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2026-27 Season Brochure

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Norman Huynh, Music Director

Photography: Jimmy Michaels, Last Best Films
Cover Photo: Lisa Woidtke, cello; Chandra Lind, principal cello; Nathan Hallauer, viola; Norman Huynh, conductor; Kristofer Olsen, percussion; Scott Stebbins, bass; and Hillary Fuller, principal bass

Music that Moves Us

. . . Near and Far

Every performance is an invitation to travel across continents and centuries, and deep into the heart of what connects us. Whenever we gather in the concert hall, we set out on a shared journey, guided by music.

This season marks the most expansive and ambitious in the history of the Bozeman Symphony. Together, we will explore a vibrant collection of musical destinations, each program offering its own color, character, and spirit. From beloved masterworks that feel as familiar as home to bold new voices that open windows into distant landscapes of rhythm and imagination, every piece tells a story shaped by place, culture, and time.

We are especially excited to introduce our new Spotlight Series, featuring distinctive, intimate performances by small ensembles of Symphony musicians. These concerts invite you even closer into the nuance, spontaneity, and connection that make live music such a powerful experience.

As musicians, we are travelers too. With our instruments and voices as companions, we journey through these soundscapes and bring them vividly to life, transforming ink on a page into moments of shared discovery. When the music fills the hall, distance fades. What once seemed far away becomes immediate, personal, and profoundly human.

Whether this season carries you somewhere entirely new or returns you to music you cherish, we are honored to travel alongside you. I invite you to listen with curiosity, to savor every musical destination, and to experience how music continues to move us . . . near and far.

Musically yours,

Bozeman Symphonic Classical Series

Experience the power, passion, and connection of live music with our seven-concert Classical Series—where every performance takes you on a journey both close to the heart and across continents and centuries. This is music that moves us emotionally, culturally, and collectively. Travel from the profound drama of Verdi and the radiant elegance of Mozart to the sweeping lyricism of Dvořák and Brahms and the shimmering colors of Debussy. Featuring acclaimed guest artists and the extraordinary talents of our orchestra and choir, each concert offers an immersive, transformative experience. Whether the music stirs cherished memories or opens doors to new horizons, you’ll feel its power to move us . . . near and far.

Sierra Schmeltzer, principal flute; Samantha Vetter, bass; Irene Yoonseo Kang, principal percussion; and Conor Whalen, choir director

PERFORMANCES

Classical Series 1

Opening Weekend

Revolution & Revelry: Shostakovich 5

SEPTEMBER 12 & 13, 2026

Open the season with a thrilling program that bridges continents and eras. Bernstein’s sparkling Candide Overture launches the concert with wit and exuberance, followed by Liszt’s richly expressive Second Piano Concerto, performed by pianist Ying Li, recipient of top awards in numerous national and international competitions. The program culminates in Shostakovich’s monumental Fifth Symphony, a work of searing intensity, resilience, and triumph.

Norman Huynh, conductor
Ying Li, piano
Leonard Bernstein Overture to Candide Franz Liszt
Piano Concerto No. 2 in A major
Dmitri Shostakovich Symphony No. 5 in D minor
Ying LI

PERFORMANCES

Classical Series 2

Bohemian Fire

OCTOBER 10 & 11, 2026

Norman Huynh, conductor

Julian Schwarz, cello

Valerie Coleman

Jennifer Higdon

Antonin Dvořák

This program bridges past and present through music shaped by shared human experience. Valerie Coleman’s Umoja – Anthem of Unity opens with a powerful message of connection, followed by the Montana premiere of Jennifer Higdon’s luminous Cello Concerto, performed by returning Bozeman favorite Julian Schwarz. Dvořák’s dramatic Seventh Symphony brings the program to a sweeping and passionate close.

Umoja – Anthem of Unity

Cello Concerto (Montana Premiere)

Symphony No. 7 in D minor

Julian Schwarz

Classical Series 3

Spirits of the Land

JANUARY 23 & 24, 2027

Norman Huynh, conductor Nick Ober, bassoon

Gabriela Ortiz Kauyumari

Jerod Impichchaachaaha’ Tate Ghost of the White Deer

Johannes Brahms Symphony No. 3 in F major

Inspired by land, legend, and spirit, this program featuring our Principal Bassoonist Nick Ober brings ancient stories to life through sound. Gabriela Ortiz’s Kauyumari and Jerod Impichchaachaaha’ Tate’s Ghost of the White Deer draw on Indigenous mythology and the natural world. Brahms’ lyrical Third Symphony, described by Norman as “the perfect winter symphony,” brings us soundly home.

