Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra Program 1 Season 2015-16 by Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra

brso 2015

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IRENE W. & C.B.

PENNINGTON FOUNDATION

A Living Legacy

PAULA PENNINGTON de la BRETONNE

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The Power of

Arts in Medicine At Baton Rouge General Medical Center, there is something special about taking care of people. Our artists, musicians and storytellers provide inspiring creative outlets for our patients and their families, helping them embrace the challenges of diagnosis, treatment and recovery in a unique way. Whether through music, painting, dance or craftwork, we understand the power of the arts in healing. We are a community of hope, inspiration, healing and compassion. We are a Community of Caring.

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Table of Contents

2015-2016 Season Calendar.................................................... 6 Pennington Great Performers in Concert................................. 9 Tickets and Services.............................................................. 11 Messages from Music Director, Board Chair .......................... 13 Music Director, Chorus Master & Associate Conductor ......... 15 Encore Society...................................................................... 16 Join the Community of Giving............................................... 17 BRSO Orchestra Personnel.................................................... 20 BRSO Chorus Members......................................................... 21 Opening Night - Jonathan Biss: performs the “Emperor”........ 22 Composer’s Spotlight: Sergei Rachmaninoff............................ 27 Late Romantics -Gary Hoffman.............................................. 28 Irene W. & C.B. Pennington Foundation: A Living Legacy...... 32 Lamar Family Chamber Series - Baroque and Beyond Sharon Isbin.................................................................... 37 Baton Rouge Symphony League............................................. 39 Visionary Society Donors....................................................... 40 Pennington Challenge Donors............................................... 40 Home for the Holidays.......................................................... 41 Louisiana Youth Orchestras Season Opener........................... 42 LYO Roster............................................................................ 43 BRSO Education and Community Initiatives.......................... 44 Special Events....................................................................... 48 BRSO Chair’s Award Recipient, Mae Belton........................... 51 Lamar Holiday Brass.............................................................. 53 Edith K. Kirkpatrick Lifetime Achievement Award, Mary Sue Chambers........................................................ 54 Donors and Community Partners.......................................... 62 BRSO Management .............................................................. 71 BRSO Board of Directors....................................................... 71 BRSO Chorus Leadership...................................................... 71 Index of Advertisers.............................................................. 74 Cover photo credit: Tim Mueller Photography

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BRSO PEOPLE + MUSIC �TOGETHER

MASTERWORKS

Jonathan Biss, piano BEETHOVEN Piano Concerto No. 5 in E-flat major “Emperor,” Op. 73 TCHAIKOVSKY Symphony No. 4 in F minor, Op. 36

BATON ROUGE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

EXPLORERS

DISCOVERIES

2015/16 SEASON | RIVER CENTER THEATRE

Opening Night: Jonathan Biss performs the “Emperor”

American Festival: Gershwin, Still, Paulus

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2015 | 8:00

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2016 7:30 PM

BRSO opens its 2015/16 season, Explorers and Discoveries, in a spectacular display of groundbreaking compositions: Tchaikovsky’s fourth symphony — a monumental convergence of classicism and romanticism; of the personal and popular— along-side Beethoven’s “Emperor” concerto, a “reinvention” of the concerto placing the orchestra and soloist as both adversaries and much needed allies.

Late-Romantics THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2015 | 7:30

Gary Hoffman, cello

Join Maestro Muffitt and BRSO in exploring two monumental post-romantic composers and their work: Elgar’s Cello Concerto and Rachmaninoff’s breathtaking Symphony No. 2. World-renowned cellist Gary Hoffman performs the Elgar Concerto in his Baton Rouge debut. MOZART Overture to The Impresario, K. 486 ELGAR Cello Concerto in E minor, Op. 85 RACHMANINOFF Symphony No. 2 in E minor, Op. 27

Adé Williams, violin

Explore three composers’ unique perspectives on people and places in a program featuring one of the most exciting young talents of our time, the sensational 18 year-old violin prodigy, Adé Williams. PAUL HAYDEN Clara WORLD PREMIERE BRUCH Scottish Fantasy in E-flat major, Op. 46 MENDELSSOHN Symphony No. 4 in A major “Italian,” Op. 90

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STILL GERSHWIN PAULUS

Stephen Paulus, composer

Symphony No. 1 “Afro-American” An American in Paris Concerto for Two Trumpets

William Grant Still, composer

Brian Shaw and Rex Richardson, trumpet

The Viennese School: Haydn, Mozart and Beethoven THURSDAY, APRIL 14, 2016 7:30 PM

Perspectives: Mendelssohn, Bruch and Hayden THURSDAY, JANUARY 28, 2016 | 7:30

BRSO celebrates African American History Month in spectacular style! Join BRSO in recognition of more than 100 years of contributions to the American songbook featuring William Grant Still’s symphonic masterpiece alongside twentieth century works incorporating jazz and classical styles. Trumpeter Rex Richardson joins BRSO’s own principal trumpet Brian Shaw in presenting this convergence of musical idioms.

BRSO concludes its Explorers and Discoveries season in a program of legendary proportion highlighting the works of Haydn, Mozart and Beethoven — three of the most significant and groundbreaking composers that have left an indelible mark on music for all time. Baton Rouge native and internationally-acclaimed soprano Lisette Oropesa returns to Baton Rouge to perform Mozart’s C minor Mass with the BRSO Chorus.

Lisette Oropesa, soprano HAYDN Symphony 43 in E-flat major, “Mercury” MOZART Mass in C minor, K. 427 Kyrie Gloria BEETHOVEN Symphony No. 5 in C minor, Op. 67

LAMAR CHAMBER SERIES

Sharon Isbin, guitar

FAMILY POPS!

Sharon Isbin: Baroque & Beyond

Home for the Holidays

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2015 | 7:30

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2015 | 7:30 PM SUNDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2015 | 3:00 PM

BRSO opens its Lamar Chamber Series with the incomparable Sharon Isbin in a programmatic journey tracing the musical lineage of the guitar. Isbin makes her Baton Rouge debut in this not-tobe-missed evening of musical discovery.

The Piano Trio THURSDAY, JANUARY 14, 2016 | 7:30

Yevgeny Kutik, violin

Russian-American Yevgeny Kutik’s spectacular Baton Rouge debut opened BRSO’s 2014/15 Season. Kutik makes his triumphant return joining BRSO principals Dianne Frazier and Molly Goforth to present a stunning pairing of piano trios by Shostakovich and Brahms.

