Program for SSO Masters Series The Planets by Michael McCoy

2010-2011 SEASON MASTERS SERIES

Presented by

THE PLANETS Maestro Victor Sawa, conductor The Fireside Singers, directed by Marilyn Whitehead, Ralph Vaughan Williams English Folksong Suite Fantasia on Greensleeves Serenade to Music Gustav Holst The Planets Suite with

Saturday, May 21, 2011 TCU Place, Sid Buckwold Theatre, 7:30 pm

Attend the pre-concert talk, learn more about the music. Hosted by David Kaplan. TCU Place Green Room, 6:55 pm Saskatoon Brass Band performs more Holst music in the lobby this evening. 6:45 - 6:55 pm and 7:10 - 7:15 pm

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message from the maestro May 21, 2011 Dear Saskatoon Symphony fans, Tonight’s final Masters Series event of the season brings into focus key areas we have been addressing at your symphony—artistic excellence, innovation, creating partnerships, establishing a solid financial base, audience growth, and enhancing the audience experience. The musicians’ performances speak for themselves—we are fortunate to have such a fine group of artists working here. We’ve had success attracting investment from the corporate sector. Thank you to SaskPower, presenting sponsor for The Planets, whose support assisted us in featuring the beautiful Voyage of Discovery presentation this evening. We hope the stunning images, combined with Holst’s magnificent music will make this concert even more memorable for you. Working with tonight’s guest artists, Saskatoon’s Fireside Singers, directed by Marilyn Whitehead, is one of several SSO music collaborations this year and more are planned for next season. Tonight, the SSO Book and Music Sale committee announces the total raised at last month’s sale. Over the years, their hard work has provided invaluable financial support, without which your orchestra could not operate. Thank you from everyone who cares about having a symphony orchestra in our community! As is the case with most orchestras in Canada, ticket revenue covers only about 35 percent of our Symphony’s budget. Your financial support is needed. Please take time to make a donation. You can do so by visiting www.saskatoonsymphony.org, by calling the office at 665-6414, or by mail (see inside program for the address). Your generosity will make a difference, I can assure you. Tonight is a bittersweet occasion. Peter Gravlin, Principal Bassoon with the orchestra for the past 35 years, is retiring from the SSO and tonight is his final Masters Series performance. Peter is a superb musician, a dedicated mentor, a true gentleman, and an ultimate professional. We will miss his passion and kindness. Good luck to you, Peter, from me, the SSO organization including your fellow musicians, and from your fans in the audience. Our season closes with next Sunday’s (May 29) Music for a Sunday Afternoon concert. Join us to enjoy the artistry of your orchestra before summer grabs our attention. Our new season begins in September, full of music that is all about your life, featuring great composers, more dazzling guest artists, and the incredible talent of YOUR symphony. Renew your subscription or become a new season’s ticket holder by June 15. You will save and be assured of having your favourite seats for next season’s “Symphony Experience.”

Victor Sawa, Music Director

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meet the orchestra Music Director Victor Sawa Violin 1 Michael Swan (Concertmaster) Martha Kashap (Assistant Concertmaster) Mary Lou Day Lillian Jen-Payzant Joan Savage Marcel van den Hurk Simon Fanner Maxim Pletnev Philip Kashap Nova Wong Violin 2 Oxana Ossiptchouk (Principal) Karen Bindle Oriana Watt Sarah Tsoi Rosanne Daku Karen Ogle Sophie McBean Viola Jim Legge (Principal) Saache Heinrich Jeremy Janzen Ryan Davis Emily Woytiuk Katya Woloshyn Cello Scott McKnight (Principal, temporary) John Payzant Bernadette Wilson Carman Rabuka Christina Bakanec Terry Sturge Bass Richard Carnegie (Principal) David Humphrey David Grosse Warren Hay Dave Pyra Flute Randi Nelson (Principal) Brenda Moats Jennifer McAllister Melanie Sydiaha

Oboe Erin Brophey (Principal) Kevin Junk Sara Spigott Clarinet Margaret Wilson (Principal) Bradley Powell Alyssa Thompson Bassoon Peter Gravlin (Principal) Marie Sellar Horn Carol-Marie Cottin (Principal) Arlene Shiplett Dubrena Myroon Micajah Sturgess Roxanne Inch Erin McVittie Trumpet Terry Heckman (Principal) Daniel Funk Frank Harrington Trombone Don Schmidt (Principal) Jeremy Drotar Dawn McLean-Belyk Gary Doige Tuba Brent Longstaff (Principal) Timpani Darrell Bueckert (Principal) Brad Lister Percussion Trent Remlinger Mark Altman Will Martin Harp CĂŠcile Denis Celesta Gillian Lyons

farewell to a fine musician After 35 years as Principal Bassoon for the Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra, Peter Gravlin retires from the orchestra at the end of May. Tonight’s Masters Series concert is the final one for Peter. Earlier this month, Peter took some time to chat about his long career with the orchestra. You can read the complete interview at www.saskatoonsymphony.org. Here are some brief excerpts: PG: I started in 1976, as Principal Bassoon. The position in the core was established that year and I was the first to have it. How was the orchestra at that time? PG: It needed help gaining quality, which was why they started the Core Program. ... It had lots of spirit, but lacked what I call depth. ... The orchestra now is vastly superior to what it was then, but it was gradual improvement over a decade or more. ... It’s a fantastic orchestra now, by any standard. ... Now, you could easily compare this orchestra to any in the country, as far as I’m concerned. What hasn’t changed about the SSO? PG: The spirit. The excitement of ... wanting to get up on the stage and do justice to the great composers. That hasn’t changed. ... Now there’s lots of technique and lots of depth, but that spirit’s been maintained .... What is the highlight of your time here? PG: It was in 2004. I played the Mozart Bassoon Concerto in a main series concert ... Douglas Sanford gave me the opportunity to play it, the premiere concerto for my instrument, with the full orchestra on the main stage with me being the featured soloist of the concert, that was the pinnacle.... How much will you miss playing? PG: A significant part of my life has been formed, not only by bassoon, but by being ... part of this fantastic organization that

Peter Gravlin, Principal Bassoon, 1976 – 2011. Photo: Trudy Janssens, Photography One 2 One

I have seen grow and develop. ... I don’t know how much I will miss it .... People will definitely miss hearing you. PG: There will be someone else.... I know that from the standard of other musicians that have come into the Symphony over the last numbers years, the standard is very high. Whoever will be in that chair will ... be a great player. Do you see yourself in the audience? PG: Yes, sure. I can definitely see myself in the audience. Maybe not right away, I may be a bit too close for the first year or so, but later after I am a bit more removed; I can definitely see myself in the audience. What would you say to your replacement? PG: Respect the audience and the composer, nurture the next generation, and enjoy the experience of being part of the teamwork that goes into creating the grandest art form that the world has ever known—IMHO. LOL. Thank you, Peter, for the years of superb performances and your legacy of artistic enrichment to the Saskatoon Symphony!

