Symphony Story, 100 Years, 25/26 Season, Ads by Peter Rodgers

100 YEARS TOGETHER IN MUSIC / ADS

contributions include:

CONCEPT

DESIGN

ART

WRITING

EDITING

PHOTOS

MEDIA RELATIONS

Peter Alden Rodgers served as Director of Marketing for the Madison Symphony Orchestra from July 2016 through December 2025. Beginning with the launch of the MSO’s 100th anniversary season in April 2025, public relations, email, print, broadcast, social media, video, digital, outdoor, billboards, airport kiosks — myriad campaigns were designed to maximize subscriptions and single ticket sales.

The season opened with two single concerts and two companion special events in September. The Centennial Opening Celebration on Friday, “Pure Joy Opening Night, Magical Tchaikovsky & Maestro’s Dinner” featured a 90-minute concert with pianist Olga Kern in Overture Hall, followed by an elegant dinner in the Overture Lobby honoring Music Director John DeMain’s 32nd season and 100 years of bringing music to life in Madison. On Saturday, “Soar with Cirque de la Symphonie & Party into the Night” presented Cirque Goes to the Cinema with circus artists performing with MSO playing famous film scores in Overture Hall. The after-party featured DJ Terrence J, dancing and food stations.

Eight classical subscription concerts plus two MSO at the Movies presentations are a part of the 25/26 Symphony season.

A free Centennial Festival Weekend will take place in June 2026 featuring MSO musicians and diverse community groups on a rotating schedule throughout Overture Center. Main stage performances include an MSO Family Concert, Overture Concert Organ performance, and “greatest hits” of classical music with a special appearance by Julian Rhee, winner of the 2017 Bolz Young Artist Competition

Presented here are select published print ads introducing and supporting the 100th Anniversary Season that appeared April 2025 through early 2026.

QUARTET PERFORMANCES

John DeMain, Conductor

Philippe Bianconi, Piano

Michelle Johnson, Soprano

Eric Greene, Baritone

Madison Symphony Chorus, Beverly Taylor, Director

Our 99th season finale opens with Gershwin’s Cuban Overture, pulsing with Caribbean rhythms from dance music he fell in love with on a vacation to Havana.

Beloved pianist Philippe Bianconi returns for his seventh appearance performing Gershwin’s masterpiece Concerto in F. Our maestro John DeMain has conducted more than 400 performances of Gershwin’s Porgy and Bess throughout the world. He led a historymaking production with the Houston Grand Opera, winning a Grammy Award, Tony Award, and France’s Grand Prix de Disque for the RCA recording. He brings Michelle Johnson, Eric Greene, and our Madison Symphony Chorus together to share his passion for this iconic work to close the season!

George Gershwin, Cuban Overture

George Gershwin, Piano Concerto in F

George Gershwin/Robert Russell Bennett Porgy and Bess:

may 20

TUESDAY, 7:00 PM OVERTURE CENTER FOR THE ARTS PROMENADE HALL 4/27/25,

Experience the healing power of music.

The resident quartet of our award-winning HeartStrings® program, the Rhapsodie Quartet, includes our Co-Concertmaster Suzanne Beia, Principal Violist Christopher Dozoryst, Principal Cellist Karl Lavine, and violinist Laura Burns. United in mission, the members of the quartet create a fusion of talent, passion, and heart in their performances. More: madisonsymphony.org/rhapsodie

THURSDAY, 7:00 PM ARTS + LITERATURE LABORATORY

may 22

The Hunt Quartet is the resident string quartet of the MSO’s nationally-recognized Up Close & Musical® program, designed to bring the power and beauty of classical music into elementary school classrooms throughout Dane County. Individual quartet members visit separate classrooms to conduct exciting and interactive lessons that send students on a hunt for the concepts of melody, rhythm, expression, and form. The quartet, consisting of violinists Paran Amirinazari and Hillary Hempel, violist Jennifer Paulson, and cellist Trace Johnson, also performs recitals that are free and open to the public. More: madisonsymphony.org/hunt

JAN 23-25 FRANK STRAUSS BRAHMS Guest Conductor Yefim Bronfman, Piano

FEB 20-22 MENDELSSOHN | KORNGOLD DEBUSSY STRAVINSKY Guest Conductor Rachel Barton Pine, Violin

MAR 20-22 STRAUSS MOZART ORTIZ | RESPIGHI John DeMain, Conductor Emanuel Ax, Piano APR 10-12 LÓPEZ | RODRIGO | SIBELIUS Guest Conductor Los Angeles Guitar Quartet, Guest Artists MAY 1-3 BEETHOVEN

We’re thrilled to showcase the talent of young aspiring musicians here in Madison. Two Suzuki Strings ensembles will perform in the Overture Lobby.

