Sunday, May 6th, 2012 | by Detroit Symphony Orchestra
(DETROIT, May 6, 2012) —During an international webcast to some 30 countries this afternoon, Detroit Symphony
Orchestra (DSO) Music Director Leonard Slatkin announced the DSO’s first new concertmaster in 24 years. Yoonshin Song, distinguished member of The Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra, has won the position of Concertmaster of the DSO. The announcement was made on-stage after intermission to a packed house at the Orchestra’s final “Pictures at an Exhibition” performance. Kimberly Kaloyanides Kennedy, who has gracefully served as Acting Concertmaster during the 2011-12 season, will maintain that title until Song officially joins the Orchestra in September 2012.
“The DSO has a long tradition of engaging outstanding concertmasters. With the appointment of Yoonshin Song, we continue the high level established for this orchestra,” said Slatkin. “Yoonshin, in only a few days, established herself as one of the very best. Her musical skills and method of communication go hand in hand with my own philosophies. All of us look forward to a long and fruitful relationship.”
Song, 30, who played with the DSO as Guest Concertmaster for this weekend’s performances of “Pictures at an Exhibition,” will make her solo debut next May with the Brahms’ Violin Concerto. Her debut piece will replace the originally-scheduled Brahms’ Symphony No. 3.
This was the first audition process for Concertmaster after Emmanuelle Boisvert, who held the position for 23 years, left the DSO to accept the Associate Concertmaster position with the Dallas Symphony Orchestra in May of 2011.
“This is an example of one of the unique aspects of an orchestra’s open audition process: the opportunity to be completely and wonderfully surprised by an unknown candidate selecting us, and then earning our admiration and respect,” said Anne Parson, DSO President and CEO. “We are delighted to welcome Yoonshin to the DSO family.”
Kimberly Kaloyanides Kennedy, Acting Concertmaster of the DSO said, “I am thrilled with the committee’s decision. Having Yoonshin here is a great shot in the arm. I look forward to sitting with such a superb player and person. She is exactly what this orchestra needs.” READ MORE
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