Gerdes
Tilio Giacobassi Family
Mary Anne Gorman
Mary Gust in honor Liz and Tom Trzaska
Bill Haug & Jane Curtis
Roberda Hilleary
Greg & Debi Hillebrand
Larry & Lari Hines
Cornelia Holley
Hon Kathy L Hoogstra & Dr Robert Hoogstra
Norma Jean Horan
Richard & Holly Hughes
Pat Hunt
Wilda James
Christian Jansen-Yee
Joel & Kathleen Jarvis
Charles & Vivian Johnson
Dick & Lynn Kamps
Barbara Kelso
Heather Kettler
Pete & Mimi Kunz
Denise Kwiecien
Patricia Ladas
Mark & Karla Lange
Tim & Lynette Lipan
Jim & Mary Malek
Cindy Mazurek
Don & Jean Medema
Mark & Bonnie Meengs
Stacy and Eric Mellema
Susan Meston
Kathryn Neumann
Amy Norris & MJ Towle in honor Joanna Norris
Richard & Katie Norton
KN Literary Art on behalf Amy Hosford
Thank you West Michigan Symphony, for the work you do to transform lives in meaningful ways!
David & Beth Pickard
Roy & Britta Portenga
Bob & Carol Pyka
Gretchen & Randy Rhoades
David Roodvoets
Julia Rupp
John Saling & Diane Fischer
Robert N & Merle N Scolnik Advised Fund of the CFFMC
Dr Carlo V Spataro
Dr Alan Steinman
Ryan & Kris Sterkenburg
Tom & Nanci Stone
Clifford & Lucia Storr
John & Sue Sytsema
Drs David & Linda Taylor
Ed DeJong & Diane VanWesep
Michael & Patricia Wade
Melody & JR Whitby
Judy Wilcox
Ellie Williams
Dr Roy Winegar & Ms Barbara Klingenmaier
Marguerite & Kenneth Winter
$500-$999
Anonymous (3)
Ross & Sandra Aden
Arthur & Marilyn Bolt
Richard & Marilyn Brown
Michael Cerminaro & Connie Verhagen
Curtis Chambers & Diana Wojton
Jeff & Kelly Clark
Dr Donald & Nancy Crandall
Mary Theodore Danigelis
Marcia D'Oyly
Amanda & Gregory Dykhouse
William & Donna Eckert
Eugene Fethke
Manley Ford
Charles & Jeanne Gembis
Nick Gereaux
Marjorie Gorajec
Brennen & Rachel Gorman
Virginia Hague
Mike & Jamie Hekker
Susan Hoekenga
Maureen & Don Huldin
Donna Joyce
Michelle Kantor Hanley in memory Mort and Maxine Kantor
Karen Kayes
Thomas Knight
R'na & Kara Komarek in memory Ronald Komarek DDS
Becky Kuznar
Joan La Mourie
Mark Luttenton
Charles & Kay Cater Matthews
Roger & Jane Missimer
Perry & Deb Newson
Daniel & Dominga Partenio
Clyde & Beth Rinsema
Bob & Bobbi Sabine
Duane & Susan Schecter
Susan (Sue) Schuiteman
Allen & Mistelle Serio
Helen & Jay Smith
Mary Holmes Sorensen
Tracy Sprague
Eileen Stoffan
George & Dottie Strabel
Kim Suarez
John & Mary Swanson
Ann & Dan Tabor
Judy Theune
Don & Jane Tjarksen
Richard & Marge Tourre
Bruce Van Dop in memory Dr Michael Smith
William & Susan Vander Zanden
Phillip & Loraine VanderPol
Bill & Shirley Walther
Sheryl Wescott
Rachael & Ian Wright
$100-$499
Anonymous (4)
Anonymous in honor Dr. Bruce & Esther Drukker In honor of their 90th birthdays!
Anonymous on behalf Joanna Norris
James Alexander
Lee Anderson
Michael Anderson & Brooke Kieft-Anderson
Bernadette Arnold
Margo Atwell
Larry & Sandy Austin
Barbara Bakker
Esther Baldridge
Barbara Bates-Lalick & Martin Lalick
Earl Baxtresser
Lisa Bayne
Gary & Carol Beatty
David Beckmann
David & Sue Bird
William Black in memory Fred Norris
David & Karen Booth
Sarah Bowman
Dr Mary & Robert Boyer
Martha & Eddie Brown
Michael & Joanna Buboltz
John Max Busard & Elizabeth Busard Fund in memory Dr & Mrs RI Busard
Marie Bustin
Roger Buter
Ray & Theresa Chaplin
Rudy & Pat Chmelar
Joanne Cochrane
E Jane Connell & Steven W Rosen
Diana Cornell
Bill & Carol Cross
Jessica Wolin & Frank Crownover
Carol Lynn Cubitt
David Culver
Andrew & Samantha Cutler
Bill & Joan Davis
Agnes De Boer
Eugene & Beth Decker
Dean Denman & Gale Ford in memory Janie Denman
Calvin & Patricia Deur
Phil & Kim Deur
Larry DeVoogd
David & Dortha DeWit
Eric Douville
Joyce Downing
Judy Draper
Karen Driver
Bruce & Esther Drukker
Dennis & Barbara Dryer
James Edmonson
Eileen McCormick & Lynne Nash
Robert & Jackie Engel
Harold & Mary Englund
Jean Enright
Wallace & Jane Ewing
Jill Farkas
Cork Farkas & Kathy Mauck
Katy & Walt Felver
Jenny Feringa
Carla Flanders CMF Marketing & Events
Dale & Bridget Fox
Carol & Pete Friar
Tommy Fuerst
Chip & Leslie Furst
Paula DeGregorio & Frank Galante
Rick Gentile
Dana & Jeff Glamzi
Diane Goodman
Ann Gorter
Marcia Grasman
David & Shari Groendyk
Rick Charles & Jennifer Grow
LaDon Gustafson
Revs. Jerry & Susan Hagans
Jeff & Gail Hall
Kirk Hallman & Dawn Boston
Raymond Hamil
George & Eve Hamstra in memory Dr. Michael Smith Great doctor, great neighbor, best friend.
Lois Haverman
Judith Hayner & Charlene Romanosky
Rhonda Hennessy
Mike & Ginny Henry
Patricia Hesling
Molly McCarthy & Timothy Hicks
Brad & Janice Hilleary
Vicky Hilliard
Carolyn Hillyer
Gwen Hoffman
Schierholz/Hogan Family Fund of CFFMC
Mary Anne & Thom Hornik
Marcia Hovey-Wright & Ernie Boone
Mary Ann Howe
John & Jane Humphrey
Nicholas Huryk
Dirk Jasperse
Jessica Jenkins
Jeffrey Lake Johnson in memory Jeffrey Johnson thanks Jeff!