Willis Delony: Intersections THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2016 | 7:30

Willis Delony, piano

LSU College of Music & Dramatic Arts’ Professor of Jazz Studies and Virginia Martin Howard Professor of Keyboard Studies Willis Delony offers a fascinating glimpse into the connections between the worlds of Classical and Jazz in his original production, Willis Delony: Intersections.

Return to Baroque THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2016 | 7:30

Join BRSO’s principal wind quintet retracing some 300 years of music as they present Back to Baroque — a program of discovery celebrating some of the most exciting music of today and its relationship with the origins of secular music performed by BRSO’s principal winds: Rachel Ciraldo, flute; James Ryon, oboe; Robert DiLutis, clarinet; R. Conrad Cornelison, bassoon; and Angela Bagnetto Finley, horn.

RIVER CENTER THEATRE The Holiday Season would not be complete without BRSO’s annual Home for the Holidays! Join Maestro Muffitt as he leads this spectacular cast of hundreds including the orchestra, symphony chorus, and numerous guest performers from across our city in a celebration of community and the spirit of the season like none other.

Timothy Muffitt, Music Director

PIXAR in Concert SATURDAY, APRIL 23, 2016 3 PM & 7:30 PM RIVER CENTER THEATRE BRSO is proud to present a compilation of the music and imagery from Pixar’s thirteen feature films performed by live orchestra! Associate Conductor David Torns leads the orchestra and audience on a magical cinematic journey through such beloved films as the ‘Toy Story,’ trilogy, ‘Cars,’ ‘Finding Nemo,’ ‘A Bugs Life,’ ‘The Incredibles,’ and ‘Up’ — all projected above the orchestra!

Country Roots SATURDAY, JUNE 11, 2016 | 3 RIVER CENTER THEATRE

& 7:30

BRSO POPS! is country strong and proud of it. Join the orchestra (and a very special guest artist!) for two performances celebrating the music, places and culture that we call home.

ADD THIS EXPERIENCE TO YOUR SEASON

SAVE THE DATE

LAMAR HOLIDAY BRASS

IRENE W. AND C. B. PENNINGTON

Led By David Torns, Associate Conductor

FOUNDATION GREAT

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2015 | 7:30

| ST. JOSEPH CATHEDRAL

An experience truly unique to Baton Rouge incorporating awe-inspiring music in a breath-taking setting, the Lamar Family’s Holiday Brass at St. Joseph Cathedral is a must for the holiday season. THIS CONCERT IS CERTAIN TO SELL OUT! Add this special offering to any subscription purchase for just $20.

PERFORMERS IN CONCERT FRIDAY, MAY 13, 2016 | 8

| RIVER CENTER THEATRE

Mark your calendars for the most anticipated performance of the season, the Irene W. and C. B. Pennington Foundation Great Performers in Concert! Now in its fourteenth season, this not-tobe-missed gala series continues to bring the best-of-the-best to Baton Rouge. 2015 FALL

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Great Performers in Concert THE IRENE W. AND C. B. PENNINGTON FOUNDATION

PRESENTS

THE ANNOUNCEMENT 9.25.15

THE CONCERT FRIDAY, MAY 13, 2016 8 PM | RIVER CENTER THEATRE

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First chair, since 1902.

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Tickets & Services PURCHASING TICKETS

RIVER CENTER THEATRE SERVICES

Buy Online at BRSO.org The easiest way to purchase tickets is online. Our website has complete program and ticket information on Masterworks, Chamber, and Pops concerts, package pricing options, holiday concerts, guest artists, special events, and a River Center seating chart.

Beverages on Sale Beverage bars are open one hour before concerts and during intermission on both levels, serving both alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks. Drinks are not allowed in the theater.

Call or Visit the BRSO Office Season and single tickets may be purchased by calling the BRSO office weekdays, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., 225.383.0500. A friendly staff member will help you make your selection and accept your payment by credit card. You may also purchase tickets at the BRSO office, 7330 Highland Road or online. Special Discounts Discounts are available for seniors, children, and students with a valid school ID. Will Call Desk The Will Call desk is located in the front lobby of the River Center Theatre. Season Tickets - Masterworks, Chamber, or Pops Season ticket holders are invited to concert receptions, receive first choice of season concert seating, and provide critical yearround support for Orchestra and administrative personnel. Season ticket holders enjoy reduced pricing per ticket.

No Cameras, Recorders or Cell Phones The use of cameras or recording equipment of any kind, including cell phones, is strictly forbidden. Please silence cell phones, watches and any other noise-making devices before concerts. Late Arrivals Latecomers will be seated at appropriate pauses after the concert begins. Lost and Found Contact the River Center Theatre House Manager immediately following the concert or call the River Center weekdays, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 225.389.3030. Guests with Disabilities Limited accessibility is available for disabled guests, including wheelchair seating. Let a staff member know when you purchase tickets to make sure you are easily accommodated. Please note, there is no elevator to the balcony.

Create Your Own Subscription Too busy for season tickets? Designed for busy lifestyles, the Create Your Own Subscription by selecting groups of 6 or 4 Masterworks, Chamber, or Pops concerts throughout the year. Details on this and other options are on the web at BRSO.org. Donate Your Tickets Please call the BRSO office at least 24 hours before the concert if you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t use your tickets. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll receive a tax credit letter for your donation.

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in perfect rythm.

It takes a masterful performance to sustain a community. While the Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra does its part by delivering world-class cultural enrichment to local audiences, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re proud to help make it possible by supporting your endeavors note for note and beat by beat.

