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Musicin Living Color

Dear Friends,

Welcome to our 81st season! Orchestral music has an extraordinary ability to paint emotion in sound, bold and radiant in one moment, warm and reflective in the next. This season explores the full palette of orchestral color, from intimate textures to the sweeping brilliance of the full orchestra.

You will hear beloved masterpieces alongside new voices, familiar landscapes, and unexpected discoveries. Each program has been shaped with depth, vibrancy, and contrast, revealing the remarkable range of what live music can do: to stir, to surprise, and to bring us together in shared experience.

Whether you join us often or are discovering the symphony for the first time, I invite you to experience Music in Living Color with us!

JAMES LOWE MUSIC DIRECTOR

Romeo & Juliet Americana

SATURDAY

SEPTEMBER 19, 2026 7:30PM

SUNDAY

SEPTEMBER 20, 2026 3PM

JAMES LOWE conductor

MACKENZIE MELEMED piano

Dmitri Kabalevsky

Colas Breugnon Overture, Op.24

Amy Beach

Piano Concerto in C-sharp minor, Op.45

Sergei Prokofiev

Selections from Romeo and Juliet

Kabalevsky’s witty and sparkling Colas Breugnon Overture bursts open the season with swagger and wit. Pianist Mackenzie Melemed brings grandeur and brilliance to Amy Beach’s richly romantic Piano Concerto. Prokofiev’s searing music from Romeo and Juliet closes the night, where love, violence, and heartbreak blaze across one of the orchestra’s most vivid scores.

SATURDAY

OCTOBER 3, 2026 7:30PM

SUNDAY

OCTOBER 4, 2026 3PM

JAMES LOWE conductor ZUILL BAILEY cello

Aaron Copland

Variations on a Shaker Melody

Visions of Humanity (co-commission)

Mark O’Connor

Avner Dorman

Zhou Tian Enrico Chapela

Chanda Dancy-Morizawa

Piotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky

Variations on a Rococo Theme, Op.33

William Grant Still Mother and Child

Aaron Copland Suite from Billy the Kid

What defines the American sound? Cellist Zuill Bailey leads the premiere of Visions of Humanity , a bold suite of variations by five living composers reflecting on shared experience from strikingly different perspectives. Framing the work is a portrait of America, from Copland’s Shaker simplicity and William Grant Still’s lyric warmth to the cinematic sweeping landscapes of Billy the Kid

The Pastoral

SATURDAY

SUNDAY NOVEMBER 7, 2026 7:30PM NOVEMBER 8, 2026 3PM

SAMEER PATEL conductor YVETTE KRAFT violin

Jean Sibelius

Violin Concerto in D minor, Op.47

Ludwig van Beethoven

Symphony No.6 in F major ‘Pastoral’, Op.68

Guest conductor Sameer Patel and local favorite Yvette

Kraft leads us into the wild, chilly, and hauntingly beautiful

Violin Concerto by Sibelius, music of icy brilliance and soaring lyricism. Beethoven’s Pastoral Symphony completes the journey with birdsong, summer storms, and rustic dances that celebrate the restorative beauty of the countryside.

Sponsored by MARY JEWETT GAISER ENDOWMENT FUND

Tchaikovsky Piano Concerto

SATURDAY

SUNDAY JANUARY 16, 2027 7:30PM JANUARY 17, 2027 3PM

JAMES LOWE conductor PHILIP EDWARD FISHER piano

Piotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky

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

Edward Elgar

Symphony No. 1 in A-flat major, Op.55

Pianist Philip Edward Fisher ignites Tchaikovsky’s First Piano

Concerto, famous for its thunderous opening and sweeping melodies. After intermission, Elgar’s First Symphony unfolds in broad, noble themes and surging drama, moving us from shadowed introspection toward a radiant and hardwon triumph.