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chair sponsorship Conductorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Podium Chair generously sponsored by Potash Corporation of Saskatchewan Inc. Concertmaster Chair generously sponsored by Darien Moore and Don Ching Principal Violin II Chair generously sponsored in Anonymity Principal Cello Chair generously sponsored by Dr. David Jobling, Esther Cherland, Sandra Beardsall, Bill Richards Principal Viola Chair generously sponsored by Ms. Lorraine Ourom Principal Bass Chair generously sponsored by Potash Corporation of Saskatchewan Inc. Principal Flute Chair generously sponsored by Mrs. Lilian and Mr. Doug Thorpe Principal Clarinet Chair generously sponsored by Jack and Sylvia Vicq Principal Bassoon Chair generously sponsored by Dr. Mary C. Marino Principal Horn Chair generously sponsored by Marguerite Caldwell

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Timpani Chair generously sponsored by Ms. Betty Reynolds Principal Percussion Chair generously sponsored by The Ewing Family in Memory of Earl and Mary Ewing For more information, please contact office@saskatoonsymphony.org or 306 665 6414.

message from the board I am anticipating the final concert of the year wistfully, reflecting in the pleasure that the very successful season has provided to me and so many others. Time passes so quickly and the promise of an exciting new 2011/12 season awaits us in the fall. We have all worked very hard this year to promote growth and achieve the artistic vision we understand attracts our audience. Thank you all for your passion, perseverance and commitment to working tirelessly and together to achieve our goals. The organization is strong and dedicated to this vision, striving to balance the many challenges that are part of the life of an orchestra. The support we receive from those who work with us and from you, our audience, is invaluable. Strong attendance at concerts provides us with great satisfaction, but the reality is we must count on many other ways to sustain ourselves financially as well. No personal donation is too small and each is greatly appreciated. We are very grateful for the Book and Music Sale this year. It is particularly gratifying as the new management committee moved seamlessly into its new role and the community responded so very positively. We are also pleased with the increasing financial support we are receiving from corporate donations and sponsors; here again we look forward to building new relationships within our community. Our orchestra benefits from the talent and commitment of many musicians. Every year we say au revoir to some and greet new players as well. It is this combination of experience and renewal that makes our orchestra a fine organization. This year we are saying farewell to someone whose constant and professional presence has enhanced our orchestra in many ways for 35 years. We will miss our Principal Bassoon player, Peter Gravlin and we thank and congratulate him on his retirement and wish him the very best always. I wish you a healthy and relaxing summer and encourage you to buy your subscription to any of our wonderful series by June 15th. Knowing you will be with us next season will make us very happy and I can assure you that the Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra events are going to be some of the most exciting places to be in the coming year. Jane Wollenberg President of the Board of Directors Saskatoon Symphony Society Honourary Patrons His Honour the Honourable G.L. Barnhart Lieutenant Governor of Saskatchewan The Honourable Brad Wall Premier of Saskatchewan His Worship Mayor Donald J. Atchison City of Saskatoon Dr. Peter MacKinnon President, University of Saskatchewan

Board of Directors Jane Wollenberg, President Lynn Ewing, Vice-President Paul Bretscher, Secretary Bruce Simms, Treasurer Bev Drew, Past President Ken Coutu Rob Dobrohoczki Meagan Hinther Phav Meekins Chris Stoicheff Kim Thomas Doug Thorpe

2011-12 season begins September 3rd Subscriptions available at: 270-9385 www.amatiquartet.usask.ca

Marla Cole - Violin Evan Barber - Violin Geoff Cole - Viola Terence Sturge - Cello (Peter Hedlin â&#x20AC;&#x201C; on leave)

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16/05/11 11:15 AM

May 21, 2011 7:30 p.m. TCU Place, Sid Buckwold Theatre Masters Series

THE PLANETS Presented by

Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra Maestro Victor Sawa conductor The Fireside Singers directed by Marilyn Whitehead

concert program Ralph Vaughn Williams English Folksong Suite Ralph Vaughn Williams Fantasia on Greensleeves Ralph Vaughn Williams Serenade to Music The Fireside Singers, choir I. March - ‘Seventeen Come Sunday’ II. Intermezzo - ‘My Bonny Boy’ III. March - ‘Folk Songs from Somerset’ —intermission— Gustav Holst The Planets Suite Mars Venus Mercury Jupiter Saturn Uranus Neptune The Planets Suite is presented with The Voyage of Discovery HD. Video synchronization: Mykola Karhaukh Thanks to the Saskatoon Brass Band, and bandmaster Terry Heckman, for their performance in the lobby prior to tonight’s concert. Thank you to the office of Lynn Yelich MP, Blackstrap.

meet the fireside singers

The Fireside Singers in concert

The Saskatoon Fireside Singers are a widely acclaimed choir, directed by Marilyn Whitehead, and supported by orchestral director and accompanist Bonnie Nicholson. They have been entertaining audiences for over 39 years. The group was established when Marilyn Whitehead brought her vocal students together to create an exciting conclusion to a studio recital at the home of her parents. Since then, the Fireside Singers Christmas Concerts have become a tradition.They are renowned for excellence in expressive choral singing and a repertoire suited to the season, from the spiritual to the nostalgic and include outstanding vocal soloists and stunning instrumental solos and ensembles featuring guest artists such as Guy Few, Allan Harrington, Kerry DuWors, Randi Nelson, and other fine Saskatoon musicians. The choir is comprised primarily of present and former vocal students from Marilyn’s studio, ranging in age from six to adult. Recently, Marilyn opened the choir to young singers studying with colleagues and with former students who have established their own vocal studios. The Fireside Singers perform a wide variety of musical styles from classical to contemporary. The Christmas Production and Spring Broadway Musicals have become their major focus. The choir has placed first in National Music Festival