Lori Johnson
Robert & Susan Johnson
Robert E Johnson
Natalie Johnson & Dana Pink in memory of Donna Little
Linda Juarez & Chris Garzelloni
Brian Kadlec
John Karafa
Brett Karhoff
Loretta Kasprzyk
Francine Kieft
Louie & Earlaine Kiel
Randy & Debra Knapp
Alan Kohley
Judy Komar
Sarah & Gregory Korose
Alyssa Kraker
Bruce & Mary Krueger
Meghann Kruse
Mike Kuznar
Jeff & Jody Lewis
Pat Locke
Dale & Amanda Lowder
Deborah Margules
Mahmood & Barbel Masghati
Chris & Kayla May
Shirley McIntire
John & Cindy McKinnon
Stephanie McNamara in honor In Honor of Kay and Mike Olthof. For your tireless philanthropic efforts to improve the world around you.
Paul & Winnie McNergney
Phil McPherson
Howard & Carole Meade Fund
Carol Meech in memory Dr Michael Smith
JB & Lynn Meeuwenberg
Joan Menke-Schaenzer
Rich & Teresa Micheil
LaShelle Mikesell
Dean Millar
Karen Miller
Mr & Mrs Mockus
Amanda Moblo
Deb Mogdis
Vern Molitor
Wendy Morden
Roger C Morgenstern
Mark & Valerie Muilenburg
John & Barbara Mullally
David R Nancarrow
Jil & Phil Nehra
Susan & Tyler Newton in memory Herb and Ellie Hoeker Thanks for instilling in us appreciation for this kind of music.
Donielle Nichols
Eric & Lori Nisja
Carol Norris in memory Fred Norris
David Olsen
Garry & Charlotte Olson
Thomas & Linda Gay Olson
Henry & Mollie Osborn
Bill Papo
Richard A Pardini
Stacy Phillips
Nick & Barb Pietrangelo
John & Karen Pitcher
Gary & Beth Post
Sylvia Precious
Monica Lakatos & Steve Preston
C Bruce & Shirley Privacky
Ellen & Vic Prowant
Rev William Randall
David Redmond in memory Donna L Little
Faye Redmond in memory Donna Louise Little
Joan Reeg
Cindy Ribesky
Dan & Sarah Rinsema Sybenga
Dr Gary & Pennie Robertson
Bruce & Judy Rollston
Derek & Claire Root-Benson
Karl & Barbara Rowe Family
Kim Sakis
Penny Sander
Gregory Shaull
Stephen Schmidt
Gwynne & Steve Schoff
Pat & Ed Schroeder
Lennie Schwaiger
John & Elaine Severson
Euginnia & Brodie Seyferth
Karen Shields
Craig & Cathy Simons
Colleen & Joseph Skendzel
Hayden Smith
Joanie Smith
Anbritt & Darlene Stengele
Michael & Cindy Stevens
James & Nancy Stier
Verne & Janet Sutherland
Marty & Heidi Sytsema
Loretta Temple
Rebecca Thomas
George & Laura Thurlow
Judith Tierney
Charles & Susan Rogalla Tindall
Kathleen Torresen
Tom & Kathy Tosa
David & Mary Turbessi
Brandon & MonicaTurnbull
Janice Ubels
Catherine & Chris Uganski
Stephen & Valerie Vallier
John Van Walsum
Vanessa & Alex Vander Meulen
David Vander Wall
Kay VanderWall
Nancy L Vanderwest
John & Gwen Varineau
Gerald Walter
Ann Marie Wasserman
Nate & Amanda Westbrook
Neil & Beverly Whitbeck
Jenny Wilkes
Brewster & Mary Ellen Willcox
Beverly Williams
Jonathan & Melissa Wilson
Lynn Winter
Raimonds T Ziemelis
Corporate, Arts Council & Foundation Donors
$10,000 and up
City of Muskegon
Embark Financial Partners
Fremont Area Community Foundation
Grand Haven Area
Community Foundation
Harbor Steel & Supply Corporation
Howmet Aerospace
Howmet Community Fund of the CFFMC
Leonel L. & Mary Loder Fund of the CFFMC
Meijer Foundation
Michigan Arts & Culture Council
Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge
$5,000-$9,999
Community Foundation for Muskegon County
DTE Energy Foundation Fund
Fifth Third Bank
Hines Corporation
JSJ Foundation Fund
Samuel L. Westerman Foundation
Smith Davis Morse Group
The Gerber Foundation
The Leonard Luxury Apartments
Warner Norcross + Judd LLP
White Lake Community Fund of the CFFMC
Women's Division Chamber of Commerce
$2,500-$4,999
Billie Klont Greinke Memorial Fund of the CFFMC
Consumers Energy
Grand Valley State University
Hazekamp's Premier Foods
Hungerford
i'move
Lake Michigan Credit Union
Lorin Industries
Macatawa Bank
Muskegon Community College
Raymond James RENK America
Shoreline Insurance Agency, Inc.
Webb Chemical Service Corporation
West Shore Bank
$1,000-$2,499
Ann & Bud Eichmann Fund of the CFFMC
Charles Stewart Mott Foundation
John L. Wheeler Memorial Scholarship Fund of the CFFMC
Mart Dock Corporation
Mary C Payne Fund of the CFFMC
Newkirk Electric
Tyler Sales
$500-$999
Choice One Bank
Past Chairs Committee
The Past Chairs Committee provides ongoing guidance, advocacy and support to the WMS long after its members’ terms are completed. WMS thanks and honors these individuals for their generosity, collective wisdom and continuing leadership.
Tim Arter
Pete Brown
Marcia D’Oyly
David Gerdes
Holly Hughes
David Hogan
Pat Hunt
G
Thomas Johnson
Wendy Kersman
Deb Newson
Kay Olthoff
Mike Olthoff
Sylvia Precious
Chip Sawyer
Ann Tabor
Peter Turner
Jane Wright
Block Underwriters
Consumers Energy
Grand Valley State University
Lake Michigan Credit Union
Lorin Industries
Michael & Kimberly Martin (Endowed)
Muskegon Community College
Steve & Deb Olsen
Mike & Kay Olthoff
Mary Price & Tom Schaub
Shoreline Insurance Agency
Jack & Becky Slimko
Raymond James Smith, Haughey, Rice and Roegge
Trinity Health
Tyler Sales
Warner Norcross + Judd LLP
Audience Choice Concert
Do you play an instrument? Or wish you still played? Have you wondered what it would be like to perform on the Frauenthal stage with Scott Speck conducting?
Saturday, July 12, 2025 | Frauenthal Center
We invite any adult who has a string, woodwind, brass instrument, or plays percussion, to join us for a day of rehearsing, learning, and performing under the direction of WMS Music Director Scott Speck.
Register online for this one day only special event! Questions? Contact Karen at kvanderzanden@westmichigansymphony.org
WEST MICHIGAN SYMPHONY
WEST MICHIGAN SYMPHONY ENDOWMENT
Now in its 85th Season, WMS is dedicated to building a music-infused West Michigan, providing professional concerts in a welcoming environment and music encounters and learning that enrich the lives of both children and adults. The Endowment, along with robust annual giving, provides a stable funding base that supports this cause. WMS’s Endowment is held in two funds at the Community Foundation for Muskegon County (CFFMC) and in a third at the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation (GHACF).