The Sea

SATURDAY

FEBRUARY 6, 2027 7:30PM

SUNDAY

FEBRUARY 7, 2027 3PM

JAMES LOWE conductor

LEIGH WILSON percussion

Bax’s Tintagel rises from the Cornish cliffs in surging waves of myth and legend. Principal Percussionist Leigh Wilson commands the stage in Jennifer Higdon’s electrifying Percussion Concerto. Debussy’s La Mer completes the voyage in shimmering orchestral color, a masterpiece that captures everything about the ocean: its shimmering morning light, its sudden violence, and its endless mystery.

in D minor, Op.5

Richard Strauss

Horn Concerto No. 2 in E-flat major

Jean Sibelius

Symphony No. 7 in C major, Op.105

Lemminkäinen’s Return, Op.22

Finlandia, Op.26

We journey to the North with Principal Horn, Clinton Webb, as he performs Richard Strauss’s glowing Second Horn Concerto and Sibelius’s Seventh Symphony rises in one sweeping arc toward blazing Nordic affirmation.

Mateusz Plays Shostakovich

SATURDAY SUNDAY MARCH 20, 2027 7:30PM MARCH 21, 2027 3PM

MORIHIKO NAKAHARA conductor

MATEUSZ WOLSKI violin

Andy Akiho Translucent

Dmitri Shostakovich

Violin Concerto No. 1 in A minor, Op.77

Antonín Dvořák

Symphony No. 5 in F major, Op.76

Andy Akiho’s driving Translucent launches the program with propulsive rhythm and neon-lit energy. Concertmaster Mateusz Wolski takes the spotlight in Shostakovich’s gripping first Violin Concerto. The night ends with Dvořák’s sunlit Fifth Symphony, music full of dance rhythms, generosity of spirit and joy.

Operatic

Passions

SATURDAY SUNDAY APRIL 24, 2027 7:30PM APRIL 25, 2027 3PM

JAMES LOWE conductor

MADISON LEONARD soprano

ALEX RICHARDSON tenor

SPOKANE SYMPHONY CHORALE

DR. MEG STOHLMANN chorale director

Opera’s most beloved moments take center stage as Verdi’s soaring choruses, Puccini’s unforgettable arias, and Strauss’s effervescent sparkle bring the drama and emotion of the operatic stage to life. Passion, heartbreak, laughter, and triumph unfold through the extraordinary power of the human voice in an evening rich with melody and theatrical flair.

Sponsored by SHARON FISCHER AND THOMAS KEARNEY

Richard Wagner: Three Excerpts from Act III of Die Meistersinger

Giuseppe Verdi: “Coro di zingari” (Anvil Chorus) from Il trovatore

Charles Gounod: “Ah! Je veux vivre” from Roméo et Juliette

Giacomo Puccini: “Che gelida manina” from La bohème

Verdi: “Va, pensiero” from Nabucco

Verdi: “È strano!... Ah, fors’è lui… Sempre libera” from La Traviata

Wagner: “Siegfried’s Rhine Journey” from Götterdämmerung

Verdi: “Caro nome” from Rigoletto

Puccini: “E lucevan le stelle” from Tosca

Puccini: “Humming Chorus” from Madama Butterfly

Johann Strauss II Overture to Die Fledermaus

Puccini “O mio babbino caro” from Gianni Schicchi

Puccini: Intermezzo from Manon Lescaut

Puccini: “Nessun dorma” from Turandot

MATEUSZ WOLSKI concertmaster

Mahler’s Fifth

SATURDAY

MAY 8, 2027 7:30PM

SUNDAY

MAY 9, 2027 3PM

JAMES LOWE conductor

Gustav Mahler

Symphony No.5 in C-sharp minor

Before the music begins, Music Director James Lowe offers a live LoweDown guide to Mahler’s Fifth Symphony, opening a window into the architecture, emotional world, and hidden connections of this monumental work. Then the symphony itself unfolds as a journey from darkness into blazing light, from a solitary trumpet call to one of the most exhilarating finales in all of symphonic music. Raw, visionary, and ultimately triumphant, Mahler’s Fifth brings the season to a close on the grandest possible scale.

DUGGIN

Get the LoweDown on Masterworks Masterworks & Mimosas

Before select Masterworks weekends led by Music Director James Lowe, join us for a free, engaging deep dive into the program. Using audio clips, visuals, and behind-the-baton insights, James demystifies the music and brings the score to life. Bring your curiosity and your questions for James and his special guests.