Marilyn Whitehead

competitions five times, and second four times, and have seven successful recordings, including the most recent, All is Well. They have performed with the Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra on numerous occasions and have appeared as the Angels Chorus in Elijah, and with the University Chorus in an evening of opera classics. Members of the choir performed in Saskatoon Opera productions of Hansel and Gretel, La Bohème, and La Traviata, and with the Saskatoon Youth Orchestra in the premiere of an original composition, Susan Bonds’ ‘White Paper Boats,’ commissioned to celebrate the Fireside Singers’ 25th anniversary and the 40th anniversary of the SYO. Their recordings have been used for the past 11 years for the Enchanted Forest Light Display. The Fireside Singers have performed as guest artists with the Chieftains and twice with Video Games Live, including last month’s concert. They have staged full Broadway musical productions Children of Eden (2007), Joseph and the Technicolor Dreamcoat (2008), Aida (2009), Beauty and the Beast (2010) and have an upcoming production of Oliver! May 25 to 28. The choir is heard frequently on C95, News Talk 650, Rock 102 FM, and CBC Radio. They are thrilled to be performing two marvellous works as guest artists with the Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra tonight.

meet maestro sawa

the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony. He has been guest conductor for orchestras across the country.

Victor Sawa is a triple threat of talent, experience and personal dynamism in the orchestral world. Now Music Director of the Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra, he holds similar positions with orchestras in Sudbury and Regina. He was previously Resident Conductor with the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra (19931997), Music Director with the North Bay Symphony, the Guelph Youth Orchestra and the Kitchener-Waterloo Orchestra. He also served as Principal Clarinet with

The Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra’s choice to include the Voyage of Discovery HD with its performance of The Planets was based on the experience of orchestras across North America, including the Calgary Philharmonic, where the Calgary Herald noted “there was an unmistakable buzz in the air, with the audience clearly engaged and thrilled to be present at what was a remarkable event.” Conceived in 2006, the presentation has been updated with recent NASA

Maestro Sawa has been recipient of many awards and honours, including three Canada Council awards for Conducting, a Grand Prix du Disque—Best Chamber Music Recording (Canadian Chamber Ensemble), a Grammy award (with the New England Ragtime Ensemble), and the Tanglewood Festival award for Outstanding Musician. A Montreal native, Mr. Sawa holds a Bachelor of Music with Distinction from McGill University and an Honours Masters of Music Performance from the New England Conservatory of Music and is also a graduate of the Pierre Monteux School for Advanced Conductors.

photographs taken from the Hubble telescope and other deep space probes, all in high definition. All the animations have been approved by NASA, including video of the Mars Rover rocketing through space and its soft landing on the planet. Photos taken by the Mars Rover and video “seen through the eyes” of the Mars Rover are included in the sequence. Video synchronization is achieved by a musician in the wings who follows a specially-marked score and the conductor to cue video sequences on a computer.

program notes Ralph Vaughan Williams (1872–1958) Ralph Vaughan Williams was a composer, teacher, writer, and conductor. He was the most important English composer of his generation and a key figure in the revival of English music. He began collecting English folk songs for the purpose of preserving this musical heritage for future generations and he used the styles and themes from these traditional songs for his own compositions. He was a composer of symphonies, chamber music, opera, choral music and film scores. The folk music also influenced his editorial approach to the English Hymnal beginning in 1904. The hymnal contains many folk song arrangements set as hymn tunes, in addition to Vaughan Williams’ own original compositions. Ralph Vaughan Williams never forgot that music is for the people and he was willing to write for all occasions, saying “Every composer cannot expect to have a world-wide message, but he may reasonably expect to have a special message for his own people.”

English Folksong Suite This was Ralph Vaughan Williams’ first (1923) and most famous composition for military band. The world premiere was at the Royal Military School of Music at Kneller Hall, of which Vaughan Williams was a great admirer. The suite was also arranged for full orchestra/brass band by Gordon Jacob (a student of Vaughan Williams). The composition has three movements: Movement I: March – ‘Seventeen Come Sunday’ Movement II: Intermezzo – ‘My Bonny Boy’ Movement III: March – ‘Folk songs from Somerset’

The folk songs incorporated in this piece are from Norfolk and Somerset counties: Seventeen come Sunday; Pretty Caroline; Dives and Lazarus; My Bonny Boy; Green Bushes; Blow Away the Morning Dew; High Germany; The Tree So High; and John Barleycorn.

Fantasia on Greensleeves This Fantasia is from Vaughan Williams’ 1929 opera Sir John in Love, which is based on Shakespeare’s The Merry Wives of Windsor. It freely borrows from the traditional Greensleeves melody, combining it with an East Anglian folk song which Vaughan Williams had collected during his fieldwork. You may recognize this as the melody to the Christmas carol ‘What Child is This?’ This melody originally was an English love song about a girl named Greensleeves.

Serenade to Music Vaughan Williams wrote his ‘Serenade to Music’ for the conductor Sir Henry Wood’s Golden Jubilee in 1938. It was originally for 16 solo voices (four soprano, four contralto, four tenor, four bass) and orchestra, and was first performed on 5 October 1938 in London, featuring a cast that was a virtual “Who’s Who” of British singers of the time. Ten days later the same performers recorded the work at the Abbey Road Studio No. 1 with the BBC Symphony Orchestra under Sir Henry Wood. The Serenade is a setting of a passage from Act V Scene I of Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice that reflects on the music of the spheres; it begins “How sweet the moonlight sleeps upon this bank . . . .” Vaughan Williams realized that the original scoring would severely limit the possibilities for future performances;

program notes (cont’d) therefore he made several arrangements of the work that required fewer musicians, including versions for four soloists and orchestra and for chorus and orchestra. The version for solo violin and orchestra was first performed in 1940.