Established in 1992, the CFFMC Secure the Spirit fund reported a fair market value of $619,909 on June 30, 2024. Established in 2020, the CFFMC Play Your Part fund reported $2,902,875 on the same date. The GHACF Play Your Part fund, established in 2021, was at $107,805.
The corpus of each fund is owned, managed and directed by these foundations, whose staff and trustees determine the timing and amount of distributions—normally an annual amount equal to 4% of the average balance over the previous 16 quarters. Foundation staff handles all administrative details and investment responsibilities, freeing WMS leadership and staff to focus on mission delivery.
Play Your Part Campaign
The primary objective for WMS’s 2020-2022 Play Your Part Campaign was to grow the organization’s Endowment, providing a stable revenue model for the future. The second objective was to provide funding for a new string orchestra program for underserved students in Muskegon Public Schools. This initiative, called “Tune Up,” launched in fall 2022 and is now entering its third season. For more information, please see page 29.
As of June 30, 2024, gifts to the Play Your Part Campaign totaled $3,722,180 with outstanding pledges of $274,815 for a total of $3,996,996. We thank all those who have given generously to the campaign to date, and invite you to consider “playing a part” in WMS’s future. Whether through an outright gift or a designation in your will and trusts, your support will ensure continuity and future growth of WMS’s artistic and education footprint.
To learn more, please contact Andy Buelow at 231.726.3231 or abuelow@westmichigansymphony.org.
Maestro: $250,000 and up
Michael & Kay Olthoff
Larry & Lari Hines
Jeffrey Lake Johnson
Premier: $100,000-$249,999
Community Foundation for Muskegon County (CFFMC)
Douglas & Janet Hoch
Robert & Wendy Kersman
Scott & Donna Lachniet
Crescendo: $50,000-$99,999
Bernie & Cathy Berntson
Jon & Jane Blyth
Mary Theodore Danigelis
Jan & Laura Deur
Pat & Julie Donahue
Mark & Christine Fazakerley
Mrs Carol Folkert
Grand Haven Area Community Foundation (GHACF)
Howmet Aerospace
Dan & Sheryl Kuznar
Meijer Foundation
Patrick O’Leary Foundation
Steve & Deb Olsen
Jack & Becky Slimko
Warner Norcross + Judd LLP
Symphony: $25,000-$49,999
Pete & Sherry Brown
Orville & Susan Cloutier-Crain
Don & Kathy Dahlstrom
matched by Charles Stewart Mott Fund
Rob & Cathleen Dubault
Eagle Alloy
William & Mary Lou Eyke
Fifth Third Bank
Paul & Karen Jackson
John & Jessie Martin
Monica Morse
Dr Richard & Nancy Peters
Tom Schaub & Mary Price
Concerto: $15,000-$24,999
Marilyn Andersen
Allen & Sandy Beck
Jackie Engel, CFP
James & Susan Geisler
Kimberly & Michael Martin
matched by Bank of America
Stephen & Susan Struck
Roger & Rebecca Tuuk
Prelude: $10,000-$14,999
Anonymous
Andy & Beth Buelow
G&L Hot Dogs
The Gerber Foundation
David Gerdes & Carolyn Smith-Gerdes
Stephen & Debra Jackson
F Martin & Dorothy A Johnson Fund of the GHACF
Paul C Johnson Fund of the CFFMC
Fred & Joanna Norris
Greg & Shelley Olson
Susan Rehrer
Robbins Road Animal Clinic
Dr Alan Steinman
John & Mary Swanson
Liz & Tom Trzaska matched by RENK America
Peter M Turner
Webb Chemical
Judy Wilcox
Overture: $5,000-$9,999
Anonymous BDO
Bill Baldridge
Sherry Albertie Becker
Frank & Susan Bednarek
George & Lori Lynn Cannon
Cofessco Fire Protection
Consumers Energy
Dr Donald & Nancy Crandall
Anne & Allan Dake
Kevin & Annette Even
Mary Anne Gorman
Judith Hayner & Charlene Romanosky
Greg & Debi Hillebrand
Pat Hunt
Bari Johnson
Tom & Pat Johnson
Dick & Lynn Kamps
Ray & Betsy Komray
Clara Lang
Mark & Bonnie Meengs
Frank & Emma Peterson
Bruce & Marilyn Reichardt
Suzanne Richards & Lee Burlison
Kurt Rosen
Dr F Remington & Ginny Sprague
John & Sue Sytsema
Dan & Ann Tabor
Don & Jane Tjarksen
LJ Verplank
Webb Chemical
Kathy West in memory of David Alan West
Sonata: $1,000-$4,999
Anonymous (3)
Cynthia Ackerman
Christine Adams
Charles & Gloria Alstrom
Margo Atwell
Bank of America Charitable Foundation
Jack & Marilyn Brown
Ryan & Katie Bryker
Ardy Bulthouse Kroes in honor of Amanda Dykhouse
Robert & Charlotte Chessman
Dr & Mrs Paul Christie
Dr Mark D & Kristina M Clark
Darlene Collet
Core Realty Partners
Kurt & Cheryl Deford
Jean Enright
Charles & Lynn Freeman
Evelyn Geile
Michael Gluhanich
Mr & Mrs Bill Hendrick
Cornelia Holley
Keith & Mary Kay Hopkins
Hugh & Barbara Hornstein
Richard & Holly Hughes
Ed Hunt & Nancy McCarthy
Joel & Kathleen Jarvis
Heather Kettler
Bruce & Mary Krueger
Peter Kurdziel
Michael Martin
Cindy Mazurek
Chris McGuigan & Gary Neal
Susan Meston
Roger & Jane Missimer
Roger & Michelle Morgenstern in memory of Richard & Nancy Morgenstern
Scott & Janee’ Musselman
Gary Nelund & Angie Wasserman-Nelund
matched by State Farm Insurance
Dr Dale & Connie Nesbary
Steve & Kathy Parker
Gary & Beth Post
Denis & Barbara Potuznik
RENK America
David & Georganna Rice
David Roodvoets
John & Marilyn Ruck
John Saling & Diane Fischer
Jill Sanders
Chip & Susan Sawyer
Duane & Susan Schecter
Laura Schultz
John & Elaine Severson
Jocelyn Shaw & Doug Hannink
Shoreline Insurance Agency
Michael & Corina Soimar
Scott Speck in honor of the WMS Musicians
Ted & Judy Stojak
Suarez/Polakis Family
Marty & Heidi Sytsema
Bryce & Marti Tallant
Carol Parker Thompson
Peter & Judy Theune
Judy Tierney
Evan & Rachel Ufer
David & Laura Valk
Karen & John Wells
JR Whitby
Eleanor Williams
Dr Roy Winegar & Ms Barbara Klingenmaier
Jan Witt
Jane Wright
Robert & Joanne Zayko Environmental Fund of the CFFMC
Douglas & Jennifer Zwemer
Introit: Up to $999
Anonymous (4)
Larry & Sandra Austin
Susan A Bissell Memorial Fund
Charles Black in honor of Fred & Joanna Norris
Gary & Rhonda Bogner
Dana & Claudia Bryant
Jerry & Marcia Brichan
Rachel Calderon in memory of Dick Baker
Benjamin Christian on behalf of Tina Horigan
E Jane Connell & Steven W Rosen
Calvin Deur
Harold & Mary Englund
Eugene Fethke
Martha Ferriby
Tilio Giacobassi Family
Erica Gillard
Harvey & Maraleigh Heyer