Friday & Saturday, 6:45 p.m. - 7:15 p.m.

Sonora Strings: 15 student musicians

Sunday, 1:45 p.m. - 2:15 p.m.

40 youth musicians

Time for Three violinist Nick Kendall began playing the violin when he was three years old. His grandfather — the renowned violin pedagogu John Kendall — was a pioneer in bringing the Suzuki method from Japan to the United States in the 1960s. We’re honored to highlight this connection and the opportunity to present Suzuki Strings this weekend.

About Suzuki Strings

Since 1990, Suzuki Strings of Madison has provided children of all ages quality, comprehensive musical instruction through the violin. By helping to foster a positive environment and working relationship between the teacher, child, and parent, students learn the tools for success and well-being that last a lifetime.

Suzuki Strings of Madison (SSM) offers children and youth of all ages high-quality musical instruction on the violin and viola using the pedagogy of Dr. Shinichi Suzuki. As a community of students, teachers, families, and friends, SSM is dedicated to helping all reach their full musical potential through private and group instruction, ensembles, workshops, performances, and other activities. SSM provides faculty with a stimulating environment of mutual respect, in which duties and ideas are shared, strengths are recognized and utilized, and individual growth and continuing education are valued. Embracing the philosophy of Dr. Suzuki, SSM believes that a musical education nurtures the human spirit and fosters social harmony.

Thank you to Diana Popowycz, Co-founder and Director of Suzuki Strings of Madison, and Paran Amirinazari, Director of the Sonora Strings touring ensemble and Madison Symphony Orchestra musician, for their help bringing these musicians to perform before our concerts!

concise and dramatic Second genre-bending string trio Time for Three Puts’ Contact, a Grammy-winning piece to premiere in the summer of 2020, of yearning for human contact during selection of movements from one of Prokofiev’s Romeo and Juliet, will leave

Sonoara Strings

John DeMain, Conductor

Philippe Bianconi, Piano

Michelle Johnson, Soprano

Eric Greene, Baritone

Madison Symphony Chorus, Beverly Taylor, Director

Our 99th season finale opens with Gershwin’s Cuban Overture, pulsing with Caribbean rhythms from dance music he fell in love with on a vacation to Havana. Beloved pianist Philippe Bianconi returns for his seventh appearance performing Gershwin’s masterpiece Concerto in F. Our maestro John DeMain has conducted more than 400 performances of Gershwin’s Porgy and Bess throughout the world. He led a history-making production with the Houston Grand Opera, winning a Grammy Award, Tony Award, and France’s Grand Prix de Disque for the RCA recording. He brings Michelle Johnson, Eric Greene, and our Madison Symphony Chorus together to share his passion for this iconic work to close the season!

George Gershwin, Cuban Overture

George Gershwin, Piano Concerto in F

George Gershwin/Robert Russell Bennett, Porgy and Bess: A Concert of Songs

PHILIPPE BIANCONI

ERIC GREENE

MICHELLE JOHNSON

Be part of the experience.

World-renowned guest soloists include Olga Kern, Christopher Taylor, Alban Gerhardt, Yefim Bronfman, Rachel Barton Pine, Emanuel Ax, Julian Rhee, Ailyn Pérez, and the Los Angeles Guitar Quartet. Subscribers can add MSO at the Movies (Disney and Pixar’s Toy Story in Concert, Live to Film and Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark™ Live in Concert), plus September special events (Centennial Opening Weekend), to their subscription before single tickets go on sale August 23, 2025

Share our love of music together. You can subscribe now to 5-8 concerts ($90-$660) and save 10–25%

View our 25/26 season brochure online for complete details about your Symphony’s exciting 100th Anniversary concerts and events. Explore and subscribe: madisonsymphony.org/100

NOTE: Dates, artists,

change.

8 Subscription concerts

4 Guest conductors 2 MSO at the Movies

2 Centennial Celebration opening concerts & events FREE Centennial Festival weekend in June 2026 1

Be part of the experience.