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Welcome

JUDI GEORGE

TIMOTHY MUFFITT

Baton Rouge Symphony Board Chairman

Music Director

Dear friends, It is great to have you hear with us as we get together to share another experience in great music. Performances such as this are the result of many different kinds of investment. Our musicians have invested their lives into honing their craft and invested hours in preparation for tonight’s performance. Our staff has invested their time, energies and talents into putting this concert together from behind the scenes. Our sponsors have invested the funds to make this organization possible, and our board of directors and other volunteers have invested their valuable free time toward ensuring that Baton Rouge continue to benefit from a first-class symphony orchestra, a cornerstone of any prosperous city. This season BRSO is upping our investment in guest artists. While we have always been proud of our Masterworks Guest Artists, the 2015-16 season represents a significant step forward toward securing more artists of a higher profile. Many factors have come into play to allow this new investment. Notable was the formation of the Tuesday Night Supper Club, a small gathering of Baton Rouge community leaders who wanted to make a strong impact on the symphony’s growth. The relationships between BRSO and our area universities have always been strong and important to all entities. Also notable this season is a new, and enhanced relationship with the LSU School of Music by which synergies are created around guest artists on a more regular and formal basis. We look forward to watching these new and enhanced partnerships take root and blossom. The payoff of these investments come directly to you the concert goer, and to our community. As our city grows and changes, BRSO is working to not only do our part in fostering that growth, but also to keep up with it! A dynamic city deserves a dynamic orchestra, and the Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra is proud to serve that role. I hope you enjoy the concert! Timothy Muffitt

n behalf of the Board of Directors, it is my pleasure to welcome you to the Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra’s 67th season. BRSO is one of the artistic treasures of the Capital area. It is the mission of the group of volunteers who comprise the Board of Directors to assure that it continues to be a source of education and cultural enrichment for this community. Recently the Board has invested in the Symphony’s programming to sustain the Orchestra as a vibrant institution for an ever growing region. In fact there have been several additions to programming in recent years. Not only have we bolstered our the traditional Masterworks and Chamber concerts by engaging exciting new artists but we have also added the BRSO Family Pops series aimed at young families in particular, created a community outdoor concert series in partnership with the LSU Rural Life Museum, and expanded our Holiday Brass concerts into new communities. Of course the highlight of the season remains the Irene W. and C. B. Pennington Foundation’s Great Performers in Concert series which celebrates thirteen years of performances with the upcoming concert on May 13, 2016. All of these efforts are aimed at ensuring that an ever growing and more diverse audience has the opportunity to hear and enjoy truly great music. It is my great honor to share with each of you that a driving force behind these investments and many more left unmentioned is a spectacular a matching grant from the Irene W. and C.B. Pennington Foundation in the amount of $500,000. The Board is very grateful to the Foundation for giving us this opportunity to provide our community with not only more of the world’s greatest artists and music, but the opportunity to place our Orchestra on a sound financial footing for many years to come. You can learn more about the Pennington Family Foundation and the Million Dollar Challenge on page 34 of this edition of Braveaux. I know that each of you joins with me in expressing deep gratitude to the Irene W. and C. B. Pennington Foundation for this extraordinary gift. The future of your Orchestra is bright! Under the artistic leadership of Maestro Timothy Muffitt and Associate Conductor David Torns, and the organizational leadership of our office staff, we move forward into the future with great optimism. Once again, welcome to this concert and this season. Enjoy Judi

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Music Director, Chorus Master & Associate Conductor the country’s premiere orchestral training ensembles.

TIMOTHY MUFFITT, Music Director and Conductor

Born in Bridgeport, Connecticut, Mr. Muffitt began his musical studies at age seven on the piano and later added viola and trumpet. He received his conducting training at the Eastman School of Music, studying with David Effron, where he earned the Doctor of Musical Arts degree.

Now in his 17th season as Music Director

and Conductor of the Baton Rouge Symphony, Timothy Muffitt continues to appear with other prominent orchestras around the country. Recent seasons have included return engagements with the San Francisco Symphony and the Long Beach Symphony along with his debut at The Hollywood Bowl. Other recent engagements have taken Muffitt to the St. Louis, Tulsa, Wichita, Houston, Phoenix, Edmonton, and Spokane Symphonies, Columbus Ohio’s Pro Musica Chamber Orchestra, the Buffalo Philharmonic, the Virginia Symphony, the Grant Park Music Festival Orchestra in Chicago and the Harrisburg (PA) Symphony among others. Muffitt is also Music Director of the Lansing Symphony Orchestra, a position he has held for 9 years. Along with continued growth in artistic excellence, Muffitt’s work has been marked by innovative, imaginative programming. A strong proponent of community arts education, Muffitt has been very active in the venues of radio and lecture, presenting arts-enrichment programs through a variety of formats for diverse audiences. Formerly Associate Conductor with the Austin Symphony, Muffitt was also Artistic Director of the Louisiana Philharmonic’s Casual Classics Series in New Orleans. It was for his work in that position, that Mr. Muffitt was awarded a Certificate of Meritorious Service from the American Federation of Musicians. Prominent performers and composers with whom Mr. Muffitt has worked include Yo-Yo Ma, Renee Fleming, Dame Kiri Te Kanawa, Andre Watts, Alicia de Larrocha, Pinchas Zukerman, Van Cliburn, Lynn Harrell, Itzhak Perlman, and composers John Cage, Joseph Schwantner, Ellen Taffe Zwilich, John Harbison, Joan Tower and Bernard Rands among others. In addition to his work with professional orchestras, Mr. Muffitt is also Music Director of the Chautauqua Institution’s Music School Festival Orchestra, one of

DAVID TORNS, Associate Conductor Louisiana Youth Orchestra Music Director and Conductor

ecently appointed Associate Conductor of the Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra, David Torns continues to be recognized for his vibrant personality, musical depth, and his ability to communicate an infectious joy for music to both musicians and audiences alike.

DAVID SHALER, Chorusmaster

David

Shaler is the Director of Music and Arts at Broadmoor United Methodist Church in Baton Rouge. He has served there for 12 years as a conductor of choral and instrumental ensembles, and also as a singer, pianist, and trumpet player. Prior to coming to Louisiana, he conducted church choirs in Georgia and Iowa. He received his Doctor of Musical Arts degree from the University of Iowa and has conducted collegiate choirs at that institution, as well as Coe College in Iowa. Mr. Shaler sang as a countertenor for five seasons with the professional male ensemble, Chanticleer, touring nationally and internationally in concert and making several recordings. As a countertenor soloist, he has sung for collegiate and community groups, including for the Baton Rouge Symphony and Chorus in their 2004 Messiah concert. He sang as a chorister with the Atlanta Symphony Chorus under Robert Shaw for two seasons (1986-1988), which included a European tour and several recordings. He has also participated in professional choral workshops at Carnegie Hall with conductors Robert Shaw, Peter Schreier, and Helmuth Rilling.