Ober

Nick

Classical Series 4

Elements in Motion: Pipa and the Sea

FEBRUARY 13 & 14, 2027

Norman Huynh, conductor

Gao Hong, pipa

Qigang Chen

Wu Xing (The Five Elements)

Tan Dun Pipa Concerto

Gao Hong

Yue Xing (Musical Journey)

Claude Debussy La Mer

Celebrate the elemental forces of nature with a program that bridges East and West in a dazzling exploration of sound and color. Featuring internationally acclaimed pipa virtuoso Gao Hong, this concert shines a spotlight on the expressive beauty of the pipa, the ancient Chinese lute whose delicate shimmer and percussive brilliance has captivated audiences for centuries. The concert journeys through Chen’s Wu Xing, Dun’s dynamic Pipa

Concerto, and Hong’s Yue Xing, and culminates with the shimmering power of Debussy’s La Mer.

Gao Hong

Classical Series 5

Northern Lights: Carrie Plays Sibelius

MARCH 20 & 21, 2027

Norman Huynh, conductor

Carrie Krause, violin

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart The Magic Flute Overture

Jean Sibelius Violin Concerto in D minor

Ludwig van Beethoven Symphony No. 2 in D major

From operatic magic to virtuosic intensity and symphonic optimism, this program shines with energy and contrast. Mozart’s enchanting The Magic Flute Overture opens the program, followed by Finnish composer Sibelius’ fierce and lyrical Violin Concerto performed by our Concertmaster Carrie Krause. The concert comes to a joyful close with Beethoven’s exuberant

Second Symphony

Carrie Krause

Classical Series 6

American Trails with Edgar Meyer

APRIL 23, 24, & 25, 2027

Norman Huynh, conductor

Edgar Meyer, double bass

Aaron Copland

Giovanni Bottesini

Four Dance Episodes from Rodeo

Concerto No. 2 for Double Bass and Orchestra /arr. Edgar Meyer

Edgar Meyer

Concerto in D for Double Bass and Orchestra

George Gershwin An American in Paris

This vibrant program celebrates the many voices of America, headlined by virtuoso bassist and composer Edgar Meyer. The wide-open spirit of the frontier comes alive in Aaron Copland’s Rodeo, while the jazz-infused sparkle of George Gershwin’s An American in Paris brings the energy of a bustling city to the concert hall. At the heart of the program, Meyer takes center stage in two dazzling double bass concertos that seamlessly blend classical tradition with Appalachian and bluegrass influences. As The New Yorker

proclaims, he is “the most remarkable virtuoso in the relatively unchronicled history of his instrument.” Don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to experience his artistry live on the Willson stage.

Edgar Meyer

Classical Series 7

Verdi’s Requiem

MAY 15 & 16, 2027

Norman Huynh, conductor

Kathryn Henry, soprano

Lauren Decker, alto

Bryan Hymel, tenor

Thomas Lehman, baritone

Bozeman Symphonic Choir

Giuseppe Verdi

Messa da Requiem

Both sacred and operatic in scope, Verdi’s monumental Requiem unfolds with breathtaking intensity and transcendent beauty. From hushed, prayerful whispers to the thunderous power of the “Dies Irae,” this towering masterpiece reveals the full emotional range of the human spirit—grief, hope, fear, and faith—on an epic scale. Brought to life by acclaimed soloists, chorus, and orchestra, this unforgettable performance features four extraordinary vocalists of the opera stage.

Lauren Decker
Kathryn Henry
Bryan Hymel
Thomas Lehman

Discover the Bozeman Symphony Presents Series where music carries us across genres, generations, and traditions. This season, the orchestra and symphonic choir unite to create powerful performances that resonate close to home while reaching far beyond. From beloved classical masterworks to dynamic favorites from popular repertoire, this series celebrates the music that connects us all. It’s joyful. It’s energizing. It’s music that moves us . . . near and far. Join us for two unforgettable concerts designed to inspire, uplift, and bring our growing community together through the shared experience of extraordinary live music.

Lisa Stoneham, principal bass trombone; Dan Wood, trumpet; and Sarah Stoneback, principal trumpet
Bozeman Symphony Presents Series

Bozeman Symphony Presents Series 1

Holiday Spectacular

DECEMBER 11, 12, & 13, 2026

Norman Huynh, conductor

Madison Leonard, soprano

Bozeman Symphonic Choir

Celebrate the magic of the season with the Bozeman Symphony’s beloved Holiday Spectacular, a heartwarming tradition filled with joy, wonder, and festive cheer. Sparkling orchestral favorites, treasured holiday classics, and a lively carol sing-along come together in a celebration designed to delight audiences of all ages.