Ellen Hanichen
Gwen Hoffman
Doug & Judy Hostetler
Mary Ann Howe
Kristi Klomp
Randy & Debra Knapp
Pete & Mimi Kunz
Cindy Larsen
Joeseph & Barbara Legatz
Charles Matthews & Kay Cater Matthews
Patrick & Sheila Miller
Barb & John Mullally
Kathryn Neumann
Perry & Deb Newson
Amy Norris & MJ Towle in honor of Fred & Joanna Norris
James & Ruth Olthoff
Thomas Pascoe
Janet Payne
William & Gay Peterson
Linda Quaine
Rev William Randall
Mike & Char Ratchford
Stephen & Susan Salisbury
Schieholz/Hogan Fund of the CFFMC
Sally Schwartz
Asaline Scott
Joanie Smith
Howard & Marilyn Swanson
Warren Tibbitts
Richard & Marge Tourre
Mary Towner
Nancy & Gerritt Vanderwest
Rebecca Veltman
Duane & Laurie Wright
Raimonds T Ziemelis
Jim & Linda Zolman
Tune Up Donors: $5,000 and up
Cathy & Bernie Berntson Fund of CFFMC
Jon & Jane Blyth
Orville Crain & Susan Cloutier Crain
Community Foundation for Muskegon County (CFFMC)
Mary Theodore Danigelis
Jan & Laura Deur
Mark & Christine Fazakerley
Fifth Third Bank
Gerber Foundation
Harbor Steel & Supply Corporation
Hines Corporation
Dr Douglas E & Janet P Hoch
Howmet Aerospace Foundation
Dick & Lynn Kamps
Robert & Wendy Kersman
Dan & Sheryl Kuznar
Scott & Donna Lachniet
Meijer Foundation
Patrick J O’Leary & Karen Yamasaki
Steve & Deb Olsen
Mike & Kay Olthoff
Jack & Becky Slimko
Stephen & Susan Struck
WEST
West Michigan Symphony Legacy Giving Circle
MICHIGAN SYMPHONY
It Takes just one note to Start a Symphony
With a planned gift to West Michigan Symphony, you can continue to support the Orchestra even after your passing. Planned giving is simply creating a plan to make a gift. You don’t need to be wealthy to make an impact—you just need to make a plan.
The easiest way to make a planned gift is through a charitable bequest, where you designate in your will or trust the assets that you wish to gift to WMS upon your death. A bequest is not all or nothing; you can leave either a percentage of your total estate value, a specific asset (such as part of an investment portfolio), a specified amount of money, or the remaining assets in your estate after all your other requests have been satisfied. You can also make a planned gift by designating the WMS as a beneficiary of your retirement or IRA account, or your life insurance.
You can also specify how you would like your gift used by designating it toward music education, the Endowment, or “wherever it is needed.”
Creating a planned gift is a wonderful way to leave a legacy, provide future funding, and ensure that WMS continues to delight, teach and entertain audiences in the future. Talk with your estate plan attorney about your options.
We welcome your questions. Please reach out to Andy Buelow at 231.726.3231, or visit our website at westmichigansymphony.org. We would be happy to provide sample language to include in your estate plan documents, explore your ideas about your plan, or simply connect. And if you do make a planned gift, or have already done so, please consider letting us know so that we can thank you!
FRANK E. AND FLORA M. Johnson Principal DOUBLE BASS CHAIR
Thank You As Well To Our Newest Legacy Giving Circle Members:
Susan Cloutier Crain
Jan & Laura Deur
Pat & Julie Donahue
Robert & Jackie Engel
Jeffrey Lake Johnson
Mike & Kay Olthoff
Bob & Bobbi Sabine
IN LOVING Memory of Frank E. AND Flora M. Johnson
Growing up in the Frank and Flora Johnson household meant a life rich with music, including attendance at the West Michigan Symphony concerts held in the Muskegon High School auditorium. Frank and Flora created a loving home where music was part of the family. Flora would accompany Frank on the piano as he rehearsed for his solo singing gigs at area churches and weddings. There were family sing-alongs around that same piano and holiday gatherings where Chris and Jeff (their oldest sons) would entertain the family with songs and guitar playing. Wintery Sunday afternoons were often spent lying on the living room floor listening to orchestral, Broadway, and opera LPs. And Frank and Flora supported each of their five children’s participation in all manner of musical endeavors from piano lessons to band, chorus, and the West Shore Youth Symphony.
Frank and Flora’s legacy of love and music has extended on through their children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Their second son, Jeffrey Lake Johnson, developed his musical talents into a career in which he played French horn in traveling Broadway musicals and orchestras around the country — including right here in Muskegon.
Jeff left a legacy of his own through a meaningful estate bequest to the West Michigan Symphony, as well as two other local institutions, to support the cultural enrichment of the area. Jeff cared deeply for West Michigan — its people, environment, and culture. He believed strongly in the transformative power of music as well as the importance of having access to it right where you live. Of all the many worthy institutions and places he could have chosen for his estate giving, he wanted to make a difference in his hometown — the place that nurtured and developed his interests and character. His gift to the Symphony will endow two chairs and provide support to the West Michigan Symphony Tune Up program. The first endowment was the principal French horn chair dedicated in his name in 2023. For the second endowment, that of the principal double bass, it seemed fitting that the dedication be in the name of Frank and Flora in loving tribute to them and the musical legacy they passed down.
The remaining Johnson family children, Jennifer Grow, Tim Johnson, and Amy McEwen, are honored to help see their brother’s gift come to fruition. They join his friends and former colleagues in gratitude for Jeff’s life and in special appreciation for their parents, Frank E. and Flora M. Johnson, for nurturing in them the love of music and community.
Thank you, Jeff, and thank you Frank and Flora, for all you gave us.
