Monday, May 20th, 2013 | by Detroit Symphony Orchestra

DETROIT, (May 20, 2013) –Detroit Symphony Orchestra (DSO) Concertmaster Yoonshin Song will make her solo debut on stage at Orchestra Hall this week, performing Brahms’ Concerto for Violin. The program, led by Maestro Leonard Slatkin, will also include Respighi’s Ancient Airs and Dances, Suite No. 3, and the world premiere of Kerry Turner’s Concerto for Horn and Orchestra, “The Gothic” featuring DSO Principal Horn Karl Pituch. Performances will be held at Orchestra Hall on Thursday, May 23 at 7:30 p.m., Friday, May 24 at 10:45 a.m. and Sunday, May 26 at 3 p.m. at The Seligman Performing Arts Center in Beverly Hills.

On Thursday, May 22, all patrons are invited to enjoy a free pre-concert discussion one hour prior to each performance by DSO Assistant Conductor, Teddy Abrams and Composer, Kerry Turner as they discussing Turner’s Concerto for Horn and Orchestra, “The Gothic” along with composition techniques and life as a horn player.

Yoonshin Song, who became concertmaster of the DSO this season, was born in South Korea where she began her musical studies at age 5. Making her orchestral debut at age 11, she has since built a successful performing career throughout Korea, the United States, and Europe. Song earned her master’s degree and Graduate Diploma under the tutelage of Donald Weilerstein at the New England Conservatory and recently completed the Artist Diploma and Professional Study programs at Manhattan School of Music, where she studied with Robert Mann and Glenn Dicterow.

Winner of the Stradivarius International Violin Competition, Song earned many prestigious prizes throughout her career. Some highlights include prizes in the Young Concert Artists International Competition in New York, Lipizer International Violin Competition in Italy, Henry Marteau International Violin Competition in Germany, Wieniawski International Violin Competition in Poland, and Ima Hogg International Competition in Houston. In her native South Korea, Song has won virtually all the major national competitions. Most recently, Song received the David G. Whitecomb Foundation Award and gave a recital in Germantown, New York, which was well received by critics and audience members.

Since giving her debut recital after winning the Jeunesses Musicales Audition in 1999, she has been sought after as a recitalist performing throughout Korea, the United States and Europe to great acclaim. As a soloist she has performed with many orchestras around the world such as Houston Symphony Orchestra, P.Constantinescu Philharmonic Orchestra, Bayreuth Festival Orchestra, KBS Philharmonic Orchestra, Seoul Philharmonic Orchestra, Korean Baroque Chamber Orchestra, among many others. Most recently, Song made her Utah Symphony Orchestra debut in the 2010 Deer Valley Music Festival.

Song has participated both as a charismatic soloist and an imaginative chamber musician in numerous music festivals such as Marlboro Music Festival, Aspen Music Festival, Perlman Music Program, Encore String Festival, Miyazaki Chamber Music Festival in Japan, Nice International Summer Academy, and Yfrah Neaman International Music Course in Europe.

Karl Pituch was named Principal Horn of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra in 2000. In 1988, he finished as one of the top five hornists at the 37th International Music Competition in Munich, Germany. Pituch was the grand prizewinner at the 1989 American Solo Horn Competition and has been a finalist at many other solo competitions.

Before joining the DSO, Pituch was Associate Principal Horn with the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, Principal Horn with the Honolulu Symphony Orchestra, the Jacksonville Symphony, the Colorado Music Festival Orchestra and the Chautauqua Festival Orchestra. He served as a guest Principal Horn for the Los Angeles Philharmonic at the Edinburgh Music Festival in Scotland and at the Hollywood Bowl. He also served as guest Principal Horn with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra on their European Tour in 2004 and the Grand Teton Festival Orchestra in Jackson Hole, Wyo. Pituch can be heard on many recordings with the Dallas, San Francisco and Honolulu Symphony Orchestras.

As a soloist, Pituch has performed with orchestras in Japan, Hawaii, Colorado, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Ohio, Florida and Michigan. He has been a frequent guest artist at numerous horn conferences and has served as a judge in the American Horn Competition. An active chamber musician, Pituch was a member of the Spring Wind Quintet for 11 years and participated in chamber music festivals in Marlboro, Vt.; Crested Butte, Colo.; Kapalua, Maui; Kazusa, Japan (with the Center City Brass Quintet); and Freden, Germany (with the American Horn Quartet).

Pituch earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Toledo where he studied with Mary Kihslinger. He also studied with Froydis Wekre of the Oslo Philharmonic and Dale Clevenger of the Chicago Symphony. For seven years, he was the horn instructor at the University of Hawaii.

Internationally acclaimed American conductor Leonard Slatkin began his appointment as Music Director of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra in September of 2008. He was recently named Music Director of the Orchestre National de Lyon (ONL), France, beginning with the 2011-12 season. In addition, Mr. Slatkin continues to serve as Principal Guest Conductor of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, a post that began in the fall of 2008.