◆ NOON–1:00PM

◆ Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture’s

Eric A. Johnston Auditorium

2316 W. First Avenue, Spokane

Inside the Music

Arrive early to your Masterworks concert and enjoy a behind the scenes look at the evening’s program. One hour before curtain, the evening’s conductor welcomes you into the hall to share insights on the repertoire, the composers, and the guest artist—adding context and conversation to your concert experience.

Get an insider’s view of Masterworks as James, the musicians, and our guest artist put the finishing touches on each piece at this working rehearsal. Enjoy a mimosa, coffee, and pastries during this unique experience.

THE FOX THEATER

◆ TICKETS: $37

SUBSCRIPTION OF ALL THREE: $87 including all fees

◆ TIME: 10:00AM – Noon

◆ DOORS: 9:00AM

◆ Saturday, September 19, 2026: Romeo & Juliet

◆ Saturday, February 27, 2027: Celebrating Sibelius

◆ Saturday, May 8, 2027: Mahler’s Fifth

Save at the Symphony

We believe everyone deserves the chance to experience the power of live orchestral music. That’s why we offer a variety of affordable and free ticket programs for students, educators, and our community.

FREE ACCESS STUDENT TICKETS (FASTix): MASTERWORKS

STUDENTS IN GRADES K–12 ATTEND MASTERWORKS CONCERTS FOR FREE.

◆ Purchasing a subscription? FASTix may accompany an adult with a full Masterworks Subscription, as seating allows.

◆ Contact the Box Office at 509-624-1200 —our friendly staff is happy to help accommodate your family.

COLLEGE CARDS

◆ Masterworks College Card

Attend the entire Masterworks Season for just $40.

◆ NEW! Pops College Card

Attend every Pops concert for $60.

◆ Experience it all: Full Masterworks and Pops seasons for only $100.

CLASS PASS

Teachers and educators may request free tickets to any Masterworks concert for their classroom.

◆ Call the Box Office at 509-624-1200 to learn more and secure your Class Pass.

NEW $25 YOUTH TICKETS: POPS & SPECIALS

New this season, kids K-12 can attend concerts for only $25 a ticket. Tickets can be purchased online of through the box office. Some exclusions apply.

MILITARY DISCOUNT

The Spokane Symphony proudly honors members of the U.S. Armed Forces.

Active duty, veterans, reservists, retirees, and military spouses receive a 10% discount on all Spokane Symphony performances.

LIBRARY TICKETS

Tickets to select Spokane Symphony concerts are available through the Spokane County Libraries, Liberty Lake Library, and Spokane Public Library. Check with your local library on availability and checkout procedures.

GROUP DISCOUNTS

Because music is better when shared.

◆ Groups of 10–49: 10% discount

◆ Groups of 50+: 20% discount

◆ Transit drivers may be eligible for complimentary tickets

Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue

SATURDAY

OCTOBER 10, 2026 7:30PM

JAMES LOWE conductor

Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue remains the ultimate symphonic celebration of American life—bold, brassy, and as vibrantly chaotic as the city streets that inspired it. Join the Spokane Symphony for an evening of raw jazz energy and unforgettable Gershwin classics.

Sponsored by

ANN FENNESSY AND BOB MAIXNER ANONYMOUS

MUSIC OF JONI MITCHELL, CAROLE KING & CARLY SIMON

SATURDAY NOVEMBER 14, 2026 7:30PM

TED SPERLING conductor

Few artists have shaped the singer-songwriter era like Joni Mitchell, Carole King, and Carly Simon. Their songs defined a generation, capturing love, independence, and self-discovery with honesty and brilliance.

An evening of timeless music with the Spokane Symphony featuring hits like Both Sides Now, You’ve Got a Friend, You’re So Vain, and more.

Joni Mitchell, Carole King, and Carly Simon do not perform live in this concert.