TCHAIKOVSKY WINTER DREAMS
FRIDAY
FEB 28
7:30 PM
SCOTT SPECK CONDUCTOR
Richard Wagner (1813-1883)
Overture to Rienzi
SPONSORS
Zoltán Kodály (1882-1967) Dances of Galánta
Intermission
Piotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky (1840-1893)
Symphony No. 1 in G Minor, Op. 13, “Winter Dreams”
I. Daydreams on a Winter Journey: Allegro tranquillo
II. Land of Gloom, Land of Mist: Adagio cantabile ma non tanto
III. Scherzo: Allegro scherzando giocoso
IV. Finale: Andante lugubre; Allegro moderato; Allegro maestoso
Richard Wagner (1813-1883)
Overture to Rienzi
Later in his life, Wagner dismissed his opera Rienzi, der letzte der Tribunen of 1842 as “youthful sin.” Though it was the composer’s first successful opera, it significantly predated his mature style and his revolutionary ideas about what opera should be. After Rienzi, Wagner would become known for his concept Gesamtkunstwerk: the total work of art. He believed that in opera he could synthesize poetic, visual, musical, and dramatic arts into a unified whole. He took this concept to the stage with operas like Der Ring des Nibelung (The Ring Cycle, 1869-1876) and Tristan und Isolde (1865), the latter of which is often regarded as the starting point of modern music. In these works, Wagner employs extreme chromaticism and elaborate leitmotifs: themes associated with specific characters, places, ideas, or plot points.
But Rienzi was the work of a young Wagner trying to break into the opera world. After two failed attempts in Germany, he had moved to Paris and adopted its Grand Opéra tradition. He composed most of Rienzi while in the French capital but, in the end, it was the Dresden Opera that took it up. Back in Germany, Wagner finally found success with this six-hour opera.
The opera is set in Rome and based on the life of a 14thcentury Roman tribune named Cola Rienzi. The protagonist is a populist figure who is elected to improve the lives of the Roman Plebeians and unite the diverse people of Rome. However, once elected, he fails to please any sector of his people. In the end, the nobles, the populace, and the Church all turn against him. Rienzi is killed in a fire started by those whose lives he originally fought to improve.
The overture to the opera foreshadows some important moments to come. It begins with a trumpet call that foretells the battles that will occur in Act III. It includes the melody of the aria that would become the most popular of the opera: “Allmächt'ger Vater” (“Almighty Father”) is a prayer that Rienzi sings at the beginning of the opera’s final act. The overture ends with a military march later heard in Act III.
While the opera may be a “sin” of Wagner’s youth, its overture lives on in the concert repertoire. This work gives listeners a glimpse into the work of a young composer who would later conceive of bold innovations that would change the course of opera and Western art music.
Zoltan Kodály (1882-1967) Dances of Galánta
Audiences frequently encounter Eastern European folk music in orchestral concert halls. Brahms composed Hungarian Dances; Dvořák’s dances are Slavonic; and Kodály penned Dances of Galánta—his hometown, originally part of Hungary but, by the time of its writing in 1933, a city in the newly-established Czechoslovakia.
But Kodály’s motivation differed from these 19th-century composers who were fascinated by the “exoticism” that folk music represented. For him folk music was an art form worthy of study in and of itself. Kodály was not only a composer but also an ethnomusicologist, a music pedagogue, a linguist and a philosopher. He and Béla Bartók traveled the countryside and collected Hungarian folk music, recording and notating it. This informed all of Kodály’s other pursuits, from his compositions to his ideas about music education.
The music-making Kodály witnessed in the countryside shaped his thinking about how young children should learn music and inspired him to reform music education in Hungary. His method of music education — the Kodály method, which is still used around the world today—posits that music is for everyone; that children should be taught music from an early age in a sequence that mirrors how they learn language; that learning music should be fun and engaging; and that music teachers should use folk songs from the culture of the students they teach.
Kodály’s study of Hungarian folk music also influenced his own compositions across a seven-decade career— including Dances of Galánta. In this piece, Kodály spins a handful of Hungarian folk melodies into an expanded verbunkos Verbunkos (from the German word werben, meaning to recruit) is an old Hungarian dance form that originated from entertaining shows that military recruiters would produce to lure young men into service. Potential enlistees would see the soldiers’ joyful dances and want to join them in their happy lives. Verbunkos typically had two parts: a slow, dramatic introduction followed by a vigorous dance. Kodály expanded the slow introduction into three parts: an orchestral introduction, a clarinet cadenza, and a broad andante maestoso section. For the fast half, he writes four short dances.
Bartók once wrote of Kodály’s ability to capture the sounds of Hungary:
“ If I were to name the composer whose works are the most perfect embodiment of the Hungarian spirit, I would answer, Kodály. His work proves his faith in the Hungarian spirit. The obvious explanation is that all Kodály’s composing activity is rooted only in Hungarian soil, but the deep inner reason is his unshakable faith and trust in the constructive power and future of his people.”
Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky (1840-1893)
Symphony No. 1 in G minor, op. 13 “Winter Dreams”
Embarking on the composition of a first full-length symphony is an important step for many composers. For the 26-yearold Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, it was a fraught undertaking. His younger brother — a frequent correspondent with the composer — reported that “no other work cost him such effort and suffering.”
In 1865, Tchaikovsky had just graduated from the St. Petersburg Conservatory when pianist and composer Nikolai Rubinstein offered him a professorship in music theory at the new Russian Musical Society, which would later become the Moscow Conservatory. Tchaikovsky accepted the job and moved to Moscow in January of 1866. Rubinstein welcomed Tchaikovsky by conducting a performance of his Overture in F. With the success of that performance, Rubinstein suggested to Tchaikovsky that he was ready to write a symphony and offered to conduct its premiere when it was complete. Tchaikovsky set to work on his first symphony in March.
However, he was not in the best frame of mind to take on such a huge project. A bad review of a cantata that he wrote for his diploma had him doubting his abilities. As a result, he threw himself into the work so completely that he wrote day and night without sleeping. He eventually broke down from exhaustion. When he finally presented his symphony to Rubinstein, the older composer harshly judged it as not ready for performance. Instead of a triumphant premiere of his first large-scale work, Tchaikovsky saw his symphony torn apart and performed piecemeal: the Scherzo at a concert in December of 1866, the two middle movements in February of 1867. The complete work was finally premiered in February 1868. Even then, Tchaikovsky was not happy with it. He revised the symphony before publication in 1874, and again for a second printing in 1888.
In spite of all this, turmoil and suffering do not come through in the work. Tchaikovsky’s First Symphony is full of charming melodies, evocative textures, and rich orchestrations that suggest the “Winter Daydreams” of the title. He gives descriptive titles to the first two movements: the dramatic “Dreams of a Winter Journey” and the melancholy “Land of Desolation, Land of Mists.” The playful third movement and the triumphant finale include no such titles. However, the melody that is the basis of the fourth movement’s introduction comes from a Russian folksong that anticipates spring. It begins:
“ I will plant, young one, A few flowers,
The flowers will start blooming, And tearing at my heart.”
The haunting melody of the folksong is played first by the bassoon and then by the violins in the slow (lugubre) introduction. In the last minutes of the Symphony, the melody returns in a grand statement by the whole orchestra in a more hopeful major key.