TICKET INFORMATION

Individual tickets to “Welcome Yoonshin Song” are $15 and may be purchased at the Max M. Fisher Music center box office (3711 Woodward Ave., Detroit); by calling (313) 576-5111; or online at dso.org. Detroit residents may reserve a ticket for $15 each in any section, excluding box level, within two weeks of the performance. A valid photo ID with Detroit address is required. For group discount information (10 people or more), please contact Chuck Dyer at (313) 576-5130 or cdyer@dso.org.

PERFORMANCE

“Welcome Yoonshin Song”

Orchestra Hall

Thursday, May 23 at 7:30 p.m.

Friday, May 24 at 10:45 a.m.

Seligman Performing Arts Center

Sunday, May 26 at  3 p.m.

Leonard Slatkin, conductor

Yoonshin Song, violin

Karl Pituch, horn

* indicates a world premiere

About the DSO

The internationally acclaimed Detroit Symphony Orchestra, which celebrated its 125th anniversary in December 2012, is known for trailblazing performances, visionary maestros, collaborations with the world’s foremost musical artists, and an unwavering commitment to Detroit. Esteemed conductor Leonard Slatkin, called “America’s Music Director” by the Los Angeles Times, became the 12th Music Director of the DSO during the 2008-09 season and acclaimed conductor, arranger, and trumpeter Jeff Tyzik was appointed Principal Pops Conductor in November 2012. The DSO’s performance schedule includes Classical, Pops, Jazz, Young People’s, Neighborhood concerts, and collaborations with chart-topping musicians from Smokey Robinson to Kid Rock.  A commitment to broadcast innovation began in 1922 when the DSO became the first orchestra in the world to present a radio broadcast and continues today with the free Live from Orchestra Hall webcast series.  Making its home at historic Orchestra Hall at the Max M. Fisher Music Center, one of America’s most acoustically perfect concert halls, the DSO actively pursues a mission to impact and serve the community through music.  For more information visit dso.org or download the free DSO to Go mobile app.

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Thursday, May 16th, 2013 | by Detroit Symphony Orchestra

Honda presents DSO with $150,000 to further youth strings education

DETROIT, (May 16, 2013) – On Sunday, May 19, 150 Detroit students (grades 3-8) will perform on stage at Orchestra Hall, displaying months of hard work as participants in the Honda Power of Dreams String Music Project, a program presented by Honda and the Detroit Symphony Orchestra (DSO).

“Most of the children involved in this project would otherwise never have had the opportunity to even touch an instrument, let alone learn what effect playing music can have on every aspect of their life,” said Charles Burke, DSO senior director of Education. “Thanks to Honda, some of them will pursue classical music as a career, but no doubt all of them will never forget this experience.”

To commemorate the completion of five years of the Power of Dreams partnership, Honda will present the DSO with $150,000 that will provide participating students with another year of music education.

“Honda joined the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and Wayne State University on this project because our company values education, the arts and children,” said Edward Miller, senior manager of Media and Industry Relations at Honda North America, Inc. “The Power of Dreams program unites all three for the benefit of our city and a new generation of rising artists.”

WHEN:           Sunday, May 19 at 7 p.m.

Students will perform works by Vivaldi, Scott Joplin and more, conducted by Tanya Bennett and Leslie DeShazor-Adams

WHERE:         Max M. Fisher Music Center, Orchestra Hall

3711 Woodward Ave., Detroit 48201

About the Power of Dreams String Music Project

In 2008, Honda provided the DSO with a gift of more than $1 million to create The Power of Dreams Music Education Fund with the purpose of supporting and expanding the DSO’s nationally acclaimed music programs for young people, and particularly an effort to encourage and support involvement of children in Detroit.

This unique program, in collaboration with the Wayne State University Department of Music and Shar Products Company, is made available to students for whom string education is not currently available or opportunities are extremely limited. The program features a variety of opportunities for students to study classical Violin, Viola, Cello, and Bass through participation in various levels of group lessons, ensemble training, and individual lessons.

Honda is the world’s largest engine maker, producing a vast array of products, including automobiles, motorcycles, power equipment and, soon, jet aircraft –  all designed to advance mobility and improve the lives of people through continued innovations in technology and design. Based on its belief in The Power of Dreams, and in the ability of individuals to create a new and better future for society, Honda also supports a variety of initiatives aimed at advancing education and creating experiences of discovery that help people to see and achieve their own dreams. For more information on Honda’s philanthropic efforts and other innovative business initiatives, please visit corporate.honda.com

For more information about Detroit Symphony Orchestra educational programs, visit the organization online at dso.org.

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Wednesday, May 15th, 2013 | by Detroit Symphony Orchestra

Ticket sales nearly double other festival capacities

(DETROIT, May 13, 2013)—The Detroit Symphony Orchestra has returned home after performing two triumphant concerts at Carnegie Hall, the orchestra’s first appearance on the famed stage in 17 years and what The New York Times called “the high point” of the Spring For Music festival. Hailed as “ground-breaking, and frankly breathtaking” by ConcertoNet, ticket sales for the DSO’s two concerts reached nearly 4,500, almost double the sales of any other orchestra.