Venus, “the Bringer of Peace”, is a total contrast: calm and tranquil—set apart from any conflict. Scored with only horns for brass and celesta for percussion, with solo passages added throughout the movement to add a heavenly nature.

Gustav Holst (1874–1934): The Planets, Op. 32 (1914–17)

Mercury, “the Winged Messenger” contains two contrasting scherzos. This is the quickest and, in duration, the shortest movement of the suite. Mercury, the Winged Messenger, flits by on transparent, delicate wings. Holst associated this character with the process of human thought. Something of that swift, quicksilver process may be heard in the seemingly chuckling woodwinds, with darting strings, and the tinkling of the celesta.

Together with his friend and fellow composer Ralph Vaughan Williams, Holst played a major role in re-energizing English concert music with the use of the country’s folk music. Both composers also created music in a more cosmopolitan style, such as this engaging suite for orchestra. It has always been Holst’s most popular composition. The Planets is a seven-movement suite composed between 1914 and 1916. Holst’s starting point for the composition was the astrological character of each planet. His daughter suggested that once the underlying idea had been formulated, ‘he let the music have its way with him.’ Holst himself stated that there was no connection with classical mythology. Holst was far more interested in musical representations of the seven planets. The movements in The Planets are unique tone poems, with no musical thematic material linking them. The influences of Schoenberg, Debussy, and even Stravinsky are well renowned, but the scope, grandeur, and individuality of The Planets are still incomparable to the works Holst said inspired him. Mars, “the Bringer of War”, opens The Planets with its familiar ostinato. The pattern begins quietly, but Holst wrote it in an odd meter of 5/4; even the more peaceful moments of “Mars” seem unsettled as a result. “Mars” is a large ABA form, ending with loud unison orchestra.

Jupiter, “the Bringer of Jollity”, on the other hand, has both jovial feet planted firmly on the ground. Robustly scored Falstaffian tunes reflecting Holst’s study of English folk dances drive the opening and closing sections. Jupiter might well be designated as ‘the English movement’ because it shows how profoundly Holst was influenced by the folk music of his country. Certainly this is rustic English, music for a fair; there are crowds of people in it and infinite good spirits. The grand tune that ends the parade of themes has become the setting for a patriotic hymn with the words ‘I vow to thee my country.’ Saturn, ”the Bringer of Old Age”, said to be Holst’s favourite movement, communicates the greatest emotional depth in the suite. This miniature tone poem moves through a series of events that bring the music to conclusions not envisioned at the beginning. It sets forth his views on the stages of human life: the uncertain beginning with the restless

enhance your concert experience ATTEND THE PRE-CONCERT TALK hosted by David Kaplan

program notes (cont’d) Holst, The Planets, from p. 12 alternating chords in flutes and harps; the struggles and heartbreaks of maturation in a solemn march building slowly to a harsh climax; and finally, there is the emergence in late years of wisdom, with its serene acceptance of imperfection and mortality. Next comes the dynamic illusion act of Uranus, “the Magician.” Brass cast the spell; as in The Sorcerer’s Apprentice, the bassoons are the first to respond. Holst puts his huge ensemble through many spectacular paces, dramatic and humorous. A cheerful dance tune repeatedly threatens to wander out of control, as the timpani and low brass dance around. A final incantation leads to a hushed, unsettled close. The suite concludes with the light meditations of Neptune, “the Mystic.” Set once again in the realm of five beats to the bar; they arrive as if having traveled across vast distances of outer and inner space. Mid-way through, the ethereal sound of a wordless female chorus floats in from offstage. In the final bars, the orchestra falls silent and the voices echo, over and over, until they fade into silent infinity. Holst influenced an entire generation of film score composers, directly and indirectly; George Lucas gave John Williams movements from The Planets to demonstrate what he wanted for the music of Star Wars.

Free pre-concert talks about the evening’s music, before our Masters Series events, are hosted by David Kaplan and friends. Whether you are attending a classical music concert for the first time, or are a regular audience member, you’ll find the sessions relaxed and informative. They begin at 6:55 pm and conclude by 7:20 pm, in time for you to take your seat in the theatre. Pre-concert talks are held in the TCU Place Green Room. Follow the signs or check for directions from an usher or at the SSO kiosk in the lobby. DAVID L. KAPLAN, CM., Ph.D, OC Since 1960 David Kaplan has made varied and exceptional contributions to Saskatchewan’s musical life. Professor Emeritus, he is former head of the University of Saskatchewan’s Department of Music. He conducted the Saskatoon Symphony from 1963–1969 and 1970–1971, founded the Saskatchewan Music Council, and chaired the Canadian Music Centre’s Prairie Regional Council. He has arranged or composed pieces for woodwinds, including a series of 50 solos for school use in 1985. Dr. Kaplan devotes much of his time to his community. The Saskatoon Klezmer Band, Zmarim, was formed in 1985 after some informal “kibitzing” at a Bar Mitzvah. He has organized events such as the Festival of Faith, for Multi-Faith Saskatoon, as well as the musical activities for the annual Holocaust Memorial and Remembrance Day services.