For all the trouble this First Symphony gave Tchaikovsky, he looked back on it fondly in later years: “Despite all its glaring deficiencies, I have a soft spot for it, for it is a sin of my sweet youth.”
Select Wednesdays
Noon – 1 pm @ The Block
Hour-long informal conversations where Music Director Scott Speck and special guests share insights and anecdotes to enhance your enjoyment of Masterworks performances. Learn more on page 29.
Event Sponsor
Catering Partner
Dvořák Cello Concerto
May 9 | 7:30 pm | Frauenthal Center
Immerse yourself in an evening of Bohemian melodies, crowned by Dvořák’s beloved Cello Concerto. This masterpiece is both exhilarating and profound, and pushes the instrument’s boundaries to deliver some of his most soulful, heart-achingly beautiful music you’ll ever experience.
Scott Speck conductor | Inbal Segev cello
Smetana Overture to The Bartered Bride
Mozart Symphony no. 38 “Prague”
Dvořák Cello Concerto
American Landscapes
May 30 | 7:30 pm | Frauenthal Center
There’s nothing like experiencing a great American orchestra performing great American music. You’ll hear two of Copland’s majestic masterpieces: Fanfare for the Common Man and his third symphony — probably the biggest American symphony ever written. The season finale also presents Torke’s Sky, written for violinist Tessa Lark, reflecting her Kentucky Bluegrass roots.
Scott Speck conductor | Tessa Lark violin
Copland Fanfare for the Common Man
Torke Sky Concerto for Violin
Copland Symphony no.3
Notes by Sarah A Ruddy, Ph. D.
AMERICAN DIVAs
FRIDAY MAR 28
7:30 PM
SCOTT SPECK CONDUCTOR
SHAYNA STEELE VOCALS
Act One
Specter/Barry/Greenwood/Arr. Steele & Cook/Orch.Tyzik River Deep Mountain High
Masser/Goffin/Arr. Neal & Cook/Orch. Tyzik Saving All My Love For You
Ray Charles/Arr. Cook/Orch. Tyzi Believe To My Soul
Shayna Steele & David Cook/Orch. Tyzik First Time I Saw You
Miller/Murden/Arr. Cook/Orch. Tyzik For Once In My Life
Shayna Steele & David Cook/Orch. Tyzik Gone Under
Big Mama Thornton/Arr. Steele & Cook/Orch. Tyzik Life Goes On
Act Two
Franklin & White/arr. Tyzik Think
SPONSORS
CONCERT
SEASON
Shannon/Arr. Tyzik I Never Loved A Man (The Way I Love You)
Broadnax/Wonder/Paul/Arr. Tyzik Until You Come Back To Me
Little Milton/Arr. Steele & Cook/Orch. Tyzik That’s What Love Will Make You Do
Shayna Steele & David Cook/Orch. Tyzik Wear Me Down
Loop and Infrared Systems in place for the hearing impaired. Please inquire with an usher for use of this system.
Please silence and dim screens of all cell phones and other electronic devices. The use of recording devices during the performance is strictly prohibited.
This dynamic vocalist puts new meaning to diversity and grassroots talent. Her natural ability to traverse musical genres—be it in the studio, stage or screen—has kept her on the “A” list of in-demand singers in the industry. Shayna’s effortless execution of both soul and jazz has grabbed the attention of audiences globally—including such settings as the Monterey Jazz Festival, North Sea Jazz Festival with Snarky Puppy, and countless symphony orchestras throughout North America.
Shayna’s creative abilities explode in multiple genres and her original signature sound on her fourth studio album, Gold Dust, released in 2023 on Ropeadope Records. Her mature songwriting abilities are dynamically evident in its unique fusion of soul, jazz and blues. Produced by David Cook (Billboard No. 1 Jazz album, Spectrum by Shoshana Bean) Gold Dust embodies a sound that has taken Shayna 20 years to perfect. The album features a fresh new cover of Cole Porter’s “You’d Be So Nice to Come Home To” featuring Grammy nominated saxophonist Donny McCaslin. The album also highlights new original material, including the inspiring anthem “The Bloodline” celebrating her ancestors; and the sultry yet intimate “Behind Closed Doors” with jazz crooner Sachal Vasandani. However, it is her explosive new arrangement of Stevie Nick’s “Gold Dust Woman” that will especially leave every listener in awe.
“At this point in my life, I have more clarity about my identity and sound as an artist than ever before. Gold Dust is a reflection of my growth and demonstrates my full potential as a vocalist, a writer, and an arranger.”
- Shayna Steele
A MESSAGE FROM CONCERT SPONSOR SMITH HAUGHEY RICE & ROEGGE
Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge is a long-time supporter of the Muskegon community, its institutions, its people, and its future. Our professionals have been active members of the Muskegon community for over 40 years. It’s more than where we practice law. It’s where we—as individuals and families—live and invest our time, talents and experience. We strive to make our community a better place for everyone.
Smith Haughey is proud to support the West Michigan Symphony and is grateful for its commitment to connecting and enriching our community. We thank you for joining us and hope you enjoy tonight’s performance.
Emerging from the pandemic’s gridlock on the music industry, Shayna’s inspiration for Gold Dust was fueled by her creative relationship with the extra time with her family. It drove Shayna to plan a new album following her 2019 Watch Me Fly (Must Have/Membran) and return to music school after nearly 30 years to finish her music degree. She created many of the album tracks within the classroom at the prestigious Berklee College of Music, where she maintains a 3.95 GPA.
Shayna debuted American Diva in 2023 with the Rochester Philharmonic. This new solo symphony show is a collaboration with Grammy-winning conductor and composer Jeff Tyzik, featuring his stellar arrangements of her music and favorite covers. Shayna has performed with over 100 North American symphony orchestras, including the Dallas Symphony and the Detroit Symphony, where she debuted her solo blues program Nothin' But the Blues (featured on WMS’s 2021-2022 season).
Shayna has appeared with Grammy-winning trumpeter Chris Botti and provided vocals to Moby’s tracks “Raining Again,” “Disco Lies,” and “Extreme Ways.” Snarky Puppy’s Michael League handpicked Shayna’s original track “Gone Under” for inclusion in their hit album Family Dinner –Volume 1 (Ropeadope Records), a viral sensation with over two million views and countless covers. No stranger to the small and silver screens, Shayna has sung on the soundtracks for Hairspray, The Bourne Identity and Sex and the City 2, as well as making a guest appearance on The Sopranos! Recently, Shayna appeared on television in the new Marvel Max Original Series The Penguin.
After spending her early years living mainly in Germany as the daughter of an Air Force master sergeant, Shayna spent her teen years in Biloxi, Mississippi, where she honed her musical theater and vocal talent. Her appearance on Star Search with Ed McMahon brought her to national acclaim.
continued
Shayna Steele
After leaving college, she went on to New York City where she performed in the musicals RENT, Jesus Christ Superstar, and the Tony Award winning Hairspray! She then moved out on her own, providing background vocals for Bette Midler, Rihanna and Kelly Clarkson, and appearing with trumpeter Chris Botti and countless other “A” list stars. After going solo, writing, and putting her band together, Shayna released her album, RISE, in 2015 (Ropeadope Records), reaching No. 2 on the U.S. iTunes jazz charts. Shayna has done the work, with her dynamic voice breathing life into what has become Gold Dust.