Nearly 1,000 Detroiters attended each concert, waving red rally flags to show support for Detroit and their hometown orchestra.

In celebration of the DSO’s return, tickets to all remaining classical season concerts come with a voucher for your choice of free gift: CD from the DSO CD store, glass of wine or beer at your concert, parking, close and convenient to Orchestra Hall, or a digital download of Leonard Slatkin’s recent performances of Beethoven’s Second and Fourth Symphonies.

For all details about the DSO’s trip to Carnegie Hall, visit dso.org/carnegiehall.

The DSO’s participation in Spring For Music was made possible with generous support from the General Motors Foundation, Cadillac and the William Davidson Foundation.

The General Motors Foundation provided a $350,000 grant to the DSO for music education initiatives, including its involvement in the prestigious Spring For Music festival. In addition to funding from the Foundation, Cadillac vehicles transported DSO Civic Mentors, musicians and special guests during the week-long festival.

About DSO’s Carnegie Hall performances

On May 9 and 10, the DSO became the first orchestra ever to perform two unique programs during New York’s visionary Spring For Music Festival. Joined by Oregon crossover artist Storm Large and the University Musical Society Choral Union, the repertoire included all four Charles Ives symphonies performed for the very first time on the same program, as well as Kurt Weill’s Seven Deadly Sins, selections by Rachmaninoff and Ravel’s La Valse. Click here to listen to the concerts at WQXR’s Broadcast Archive.

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Monday, May 13th, 2013 | by Detroit Symphony Orchestra

DETROIT, (May 13, 2013) – The Detroit Symphony Orchestra (DSO) is proud to join Target as they present Family Days, a host of free fun, educational and enlightening performances on May 17 and May 18. The two day celebration, filled with beloved classical favorites will take place an informal and family friendly orchestral setting creating an enjoyable experience for all ages.

The Max M. Fisher Music Center will be transformed into a paradise for young music fans with face painting, arts & crafts, and more!

WHEN:           Friday, May 17, 2013

7:30 p.m. in Orchestra Hall – Conductors, Charles Burke and Dr. Kenneth Thompson

Experience the enjoyment of classical music with musicians from the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, the DSO’s Civic Orchestra and Civic Wind Symphony – Michigan’s premiere youth ensembles.  This free performance will run approximately 90 mins.

Saturday, May 18, 2013

12 p.m. in Orchestra Hall– Assistant Conductor, Teddy Abrams

Get ready for a world-class 90 min performance and interactive moments of audience participation with DSO Assistant Conductor, Teddy Abrams as he leads DSO musicians, the DSO’s Civic Orchestra and Civic Wind Symphony as they play beloved classical favorites for all to enjoy.

WHERE:         Max M. Fisher Music Center

3711 Woodward Ave., Detroit, Mich.

TICKET INFORMATION

Tickets to Family Days are free general admission. Subscriptions are now available for the 2013-14 Family concert series, beginning at $40. For group discount information (10 people or more), please contact Chuck Dyer at (313) 576-5130 or cdyer@dso.org.

About the DSO

The internationally acclaimed Detroit Symphony Orchestra, which celebrated its 125th anniversary in December 2012, is known for trailblazing performances, visionary maestros, collaborations with the world’s foremost musical artists, and an unwavering commitment to Detroit. Esteemed conductor Leonard Slatkin, called “America’s Music Director” by the Los Angeles Times, became the 12th Music Director of the DSO during the 2008-09 season and acclaimed conductor, arranger, and trumpeter Jeff Tyzik was appointed Principal Pops Conductor in November 2012. The DSO’s performance schedule includes Classical, Pops, Jazz, Young People’s, Neighborhood concerts, and collaborations with chart-topping musicians from Smokey Robinson to Kid Rock.  A commitment to broadcast innovation began in 1922 when the DSO became the first orchestra in the world to present a radio broadcast and continues today with the free Live from Orchestra Hall webcast series.  Making its home at historic Orchestra Hall at the Max M. Fisher Music Center, one of America’s most acoustically perfect concert halls, the DSO actively pursues a mission to impact and serve the community through music.  For more information visit dso.org or download the free DSO to Go mobile app.

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Tuesday, May 7th, 2013 | by Detroit Symphony Orchestra

DETROIT, (May 6, 2013) – The Detroit Symphony Orchestra (DSO), along with sought-after Pops Conductor, Michael Krajewski will “Come Together” for a tribute to Lennon & McCartney, the greatest songwriting duo of the second half of the 20th century.  The performance featuring Lennon  and McCartney chart toppers such as, “Get Back” will take place at Orchestra Hall on Friday, May 17 at 10:45 a.m.; Saturday, May 18 at 8 p.m.; and Sunday, May 19 at 3 p.m.

About Michael Krajewski

Known for his entertaining programs and clever humor, Michael Krajewski is a much sought after conductor of symphonic pops. He is the principal pops conductor of the Houston Symphony, the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra, and the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra – the first to hold such a title in Atlanta.