Joining the orchestra are the Bozeman Symphonic Choir and acclaimed operatic soprano Madison Leonard, praised for her “lovely vocal delicacy” by The Telegraph and celebrated for her 2025 debut with the Metropolitan Opera in Carmen

She will bring warmth and radiant lyricism to two beloved gems, Brahms’ Wiegenlied and Mozart’s Laudate Dominum.

The orchestra will also shine in the enchanting “Dream Pantomime” from Humperdinck’s Hansel and Gretel, a luminous musical tableau that captures the wonder and innocence of the holiday season. Gather your family and friends and make this festive celebration part of your holiday tradition.

Madison Leonard

PERFORMANCES

Bozeman Symphony Presents Series 2

Season Finale

50 Years of Star Wars

JUNE 12 & 13, 2027

Norman Huynh, conductor

Soar into light speed for an epic season finale celebrating 50 years of Star Wars. From the iconic Main Title and soaring love themes to the thunderous Imperial March, John Williams’ legendary scores come to life in a thrilling symphonic journey across the galaxy.

Bozeman Symphony Spotlight Series

The new Bozeman Symphony Spotlight Series offers intimate performances featuring smaller ensembles of your favorite Symphony musicians, bringing audiences closer to the music and the musicians through thoughtfully curated programs.

Carol McClean, soprano; Jake Kaminetzky, viola; Hillary Fuller, principal bass; Yufu Yoshimura, tenor; and Cordelia Cluett, soprano

Spotlight Series 1

Love through the Ages

OCTOBER 16, 2026

HOPE LUTHERAN CHURCH

Conor Whalen, conductor

Bozeman Chamber Choir

Johannes Brahms

Paul Mealor

Neue Liebeslieder Waltzer

She Walks in Beauty

Claudio Monteverdi Cor mio, mentre vi miro from Madrigal Book IV

Thomas Tallis If Ye Love Me

Arr. Nate Thatcher

Simon Carrington

Gerald Finzi

Joseph Haydn

I Have Never Loved Someone

My Love Is Like A Red, Red Rose

My Spirit Sang All Day

Die Harmonie in der Ehe

Giovanni Gastoldi Amor vittorioso

Joni Mitchell

Both Sides Now /Yukie Smith

From Renaissance Venice to modern-day reflections, this program traces the many expressions of love across centuries. Playful madrigals, Brahms’ charming Neue Liebeslieder Waltzer, and luminous contemporary works come together in a richly expressive evening of choral music.

Spotlight Series 2

Mozart’s Serenade for Winds

MARCH 12, 2027

HOPE LUTHERAN CHURCH

Norman Huynh, conductor

Members of the Bozeman Symphony

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart Serenade No. 10 in B-flat major, Gran Partita

Experience the elegance of the Viennese court through one of Mozart’s most enchanting works for winds. The Gran Partita unfolds with luminous wind textures, playful charm, and profound lyricism, an evening of chamber music at its most refined.

Sandy Stimson, principal oboe, and Nick Ober, principal bassoon

Spotlight Series 3

Terrence Chin-Loy Sings Britten

APRIL 9 & 10, 2027

HOPE LUTHERAN CHURCH

Norman Huynh, conductor

Terrence Chin-Loy, tenor

Members of the Bozeman Symphony

Benjamin Britten

Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky

We are excited to welcome back tenor Terrence Chin-Loy, who was so popular with our 2025 Holiday Spectacular audience, to perform a beloved serenade that anchors this elegant chamber program in his warm, expressive voice. Britten’s evocative Serenade for Tenor, Horn, and Strings sets English poetry with haunting beauty, while Tchaikovsky’s Serenade for Strings overflows with sweeping melodies and Romantic warmth.

Serenade for Tenor, Horn, and Strings

Serenade for Strings

Terrence Chin-Loy

Bozeman Symphonic Choir Series

Delight in the music of the Bozeman Symphonic Choir Series, where the power of choral music comes to life through our dynamic 100-member choir. The choir will perform in the peaceful intimacy of Hope Lutheran Church, delivering a breathtaking performance that captivates audiences and inspires the soul. This season, immerse yourself in an extraordinary program featuring contemplative repertoire that promises to move you emotionally and spiritually.

Monica Macpherson, soprano, and Tyler Flock, bass

Bozeman Symphonic Choir Series

Voices of Faith & Hope

NOVEMBER 13 & 14, 2026

HOPE LUTHERAN

CHURCH

Conor Whalen, choir director

Bozeman Symphonic Choir

Antonin Dvořák

Moses Hogan

Thomas Dorsey

arr. Arnold Sevier

Moses Hogan

Robert Shaw

/Alice Parker

Arr. Shawn Kirchner

Arr. James Erb

Moses Hogan

Mass in D major with organ

I’m Gonna Sing till the Spirit Moves In My Heart

Precious Lord

We Shall Walk Through the Valley

Ride On, King Jesus

Unclouded Day

Shenandoah

Didn’t My Lord Deliver Daniel

Experience a powerful choral journey through faith, hope, and the American spiritual tradition. Dvořák’s radiant Mass in D anchors a program that weaves together classical sacred music and deeply moving spirituals, performed in the resonant setting of Hope Lutheran Church.