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October 19 – November 2, 2011 Musical Extravaganza

A Christmas Story Based on the motion picture by Jean Shepherd, Leigh Brown and Bob Clark Adapted by Philip Grecian

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Hank Williams: The Show He Never Gave By Maynard Collins April 18 – May 2, 2012 Musical

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ENCORE ($1,000-$1,999)

Frank and Ellen Remai Foundation Monte Keene Pishny-Floyd and Annette Floyd* Estate of Florence Joan Foss* Dr. Mary Marino Doug and Lilian Thorpe*

Dilys and Eric Burt Memorial Trust (through the Saskatoon Community Foundation)* Esther Cherland and Dr. David Jobling Don Ching and Darien Moore Kenneth Coutu and Penelope Stalker* Robert Crowe and Mary-Jane Hendel* Shelley Ewing Glen Gillis Tony Haynes* Dr. and Mrs. Louis Horlick John and Myrna King* Anna Klassen Fund* Joanna P. Morrow* Garnet and Susan Packota* William Richards and Sandra Beardsall* Alan Ryan* Robert D. and Lura Mae Meeds Sider Fund (through the Saskatoon Community Foundation)* Transcontinental Western Media Group Inc. Bill Young+*

MAESTRO’S CIRCLE ($5,000-$9,999) Yvonne Cuttle* Estate of Gwen McDonald Lynn Ewing and Bill Feldbruegge* Floyd T. McNabb RBC Foundation Saskatchewan Orchestral Association* Saskatoon Fastprint Ltd.* Victor and Lesley Sawa* PERFORMER’S CIRCLE ($2,000-$4,999) Articulate Eye* Marguerite Caldwell* Karen Donnelly* Anne and Elmer Guenther* Colin Macdonald and Theresa Skwara (through the Saskatoon Community Foundation)* Lorraine Ourom Betty Reynolds* Edward Tymchatyn and Dorothy BookerTymchatyn* Anonymous*

CONCERTO ($500-$999) Mary Ballantyne* Carol and Ron Boden* Beverley and Bruce Caldwell* Cava Secreta* Elly Christ* Lois Elder* Joan Feather* Peter and Carmen Foley*

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Lewis and Elizabeth Gill* Katharine Grier* Brian and Loretta Hartsook* Arnold Janzen Gerarda P. C. Kaye* Anne Klaassen* Howard and Elizabeth Klein Dean and Janice Kolbinson* John and Evelyn Krahn* Jeffrey Kulyk* Sharon and Bill Maher* Diane and Harris May* Dean McNeill and Jennifer McAllister* George McVittie Phav Meekins* Stuart and Dorothy Middleton* Dr. Isabelle M. Mills* Noella Nutting* Catherine O’Leary Carol Parr* Yu Lin Pas* Ronald and Betty-Ann Perkins* Viola Schmidt* Frances and William Schultz John Senior* Marie Spencer Walter and Edna Thiessen* Kate Toews* Estate of Mary Elizabeth Tydeman Jeanne Walters* Margaret Watson* Thomas and June Zurowski SERENADE ($100-$249) Donald and Sylvia Acton Norman and Karen Altrogge* David and Cindy Ambrosi* Inger Anderson* Barbara and Cam Baillod* Margaret Baldock Earl and Elaine Ballard

Mary Barrett-Lenz Peter and Doris Bietenholz* Stella Blackshaw* Heather Blakley* Gloria and Herman Boerma* Anthony and Carole Boryski* Evelyn Bowman* Audrey Brandt* Louise Brady* Betty Brennan* Margaret Brennan* Peter Bretscher Broadway Cafe Cam Broten and Ruth Eliason Lois and Gordon Bruce* Robert and Helen Card* Sharon Ceslak* Bill and Mary Chapman* Peggy Cheung and Garry Mak* Les and Bubs Coleman* Mary Conklin* Maria Coupal* Margaret and John Crawford* Margaret Cugnet* Allison Currie Larry and Jo Custead* Susan and Carl Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Arcy* Diane and Arthur Davis* Ryan Davis* Kay Davidson* John deBruijn* WJ DeCoursey* Wally Doepker* Allan Dolovich Richard and Lauren Donnelly* Murray and Bev Drew* Keith and Dorothy Dryden* David Dupuis and Eden Baltulis* Bill and Eleanor Edwards Robert Edwards* Phyllis Ellis* Barbara and Jake Ens* Richard Ewen* Julia Ewing*

Nick and Bernadette Fanner* Allan and Helen Few* Randall Fleming Joan and Peter Flood* Larry and Lynn Fowke* Geraldine Franklin* Gayvin Franson* Margaret Fredeen* Patty Friesen and Patrick Preheim* Cathy and Joe Fry* E. and R. Gebhardt* Don Gendzwill* Myles Genest* Fran Gordon* Margaret Graham-Woloshyn* Norma and Ken Greaves* Howard and Jean Green* Marie and Ted Hammer Deborah Hanly* Dodie Heckman Terry Heckman Judith Rice Henderson* Bob and Doreen Hickie* Sharon Hildebrand Akira Hirose* Cindy Hogberg* G. Hogberg* Dr. Stuart and Mary Houston* Michael Hrycay Hume Family Fund* Dennis and Rosemary Hunt* Tim Hutchinson and Lorraine Salt* Dr. Derek and Helen Hill* Janet Hill Rick and Merrianne Holm* Irene Jantzen* Dr. Eunice Janzen Linda Jarock* Berna Jones* Gerald and Bernice Junk Dr. David Kaplan* Beverley & Bruce Karras* David and Carolyn Keegan* Gaye-Lynn Kern

2010 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2011 supporters circle SERENADE (continued) ($100-$249) Karen King* Bruno and Caroline Klassen* Holly Ann Knott* Eunice Koehler* Gerrit J. Kraay* John Krowina* James Legge* Leland-Kimpimski Theresa Kirkpatrick and Scott Matheson Murray and Rita Little Helen V. Logan* J. and A. Longstaff* Noel and Margaret Lowry* Ken and Marina Lyons* Wayne and Brenda MacDonald* Lori and Tyson Mack* Dr. and Mrs. Ma Tim and Peggy Martin Miss Mary Matwyuk* Marjorie Mazzei* John and Marilynne McEwan Connie McGrath* Allan McGuire Dr. Hugh and Sheryl McKee* Donald S. McKercher, Q.C. Wally and Shirley McNeil Dawn McLean Belyk* Robert McLellan* Rowena McLellan* Gordon McLure* Julian and Mary Ann Michayluk* Patricia Miquelon* Margaret Monks* John and MaryLou Montgomery* Catherine Morton* Gladys Murphy* Maria and Peter Neijmeijer* Wilette Neijmeijer David Nielsen