Mr. Torns also holds the post of Principal Pops Conductor of the Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra. He has collaborated with pops artists such as the Wicked Divas, Spectrum Motown, Ana Andricain, Classical Mystery Tour, Doug LaBrecque, Debbie Gravitte, and Christiane Noll.  He recently collaborated with American Idol finalists Haley Scarnato, Matt Giraud, and LaKisha Jones. Mr. Torns has worked with the Omaha Symphony, Baltimore Chamber Orchestra, Astoria Symphony, Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, and Acadiana Symphony Orchestra amongst others. As Music Director of the Louisiana Youth Orchestras, he is a passionate promoter of music education. Mr. Torns has appeared in concert with student orchestras throughout the United States including the Vanderbilt University Symphony, Nashville Youth Symphony, West Virginia University Symphony, the North Carolina School for the Arts “Musica Piccola” Orchestra, and the Greater New Orleans Youth Orchestra. He conducted the 2013 All-Southern California Honor Orchestra. Mr. Torns designs and implements engaging educational concerts reaching over 10,000 students each year. Mr. Torns is an alumnus of many prestigious music festivals including the Idyllwild School of Music and the Arts, Sewanee Summer Music Festival, and the Chautauqua Institution. He has performed in master classes with Harold Farberman, Marin Alsop, Apo Hsu, Guillermo Figueroa, Karen Deal, Eduardo Navega, Leon Botstein, Donald Portnoy, Samuel Jones, and Paul Vermel. He has also studied with Kenneth Kiesler, Markand Thakar, and Timothy Muffitt. 2015 FALL

Encore Society

Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra Encore Society

The Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra’s Encore Society honors

individuals who through estate planning have made gifts of bequests, trusts and other legacy gifts to the BRSO Endowment. The generosity of each Encore Society member ensures the continued vitality and growth of BRSO from one generation to the next. They make an extraordinary, living gift to loved ones, future audiences and to our community. If you have named BRSO in your estate plans, you are already a member!

Who are the members of the Encore Society?

They are: 1. Community leaders and arts advocates who are on a mission through their philanthropy and passion to support BRSO in transformational ways. 2. Accomplished individuals who represent a culture of shared attitudes, values, goals and the love of classical music that characterizes the very best of BRSO. 3. Individuals who share a collective confidence in BRSO and give of themselves, their resources, and their vision to make a difference for generations to come. 4. Like-minded individuals who understand that an institution like BRSO cannot thrive without investment. 5. Encore Society members exemplify an artful expression of shared vision for our community.

Encore Society members Anonymous Cindy and Lee Bloch Jeanne M. and Edward T. L. Borie Melanie and Russ Chapman Cynthia and Frank Chemay Margaret C. Hart Dr. Abba Kastin Edith Kirkpatrick Carole M. Marshall Barbara and Camp Matens

Alma Mc Grew Marcia and Roger Moser Sally and Richard Norem Janice and Gerald Pellar Meredith Hathorn Penick Jeanette and Robert Rackley Betty and Harvey Schwartzberg Deborah Dunlevy Todd Evelyn B. Tracy

For more information on joining BRSO’s Encore Society or to tell us that you are already a member, please contact the symphony offices at (225) 383-0500 and dial extension 106. Director of Development Andrew Perry will be happy to assist you.

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Music has always been an integral part of our lives. Whether participating as performers or as avid listeners, it has brought great joy and meaning to us both. This deep appreciation is something we passed on to our sons and something they are in turn instilling in their children. We believe that great music – symphonic music – is not only essential to our family but to the lives of our entire community. Ensuring that future generations continue to have the same chances we had to experience the power of great music has been a driving force behind our commitment to Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra. It is also why we have decided to become a member of The Encore Society. If you share this sentiment with us we encourage you to join the Encore Society by making a provision for BRSO in your estate plans. It is a relatively simple thing that you can do that can make a lasting impact on BRSO and our city. Please, join us. Betty and Harvey Schwartzberg

Join the Baton Rouge Symphony Community of Giving Get good things for just doing good BRSO is doing good things in our community every day in part because of generous donors who make it possible. As a token of appreciation, BRSO offers an array of exciting benefits to its donors — many designed to enhance the concert experience. If you would like to become a donor please take a moment to review the benefits listed below. If you are already a donor, thank you for your support! $10,000 STRADIVARIUS • Opportunity to be listed as a sponsor of a concert, event or guest artist. • Plus benefits associated with the $5,000 level. $5,000 VIRTUOSO • Invitation for two to a special reception with Maestro Muffitt • Plus benefits associated with the $2,000 level. $2,000 GOLDEN BATON • Invitations to private house parties with BRSO guest artist(s) throughout the season. • Plus benefits associated with the $1,000 level. $1,000 CONDUCTOR’S CIRCLE • VIP Valet Parking for all BRSO concerts at the Baton Rouge River Center • Private intermission/post-concert receptions (when available) • Plus benefits associated with the $500 level $500 CONCERT MASTER • Complimentary Self-parking pass for all BRSO concerts at the Baton Rouge River Center • One year’s subscription to Symphony magazine • Plus benefits associated with the $250 level $250 FIRST CHAIR • Two complimentary tickets to any Masterworks concert • Two complimentary beverage coupons • Plus benefits associated with the $100 level $100 SECTION PLAYER • Membership Card good for 10% off of all BRSO merchandise purchases including guest artist CD’s. • Name listed in the program book

For more information on the many ways you can support BRSO, including sponsorships, volunteerism, or in-kind gifts please contact Andrew Perry at andrew@brso.org or (225) 400-0336.

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Sunday Classics with Timothy Muffitt

S U N D AY E V E N I N G S AT 7 P M

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Celebrate the Holidays with BRSO inYour Community ST JOSEPH CATHEDRAL FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11 AT 7:30 PM GREENWELL SPRINGS BAPTIST CHURCH (CENTRAL) TUESDAY DECEMBER 8 AT 7 PM ST. JOHN THE EVANGELIST CATHOLIC CHURCH (PLAQUEMINE) WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9 AT 7 PM HOUMAS HOUSE

(make reservations now - separately) SUNDAY, DECEMBER 13 AT 4:30 PM

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Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra 2015-2016 Season

Music Director: Timothy Muffitt Associate Conductor David Torns VIOLIN I Borislava Iltcheva, Concertmaster Lin He, Associate Concertmaster Roxana Pavel, Assistant Concertmaster Kelly Smith Toney Iya Tsyrkot Alvaro Pereiro Anton Zholondz Hannah-Phyllis Urdea-Marcus Rafael Galvan-Herrera Guillermo Salas-Suárez VIOLIN II Aaron Farrell, Principal Emil Ivanov, Associate Principal* Stefka Madere, Acting Associate Principal Boris Blagoev, Assistant Principal Alejandro Larumbe Jiaxi Liu Lois Geertz Amelie Taylor