Sponsored by

CAROL AND BRUCE NELSON

MARY RUTH CARLETON AND BRUCE HUNT

Holiday Pops

Jazzy Winter Wonderland Clouds in My Coffee

SATURDAY

DECEMBER 12, 2026 7:30PM

SUNDAY

DECEMBER 13, 2026 3PM

MORIHIKO NAKAHARA conductor SARAH JONES vocals

Sponsored by SPOKANE SYMPHONY ASSOCIATES

Our annual Holiday Pops returns with a soulful, jazz-infused twist on your favorite holiday classics. Join vocalist Sarah Jones, the Spokane Symphony Chorale, and the full orchestra for a night of festivities—complete with Santa Claus and our signature holiday sing-a-long!

Star Wars vs. Star Trek

MARCH 13, 2027 7:30PM

Will the Force be with you, or will you live long and prosper? The Spokane Symphony invites you to a cosmic clash of epic proportions as the legendary music of Star Wars and Star Trek go head-tohead on The Fox stage. From the iconic themes of John Williams to the thrilling scores of Michael Giacchino, experience an orchestral showdown that spans galaxies, generations, and fandoms. Choose your side—and let the music decide.

This performance is music only and does not include film screenings

Sponsored by DEBBIE MAURUS AND JOE WESSMAN

Cirque de la Symphonie

SATURDAY APRIL 10, 2027 7:30PM

MORIHIKO NAKAHARA conductor CIRQUE DE LA SYMPHONIE

The Spokane Symphony joins forces with the acclaimed Cirque de la Symphonie for a breathtaking, family-friendly spectacle. Choreographed to a stunning selection of classical masterpieces and contemporary favorites, aerial flyers, contortionists, jugglers, and strongmen will achieve the seemingly impossible alongside the live orchestra.

Sponsored by DICK TRUDELL AND DR. NANCY MORRISON, PHD

The Goonies Elf

FRIDAY

OCTOBER 30, 2026 7:30PM

MORIHIKO NAKAHARA conductor

“Hey You Guuuuys!” Join a group of misfits on a search for long-lost treasure, complete with a treasure map, deadly booby traps, a ruthless crime family, and Baby Ruth candy bars. Experience one of the most-loved films of the ’80s with the Spokane Symphony playing the entire score live to picture. No matter the dangers—Goonies never say die!

SATURDAY

DECEMBER 19, 2026 7:30PM

SUNDAY

DECEMBER 20, 2026 3:00PM

MORIHIKO NAKAHARA conductor

Nobody spreads Christmas cheer quite like Buddy the Elf! This holiday season, relive this heartwarming holiday classic on a giant screen as every note of John Debney’s wonderful score is played live to picture in Elf in Concert!

ELF and all related characters and elements © & ™ New Line Productions, Inc.

NEW! $25 YOUTH TICKETS. See page 11 for details

The Princess Bride

conductor

Fencing, fighting, revenge, giants, monsters, chases, escapes, true love, miracles...

Experience one of the most beloved films of all time as never before… with the power of the Spokane Symphony performing the entire musical score live-topicture! Missing this cinematic concert experience would be inconceivable!

Labor Day with the Spokane Symphony

◆ LUD KRAMER MEMORIAL CONCERT

SATURDAY

SEPTEMBER 5, 2026 6:00PM

Liberty Lake Pavilion Park

◆ CONCERT AT COMSTOCK PARK

MONDAY

SEPTEMBER 7, 2026 6:00PM

JAMES LOWE conductor

Free and open to the public.

Music Director James Lowe and the full orchestra lead the audience through a playlist of classics to pop-culture blockbusters. Come for the music, stay for the memories, and say goodbye to summer with the people who make your community home.

Sponsored by

Dolly Parton’s Threads:

My Songs in Symphony

Featuring Dolly on screen

Handel’s Messiah

THURSDAY

NOVEMBER 19, 2026 7:30PM

FRIDAY

NOVEMBER 20, 2026 7:30PM

SATURDAY

NOVEMBER 21, 2026 3:00PM

JAMES LOWE conductor

SATURDAY OCTOBER 24, 2026 7:30PM

MORIHIKO NAKAHARA conductor

This innovative multimedia experience featuring Dolly on screen will bring you on a visual-musical journey of her songs, her life, and her stories. Backed by the full orchestra, hear hit songs, including “Jolene,” “Coat Of Many Colors,” and “I Will Always Love You,” in addition to Dolly’s personal favorites.