As a guest conductor Michael has performed with the Boston Pops, the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra and the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra. Other guest conducting appearances include the San Francisco, Dallas, Baltimore, Detroit, Indianapolis, Seattle, Phoenix and National symphonies, as well as many other orchestras across the United States. In Canada he has led the National Arts Centre Orchestra, the Calgary Philharmonic, and the Edmonton, Kitchener-Waterloo and Winnipeg symphonies. Other international appearances include performances with the Hong Kong Philharmonic, Iceland Symphony Orchestra and the Ulster Orchestra in concerts in Belfast and Dublin.

Michael is the conductor of the video Silver Screen Serenade with violinist Jenny Oaks Baker that aired worldwide on BYU Broadcasting. On recording he has led the Houston Symphony on two holiday albums: Glad Tidings and Christmas Festival. Michael’s collaborative programs have included such artists as flutist James Galway, mezzo Marilyn Horne, pianist Alicia de Larochha, guitarist Angel Romero, and pop artists Roberta Flack, Judy Collins, Art Garfunkel, Kenny Loggins, Ben Folds, Doc Severinsen, Patti Austin, Sandi Patty, Ann Hampton Callaway, the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, The Chieftains, Pink Martini, Rockapella, Cirque de la Symphonie, Classical Mystery Tour and Big Bad Voodoo Daddy.

With degrees from Wayne State University in Detroit and the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, Michael furthered his training at the Pierre Monteux Domaine School for Conductors. He was a Dorati Fellowship Conductor with the Detroit Symphony and later served as that orchestra’s assistant conductor. He was resident conductor of the Florida Symphony and for eleven years served as music director of the Modesto Symphony Orchestra. Michael lives in Orlando, Florida with his wife Darcy. When not conducting he enjoys travel, photography and crossword puzzles.

TICKET INFORMATION

Tickets to see Music of John Lennon & Paul McCartney at Orchestra Hall range from $19-$68 and $105 for box seats. Tickets may be purchased at the Max M. Fisher Music Center box office (3711 Woodward Ave., Detroit); by calling (313) 576-5111; or online at dso.org. For group discount information (10 people or more), please contact Chuck Dyer at (313) 576-5130 or cdyer@dso.org.

PERFORMANCE

Music of John Lennon & Paul McCartney

Michael Krajewski, conductor

Jim Owen, rhythm, guitar, piano, vocals

Tony Kishman, bass guitar, piano, vocals

John Merjave, lead guitar, vocals

Chris Camilleri, drums, vocal

Friday, May 17 at 10:45 a.m.

Saturday, May 18 at 8 p.m.

Sunday, May 19 at 3 p.m.

Performing selections from the following:

About the DSO:

The internationally acclaimed Detroit Symphony Orchestra, which celebrated its 125^th anniversary in December 2012, is known for trailblazing performances, visionary maestros, collaborations with the world’s foremost musical artists, and an unwavering commitment to Detroit. Esteemed conductor Leonard Slatkin, called “America’s Music Director” by the Los Angeles Times, became the 12th Music Director of the DSO during the 2008-09 season and acclaimed conductor, arranger, and trumpeter Jeff Tyzik was appointed Principal Pops Conductor in November 2012. The DSO’s performance schedule includes Classical, Pops, Jazz, Young People’s, Neighborhood concerts, and collaborations with chart-topping musicians from Smokey Robinson to Kid Rock.  A commitment to broadcast innovation began in 1922 when the DSO became the first orchestra in the world to present a radio broadcast and continues today with the free Live from Orchestra Hall webcast series.  Making its home at historic Orchestra Hall at the Max M. Fisher Music Center, one of America’s most acoustically perfect concert halls, the DSO actively pursues a mission to impact and serve the community through music.  For more information visit dso.org or download the free DSO to Go mobile app.

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Monday, May 6th, 2013 | by Detroit Symphony Orchestra

Two University of Michigan music students follow the DSO to Carnegie Hall in a Cadillac ATS

(DETROIT, May 6, 2013)— At 9 a.m. on Thursday, May 9, two University of Michigan graduate music students—who double as Detroit Symphony Orchestra Civic Youth Ensemble Mentors—will hit the road in a brand new Cadillac ATS to follow the DSO to Carnegie Hall for its May 10 Ives Immersion performance as part of the Spring For Music Festival.

Along the way, David Cook, first year graduate student of clarinet performance and Emily Wespiser, second year graduate student of flute performance, will spread the word about Detroit, the DSO, and Cadillac ATS drivability by performing pop up concerts and documenting their trip using hashtag #ATStoCarnegie.

Planned stops include a performance at Central Cadillac on Carnegie Avenue in Cleveland, Ohio and a visit to Lola Bistro, a Cleveland diner owned by Michael Symon of Detroit’s Roast in the historic Westin Book Cadillac hotel.

For all details about the DSO’s trip to Carnegie Hall, visit dso.org/carnegiehall.

The DSO’s participation in Spring For Music is made possible with generous support from the General Motors Foundation, Cadillac and the William Davidson Foundation.