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VIOLA Elias Goldstein, Principal Jennifer Cassin, Associate Principal Christopher Lowry, Assistant Principal Cassandra Magee Maria Alexander Teodora Peeva Sonia Feres-Lloyd Monica Rodriguez de la Hoz CELLO Molly Goforth, Principal Daniel Cassin, Associate Principal Veronica Parrales, Assistant Principal Caio Alves Diniz Dragos Filip Kimberly Sands Andrian Harabaru Philip von Maltzahn Joy Keown Bedillion Alvaro Angulo* Thomas Rodrigues DOUBLE BASS John Madere, Principal Jeb Stuart, Associate Principal Yong-Hao Pan, Assistant Principal Louis DeVries Steve Legé

Bill Hunsinger David Hinson George Thompson FLUTE Rachel T Ciraldo, Principal Jill Swetnam Suzanne Buerkle OBOE James Ryon, Principal Shea Tully Annie Henneke CLARINET Robert DiLutis, Principal Michael Bartnik SAXOPHONE Griffin Campbell, Principal BASSOON Darrel Hale, Principal TJ Blackburn Pettit HORN Angela Bagnetto Finley, Principal* Arisia Gilmore, Acting Principal Kevin Andry Janiece Luedeke Fred Wild Richard Norem, Principal Emeritus

TRUMPET Brian Shaw, Principal Craig Heinzen Logan Place TROMBONE Steve Menard, Principal David Johansen TUBA Frank Chemay, Principal HARP Stephanie Gustafson Amfahr, Principal KEYBOARD Dianne Frazer, Acting Principal ORGAN Richard Webb, Principal TIMPANI Douglas Cade, Principal PERCUSSION Terry McKinney, Principal Parrish Sonnier Eric Gueniot *Leave of Absence

Baton Rouge Symphony Chorus 2015-2016 Season

Chorus Master: David Shaler Accompanist: Dianne Frazer President: Gregory T. Oivanki ALTO I Kathy Bowersox Janelle D. Couvillon Helen Hoffpauir Anna Hutto Quinn Kendall+ Erin McWilliams Nanette Olivier+ Margaret Pfeil Kathy Rageur Kristina Shapiro Brenda W. Walker+ Rebecca L. Watson Donna Watson* ALTO II Donna Alleman Lisa Bourne+ Cheryl M. Brandon, Ed.D+ Charlie Chavez Nancy Griffin Susie Hunt+ Stephanie Hyde Nancy Jurasinski Amanda Lemoine Beryl B. Mack Mary L. McConnell*

Connie L. Payne Mary Pittman Brenda Salassi Susan Tarleton Dixie J. Tippy BASS I Glen Daigle Casey Doucet+ Peter J. Fogg Warren M. Fraser Riley Furr Peter E. Grant John Hu Keith James^ Colton Johnson+ James Jurasinski+ Gregory T. Oivanki** Mark Zielinski BASS II Neal Blanchard Garett Byrne+ J. Stephen Carroll Lee Kelly+ David Lindenfeld Bob McDonner Jared Mixson Richard T. Speyrer* Andre Trahan+ Philip Vincent+ SOPRANO I Katie Andress Claudia Bourgeois+ Carolyn Bowman Jennifer Brumfield Paula Summers Calderon Laurie Chiasson Dorothy Cox

Dee Grant Emily L. Kay* Martha Kylander Leigh LaFargue+ Carla M. Landry Neely Martin-Whitaker Wendy Myers Savannah Scott Rose Mary Williams

Anne Power Catherine Schaff+ Shari Smith Rachel Stevens Connie Thomas Elizabeth Thoms Rachel Tillay Hilda Woodruff+ Karen Yonts

SOPRANO II Ginny Allen+ Marie Baily+ Christine Bergeron Lisa Brouillette Kay Brown+ Erin Carraway+ Holly Carruth Gayle-Anne T. Chavers Nekisha Cobb Cynthia D’Amico Michelle Dearie Rayma Farlow Janina Fuller Kristin Gansle Elizabeth Gollub Leah Hartman Sarah Hunt Vivian Lehman*^ Kristy Lynn Little??? Melissa Long+ Brittany Luberda Danielle Maynor Catherine B. Miller Christine Norred Christina D. O’Brien Julia Pence Sharon Pickett

TENOR I Daniel K. Dwyer, Jr.* Glen W. Forbes Jerrell Gray David Shaler TENOR II Benjamin Caldwell John W. Couvillon Ed Dodd Bryan Glenn Greg Griffin* Sam Irwin+ Allan Lenhardt Daniel Lightsey Dale J. Nyman Woody Thames Roger Travasos George Tully Landon Webber Chorus Position Designations: * = Section Leader ** = President/Section Leader Chair ^ = Outstanding Chorus Member of the Year +=New Chorus Member, This year

BRSO’s Collaboration with the Emerge Center BRSO’s newest education program brings music to life for children with communication and developmental disorders. Our mission is to empower children to effectively communicate and interact, and the variety of musical activities the symphony brings allows our children to participate in ways that were not possible before this partnership. It is a joy to see the engagement on their faces when the musicians are here. – Melissa Juneau Executive Director, The Emerge Center

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Opening Night – Jonathan Biss Performs the “Emperor” FRIDAY • SEPTEMBER 25 • RIVER CENTER THEATRE

TIMOTHY MUFFITT

JONATHAN BISS

Music Director and Conductor

Opening Night

Timothy Muffitt, Music Director Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra BEETHOVEN

Piano Concerto No. 5 in E-flat major, Op.73, “Emperor”

Allegro Adagio un poco mosso Rondo: Allegro Jonathan Biss, Piano

Intermission

TCHAIKOVSKY Symphony No.4 in F minor, Op. 36 Andante sostenuto Andantino in modo di canzona Scherzo: Pizzicato ostinato Finale: Allegro con fuoco Please turn off all signal watches, cellular phones and pagers. All programs and artists are subject to change. Baton Rouge Symphony performances are made possible in part by the Community Fund for the Arts Campaign, City of Baton Rouge and the Parish of East Baton Rouge and by a grant from the Louisiana State Arts Council through the Louisiana Division of the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts as administered by the Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge.