Carole McClean and Jennifer Cogley, sopranos

Subscriber Benefits:

• Prime Seating: Enjoy the best seats, reserved for you year after year.

• Exclusive Savings: Get over 10% off regular ticket prices.

• Flexible Ticketing: Exchange tickets at no cost for peace of mind.

• No Extra Fees: Skip the handling fees on all single-ticket purchases.

• Extra Savings: Receive a 10% discount on any additional ticket purchases throughout the season.

• Early Access: Get exclusive access and special discounts for our sought-after Bozeman Symphony Presents, Symphonic Choir, and new Spotlight Series.

Jake Kaminetzky, violist, and Hillary Fuller, principal bass

Four Easy Ways to Subscribe

1. Online for new subscribers only: www.bozemansymphony.org/subscribe

2. Mail: Bozeman Symphony 402 East Main St. Suite 202 Bozeman, MT 59715

3. Telephone: 406-585-9774

4. In-person: 402 East Main St. Suite 202, Downtown Bozeman (M-F 9 AM-5 PM)

Scott Stebbins, bass
Matthew Makeever, assistant conductor; Norman Huynh, music director; and Conor Whalen, choir director
Sue Makeever, flute, and Jerry Makeever, trumpet
Sandy Stimson, principal oboe; Megan McFadden and Jill McJunkin, violin; and Sue Makeever, flute
September 2025 Marsalis & Rachmaninoff concert with violinist Hannah Ji
BALCONY

2026-27 Season at a Glance

Join us for the most expansive and inspiring season in the history of the Bozeman Symphony—an unforgettable journey of powerful masterworks, thrilling guest artists, and moments you’ll want to experience all year long.

Opening Weekend

Revolution & Revelry: Shostakovich 5

SATURDAY, SEPT. 12, 2026 @ 7:30 PM

SUNDAY, SEPT. 13, 2026 @ 2:30 PM

Bohemian Fire

SATURDAY, OCT. 10, 2026 @ 7:30 PM

SUNDAY, OCT. 11, 2026 @ 2:30 PM

Love through the Ages

FRIDAY, OCT. 16, 2026 @ 7:30 PM

HOPE LUTHERAN CHURCH

Voices of Faith & Hope

FRIDAY, NOV. 13, 2026 @ 7:30 PM

SATURDAY, NOV. 14, 2026 @ 2:30 PM

HOPE LUTHERAN CHURCH

Holiday Spectacular

FRIDAY, DEC. 11, 2026 @ 7:30 PM

SATURDAY, DEC. 12, 2026 @ 2:30 & 7:30 PM

SUNDAY, DEC. 13, 2026 @ 2:30 PM

Spirits of the Land

SATURDAY, JAN. 23, 2027 @ 7:30 PM

SUNDAY, JAN. 24, 2027 @ 2:30 PM

Elements in Motion: Pipa and the Sea

SATURDAY, FEB. 13, 2027 @ 7:30 PM

SUNDAY, FEB. 14, 2027 @ 2:30 PM

Mozart’s Serenade for Winds

FRIDAY, MARCH 12, 2027 @ 7:30 PM

HOPE LUTHERAN CHURCH

Northern Lights: Carrie Plays Sibelius

SATURDAY, MARCH 20, 2027 @ 7:30 PM

SUNDAY, MARCH 21, 2027 @ 2:30 PM

Terrence Chin-Loy Sings Britten

FRIDAY, APRIL 9, 2027 @ 7:30 PM

SATURDAY, APRIL 10, 2027 @ 2:30 PM

HOPE LUTHERAN CHURCH

American Trails with Edgar Meyer

FRIDAY, APRIL 23, 2027 @ 7:30 PM

SATURDAY, APRIL 24, 2027 @ 7:30 PM

SUNDAY, APRIL 25, 2027 @ 2:30 PM

Verdi’s Requiem

SATURDAY, MAY 15, 2027 @ 7:30 PM

SUNDAY, MAY 16, 2027 @ 2:30 PM

Season Finale

50 Years of Star Wars

SATURDAY, JUNE 12, 2027 @ 7:30 PM

SUNDAY, JUNE 13, 2027 @ 2:30 PM

Sarah Stoneback, principal trumpet; Kristofer Olsen, percussion; Madeleine Folkerts, principal horn; Lisa Stoneham, principal bass trombone; and Dan Wood, trumpet

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