Celebrate a century of joy bringing live music to life. Your Madison Symphony Orchestra’s 25/26 subscription concert season will take place between October 2025 and May 2026 — presenting eight triple-performances featuring orchestral masterpieces — including the world premiere of EARTH: A Choral Symphony by Jake Heggie and librettist Gene Scheer, and works by Tchaikovsky, Beethoven, Bates, Franck, Mahler, Haydn, Mussorgsky, Strauss, Brahms, Mendelssohn, Korngold, Debussy, Stravinsky, Mozart, Ortiz, Respighi, López, Rodrigo, and Sibelius! World-renowned guest soloists include Olga Kern, Christopher Taylor, Alban Gerhardt, Yefim Bronfman, Rachel Barton Pine, Emanuel Ax, Julian Rhee, Ailyn Pérez, and the Los Angeles Guitar Quartet. Subscribers can add MSO at the Movies (Disney and Pixar’s Toy Story in Concert, Live to Film and Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark™ Live in Concert ), plus September special events (Centennial Opening Weekend), to their subscription before single tickets go on sale August 23, 2025. Share our love of music together. You can subscribe now to 5-8 concerts ($90-$660) and save 10–25%. View our 25/26 season brochure online for complete details about your Symphony’s exciting 100th Anniversary concerts and events. Explore and subscribe: madisonsymphony.org/100

FRIDAY CONCERT 6:00 PM

OVERTURE HALL

DINNER

OVERTURE LOBBY

JOHN DEMAIN Conductor

SATURDAY CONCERT 7:30 PM

OVERTURE HALL

AFTER-PARTY

OVERTURE CENTER

Pure Joy Opening Night

Magical Tchaikovsky & Maestro’s Dinner

Before the Symphony subscription season kicks off in October, we invite you to join us for two very special events on September 19 and 20, 2025. “Pure Joy Opening Night: Magical Tchaikovsky & Maestro’s Dinner” will include a classical concert featuring the Madison Symphony Orchestra and guest pianist Olga Kern, conducted by John DeMain, at 6:00 p.m. in Overture Hall, followed by a cocktail reception and formal dinner in the Overture Hall Lobby on Friday, September 19. The all-Tchaikovsky program will feature his Romeo and Juliet, Fantasy Overture, Piano Concerto No. 1 in B-flat minor , and Theme and Variations from Suite No. 3 . Combo tickets for the concert and dinner are $300 per person including premium concert seating. Tickets for the concert only are $30–$100.

madisonsymphony.org/ purejoy

Soar with...

Cirque de la Symphonie & Party into the Night

“Soar with Cirque de la Symphonie & Party into the Night” will bring together the magic of circus arts and our orchestra in Overture Hall on Saturday, September 20 at 7:30 p.m. In Cirque goes to the Cinema, Cirque acrobats will perform original choreographed acts while the Madison Symphony Orchestra, conducted by John DeMain, performs music from famous film scores, including Harry Potter and Star Wars (John Williams), Mission Impossible (Lalo Schifrin) , The Sting (Scott Joplin), Gladiator (Hans Zimmer) , West Side Story (Leonard Bernstein) , My Heart Will Go On from Titanic (James Horner), and more! A lively after-party with food stations, DJ Terrence J, and dancing follows the concert. Tickets for the concert only are $30–$100, and admission to the after-party may be purchased for an additional $50 per person.

madisonsymphony.org/ cirque

Single tickets for our Centennial Celebration events go on sale July 21, 2025 (subject to availablity).

Dates, artists, programs, and prices subject to change.

OLGA KERN Piano

Romeo

MADISON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

JOHN DEMAIN MUSIC DIRECTOR

YE ARS TOGETHER IN MUSIC

CENTENNIAL OPENING CELEBRATION

FRIDAY CONCERT

Pure Joy Opening Night:

Magical Tchaikovsky

OLGA KERN Piano

JOHN DEMAIN

Conductor

Before the Symphony subscription season kicks off in October, we invite you to join us for two very special events on September 19 and 20, 2025 “Pure Joy Opening Night: Magical Tchaikovsky” will include a classical concert featuring the Madison Symphony Orchestra and guest pianist Olga Kern conducted by John DeMain in Overture Hall on Friday, September 19th at 6:00 p.m.

The all-Tchaikovsky program will feature his Romeo and Juliet, Fantasy Overture, Piano Concerto No. 1 in B-flat minor, and Theme and Variations from Suite No. 3

MUSIC

PYOTR ILYICH TCHAIKOVSKY

Romeo and Juliet, Fantasy Overture

Piano Concerto No. 1 in B-flat minor, Op. 23 Theme and Variations from Suite No. 3, Op. 55

madisonsymphony.org/purejoy

Be part of the experience.