Tonight’s Performance Underwritten by

THE TUESDAY NIGHT SUPPER CLUB

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Piano

orld-renowned pianist Jonathan Biss shares his deep musical and intellectual curiosity with classical music lovers. In addition to performing a full schedule of concerts, the 35-year-old American has spent nine summers at the Marlboro Music Festival and has written extensively about his relationships with the composers with whom he shares a stage. A member of the faculty of his alma mater the Curtis Institute of Music since 2010, Biss led the first massive open online course (MOOC) offered by a classical music conservatory, Exploring Beethoven’s Piano Sonatas, which he regularly updates as he continues to explore Beethoven’s sonatas. This season Biss launches his latest Beethoven project, Beethoven/5, for which the Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra is commissioning five composers to write new piano concertos, each inspired by one of Beethoven’s five piano concertos. The five-year plan begins in 2015 in Minnesota, where Biss will play Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 2 and the new concerto by Timo Andres that it inspired, with further performances planned for the following season. In the next four years, Biss will premiere new concertos by four other composers, each paired with a Beethoven concerto. Biss’s passion for Beethoven is further evident in his nine-year, nine-disc recording cycle of Beethoven’s complete piano sonatas, which reaches its halfway point in early 2016. Upon the release of the fourth volume, BBC Music Magazine said, “Jonathan Biss will surely take his place among the greats if he continues on this exalted plane.” His bestselling eBook, Beethoven’s Shadow, published by RosettaBooks in 2011, was the first Kindle Single written by a classical musician. In 2015-16 Biss is scheduled to appear with the Konzerthausorchester Berlin; the Sydney and Melbourne symphonies; the Philadelphia Orchestra; the BBC Scottish, Atlanta, Lahti, and New Jersey symphony orchestras; the Swedish Radio Symphony Orchestra, and the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra, among others. His touring includes master classes at universities across the country, solo recitals, and performances with the Doric Quartet across the United States and Europe. Biss represents the third generation in a family of professional musicians that includes his grandmother Raya Garbousova, one of the first wellknown female cellists (for whom Samuel Barber composed his Cello Concerto), and his parents, violinist Miriam Fried and violist/violinist Paul Biss. Growing up surrounded by music, Biss began his piano studies at age six, and his first musical collaborations were with his mother and father. He studied at Indiana University with Evelyne Brancart and at the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia with Leon Fleisher. At age 20, Biss made his New York recital debut at the 92nd Street Y’s Tisch Center for the Arts and his New York Philharmonic debut under Kurt Masur. For more information, including a comprehensive listing of Biss’s honors and awards, please visit www.jonathanbiss.com.

Opening Night – Jonathan Biss Performs the “Emperor” FRIDAY • SEPTEMBER 25 • RIVER CENTER THEATRE

program notes Piano Concerto No. 5 in E-flat major, Op. 73, “Emperor” Ludwig van Beethoven, 1770-1827 Two of the signature aspects of Western thought are the importance of progress and individuality. Nowhere are these concepts more apparent than in the history of music, where we give special attention to innovation in form and harmony. While not always appreciated at first hearing – witness the audience riot over Stravinsky’s Rite of Spring – innovators eventually receive their due – in hindsight. In his greatest works, Beethoven was both an innovator and an individualist who attempted to put his personal stamp on everything from harmony and musical structure to advances in piano construction. While retaining the three-movement form of the concerto, he expanded the internal structure of the individual movements, especially in the Fourth and Fifth Piano Concertos. The dramatic use of the piano in the opening phrases of these concertos was tried only once before – by Mozart in his Piano Concerto in E-flat major, K. 271 – and did not occur again in any major piano concerto until the B-flat major Concerto of Brahms. The thunderous opening of the Fifth Concerto was without precedent, as was Beethoven’s refusal to allow the performer to improvise a cadenza. Beethoven composed the Concerto in Vienna during the summer of 1809, under conditions hardly conducive to creativity. Following a day of heavy bombardment, Vienna surrendered to the French army under Napoleon, and those citizens who could afford to flee did so, including Beethoven’s patron and friend the Archduke Rudolph. Prices and taxes skyrocketed, food was scarce, parks were closed to the public and Beethoven remained in the city, alone and lonely. In spite of the hardships during those trying months, he managed to compose some of his greatest works: the Piano Sonata Op. 81a (“Les adieux”), the Quartet in E-flat, Op. 74 (the “Harp”) and the “Emperor” Concerto (the title bestowed on it by one of the publishers, without Beethoven’s approval.) The Fifth Piano Concerto was premiered in Leipzig in 1811 to an enthusiastic reception.

It was the only one of Beethoven’s piano concertos without the composer himself at the keyboard, since by that time his hearing had deteriorated too far for him to perform in public, especially with an orchestra. Two months later, however, the first performance in Vienna was a total failure, primarily because the Concerto was on the program of a Charity Society performance featuring three living tableaux on Biblical subjects – hardly a suitable milieu. The Concerto opens with a powerful orchestral chord, followed by a sweeping cadenza-like flourish by the piano solo. Only after two more orchestral chords interrupted by the piano outbursts, does the orchestra introduce the principal theme. The movement is stormy and driving with some of the same harmonic ambiguity as in the first movement of the Fourth Concerto. At the point where traditionally one would have expected a cadenza, the pianist’s score bore Beethoven’s directive: “Do not play a cadenza!” The music that follows, however, has all the characteristics of a cadenza as if the composer wanted to be sure that his ideas, not the performer’s, would prevail. The hymn-like lyrical second movement opens with the muted violins introducing the theme, followed by a pianissimo aria by the piano. There follow two variations, the first by the piano, the second by the orchestra. Then follows one of Beethoven’s most mysterious musical moments, the hushed transition leading without pause into the exuberant Rondo. Beethoven builds up immense tension by subtle changes in key and tempo with hints of the rondo refrain to come, until the Finale bursts out in its jubilant mood. Symphony No. 4 in F minor, Op. 36 Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, 1840-1893 Throughout Tchaikovsky’s creative career, his inspiration went through extreme cycles tied to his frequent bouts of deep depression and self-doubt. The composition of this symphony in 1877 was strongly influenced by the events in his life that year. Things were actually looking up for Tchaikovsky during the early part of 1877. He had his first contact with Nadezhda von Meck, the wealthy widow of a railroad builder, who adored Tchaikovsky’s music