" My new work reflects my connection with my daughter, social justice, coming up from the ashes, and newfound freedom from isolation. The darkness did not swallow me whole, and I’m grateful to be back."
Gold Dust is available to purchase on all major streaming platforms.
MICHIGAN SYMPHONY
CLICK CLACK MOOSIC
Based on books by Doreen Cronin and Betsy Lewin, this series introduces children ages 3-8 to instrumental music in a storybook format. A host/ narrator introduces the small ensemble of WMS musicians, teaches the children about musical concepts, and then reads the story aloud— accompanied by music written for the series. Let us know if you are Interested in bringing CCM to your area!
Premier Strings brings together youth that are more advanced in their skill and performance levels providing them unique performance opportunities on stage with the West Michigan Symphony during Link Up concerts and forming string quartets that focus on community engagement performances.
Douglas Hannink & Jocelyn Shaw, 2024-2025 Season Sponsors
WEST MICHIGAN SYMPHONY
CHILDREN’S
CHOIR
Audition-based for children ages 8-13, WMS Children’s Choir performs in its own concerts, collaboratively with Debut and Premier Strings, and on stage with the Symphony during Home for the Holidays and the spring Link Up concerts.
Douglas Hannink & Jocelyn Shaw, 2024-2025 Season Sponsors
WEST
LINK UP
Beginning its 21st season, this free beginner music education program— a collaboration with Carnegie Hall—pairs WMS with 50 area schools in six West Michigan counties. Students in grades 3-5 learn to play music on the recorder and gain an understanding of orchestral repertoire. They benefit from regular contact with classroom visits from Music Mentors from the Orchestra. The program culminates with an interactive concert at the Frauenthal Center during which students perform on recorders along with the Symphony.
TUNE UP
Beginning its third year with additional Tune Up teaching staff, this afterschool string program partners with Muskegon Public School’s 21st CCLC Impact program. Students involved in Tune Up are learning to play an instrument at an earlier age and finding the thrill of making music. Tune Up offers students a free violin or viola instrument and performing opportunities, right in their own school. Currently offered at Muskegon Public Elementary Schools and the Charles Hackley Middle School.
LUNCH
‘N
LEARN
These free noon hour events, hosted by Music Director Scott Speck, are held in The Block on Wednesdays prior to each Masterworks concert. Guests enjoy a delicious lunch and learn about the music on the upcoming concert. Everyone is invited, including those who already have tickets to the concert, those who are curious and want to learn more, downtown community businesses, and area residents.
WATCH
MUSKEGON PLAY
In 2020, WMS collaborated with Muskegon Rotary to bring all-weather outdoor musical instruments to Muskegon parks and neighborhoods. These durable sound sculptures enhance outdoor community spaces throughout Muskegon and Muskegon Heights. Please visit our website for details.
WEST MICHIGAN SYMPHONY
WEST MICHIGAN SYMPHONY
WEST MICHIGAN SYMPHONY
WEST MICHIGAN SYMPHONY
MUSIC DIRECTOR SCOTT SPECK ABOUT WEST MICHIGAN SYMPHONY
An anchor cultural organization headquartered in Muskegon, WMS is a resident performing group at the Frauenthal Center, where its eight-concert season is the most visible part of a larger artistic enterprise of far-reaching community benefit. Founded in 1939, today’s WMS is comprised of professional musicians of the highest caliber playing challenging repertoire and presenting some of the world’s most acclaimed guest artists. WMS concerts and education events bring 16,500 people— more than 30% of whom are children and students—downtown annually, making it the largest performing arts organization on the West Shore. Audiences come from throughout Muskegon, Ottawa, Kent, Oceana and surrounding counties.
Mission
West Michigan Symphony connects and enriches our diverse community through the transformative power of music. We fulfill this primarily through three core offerings:
• Professional, live symphonic performances in a welcoming environment
• Inspired small ensemble performances in an immersive live listening room
• Learning activities that enrich the lives of children and adults through exploration, participation and performance
Statement Of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
West Michigan Symphony is committed to building an organization that fosters diversity, equity and inclusion. We acknowledge and celebrate the 19th century European cultural heritage from which the symphony orchestra arises. At the same time, we believe the art form is renewed and enlivened by embracing multifarious cultures and influences.
We will continually explore ways to reflect plurality, inclusivity and curiosity in our artistic programming. We commit to inviting under-represented ethnic groups into an ongoing, active dialogue so that we can learn, grow, and change, making the Symphony a place where everyone feels invited and accepted. In our Board, staff and volunteer base, we will work for greater inclusivity, thereby reflecting the rich diversity of the West Michigan community. We will strive to reflect these values throughout our organization.
Scott Speck became Music Director of the West Michigan Symphony in 2002. Since then he is proud to have helped the WMS enter the ranks of the nation's finest regional orchestras.
Scott also holds positions as music director of the Joffrey Ballet, Chicago Philharmonic and Mobile Symphony. He previously held positions as conductor of the San Francisco Ballet; music advisor and conductor of the Honolulu Symphony; and associate conductor of the Los Angeles Opera. During a tour of Asia he was named principal guest conductor of the China Film Philharmonic in Beijing. He was also invited to the White House as music director of the Washington Ballet.
In past seasons Scott Speck has conducted at London’s Royal Opera House at Covent Garden, the Paris Opera, New York's Lincoln Center, Chicago’s Symphony Center, Washington’s Kennedy Center, San Francisco’s War Memorial Opera House, and the Los Angeles Music Center. He has led numerous performances with the symphony orchestras of Chicago, Houston, Baltimore, Paris, Moscow, Shanghai, Beijing, Vancouver, Romania, Slovakia, Buffalo, Columbus, Louisville, New Orleans, Oregon, Rochester, Florida, and Virginia, among many others.
Speck is co-author of the world’s best-selling books on classical music for a popular audience: Classical Music for Dummies, Opera for Dummies, and Ballet for Dummies. He has been a regular commentator on National Public Radio, the BBC, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation and Voice of Russia, broadcast throughout the world.
Born in Boston, Scott Speck is a Fulbright Scholar, a summa cum laude graduate of Yale University, and an Aspen Conducting Fellow. He is fluent in English, German and French, has a diploma in Italian, speaks Spanish and has a reading knowledge of Russian.