Love great music. Find it here.

MADISON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

JOHN DEMAIN MUSIC DIRECTOR

1OO

YE ARS TOGETHER IN MUSIC SEP 20

CENTENNIAL OPENING CELEBRATION SAT CONCERT & AFTER-PARTY

Soar with Cirque de la Sympho nie & Party into the Night

Join us for the magic of circus arts and our orchestra in Overture Hall on Saturday, September 20 at 7:30 p.m. In Cirque goes to the Cinema Cirque acrobats will perform original choreographed acts while the Madison Symphony Orchestra, conducted by John DeMain, performs music from famous film scores, including Harry Potter and Star Wars (John Williams), Mission Impossible (Lalo Schifrin), The Sting (Scott Joplin), Gladiator (Hans Zimmer) West Side Story (Leonard Bernstein) My Heart Will Go On from Titanic (James Horner), and more! A lively afterparty with food stations, DJ Terrence J, and dancing follows the concert. Tickets for the concert only are $30–$100, and admission to the after-party may be purchased for an additional $50 per person.

DJ TERRENCE J

madisonsymphony.org/cirque

Centennial Celebration Tickets

Purchase by phone (608) 258-4141 , in-person at the Overture Box Office, online at madisonsymphony.org or overture.org. Groups of 10 or more receive a 25% discount: madisonsymphony.org/groups.

$15 Student Rush tickets are available (with ID) starting on Wednesday 9/17 through each concert day in-person at the Overture Box Office (best available).

OLGA KERN

FRIDAY CONCERT 6:00 PM OVERTURE HALL

DINNER OVERTURE LOBBY

DEMAIN Conductor

SATURDAY CONCERT 7:30 PM OVERTURE HALL

AFTER-PARTY OVERTURE CENTER

Pure Joy Opening Night

Magical Tchaikovsky & Maestro’s Dinner

madisonsymphony.org/ purejoy

Soar with...

Cirque de la Symphonie & Party into the Night

madisonsymphony.org/ cirque

Single tickets for our Centennial Celebration concerts on sale now (subject to availablity).

Love great music. Find it here.

JOHN

OLGA KERN Piano

Your Madison Symphony Orchestra’s 100th Anniversary season is here!

Music is a universal language for everyone. Experiencing the thrill of live music together is uplifting and unforgettable. The Madison Symphony Orchestra’s story of innovation, passion for music, education, resilience, and vision, spans a century — breaking barriers, and setting new standards of excellence. This month, your Symphony begins its 100th year anniversary celebration of joy bringing music to life in Madison.

“100 Years Together in Music” opens with the “Centennial Celebration” on September 19 and 20. “Pure Joy Opening Night: Magical Tchaikovsky & Maestro’s Dinner.” On Friday night, John DeMain conducts the MSO and pianist Olga Kern returns for the all-Tchaikovsky concert in Overture Hall, followed by a cocktail reception and formal dinner in the Lobby. On Saturday night, “Soar with Cirque de la Symphonie & Party into the Night” brings together the magic of circus arts and MSO performing music from famous film scores. An after-party with food stations, DJ Terrence J, and dancing, follows the concert.

The 25/26 season presents eight triple-performance subscription concerts featuring orchestral music performed by MSO musicians and worldrenowned guest soloists, plus two MSO at the Movies live-to-film concerts , from October 2025 through May 2026. This season celebrates Maestro John DeMain’s 32nd and final year as Music Director, before the next artistic leader takes the baton and begins shaping the future of the orchestra.

A highlight of the season is the creation of an original composition for orchestra, by Jake Heggie in collaboration with librettist Gene Scheer and John DeMain, featuring combined choirs, and Metropolitan Opera superstar Ailyn Pérez. This major new work, “EARTH: A Choral Symphony,” premieres at the final symphony subscription concerts in May 2026. It will celebrate our beautiful planet and humanity’s place on it — inspired by the past, present, and future — exploring themes of truth and possibility.

The “Centennial Festival Weekend” is the culmination of “100 Years Together in Music,” June 13-14, 2026. “A Community Gift and Dream – for the Love of Music” is a free, two-day open house celebration featuring MSO musicians and diverse community groups performing throughout Overture Center for the Arts each day. Main stage events include a Family Concert and Overture Concert Organ performance on Saturday, June 13, and MSO concert on Sunday, June 14, presenting many of the “greatest hits” of classical music. The Sunday concert features a special appearance by one of the top violinists in the world, Julian Rhee, winner of the 2017 Bolz Young Artist Competition.