The General Motors Foundation and Cadillac have helped to pave the way from Motown to Manhattan for the Detroit Symphony Orchestra  this May as it prepares to perform at Carnegie Hall for the first time in 17 years.

The General Motors Foundation provided a $350,000 grant to the DSO for music education initiatives, including its involvement in the prestigious Spring for Music festival. In addition to funding from the Foundation, Cadillac vehicles will transport DSO Civic Mentors, musicians and special guests during the week-long festival.

About David Cook

Originally from Troy, Michigan, David Cook is pursuing Master of Music degrees in clarinet performance and chamber music at the University of Michigan. He holds Bachelor of Music and Bachelor of Music Education degrees from Central Michigan University. David works with the Detroit Symphony Orchestra Civic Youth Ensembles as Civic Orchestra Clarinet Mentor and will be an Orchestra Fellow at the Immanuel & Helen Olshan Texas Music Festival this summer. He is especially excited for the Carnegie Hall performances as a result of completing his research project about the musical evolution throughout Charles Ives’s symphonies.

About Emily Wespiser

A native of Lee, Massachusetts, Emily Wespiser is an active solo, orchestral and chamber musician.  As the Detroit Civic Youth Orchestra mentor, she has performed under esteemed DSO conductor Leonard Slatkin, and alongside international soloist Emanuel Ax.  Selected to perform and study at the Brevard Music Center for the 2013 season, Emily has spent past summers as the resident principal flutist in the Opera in the Ozarks Orchestra and performing in masterclasses for flutists such as Jeffrey Khaner, Keith Underwood, Ian Clarke, and Doriot Dwyer. Emily can be heard performing with the University of Michigan Symphony Band on their recently released CD, Points of Departure (Equilibrium Records), and with the Ithaca College Symphony Orchestra on their soon to be released Rite of Spring CD.  An advocate for new music, Emily has premiered works by composers such as David Biedenbender, Marco Schirripa, Brendan Vavra, Peter Learn, and Gordon Stout. Emily holds a B.M. from Ithaca College, and recently completed her Masters of Music at the University of Michigan, under the direction of flutist Amy Porter.

About DSO’s Carnegie Hall performances

On May 9 and 10, the DSO will become the first orchestra ever to perform two unique programs during New York’s visionary Spring For Music Festival. Joined by Oregon crossover artist Storm Large and the University Musical Society Choral Union, the repertoire will include all four Charles Ives symphonies performed for the very first time on the same program, as well as Kurt Weill’s Seven Deadly Sins, selections by Rachmaninoff and Ravel’s La Valse.

May 9, 2013

The first performance will feature Kurt Weill’s ballet The Seven Deadly Sins, starring cabaret singer Storm Large on lead vocals. Originally written for Weill’s wife, Lotte Lenya, in collaboration with Bertolt Brecht, the work premiered in Paris in 1933 after Weill fled persecution in his native Germany. It tells the tale of what could be two sisters or a split personality as they set out on a tour of American cities each represented by a different sin. The ballet is a bitter satire on bourgeoisie exploitation.

Also on the program are Ravel’s La Valse, and Rachmaninoff’s Caprice Bohemian and Isle of the Dead. Isle of the Dead will appear on the DSO’s third and final CD of Rachmaninoff’s symphonic works to be released on the Naxos label in 2013.

May 10, 2013

The second performance consists of all four Charles Ives symphonies, a debut for the DSO as well as for Carnegie Hall. Music Director Leonard Slatkin chose an immersion into Ives in pursuit of showcasing the strength, sound, ensemble and style that is uniquely Detroit.

Long known for celebrating American repertoire through recordings and commissions, telling Ives’ biographical story through the consecutive performances of all his symphonic works serves as a tribute to both Slatkin’s affinity for American compositions and Detroit’s longtime acquaintance with the American school. Slatkin, who considers Ives to be one of America’s most progressive composers of his time, imagined the four-symphony program as a way to familiarize the audience with his style.

Join Us!

We’re challenging 1,000 Detroiters to join us in New York and fly their hometown flag high. (Detroiters will literally receive DSO hankies to wave at the concerts.) Make sure your trip includes exclusive access to DSO musicians and events with patron tour packages available at $275 and $725. Packages include such activities as a commemorative photo at Carnegie Hall, access to exclusive post-concert receptions; and behind-the-scenes explorations of music, art & food in New York City. Travel to New York City not included. Non-tour general admission tickets are available at dso.org for just $25. Reserve your package at dso.org/carnegiehall or by calling 313.576.5100.

All Detroiters are invited to attend the DSO Sendoff concert on May 7 at Orchestra Hall in Detroit. All tickets are just $25. Those unable to travel to New York can listen to the concerts live in Detroit on WRCJ 90.9 FM.