Co-produced by Dolly Parton together with Schirmer Theatrical and Sony Music Publishing.

SPOKANE SYMPHONY CHORALE

DR. MEG STOHLMANN chorale director

The Nutcracker with

State Street Ballet

Sensory-Friendly Nutcracker

WEDNESDAY

DECEMBER 2, 2026 6:00PM

Sponsored by STEPHANIE PLOWMAN in loving memory of Gary Plowman, former SSO oboist

THURSDAY

DECEMBER 3, 2026 7:30PM

FRIDAY

DECEMBER 4, 2026 7:30PM

SATURDAY

DECEMBER 5, 2026 3:00PM AND 7:30PM

SUNDAY

DECEMBER 6,2026 3:00PM

JAMES LOWE conductor

Sponsored by

New Year’s Eve

The Music of Led Zeppelin

SATURDAY APRIL 3, 2027 7:30PM

BRENT HAVENS conductor

Bridging the gulf between rock n’ roll and classical music, the Spokane Symphony performs Windborne’s The Music of Led Zeppelin. Performed with the orchestra and amplified by a full rock band and vocals, this show captures Led Zeppelin’s distinct sound while presenting familiar and new musical colors. Hits include “Stairway to Heaven,” “Rock and Roll,” “Ramble On,” “Kashmir,” “The Ocean,” “Heartbreaker,” and “Immigrant Song.”

Beethoven’s Ninth Cody Fry with the Spokane Symphony

THURSDAY

DECEMBER 31, 2026 7:30PM

JAMES LOWE conductor

SPOKANE SYMPHONY CHORALE

DR. MEG STOHLMANN chorale director

Sponsored by

Chamber Soirées

WEDNESDAY THURSDAY

OCTOBER 21, 2026 7:30PM OCTOBER 22, 2026 7:30PM

WEDNESDAY THURSDAY

FEBRUARY 10, 2027 7:30PM FEBRUARY 11, 2027 7:30PM

WEDNESDAY THURSDAY APRIL 14, 2027 7:30PM APRIL 15, 2027 7:30PM

FRIDAY APRIL 30, 2027 7:30PM

MORIHIKO NAKAHARA conductor

SPOKANE SYMPHONY CHORALE

DR. MEG STOHLMANN chorale director

Cody Fry returns to perform with the Spokane Symphony in an all-new show, bringing his signature blend of orchestral arrangements, storytelling, and songwriting back to The Fox stage. This is an evening designed not just to be heard, but to be felt.

HISTORIC DAVENPORT HOTEL

An intimate symphonic concert set within the storied grandeur of the Historic Davenport Hotel—where timeless music comes alive in an unforgettable, up close experience.

Sponsored by DR. MICHAEL EBINGER AND DR. BRITT RAVNAN / RICK AND KATHY FRIEDLANDER

FAMILY CONCERT SERIES

Listen. Dance. Sing. Discover!

NEW THIS SEASON!

Experience the orchestra in a space designed for families. This high-energy introduction to the orchestra embraces your child’s natural energy—no shushing required! Arrive early for fun lobby activities, including crafts, games, and an instrument petting zoo. You’ll also enjoy special performances by Spokane Elite Dance and other talented local youth musicians.

Come as you are and leave with memories to talk about on the way home. With affordable, family-friendly pricing, it’s the perfect way to share the magic of music together. Kids of all ages are welcome! This program is designed for children ages 5–12. All attendees must have a ticket.

Peter & The Wolf Wands, Wizards & Dragons

SUNDAY OCTOBER 11, 2026 2:00PM

Fairy Tales & Fables

SUNDAY JANUARY 24, 2027 2:00PM

SUNDAY APRIL 4, 2027 2:00PM

EDUCATION AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT SEASON SPONSOR: FUTURE SONG FOUNDATION

The Spokane Symphony Belongs to Our Community

Our impact expands into classrooms, community centers, libraries, healthcare facilities, and neighborhoods throughout the Inland Northwest. Led by Jason Moody, Associate Concertmaster and Director of Education and Community Engagement, our musicians are committed to building a brighter future through the power of music.