Cliff and Leila Nickel* Lorene Nickel Verna and Jake Nickel* Sarah Nixon-Jackle* Mervin and Judith Nordness* Earl and MaryAnn Nostbakken* Ron and Pat Nowoselski Diane Okrainetz George and Ellen Parchomchuk P. Olson* Lee Old and Jim Nykoliation* Deanna Parley* John Parry* Harold Pexa* Dawn Power* Esther Rabuka* J. Redlyon Laurel and Richard Reich* Paul and Dorothy Riemer* Al and Sandra Ritchie* Kathy Rhoden* Sam and Ruth Robinson* Frank Roy* Verna Sagansky* Patricia Santo* Richard Santo* Saskatoon Immigration Employment Harvey Sauder* Candace Savage* George Schmid* Judith Schmid* Dr. Ralph and Marg Schneider Rod Selby Phillip Settler* Bruce Simms* Sean Sinclair* Sisters of Ursulines of St. Angelaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Convent Rosemary Slater* George and Kathryn Sofko* Len and Pat Soiseth* Bev Somerville* Bernie and Pius Steckler

Stefanie Stefanson-Pexa * Esther Stenberg* Anne B. Stephenson* Meredith and Ian Sutherland* Ken Sutherland* Wilma Sweaney* Floyd Thiessen* Donna Thomson* Freda Toffolo and Jack M. Wigham* Carmelle E. Toner* The Trading Post (1987) Ltd.* Glenn and Nayda Veeman* George Jeerakathil and Tanya Veeman* Jim Veikle* Al and Marjorie Veroba* Larry Weber* Eldon Wiebe* Victor and Erna Wiebe* Dennis and Marie-Jeanne Will* Michael G. Williams Sally Wisser Amy and Gary Wobeser* Yan Wu* Al Zack Gail Zink* Catherine Zuck* Anonymous (x9)* PRELUDE ($20-$99) Joe and Connie Abrook* Jacquie Ackerman Ray Alisauskas* Nancy Allan* Magdalena Anderson Alina Balzer * Jeremy Bauman Margo Berry Carol Beaulieu* Terry Bethune* Evangeline Bilokury* Barbara Blom* Marilyn Boechler* Dr. Susan Brock

Candice Bryden Lisa Frances Clark Jason Coutu Bruce Davis* Kathryn Day Jeannette M. Dean* Vivien DeJong* Paul Denham* Marie Dunn* Alice Eichhorn Yvonne Fiddler* James Friesen* Naomi Friesen Shelley Hamilton and Winston Quan* James Hawn Carol Glazer Lynn Goshawk* Vicki Graham* Vanna Gruending* Lynn Guina Jason Hanson* Dr. Cydney Hayes David Heasman Sharon Hildebrand George James* Dave Janz Julie Janzen* Shelley Kaszefski Kerri Kobryn* Douglas Konkin Deborah Lake* Jeremy Lee David Legerwood* Karl and Joyce Lenz* Connie Lepard* Christine Lim Kathleen Little* Colin Macpherson* Theodore Makeechak* Stanley Marlin Jacqueline McAfee Don McBean M.M. McEwen* Stacey McPeek*

Final concert of the SSO season!

MUSIC FOR A SUNDAY AFTERNOON Dvorak, Berio, Sowerby, Rubtsov

Next Sunday, May 29

Delta Bessborough Hotel, 2:30 pm Tickets - TCU Place Box Office

saskatoonsymphony.org or call 975-7799

Thank you!

Western Development Museum 1910 Boomtown

for hosting our 2011-2012 season launch in Boomtown. Your assistance, service and kindness made planning our event a pleasure.

2010 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2011 supporters circle PRELUDE (continued) ($20-$99) J. Modeste Fred and Muriel Montbriand* Mercedes Montgomery* Musicraft Instrument Repair Rodney Muzyka* Ans Nahirney* Nancy Normore Bruce and Hilda Noton* Connie Owen-Jones* John Payzant Marjorie Perry Margaret Peterson* Michael Plaxten John Prietchuk* Martin Prusinkiewicz* Henriette Quessy* Neil Rawlyk* Curtis Reid Marjaleena Repo* Myrna Rolfes* Joseph Roux Mary Sawatsky Charlotte Scharnitzky* Nicole Schmid* Tom and Sharon Schmidt Ruby Schultz

Cantor Neil Schwartz* Gerald and Jeralyn Seniuk* Laurie Slinger* Donna Slobodzian Paul Sopuck* Abbie Speir Damian Spock Wayne Stankewich* Tom Steele* Dan and Joanne Sydiaha* Henry Tabel* Elaine Tagouchi* Darliene Thompson* Pat Thomson* Mark Turner Vlatka Tustonic Christine Varnam* Angela Ward* Joan Wassill Takako Watanabe-Travis* Jennifer Wynne Webber Anne-Marie Wheeler Katie Wiens* Francis Wight* James Wood* Yamaha Piano Centre Audrey Zbitnew* Anonymous (x3)*

Q In Honour of David Kaplan, Robert Klassen, Jack Shiffman, Brian Unverricht by Ashley Dolovich In Memory Donations In memory of Robert Akroyd by Julie Janzen In memory of John Trotter by Mark and Susan Wittrup In memory of Miss Isobel Veitch by Miss Mary Matwyuk Special thanks to Saskatoon Youth Orchestra - concert ushers for TCU Place

Tickets on sale now!

Directed by Dennis Beerling and Produced by Peter England

Music by RICHARD RODGERS Lyrics by OSCAR HAMMERSTEIN II Book by HOWARD LINDSAY and RUSSEL CROUSE Suggested by "The Story of the Trapp Family Singers"

June 24th â&#x20AC;&#x201C; July 2nd, 2011 in Rawlco Radio Hall at the Frank and Ellen Remai Arts Centre Remai Arts Centre Box Office:

(306) 384-7727 tickets.persephonetheatre.org www.saskatoonsummerplayers.ca THE SOUND OF MUSIC is presented through special arrangement with R & H Theatricals: www.rnh.com.