The Madison Symphony Orchestra takes pride in its evolution and a clear vision to compose a new future connecting community and expanding musical horizons. You’re invited to share your love of live music together — everyone can be part of the experience.

madisonsymphony.org

Be part of the experience.

Your Madison Symphony Orchestra’s 100th Anniversary season is here!

The 25/26 season presents eight triple-performance subscription concerts featuring orchestral music performed by MSO musicians and world-renowned guest soloists, plus two MSO at the Movies liveto-film concerts , from October 2025 through May 2026. This season celebrates Maestro John DeMain’s 32nd and final year as Music Director, before the next artistic leader takes the baton and begins shaping the future of the orchestra.

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER, MAGAZINE, 2-PAGE SPREAD

Subscribe to 5-8 concerts & save up to 25% off single ticket prices ($90-$660). madisonsymphony.org

Create Your Own

4 Concert Classical Series & save 10% off single ticket prices.

Any 4 of 8 symphony subscription concerts. Any day. Any seat. Any price level. madisonsymphony.org/ createyourown

Single Tickets On Sale Now!

Purchase single tickets ($20-$115) by phone (608) 258-4141

in-person at the Overture Box Office, online at madisonsymphony.org or overture.org.

Beginning a new chapter

Following our celebration of the 20th anniversary of the Overture Concert Organ with you all last season, can’t wait to create new and exciting memories together this year! I open the season in October with a concert of great organ and choir works, featuring the UW–Madison Concert Choir conducted by Mariana Farah. In November, renowned trumpeter and former Canadian Brass member, Caleb Hudson will join me on stage for a concert of organ and solo trumpet music. In February, the famed organist, Felix Hell, returns to Overture Hall for the first time since his debut in 2012. We wrap up our 21st season in harmony with the Madison Symphony Orchestra’s 100th anniversary celebration, with an intimate evening of music featuring nine MSO musicians performing repertoire for organ and chamber ensemble. I look forward to the start of this thrilling new decade of our Overture Concert Organ Series! – Greg Zelek Principal Organist and Elaine and Nicholas Mischler Curator of the Overture Concert Organ

FRIDAY

CONCERT 6:00 PM

OVERTURE HALL

Pure Joy Opening Night:

Magical Tchaikovsky

Romeo and Juliet, Fantasy Overture Piano Concerto No. 1 in B-flat minor, Op. 23

Theme and Variations from Suite No. 3, Op. 55

MADISON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

JOHN DEMAIN MUSIC DIRECTOR

SATURDAY CONCERT 7:30 PM OVERTURE HALL

AFTER-PARTY OVERTURE LOBBY

YE ARS TOGETHER IN MUSIC

Soar with Cirque de la Sympho nie & Party into the Night

“Soar with Cirque de la Symphonie & Party into the Night” will bring together the magic of circus arts and our orchestra in Overture Hall on Saturday, September 20 at 7:30 p.m. In Cirque goes to the Cinema , Cirque acrobats will perform original choreographed acts while the Madison Symphony Orchestra, conducted by John DeMain, performs music from famous film scores, including Harry Potter and Star Wars (John Williams), Mission Impossible (Lalo Schifrin), The Sting (Scott Joplin), Gladiator (Hans Zimmer) , West Side Story (Leonard Bernstein) , My Heart Will Go On from Titanic (James Horner), and more! A lively after-party with food stations, DJ Terrence J , and dancing follows the concert. Tickets for the concert only are $30–$100, and admission to the afterparty may be purchased for an additional $50 per person.

Be part of the experience.

madisonsymphony.org/ cirque

Tickets: $30-$100. Purchase in-person at the Overture Center Box Office, 201 State Street, by phone (608) 258-4141 or online at madisonsymphony.org Groups of 10 or more receive a 25% discount! Details at madisonsymphony.org/groups

Buy $15 Student Rush tickets (with ID) starting on Wednesday 9/17 through each concert day in-person at the Overture Box Office (best available).