About Detroit Symphony Orchestra:

This invitation to perform a second Spring For Music concert comes at a triumphant time in the DSO’s recovery, with Slatkin at the helm. After increasing contributions by one-third and doubling the donor base in two years, both Classical and Pops opening weekends experienced record-breaking attendance. The DSO remains the only American orchestra to present a series of free webcasts with its second season of “Live from Orchestra Hall”. The second season of its wildly-successful Neighborhood Residency Initiative will kick-off in December with a full series of concerts, chamber recitals, hospital visits, educational outreach and more in six metro Detroit communities. The partnership between Slatkin and the DSO has resulted in critical acclaim, invitations to tour, numerous recording projects, and a reputation for championing American and contemporary music, all of which are represented in these two Spring For Music 2013 programs.

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Friday, May 3rd, 2013 | by Detroit Symphony Orchestra

(DETROIT, May 4, 2013) — As a season full of record-setting attendance and ticket sales comes to a close in just a month, this weekend’s Detroit Symphony Orchestra (DSO) performances of Holst’s The Planets will kick off Community Support Month, a concert-based fundraising initiative that will span the month of May. November’s campaign, which attracted more than 900 new donors, garnered nearly $1 million in funds for the DSO’s Annual Fund. This month’s goal is to gain 1,200 new donors.

The Community Support Month Initiative, launched in November 2011, has collectively raised more than $2 million and is the only initiative of its kind among orchestras.

As the DSO establishes its identity as a community-supported orchestra, Community Support Month is aimed at greatly expanding the Annual Fund donor base and providing each ticket buyer with more meaningful opportunities to make Annual Fund gifts to the DSO. In the last 24 months, the number of individuals contributing to the DSO’s Annual Fund has doubled.
Concert goers can make a contribution via envelope, pledge card or by phone. Patrons will be reminded of Community Support Month by special décor in the atrium at the Max M. Fisher Music Center, and each donor will receive a drink coupon.

Community Support Month festivities are scheduled the following concerts.

May 3, 4, 17, 18, 19, 23, 24, 31.

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Wednesday, May 1st, 2013 | by Detroit Symphony Orchestra

Detroit, (May 1 , 2013) –The Detroit Symphony Orchestra (DSO) welcomes guest conductor John Storgårds as he leads the orchestra in Holst’s The Planets featuring Women of the MSU Chorale and State Singers.  The program will also include Chopin’s Piano Concerto No. 2 featuring pianist, Rafal Blechacz and the DSO premiere of Ligeti’s Lontano.The concerts will take place Friday, May 3 at 8 p.m. and Sat. May 4 at 8 p.m. at Orchestra Hall.

The performance will be webcast to a global audience on Saturday, May 4 at 8 p.m. via the DSO’s “Live from Orchestra Hall” series. Log on to dso.org/live to view the concert from your computer or mobile device anywhere in the world.

All patrons are invited to enjoy a free pre-concert presentation one hour prior to each performance by The Detroit Civic Chamber Dorati Quintet and DSO Assistant Conductor, Teddy Abrams performing Ligeti’s Six Bagatelles.

Born in 1985 in Nakło nad Notecią, Poland, Rafal Blechacz began his piano studies at age five, and continued his musical education at the Artur Rubinstein State School of Music in Bydgoszcz.  In May 2007, he graduated from the Feliks Nowowiejski Academy of Music in Bydgoszcz, and has since won many prestigious prizes and awards at music festivals and competitions in Poland and worldwide. In July 2010, he received the prestigious Premio Internazionale Accademia Musicale Chigiana (Siena, Italy), awarded annually by an international jury of music critics to young musicians for superb artistic achievements. Presently, Mr. Blechacz records with Deutsche Grammophon, and has achieved Platinum Record status for his complete Chopin Preludes.

John Storgårds is the Chief Conductor of the Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra, and was recently announced as the Principal Guest Conductor of the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra for the20 12/2013 season. John Storgårds is one of Finland’s exceptional artists and has taken the classical music world by storm in recent decades. He has a dual career as a conductor and violin virtuoso, and is widely recognized for his creative flair for programming and commitment to contemporary music. He additionally holds the title of Artistic Director of the Chamber Orchestra of Lapland, giving some of Europe’s most imaginative concerts north of the Arctic Circle.

TICKET INFORMATION

Tickets to the “The Planets!” at Orchestra Hall begin at $15 and may be purchased at the Max M. Fisher Music Center box office (3711 Woodward Ave., Detroit); by calling (313) 576-5111; or online at dso.org.  Detroit residents may reserve a ticket for $15 each in any section, excluding the box level, within two weeks of the performance. A valid photo ID with a Detroit address is required. For group discount information (10 people or more), please contact Chuck Dyer at (313) 576-5130 or cdyer@dso.org.

PERFORMANCE

The Planets!

Orchestra Hall

Friday, May 3 at 8 p.m.

Saturday, May 4 at 8 p.m.