thank you Book & Music Sale volunteers! When the SSO Book and Music Sale committee takes the stage this evening, expect an announcement that will please the entire Symphony family. Since its inception, the sale has raised over a million dollars for the orchestra and it is its largest single annual fundraiser. Let’s take time to appreciate the thousands of hours, the number of sore backs, and the sacrifices required to achieve such a fantastic result. The committee is humble, but their accomplishments, dedication, and hard work are quite amazing. In 1989, Janice Shoquist organized the first sale at Grosvenor Park Shopping Centre, assisted by her husband Garry. The Shoquists remain involved will the sale to this day. Shirley and Duff Spafford spent many volunteer hours assisting in the early years and Duff continues to do so. Betty Tydeman was also involved in the first year and eventually became the chairperson until 2000. Between 1989 and 1997, the sale moved several times. A large workroom is required to collect, store, sort, and price materials. Usually it is located in the same location as the sale, but one year the workroom needed to be located off site, necessitating difficult moves of materials. Since 1997 the sale and the workroom have been located at Confederation Mall, a facility that is now undergoing change. Many individuals—too many to mention here—have volunteered over the years, working on the management committee or in other capacities. They have our gratitude and admiration for their accomplishment and generosity. The current committee includes Brenda Iwasuik, Fran Burgess, Marilyn Veikle, Martha Pankratz, and Ron Lambert. Planning for the next year’s sale begins during the previous summer, but the work of collecting and transporting donated items from the drop-off depots to the workroom, sorting, and processing items continues year round, with a volunteer group of approximately 55 people involved. During the sale itself, an additional 120 volunteers assist. The total number of volunteer hours is about 6,700 each year! If you have a love of books, an ability to work independently, as well as with a group, and have a strong back, then you have the requirements needed to volunteer— contact the SSO office at 665-6414 and they will pass the information on. If you have items to donate, check the list of drop-off depots at saskatoonsymphony.org or call the office at 665-6414. Donations are accepted year-round. Thank you Book and Music Sale volunteers, those who made donations, and patrons of the sale. The result of your work, generosity and purchases shines on stage at this and every Saskatoon Symphony concert. You are making incredible musical experiences possible for our community!

MUSIC DIRECTORY LISTINGS U OF S AMATI QUARTET ”The only string quartet in the world that performs on 17th century instruments made by the Amati family. Four superb musicians performing on four exquisite instruments.” The 2011–2012 season begins September 3rd with Schubert String Quintet in C. www.amatiquartet.usask.ca. SASKATOON STRING ENSEMBLE: “LIVE WITH PASSION” Transforming your event into an experience of a lifetime. String quartets, trios and duos perform classical, jazz, or contemporary music to add distinction to any kind of event. 292-6811 / 384-7464 www.saskatoonstringensemble.com SASKATOON YOUTH ORCHESTRA The SYO is a full orchestra for musicians aged 13 to 22. We also offer a strings orchestra for young players called the Saskatoon Strings, and a Double Bass program for beginners through intermediate levels. www.syo.ca or 955-6336. RITORNELLO CHAMBER MUSIC FESTIVAL, MAY 27 – 29 This annual series features young professional musicians returning to Saskatchewan. 2011 artists include former SSO players Kerry DuWors, Carissa Klopoushak, Jacqueline Nutting, Heather Wilson, Katya Woloshyn, current SSO members Micajah Sturgess, Bradley Powell, and friends. Three different programs take place: Fri. & Sat. May 27 & 28, 3rd Avenue United, 8pm, and Sun. May 29, Mayfair United, 2:30pm. For more information visit ritornello.ca Music Directory listings are a way for local groups, individuals, and small business involved in the arts to reach our audience. For information email marketing@saskatoonsymphony.org.

thank you for your support funding agencies

foundations

presenting sponsors

corporate supporters

media sponsors

for your information SSO Management and Staff Victor Sawa, Music Director Jill Reid, General Manager Maxim Pletnev, Director of Operations Keri Beebe, Executive Assistant Lenora Bells, Arts Education Consultant Mike Covey, Director of Sponsorships David Humphrey, Production Manager Lillian Jen-Payzant, Librarian Michael McCoy, Marketing Director Catherine O’Leary, Group Sales Darci Speidel, Accountant Mary Ann Therrien, Marketing Support Group tickets Group rate tickets are available for groups of 10 or more. For details contact groupsales@saskatoonsymphony.org or call 665-6414. Educational programs The Saskatoon Symphony is dedicated to serving students, educators, parents and adults in learning and experiencing symphonic music through a school program which connects classical music to the curriculum, fostering creative thinking and interest in music and other arts. Bookings for the 2011–2012 school year will be accepted in September. Email: lenora.bells@saskatoonsymphony.org Your consideration is requested. We want to make our performance venues comfortable places for all who come to our events. We ask that you assist us in creating a scent-free environment by avoiding using perfumes, aftershaves, colognes, and scented lotions and opting for “fragrancefree”, “scent-free”, or “unscented” versions of personal care products on concert evenings. We thank you in advance for being considerate in this regard; your cooperation is greatly appreciated.

Saskatoon Symphony Office 810 – 601 Spadina Crescent East Saskatoon, SK S7K 3G8 Telephone: 306-665-6414 Fax: 306-652-3364 office@saskatoonsymphony.org www.saskatoonsymphony.org TCU Place Box Office: www.tcutickets.ca or call 975-7799 Program Advertising and Sponsorship Opportunites Contact Mike Covey: mike@mcmedia21.ca for program advertising and insert rates and to discuss how your business or organization can benefit from sponsorship opportunities with the SSO. Privacy policy We respect your privacy and have policies to ensure that the security of the personal information you provide us is maintained. Your information is used to deliver services including booking, exchanging, confirming, and mailing tickets, subscription renewal reminders, tax receipts, and for financial record keeping, in addition to keeping you up to date on the activities of the orchestra, including upcoming events, programs, special offers and services, funding needs and other information of interest. We do not rent, sell or trade our mailing lists or any patron information. Only authorized SSO employees have access and our information systems are secure. If at any time you wish to be removed from any of these contacts, please call us at 665-6414 or email general.manager@ saskatoonsymphony.org and we will gladly accommodate your request.

Maestro Victor Sawa Music Director

It’s About Your Life

Welcome to our 2011 – 2012 Season

Renew or purchase new subscriptions by June 15 & save 20% Pricing/order forms available at saskatoonsymphony.org or in lobby tonight. Subscriptions are handled by TCU Place Box Office. Order by phone, mail, or in person (see form for details).