Symphony

TOP: Nearly 6,000 elementary students and teachers attend our annual Symphony Day performances at The Fox.

RIGHT: An interactive community event at Thrive International. (Hannah Reitz, violin)

Day is made possible by the Hagan Foundation honoring Amy Bragdon

RIGHT: Ensemble rehearsal for Symphony Side-by-Side Concert with Spokane Public High Schools. (Roberta Bottelli, cello)

BOTTOM LEFT: Music and Medicine

Dementia Project at Brookdale Senior Living.

BOTTOM RIGHT:

John Marshall, principal cello, plays for newborns and caregivers in the NICU at Holy Family Hospital.

EDUCATION AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT SPONSORS

I.S. AND EMILY FETTERMAN FOUNDATION WELTY FOUNDATION

SUBSCRIBER BENEFITS AT A GLANCE

FEATURE MASTERWORKS & POPS PACKAGES CURATED BY YOU

Savings Save up to 30% off single tickets Save up to 25% off single tickets

Seating Keep your seats year after year Based on availability

Exchanges Free within your series $10 fee + price difference

Add-On Discount

– 25% off additional tickets

What’s New?

– 25% off additional tickets

To offer greater flexibility, our 1, 2, 3 Go! and Flex 5 packages have been streamlined into a Concert Experience Curated by You Package. You can now design your ideal year of music by choosing any three or more concerts that fit your schedule and budget.

Exclusive Perks

◆ Payment Plans: Spread the cost of your subscription over 3 easy installments.

◆ Exclusive Access: Enjoy special offers, early presales, and invitations to special events throughout the season.

◆ Bring a Friend on Us: Subscribe to the full Masterworks or Pops Series and we will send you a voucher for two free tickets to a concert in your series.

PRO TIP: ADDED TICKETS COST LESS NOW

◆ Add extra tickets when you subscribe to save up to 25% off single ticket prices.

◆ Buy Early! Finalize your subscription by Friday, September 11, 2026 to maximize your savings with no fees.

Flexible Ticket Exchanges

We know plans change. We offer flexible options to ensure you never miss a beat:

◆ Masterworks & Pops Series Subscribers: Exchange tickets within your series for free. You can also swap one concert into a different series (Masterworks to Pops or vice versa) at no additional charge.

◆ Concert Experience Curated by You: Exchange any show ticket in your package for a different performance for just a $10 exchange fee (plus any difference in ticket price).

Important Dates

◆ JUNE 5, 2026: Renewal deadline to retain your current seats (Full Series Masterworks & Pops).

◆ JUNE 18, 2026: Subscribers Curating Their Own Concert Experience will receive their seating assignments.

Pricing & Seating Chart

Support the Music You Love

Your support makes it possible for a student to explore their creative potential at youth concerts and for an elderly family member living with dementia to “find themselves” again, if only for an hour, as a familiar melody sparks a clear and beautiful memory. Ticket sales cover only a portion of these costs. When you give, you aren’t just funding a concert, you are ensuring that music remains a source of connection and healing for our community.

How You Can Help Us Grow

SPONSOR A PERFORMANCE:

Is there a concert this season that speaks to you? Sponsoring a performance is a beautiful way to say “thank you” for the music.

MONTHLY GIVING:

It’s a simple, budget friendly way to make a real difference all year long.

GIFTS OF STOCK & DONOR ADVISED FUNDS:

This is a practical way to make a significant impact while potentially offering tax advantages for you. We are happy to work directly with you or your broker to facilitate the transfer.

ONE-TIME GIFTS:

Every dollar goes directly toward the musicians on stage and our education and community initiatives. No gift is too small to be meaningful.

BUSINESS PARTNERSHIPS:

This is a direct way to support the arts in our community while reaching our dedicated audience. Your brand will receive high-visibility recognition and you’ll enjoy exclusive perks.