John Storgårds, conductor

Rafal Blechacz, piano

Women of the MSU Chorale and State Singers

About the DSO:

The internationally acclaimed Detroit Symphony Orchestra, which celebrated its 125^th anniversary in December 2012, is known for trailblazing performances, visionary maestros, collaborations with the world’s foremost musical artists, and an unwavering commitment to Detroit. Esteemed conductor Leonard Slatkin, called “America’s Music Director” by the Los Angeles Times, became the 12th Music Director of the DSO during the 2008-09 season and acclaimed conductor, arranger, and trumpeter Jeff Tyzik was appointed Principal Pops Conductor in November 2012. The DSO’s performance schedule includes Classical, Pops, Jazz, Young People’s, Neighborhood concerts, and collaborations with chart-topping musicians from Smokey Robinson to Kid Rock.  A commitment to broadcast innovation began in 1922 when the DSO became the first orchestra in the world to present a radio broadcast and continues today with the free Live from Orchestra Hall webcast series.  Making its home at historic Orchestra Hall at the Max M. Fisher Music Center, one of America’s most acoustically perfect concert halls, the DSO actively pursues a mission to impact and serve the community through music.  For more information visit dso.org or download the free DSO to Go mobile app.

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Monday, April 29th, 2013 | by Detroit Symphony Orchestra

Recording becomes first download-only Beethoven cycle by an American orchestra

DETROIT, (April 29, 2013) – Recorded live during the Detroit Symphony Orchestra’s wildly successful Beethoven Festival in February 2013, on May 1the DSO will release a Digital Box Set of Beethoven’s complete nine symphonies—the first of its kind by an American orchestra and the first for the DSO’s in-house digital brand, Live from Orchestra Hall.

“The DSO strives to be in front of new technologies when it comes to getting our music to the public,” said DSO Music Director Leonard Slatkin. “This first set of digital recordings makes it possible for a vast number of listeners to experience the orchestra in ways that were not possible even a couple of years ago.”

Grammy award-winning producer Blanton Alspaugh, producer of the DSO’s latest recordings on the Naxos label, worked closely with DSO Music Director Leonard Slatkin and the orchestra’s artistic and digital teams to complete this extensive project in a matter of months.

“For this Digital Box Set of Beethoven symphonies we did our best to preserve the feeling of ‘being there’ at the live concerts,” said Alspaugh. “But what we hope above all to have preserved and shared with you is a memorable encounter between Beethoven, Leonard Slatkin, and the DSO.”

The set comes complete with bonus features such as liner notes written by Live from Orchestra Hall co-host Charles Greenwell, behind-the-scenes pictures, and audio and visual interviews with Slatkin produced by Detroit media outlets WRCJ 90.9 FM and the Detroit Free Press.

“Beethoven’s Nine Symphonies” are offered exclusively as a set and are available for purchase at dso.org/Beethoven. The pre-sale price of $19.99 will last until the official release on May 1, when the recording will be available for $24.99. After purchase, the set will be delivered via email.

The digital box set was sponsored in part by MGM Grand Detroit.

About Live from Orchestra Hall

In April 2010, the Detroit Symphony Orchestra launched the groundbreaking Live from Orchestra Hall webcast series at dso.org/live, becoming the first orchestra in the world to offer a series of free live webcasts for a global audience.  Since then Live from Orchestra Hall expanded to include mobile viewing via the DSO to Go mobile app for iPhone, iPad, and Droid devices; partnerships with the world’s top classical streaming sites, including France-based Medici.tv, Russia-based Paraclassics.com and UK-based ClassicalTV.com, and the DSO’s first digital album produced in-house, a downloadable Digital Box Set of all nine Beethoven symphonies.  Now watched in over 75 countries, the Live from Orchestra Hall webcast series is presented by the Ford Motor Company Fund, made possible by the generous support of the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, and produced in collaboration with Detroit Public Television.  Watch future free webcasts at dso.org/live, view concert highlights at youtube.com/detroitsymphony, and connect with the DSO at facebook.com/detroitsymphony and on Twitter @DetroitSymphony with the hashtag #DSOLive.

About the Detroit Symphony Orchestra

The internationally acclaimed Detroit Symphony Orchestra, which celebrated its 125^th anniversary in December 2012, is known for trailblazing performances, visionary maestros, collaborations with the world’s foremost musical artists, and an unwavering commitment to Detroit. Esteemed conductor Leonard Slatkin, called “America’s Music Director” by the Los Angeles Times, became the 12th Music Director of the DSO in 2008 and acclaimed conductor, arranger, and trumpeter Jeff Tyzik was appointed Principal Pops Conductor in November 2012. The DSO’s performance schedule includes Classical, Pops, Jazz, Young People’s, Neighborhood concerts, and collaborations with chart-topping musicians from Smokey Robinson to Kid Rock.  A commitment to broadcast innovation began in 1922 when the DSO became the first orchestra in the world to present a radio broadcast and continues today with the free Live from Orchestra Hall webcast series.  Making its home at historic Orchestra Hall at the Max M. Fisher Music Center, one of America’s most acoustically perfect concert halls, the DSO actively pursues a mission to impact and serve the community through music.  For more information visit dso.org or download the free DSO to Go mobile app.

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Friday, April 26th, 2013 | by Detroit Symphony Orchestra

DETROIT, (April 26, 2013) – This weekend the Detroit Symphony Orchestra (DSO) will launch a partnership with Paris-based web streaming service medici.tv, further broadening the reach of Live From Orchestra Hall, the DSO’s series of free live webcasts.