Non-subscription sales open June 16 (www.saskatoonsymphony.org)

Masters Series feeling sso fine September 10, 2011

Saskatoon-born pianist Helen Kashap makes a triumphant return in an evening of rousing performances meant to welcome you to the new season put a spring in your step. Helen Kashap piano; Maestro Victor Sawa conductor Ridout: Fall Fair Overture Grieg: Concerto for Piano; Brahms: Symphony No. 2

classics for skeptics ‘bridal edition’ October 15, 2011

Don’t care for classical? Maestro Sawa has the cure. Maestro Victor Sawa conductor Rossini: Overture to Barber of Seville; Debussy: Claire de Lune Bizet: Carmen Suite ; Sibelius: Karelia Suite; Smetana: The Bartered Bride, Dance of the Comedians; Mendelsohn: A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Wedding March; Pachalbel: Canon; Tchaikovsky: Romeo and Juliet

SPANISH FIRE November 19, 2011

Masters of the classical guitar ignite the stage and Vienna-based conductor Alexei Kornienko returns by popular demand to conduct Ravel’s sensuous and steamy Bolero. Canadian Guitar Quartet guitar Alexei Kornienko conductor Glinka: Jota Aragonesa; de Falla: Ritual Fire Dance; Rodrigo: Concierto Andeluz for 4 Guitars; Massenet: Ballet Music from Le Cid; Ravel: Bolero

FROM LARA, WITH LOVE February 11, 2012

A Valentine celebration with international violin sensation Lara St. John. “passionate performance.”Australian Daniel Smith made his conducting debut at age 16 with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra and is now filling concert halls around the globe. Daniel Smith, guest conductor Lara St. John, violin Smetana: Ma Vlast; Miller: Before Alline; Dvořák: Violin Concerto

more of the Masters Series VOICES OF SPRING March 18, 2012

The University’s 150-member chorus, with two of Canada’s mosttalented singers in a masterpiece of genius and vision. University and Community Chorus Gary Gullickson, director Monica Huisman soprano Garry Gable bass-baritone Maestro Victor Sawa conductor Brahms: German Requiem courtesy petergknight.com

MAKE MINE MAHLER May 19, 2012

Mahler’s “Fifth” unleashes awe-inspiring power and fury and then recedes to caress the soul with tenderness. Plus, the Saskatoon Youth Orchestra joins the Symphony for Respighi’s instantly lovable work. Maestro Victor Sawa conductor With the Saskatoon Youth Orchestra, Richard Carnegie, conductor Mahler: Symphony No. 5; Respighi: Ancient Airs and Dances, Suite II

POPS Series BROADWAY HEROES September 24, 2011

Canada’s most accomplished leading man and original star of Phantom of the Opera salutes men of the Broadway musical. David Rogers baritone Mark Payne conductor

CLASSICAL MYSTERY TOUR - A Tribute to the Beatles January 21, 2012

Want to hear the Beatles backed by a full orchestra? The LA Times says this fab four have “a high goose-bump quotient,” and “the crowd stood and bellowed for more.” John Owen, Tony Kishman, John Brosnan, Chris Camilleri Maestro Victor Sawa conductor

at THE MOVIES - A NIGHT OF OSCAR® award WINNING MUSIC February 4, 2012

Step into Hollywood’s glitziest night and walk the red carpet into Maestro Sawa’s tribute to award-winning movie music. Maestro Victor Sawa conductor

FOR MICHAEL - THE MUSIC OF MICHAEL JACKSON April 21, 2012

From ‘Rockin’ Robin’ to ‘Billy Jean,’ ‘Beat It,’ ‘Human Nature,’ and ‘Thriller,’ Gavin Hope and the Jeans ‘n Classics rock ensemble highlight Jackson’s R&B roots and his rise as an international pop icon. Gavin Hope, Kathryn Rose, Katalin Kiss, Lis Soderberg vocals Jeans ‘n Classics Band Maestro Victor Sawa conductor

Holiday Season Concerts HANDEL’S MESSIAH December 7, 2011 Third Avenue United Church A Saskatoon tradition, Handel’s masterpiece presented with a magnificent chorus and gifted soloists in a brilliant performance. Mary Joy Nelson soprano / Heather Molloy mezzo-soprano Michael Harris tenor / Jordie Hughton bass Maestro Victor Sawa conductor HOLIDAY SPECIAL December 10, 2011 TCU Place

Dreaming of a White Christmas? Maestro Sawa is. What if he added a dash of green, and the sparkle of little sugar plum fairies? Experience the beauty of the season as the orchestra performs holiday melodies from old chestnuts to timeless classics. Featuring Gainer the Gopher, Saskatoon area dance students . . . and more! Maestro Victor Sawa conductor

Classics for Kids Series SYLVIA’S STORIES IN MUSIC October 2, 2011 TCU Place, Centennial Hall

Sylvia Chave returns with three engaging musical tales by classic composers for youngsters age 3 to 8. Sylvia Chave narrator Dr. Glen Gillis conductor

HOW THE GIMQUAT FOUND HER SONG April 1, 2012 TCU Place, Sid Buckwold Theatre

After more than 200 performances around the world, this heartwarming tale told in Dr. Seuss-like verse, continues to garner rave reviews and keep audiences of all ages spellbound. Platypus Theatre guest performers Dr. Glen Gillis conductor

Students are Special! Silent Movie Festival SSO COLLEGE CHALLENGE

Friday, March 9, 2012 TCU Place 10am An opportunity for students and teachers to connect with some great music and talented musicians. Witness the challenge! Open to everyone. University of Saskatchewan Brass, Woodwind, and Percussion guest artists

the thief of baghdad Feb. 25, 2012 Roxy Theatre

Thrill to the acrobatics of Douglas Fairbanks in this 1924 spectacle, with a sumptuous score performed LIVE, featuring L.A.-based silent movie music guru Rick Friend on piano. Rick Friend piano Presented in part by Brian Unverricht conductor Tickets at www.picatic.com

Music for a Sunday Afternoon Series