and arranged to pay him a large annual stipend. The only stipulation she attached to her generous help was that they never meet in person, although they corresponded voluminously. In May he started work on the Fourth Symphony, but in July came his disastrous marriage to one of his students, Antonina Milyukova, who had fallen madly in love with him and had written to him confessing her devotion. Although Tchaikovsky, who was homosexual, didn’t even remember the girl, he hoped the marriage would still the rumors about his sexual preference. Instead he fled Antonina after two weeks. In total despair, he made a pathetic attempt at suicide (walking into the Moskva River, hoping to die of pneumonia) and ended up in complete mental collapse. To recuperate, his brother Modest took him to Switzerland and Italy, where he picked up work on the symphony, finishing it in January 1878. Tchaikovsky dedicated the work to Mme. von Meck, expressing his confidence in the new work: “I feel in my heart that this work is the best I have ever written.” He did not return from abroad for the February 1878 premiere in Moscow, which was only a lukewarm success. Tchaikovsky himself contributed to the notion that the Symphony was programmatic. He wrote to his patroness: Of course my symphony is programmatic, but this program is such that it cannot be formulated in words. That would excite ridicule and appear comic. Ought not a symphony—that is, the most lyrical of all forms—to be such a work? Should it not express everything for which there are no words, but which the soul wishes to express, and which requires to be expressed? The Symphony opens with a sinister fanfare theme for the brass, which recurs several times as the movement unfolds and which Tchaikovsky associated with the cruel exigencies of fate. The anxiety-laden main theme strives towards a resolution that continually seems to elude it. The relief comes with the second theme, one of Tchaikovsky’s inimitable melodies for solo clarinet, and a third played in counterpoint with the clarinet theme by the strings and timpani. The development is based exclusively on the main theme and the fanfare. 2015 FALL

Opening Night – Jonathan Biss Performs the “Emperor” FRIDAY • SEPTEMBER 25 • RIVER CENTER THEATRE

A plaintive melody on the oboe, accompanied by pizzicato strings opens the second movement. The pace picks up in the middle section where the composer adds a dance-like melody that becomes increasingly intense until he returns to the gentle oboe theme now in the violins with the woodwinds adding feathery ornaments. The third movement, Pizzicato ostinato (a persistently repeated phrase, here provided by the plucked strings), is a playful diversion. It is a typical scherzo and trio. Within the Trio is a medley of tunes, the first for a pair of oboes, the second, a slightly mournful Russian folk tune, also for the upper winds, the third a playful staccato brass riff. The movement ends with a medley of the various themes and instrumental combinations. In Tchaikovsky’s last three symphonies, motivic unity among the movements was to take an increasingly prominent role. The

finale of the Fourth is the most “Russian” of Tchaikovsky’s symphonic movements. It is something of a musical battle between the festive and the melancholy, authentic Russian boisterousness set against the angst of the first movement. It is, therefore, hardly surprising that the movement is brought up short towards the end by the reappearance of the fanfare from the opening movement – the specter at the feast. An energetic coda, however, tips the balance into positive territory – or triumph over adversity. Program notes by: Joseph & Elizabeth Kahn Wordpros@mindspring.com www.wordprosmusic.com

Pre-Concert Talks

WITH MAESTRO MUFFITT Join Music Director Timothy Muffitt before each Masterworks for insight into the historical, musical and cultural components of the evening’s repertoire. Talks start at 6:30 pm before each Masterworks concert Free with ticket to the concert.

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CFA

Community Fund for the Arts

The CFA Thanks the 2015 Donors and Cabinet

A heartfelt THANK YOU to ALL donors to the 2015 Community Fund for the Arts Campaign. Please join us in recognizing our donors below. Your contributions to your united arts fund drive provide essential support to fifteen leading arts and humanities organizations in Baton Rouge and strengthen the cultural fabric of our city, making life better for all. – Renée Chatelain, Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge President and CEO

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Composer’s Spotlight: Sergei Rachmaninoff

There is a graveyard just outside of New York City. Buried here

are the remains of such high-profile names as Lou Gehrig, Anne Bancroft, Tommy Dorsey, Ayn Rand and Sergei Rachmaninoff. His wife Natalia is buried there as well. But wait…wasn’t he Russian you ask? Rachmaninoff’s life got off to a fine start. Growing up in 19thCentury Russia his parents were wealthy aristocrats as well as being amateur musicians, so they saw the young boy’s talent right away and sought to nurture it. That early security collapsed however as a result of his father’s inability to live within their quite significant means. By the time Sergei was only 9 years old, the family had to sell off their properties and liquidate their assets to cover debts the father had incurred. Further tragedy followed in the death of his sister to diphtheria and in his parent’s separation. The distress led Sergei to fall behind in school, and he failed all of his academic exams in 1885. His mother heeded good advice from the boy’s teachers and moved him, now 12-years old, to the Moscow Conservatory for the study of music. As they say…the rest is history. He thrived in these circumstances, came to know well many of the giants of Russian music (including Tchaikovsky), and he excelled in all aspects of musical study. His musical accomplishments and output were so strong that his reputation as a composer had gotten quite significant while still a student. Rachmaninoff’s meteoric rise to musical fame came to a crashing halt however with the premiere of his First Symphony in 1897. It was a disaster. There is much conjecture as to why the premiere failed. Some blame the conductor Glazunov, who was a fine composer but his podium skills left much to be desired. Some reports suggest those skills may have even been further impaired by Glazunov having a few too many vodkas before the performance. Whatever the cause, the negative reaction was more than Sergei could bear. It sent the composer into a state of depression and “composer’s block” for three years until some sessions of hypnotherapy brought him back. His next work, the Second Piano Concerto was a huge success (it is still one of the most popular works in the entire symphony canon today), and he was back on track. The composer’s first trip to the USA came in 1909. It was for this trip that he wrote his very famous Third Piano Concerto and around that same time (1908) he wrote the Second Symphony, the work on our October concert. It was 1917 when Sergei and Natalia fled the Russian Revolution and made their way westward. Their first landing place in North America was Manhattan where they rented a home on Riverside Drive. Eventually the two would move to Beverly Hills, California, but New York would remain a very important place for them for the rest of their lives. While, for a number of reasons, his composition activities waned considerably upon his arrival here, his performance