MADISON

JOHN

John DeMain, Conductor Olga Kern, Piano madisonsymphony.org/ purejoy John DeMain, Conductor

Romeo and Juliet, Fantasy Overture

Piano Concerto No. 1 in B-flat minor, Op. 23 Theme and Variations from Suite No. 3, Op. 55

MADISON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

JOHN DEMAIN MUSIC DIRECTOR Be

JOHN

THIS FRIDAY

SEPT 19, 6:00 PM OVERTURE HALL

John DeMain, Conductor

Olga Kern, Piano

SINGLE CONCERT TONIGHT!

PYOTR ILYICH TCHAIKOVSKY

Romeo and Juliet, Fantasy Overture

Piano Concerto No. 1 in B-flat minor, Op. 23

Theme and Variations from Suite No. 3, Op. 55

madisonsymphony.org/ purejoy

TOMORROW, SATURDAY

SEPT 20, 7:30 PM OVERTURE HALL

In Cirque goes to the Cinema, Cirque acrobats will perform with the MSO presenting music from famous film scores including Harry Potter and Star Wars, Mission Impossible, The Sting, Gladiator, West Side Story, and My Heart Will Go On from Titanic. The after-party features food stations, DJ Terrence J, and dancing (additional $50 per person).

John DeMain, Conductor madisonsymphony.org/ cirque

Single Tickets On Sale Now!

Purchase single tickets ($20-$115) by phone (608)258-4 141 , in-person at the Overture Box Offic e, and online at madisonsymphony.org or overture.org.

to 5-8 concerts & save up to 25% off single ticket prices starting at $90. madisonsymphony.org/100

Create Your Own

4 Concert Classical Series & save 10% off single ticket prices. Any 4 of 8 symphony subscription concerts. Any day. Any seat. Any price level. Use code: MSO4 madisonsymphony.org/createyourown

Group Sales

Save 25% off single ticket prices when you come with a group of 10 or more! madisonsymphony.org/groups

Student Rush

Buy $15 Student Rush tickets (with ID) starting on Wednesdays through each concert day in-person at the Overture Box Office (best available). madisonsymphony.org/rush madisonsymphony.org/100

of rebirth. César Franck’s Symphonic Variations is a masterpiece of collaboration between piano and orchestra celebrating the interplay of poetic musical voices. Christopher Taylor’s virtuosic artistry is a perfect fit for this intimate and lyrical work. Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No. 2 is one of the most profound and transformative works ever. Written over six years, it journeys from a somber funeral march to a luminous vision of resurrection and renewal. Mahler once described this symphony as “my whole life in one work.” Themes of struggle, hope, and transcendence will bring us to a glorious reassurance of light in our lives.

MUSIC

MASON BATES, Resurrexit

CÉSAR FRANCK Symphonic Variations, M. 46

GUSTAV MAHLER Symphony No. 2 in C minor, “Resurrection”

SPONSOR

EMILY FONS Mezzo-Soprano

SYMPHONY CHORUS Beverly Taylor, Director

NOV 21-23

FRIDAY & SATURDAY 7:30 PM | SUNDAY 2:30 PM

ROBERT MOODY Guest Conductor

ALBAN GERHARDT Cello

Alban Gerhardt has gained recognition as one of the world’s most versatile cellists, highly regarded for his technical mastery, profound musicality, and insatiable artistic curiosity. Notable orchestral collaborators include Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra, all the British and German radio orchestras, Berliner Philharmoniker, Tonhalle-Orchester Zürich, Orchestre National de France, Orquesta Nacional de España as well as The Cleveland Orchestra, Philadelphia, Chicago symphony orchestras and New York Philharmonic, under conductors such as Christoph von Dohnányi, Kurt Masur, Klaus Mäkelä, Christian Thielemann, Simone Young, Susanna Mälkki, Vladimir Jurowski and Andris Nelsons.

MUSIC

CHRISTOPHER THEOFANIDIS Rainbow Body

JOSEPH HAYDN Cello Concerto in D Major, Hob.VIIb:2

MODEST MUSSORGSKY arr. MAURICE RAVEL Pictures at an Exhibition

madison symphony.org/radiance

ROBERT MOODY Guest Conductor

Concert &

Fall Crafting Festival

Radiance

Rainbow Body , a luminous work by American composer Christopher worlds together to take us on a spellbinding journey. Inspired of Bingen, the piece reimagines her melodies in lush, cinematic showcase of elegance and virtuosity brought to life with wit who makes his fifth appearance with us. He is beloved by Exhibition orchestrated by Ravel is a feast for the senses a visual scene, from the playful “Ballet of the Unhatched dazzling colors and bold drama, this music will take you on

JOSEPH HAYDN Cello Concerto in D Major, Hob.VIIb:2

ALBAN GERHARDT

Cello

Radiance

Christopher Theofanidis weaves ancient and modern

Inspired by the chant Ave Maria by medieval mystic Hildegard cinematic orchestration. Haydn’s Cello Concerto No. 2 is a wit and charm by internationally acclaimed Alban Gerhardt our musicians and audiences. Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an painting vivid musical portraits. Each movement captures Chicks” to the majestic “Great Gate of Kiev.” With its on an unforgettable exploration of sound and imagination.