WMS’s Listening Room for the Musically Curious, The Block, is an innovative performance venue featuring a mixture of jazz, classical crossover and "curious." Since its opening in 2013, The Block has become a vibrant downtown gathering space that sparks curiosity, inspiration and fellowship through the shared experience of uncommon live music and educational programs. Audiences have found the venue a refreshing alternative—to the formality of a concert hall on one hand, the clamor of a brewpub on the other. The Block is also a gathering place for various nonprofit, musical and community groups. Recent users have included Black Business Expo, GVSU Piano Chamber Series, Greater Muskegon Economic Development, Harbor Hospice, Muskegon Rotary, the Poppen Foundation, Third Coast Trombone Retreat, Tux ‘n Chucks, and Young Black Professionals, to name a few.
For rental information, call 231.726.3231
MUSKEGON ARTS & CULTURE COALITION
WMS is a founding member of the Muskegon Arts & Cultural Coalition (MACC), whose purpose is to advocate for and educate the community on the significant economic and quality of life impact of the arts and cultural sector. Muskegon County is home to a wide range of institutions offering exceptional arts and culture experiences that reflect and celebrate our diverse community. The arts have been key to the revitalization of our region for decades, and they remain pivotal in the post-COVID recovery economy. A recent study by Visit Muskegon found that cultural institutions and festivals contributed more than $67.6 million annually to Muskegon County’s economy. According to the Creative State Michigan Report, the Arts accounted for $2.5 billion in state tourism revenues—more than professional sporting events, golf, boating and sailing, hunting and fishing, hiking and biking combined.
WEST MICHIGAN SYMPHONY
25/26 SEASON
The Music of ABBA with Direct from Sweden
October 3
The world’s top ABBA tribute band joins your WMS to perform full orchestrations of iconic hits like “Dancing Queen,” “Mamma Mia,” “Waterloo,” “S.O.S.,” “Take a Chance on Me,” and many more. Relive the ABBA experience with dazzling costumes, electrifying disco dance moves, and all the catchy tunes that made the Swedish supergroup a global sensation.
Gershwin’s Piano Concerto
February 27
Kellen Gray conductor Michelle Cann piano
Michael Ellis Ingram Overture to Jubilee
Gershwin Concerto in F
Dawson Negro Folk Symphony
Season Tickets On Sale Now
3-CONCERT PACKAGE AS LOW AS $93! CONCERTS BEGIN AT 7:30 PM
Audience Choice
Concert
Your Vote. Your Music.
November 14
Scott Speck conductor
Charlie Albright piano
The decision-making is in your hands! Cast your vote now for your favorite piece in each category: overture, piano concerto, and symphony.
Voting continues through May 15, 2025. Final program announced May 30, 2025
Listen, learn more, and vote here: bit.ly/40wwSGj
March 20
Scott Speck conductor
Camille Zamora vocalist
The Mambo Kings
This celebration takes you on musical journey through Spain and the Americas. Experience the rich diversity of Latin music worldwide with the soaring melodies of Spain, the thrilling Afro-Cuban rhythms of the Caribbean, the sunlit boleros of Mexico, the elegant tangos of Argentina and Uruguay, and the burning Latin Jazz of Spanish Harlem.
Home for the Holidays Around the World
December 19
Scott Speck conductor North Muskegon H.S. Choir
West Michigan Children’s Choir
Join Scott Speck and your WMS for a fresh twist on this beloved annual holiday tradition: a musical journey around the globe. Celebrate holiday music and traditions from both near and far, featuring a stunning baritone, two talented youth choirs, a festive sing-along, and a visit from Santa himself.
Guitar Romance
April 17
Scott Speck conductor
Pablo Sáinz Villegas guitar
Falla Suite No.1 from The Three-Cornered Hat
Piazzolla Tangazo
Rodrigo Soleriana, Suite for Orchestra
Falla Ritual Fire Dance from El Amor Brujo
Rodrigo Concierto de Aranjuez
Superheroes at the Symphony
January 30
Scott Speck conductor
Williams Superman March
Elfman Batman Suite
Gregson-Williams Wonder Woman Suite
Elfman Spider-Man Main Title
Prokoviev Romeo & Juliet Suite
Stravinsky The Firebird Suite
All-Star Finale
May 8
Scott Speck conductor
Jesús Linárez violin
Glinka Overture to Ruslan and Ludmilla
Brahms Violin Concerto
Saint-Saëns Symphony No. 3 “Organ Symphony”
Fiesta Sinfónica
24/25 SEASON
Immersive Listening Room for the Musically Curious
CONCERTS BEGIN AT 7:30 PM
Tony Monaco Trio Organ Jazz • Mar 14
The Tony Monaco Trio, a powerhouse in jazz, dazzles with Hammond B3 organ mastery. Monaco’s virtuosic playing, combined with the trio’s dynamic chemistry, delivers soulful and energetic performances that breathe new life into classic jazz standards.
Bayberry String Quartet
Classical Chamber • Apr 26
Enjoy an evening filled with the exquisite sound of blended string instruments. You’ll hear string quartets by Mozart, Dvorak and Beethoven, all brought to life by The Bayberry String Quartet.
Inbal Segev
Classical Cello • May 10
The night after her appearance with WMS at the Frauenthal, cellist Inbal Segev brings a solo performance to The Block. She’ll perform music of Bach, Debussy and Prokofiev, as well as some of her own compositions.
Tessa Lark
Classical Violin | Stradgrass • May 31
American violinist Tessa Lark is one of the most captivating artistic voices of our time, consistently praised for her astounding range of sounds, technical agility, and musical elegance. Bridging classical and bluegrass, she’ll weave a unique musical narrative.
Dear Friends,
There’s more to your West Michigan Symphony than meets the eye... and even the ear. What you see before you is truly a miracle: a community resource nurtured and grown over the past 85 years and sustained through the dedication and love of the entire community.
WMS brings together the finest musicians and guest artists from across the country and touches the hearts and souls of listeners of all ages. We are proud to sponsor the 2024/25 Season. Enjoy the performance!
Mike & Kay Olthoff
2024/25 Season Sponsors
WEST MICHIGAN SYMPHONY
Made in Muskegon. 85 years strong. Here's a part of our journey.
2013
Since its 2013 opening, The Block has contributed greatly to the vibrancy of downtown Muskegon. A rarity in the orchestra industry, and unheard of in a community of our size, The Block serves as an exceptional alternative venue providing live music that complements the WMS’s mainstage offerings.
2020
The pandemic heightened the need for music and community, and tested the organization’s ability to adapt to fill this need. By July 2020, performances had been translated into the digital realm, and WMS claimed its spot as the first Michigan orchestra to present a fulllength virtual concert.
2022
The fall of 2022 saw the launch of Tune Up, WMS’s after-school instrumental music program based on the on the international El Sistema model. Presented in partnership with Muskegon Public Schools IMPACT program, students in grades 3-8 receive a new violin or viola and instruction from qualified teaching artists tuition free.
2025
WMS has roared back to life since the pandemic, inspired by its vision to be a catalyst for a music-infused West Michigan. During the 2023/24 Season, WMS played to the largest audiences in more than a decade, celebrated the 20th anniversary of Link UP education program serving more than 4,000 students and six counties, and expanded the Tune Up program.