“We are pleased to continue our relationship with Maestro Slatkin and the DSO with new live concerts this spring,” said Hervé Boissiére, Founder of medici.tv. “This transatlantic partnership between Paris and Detroit is an exciting opportunity to present a large diversity of repertoire and soloists. We are eager to reinforce the tremendous efforts this orchestra has made toward engaging the Detroit community and beyond. Art and music are essential elements of social cohesion and Medici.tv is proud to help share the DSO musicians’ talent worldwide.”

Medici will carry two live webcasts and three concerts that will play on-demand on medici.tv for three months each.  The first live program that medici.tv will stream takes place this Sunday, April 28 at 3 p.m. EDT, featuring world-renowned cellist Lynn Harrell performing Dvořák’s Cello Concerto and concludes on Friday, May 31 at 10:45 a.m. EDT with piano virtuoso André Watts. See below for a full list of medici-supported webcasts.

The partnership was solidified following a successful trial on February 14 when medici.tv webcast the DSO’s performance of Beethoven Symphonies No. 1 and 6 during this year’s Beethoven Festival. The webcast, which is still available for on-demand viewing at medici.tv, has garnered 25,000 viewers so far. DSO Music Director Leonard Slatkin began working with medici.tv while webcasting his performances with Orchestre National de Lyon, where he also holds the position of Music Director.

Medici.tv is the third overseas-based service to help carry Live From Orchestra Hall to a global audience. In February 2012, Russia-based Paraclassics.com became the first, a relationship that continues today

Live from Orchestra Hall is presented by the Ford Motor Company Fund and made possible by generous support from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation. Webcasts are also available live at dso.org/live and via the DSO to Go mobile app.

Medici-supported Webcasts

Lynn Harrell Plays Dvořák

Sunday, April 28 at 3 p.m. EDT

Leonard Slatkin, conductor

Lynn Harrell, cello

*Lynn Harrell will appear as a pre-concert interview guest on Live From Orchestra Hall. The intermission guest will be Detroit photography legend Bill Rauhauser, currently appearing in the DIA show, “Motor City Muse: Detroit Photographs, Then and Now,” showing through June 16.

The Planets!

On-Demand Only (to be released in early May)

John Storgårds, conductor

Rafal Blechacz, violin

Season Finale: André Watts

Friday, May 31 at 10:45 a.m. EDT

Leonard Slatkin, conductor

André Watts, piano

About medici.tv

Since its debut in 2008, medici.tv has built an international reputation by broadcasting hundreds of live classical music events and by connecting a community of aficionados from 198 countries.  With over 1,200 films, medici.tv is the largest online catalogue of classical music.  medici.tv joins with great orchestras and concert halls worldwide to broadcast top musical events live and free of charge on the web and through its mobile applications.  The medici.tv platform has 120,000 registered users and 52,000 social media followers.

About Live from Orchestra Hall

In April 2010, the Detroit Symphony Orchestra launched the groundbreaking Live from Orchestra Hall webcast series at dso.org/live, becoming the first orchestra in the world to offer a series of free live webcasts for a global audience.  Since then Live from Orchestra Hall expanded to include mobile viewing via the DSO to Go mobile app for iPhone, iPad, and Droid devices; partnerships with the world’s top classical streaming sites, including France-based Medici.tv, Russia-based Paraclassics.com and UK-based ClassicalTV.com, and the DSO’s first digital album produced in-house, a downloadable Digital Box Set of all nine Beethoven symphonies.  Now watched in over 75 countries, the Live from Orchestra Hall webcast series is presented by the Ford Motor Company Fund, made possible by the generous support of the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, and produced in collaboration with Detroit Public Television.  Watch future free webcasts at dso.org/live, view concert highlights at youtube.com/detroitsymphony, and connect with the DSO at facebook.com/detroitsymphony and on Twitter @DetroitSymphony with the hashtag #DSOLive. 

About the Detroit Symphony Orchestra

The internationally acclaimed Detroit Symphony Orchestra, which celebrated its 125^th anniversary in December 2012, is known for trailblazing performances, visionary maestros, collaborations with the world’s foremost musical artists, and an unwavering commitment to Detroit. Esteemed conductor Leonard Slatkin, called “America’s Music Director” by the Los Angeles Times, became the 12th Music Director of the DSO in 2008 and acclaimed conductor, arranger, and trumpeter Jeff Tyzik was appointed Principal Pops Conductor in November 2012. The DSO’s performance schedule includes Classical, Pops, Jazz, Young People’s, Neighborhood concerts, and collaborations with chart-topping musicians from Smokey Robinson to Kid Rock.  A commitment to broadcast innovation began in 1922 when the DSO became the first orchestra in the world to present a radio broadcast and continues today with the free Live from Orchestra Hall webcast series.  Making its home at historic Orchestra Hall at the Max M. Fisher Music Center, one of America’s most acoustically perfect concert halls, the DSO actively pursues a mission to impact and serve the community through music.  For more information visit dso.org or download the free DSO to Go mobile app.

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