A Madison Symphony Christmas

This spectacular annual celebration has become a joyful way to begin the holiday season in our community for concertgoers of all ages. It’s no wonder that Maestro DeMain is bringing two of his favorite soloists, soprano Alexandra LoBianco and bass-baritone Kyle Ketelsen, to share their gifts, for his 32nd season. The Madison Symphony Chorus, Madison Youth Choirs, and the Mt. Zion Gospel Choir join us to bring this special concert to life. You’ll experience the same blend of familiar and new once again this year. It starts with caroling in the lobby with the Chorus before each performance to set the mood. Bring your family and friends to share this beloved Madison tradition with us!

MUSIC

JOHN DEMAIN Conductor

ALEXANDRA LOBIANCO Soprano

OCT 17-19

JOHN

PRESENTING SPONSOR Rosemarie and Fred Blancke

MAJOR SPONSORS Marilyn Ebben, in memory of Jim Ebben

Larry and Jan Phelps

Martha and Charles Casey

Robert and Linda Graebner

ADDITIONAL SPONSORS Margaret Murphy, in memory of Howard Kidd, Rodney Schreiner and Mark Blank Wisconsin

YE ARS TOGETHER IN MUSIC

Primal Light

This concert opens with a fresh take on the story of resurrection with lush layers of colorful sound evoking a cinematic feel. Resurrexit by Mason Bates will take you on a mystical pilgrimage with shimmering exotic tonalities that give way to contemplation and dramatic stirrings of rebirth.

César Franck’s Symphonic Variations is a masterpiece of collaboration between piano and orchestra celebrating the interplay of poetic musical voices. Christopher Taylor’s virtuosic artistry is a perfect fit for this intimate and lyrical work. Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No. 2 is one of the most profound and transformative works ever. Written over six years, it journeys from a somber funeral march to a luminous vision of resurrection and renewal. Mahler once described this symphony as “my whole life in one work.” Themes of struggle, hope, and transcendence will bring us to a glorious reassurance of light in our lives.

MASON BATES, Resurrexit

CÉSAR FRANCK

Symphonic Variations, M. 46

GUSTAV MAHLER

Symphony No. 2 in C minor, “Resurrection”

EMILY FONS Mezzo-Soprano

JENI HOUSER Soprano

MADISON SYMPHONY CHORUS Beverly Taylor, Director

Radiance

Rainbow Body , a luminous work by American composer Christopher Theofanidis weaves ancient and modern worlds together to take us on a spellbinding journey. Inspired by the chant Ave Maria by medieval mystic Hildegard of Bingen, the piece reimagines her melodies in lush, cinematic orchestration. Haydn’s Cello Concerto No. 2 is a showcase of elegance and virtuosity brought to life with wit and charm by internationally acclaimed Alban Gerhardt who makes his fifth appearance with us. He is beloved by our musicians and audiences. Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition orchestrated by Ravel is a feast for the senses painting vivid musical portraits. Each movement captures a visual scene, from the playful “Ballet of the Unhatched Chicks” to the majestic “Great Gate of Kiev.” With its dazzling colors and bold drama, this musicwill take you on an unforgettable exploration of sound and imagination.

madisonsymphony.org/ radiance

MUSIC

…Moody and the symphony were all focused, creating a truly thrilling performance… – Winston Salem Journal

ROBERT MOODY Guest Conductor

JOSEPH HAYDN

Cello Concerto in D Major, Hob.VIIb:2 CHRISTOPHER THEOFANIDIS Rainbow Body

MODEST MUSSORGSKY arr. MAURICE RAVEL Pictures at an Exhibition

Internationally acclaimed conductor Robert Moody is well known as guest conductor to the world’s greatest orchestras, including Chicago Symphony, Toronto Symphony, and Los Angeles Philharmonic, Vienna Chamber Orchestra (Austria), and many major orchestras around the world. Moody, recently named Music Director for the Baltimore Chamber Orchestra (MD) is also music director for Memphis Symphony Orchestra (TN) and Arizona Musicfest, as well as Principal Conductor for Lakeland Opera (FL). Prior to these positions he was music director for both the Portland Symphony Orchestra (Maine) and WinstonSalem Symphony (NC), and on conducting staffs for Phoenix Symphony, Santa Fe Opera, Brevard Music Center, and the Interschool Orchestras of New York City.

MAJOR SPONSORS

Judith Werner, in memory of Stephen Caldwell

Capitol Lakes

Skofronick Family Charitable Trust

ADDITIONAL SPONSORS

Scott and Janet Cabot, in honor of Ann Bowen

David Lauth and Lindsey Thomas

Bassam Shakhashiri

Wisconsin Arts Board

Radiance

He is beloved by our musicians and audiences. Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition orchestrated by Ravel is a feast for the senses painting vivid musical portraits. Each movement captures a visual scene, from the playful “Ballet of the Unhatched Chicks” to the majestic “Great Gate of Kiev.”

MUSIC

ROBERT MOODY

Radiance

MOODY Guest Conductor

Pictures at an Exhibition orchestrated by Ravel is a feast for the senses painting vivid musical portraits. Each movement captures a visual scene, from the playful “Ballet of the Unhatched Chicks” to the majestic “Great Gate of Kiev.” With its dazzling colors and bold drama, this music will take you on an unforgettable exploration of sound and imagination.

ALBAN GERHARDT Cello

MUSIC

CHRISTOPHER THEOFANIDIS Rainbow

JOSEPH HAYDN Cello Concerto in D Major, Hob.VIIb:2

MUSSORGSKY arr. MAURICE RAVEL Pictures at an

Be part of the experience.

Concert & Fall Crafting Festival

Saturday, Nov. 22, 9:30 p.m.*

Connect with other classical music lovers ages 21-40 and enjoy an exclusive post-concert event in the Overture Center’s Promenade Hall. Make themed crafts, enjoy the fall food spread, grab a drink at the cider bar, take a picture in the Oh Snap Madison Photo Booth and participate in a Pumpkin Painting Contest for the chance to win some prizes! Tickets are $40 and include a price level 3 “Radiance” concert seat and post-concert event access with drink tickets provided. If you’ve already purchased concert tickets, event-only tickets are only $20. Available online now & on site starting at 6:00 p.m. Saturday in the Overture Lobby! *Approximate start time following the concert

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A Madison Symphony Christmas

Bring your pipes, and your friends and family, to raise a joyful noise with the Overture Concert Organ and MSO’s Principal Organist Greg Zelek, John Jutsum, and Marc Fink. All ages are welcome, and no tickets or reservations are

Carol Rhapsody, Richard Purvis

O Come, All Ye Faithful John Jutsum, Timpani Joy to the World Hanukkah Arrangements Marc Fink, Oboe Oh Hanukkah

I Have a Little Dreydl Chanuka Maoz Tsur

O Little Town of Bethlehem Hark, the Herald Angels Sing

Sleigh Ride, Leroy Anderson In the Bleak Midwinter Marc Fink, Oboe Angels We Have Heard on High Silent Night, Holy Night

The First Nowell John Jutsum, Timpani

Postlude Sur Un Noël, “Bring a Torch, Jeanette, Isabella” Denis Bédard

John Jutsum, Timpani

Presented in partnership with Overture Center for the Arts

madisonsymphony.org/carolsing

The Hunt Quartet of the Madison Symphohny Orchestra’s Up Close & Musical® program includes violinists Paran Amirinazari and Hillary Hempel, violist Jennifer Paulson, and cellist Trace Johnson.

PROGRAM SELECTIONS

Maurice Ravel, String Quartet in F Major, M.35 I. Allegro moderato – très doux II. Assez vif – très rythmé III. Très lent IV. Vif et agité

Franz Schubert, Quartet No. 13 in A Minor, D.804, Op.29, ‘the Rosemunde Quartet’ I. Allegro ma non troppo II. Andante III. Minuetto: Allegretto-Trio IV. Allegro moderato

A Madison Symphony Christmas

The soprano [Alexandra LoBianco] hasunbelievable voice control and an uncanny ability to blend with the orchestra, chorus, and fellow soloists. At times, her voice felt like a broad stable presence perfectly seated within a larger harmony, while at other times it shined above the ensemble though never at the expense of a perfect blend. – The Cap Times