activities remained strong. He toured, recorded and performed extensively through the US for the rest of his life. Incidentally, there is currently a dispute over Rachmaninoff’s remains with some saying they should be returned to his homeland. Others say they belong here, but that is a story for another time. As a musician born in 1873 Rachmaninoff’s earliest influences would have been highly traditional, but living until 1943 he also witnessed many of the remarkable developments and transformations in music that were happening around him. Still, it was those long-standing traditions that were the foundation of Rachmaninoff’s career, and his roots were firmly grounded in musical Classicism, the era of Mozart and Haydn. There are many parallels between Rachmaninoff and his musical ancestor Mozart (1756-91). Like Mozart, he was a pianist/ composer, one who wrote concerti for himself to play. Like Mozart, he was a celebrity in his own time (like I said…he even lived in Hollywood!), and in great demand as a performer, conductor as well as a composer. There are even connections in the music between the two men although separated by a century. The musical forms and styles developed during Mozart’s era are the same forms Rachmaninoff used largely in his own music. Although clearly a Romantic composer, his musical design is strongly neoclassical in the same manner of Brahms and Tchaikovsky. Even though he lived well into the 20th century, a time of great experimentation and expansion of musical styles, Rachmaninoff never embraced any of the new compositional trends that were happening around him. I have often felt, however, that the environment of experimentation encouraged him to go deeper into his own creativity, to explore further depths of his own voice. There has been no shortage of criticism of Rachmaninoff’s artistically conservative way. Many have been quite dismissive of him because he didn’t do anything “new.” However to my ears, there always remains something fresh and unique in Rachmaninoff’s output. He created his own voice, a voice developed by his Russian heritage, prodigious talent, mastery of composition, and his personal history. These components blended in this unique individual to create a musical output that has earned him the status as a perennial favorite in the concert hall. It may not have been experimental, or forward looking, but it was fabulous. As time goes by, and the dust settles on the musical developments of the 20th century, Rachmaninoff remains a powerful and important voice. Any criticisms that once held sway all fade to irrelevance.

Music is enough for a lifetime, but a lifetime is not enough for music — Sergei Rachmaninoff

2015 FALL

“Late Romantics” – Gary Hoffman THURSDAY • OCTOBER 15 • RIVER CENTER THEATRE

TIMOTHY MUFFITT Music Director and Conductor

Late Romantics

Timothy Muffitt, Music Director Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra MOZART Overture to Der Schauspieldirektor, (The Impresario) K.486 ELGAR Cello Concerto in E minor, op.85 Adagio; Moderato Lento; Allegro molto Adagio Allegro; Moderato; Allegro, ma non troppo Gary Hoffman, Cello Intermission RACHMANINOFF Symphony No.2 in E minor, op.27 Largo - Allegro moderato Allegro molto Adagio Allegro vivace

Please turn off all signal watches, cellular phones and pagers. All programs and artists are subject to change. Baton Rouge Symphony performances are made possible in part by the Community Fund for the Arts Campaign, City of Baton Rouge and the Parish of East Baton Rouge and by a grant from the Louisiana State Arts Council through the Louisiana Division of the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts as administered by the Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge.

Tonight’s Performance Underwritten by

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GARY HOFFMAN Cello

Gary Hoffman is one of the outstanding cellists of our time. Mr.

Hoffman gained international renown as the first North American to win the Rostropovich International Competition in Paris in 1986. A frequent soloist with the world’s most noted orchestras, he has appeared with the Chicago, London, Montreal, Toronto, San Francisco, Baltimore and National symphony orchestras as well as the English, Moscow and Los Angeles chamber orchestras, the Orchestre National de France, the Netherlands and Rotterdam philharmonics, the Philadelphia Orchestra, among many others. Mr. Hoffman collaborates regularly with such celebrated conductors as André Prévin, Charles Dutoit, Mstislav Rostropovich, and Pinchas Zuckerman. Gary Hoffman performs in recital and chamber music series throughout the world, and is a frequent guest of string quartets including Emerson, Tokyo, Borromeo, Brentano, and Ysaye. He also plays and gives master classes at such prestigious music festivals as Ravinia Festival, Bloomington, Kobé, Manchester Cello Festival, Kronberg Cello Akademie, Salzburger Mozarteum, Festival de Prades, and Santa Fe. As a member of the Lincoln Center Chamber Music Society, Mr. Hoffman plays regularly with that organization. He has premiered the concertos of Laurent Petitgirard, Joel Hoffman, Renaud Gagneux, Gil Shohat, Graciane Finzi, Dominique Lemaître, and played the French premiere of Elliott Carter’s Cello Concerto. Born in Vancouver, Canada, in 1956, Gary Hoffman was the youngest faculty appointee in the history of the Indiana University School of Music, where he remained for eight years. He is an active recording artist with the BMG (RCA), Sony, EMI and Le Chant du Monde labels. His recording devoted to Mendelssohn on the La Dolce Volta label (distributed by Harmonia Mundi) will be released in 2012. Gary Hoffman performs on a 1662 Nicolo Amati, the “ex-Leonard Rose”.

“Late Romantics” – Gary Hoffman THURSDAY • OCTOBER 15 • RIVER CENTER THEATRE

program notes Overture to Der Schauspieldirektor (The Impresario), K. 486 Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, 1756-1791 In January 1786, while hard at work on Le nozze di Figaro, Mozart received an order from Emperor Joseph II to provide a one-act Singspiel (opera with spoken dialogue instead of recitative) for an imperial entertainment scheduled the following month. The Emperor himself chose the librettist and even outlined the plot. The action involves a series of auditions held by the impresario of a touring company. Aspiring actors recite from popular plays of the day while two sopranos get into a fight over precedence and a tenor tries to mediate. In the end, under the impresario’s threat that he’ll cancel the whole production, they all finally come together in a show of unity and the production proceeds. The premiere in Schönbrunn Palace and the subsequent performances for the public were a smashing success. Mozart provided this lightweight piece with a grand overture that is a parody of the playlet that follows. Its fast pace and generous scoring were strongly influenced by the composer’s concurrent work on Figaro. Cello Concerto in E minor, Op. 85 Edward Elgar, 1857-1934 If you look at photographs of Edward Elgar, read about his likes and dislikes or listen to his music, the picture that emerges conjures the stereotype of Imperial Britain’s aristocracy or, as Constant Lambert put it, “... an almost intolerable air of smugness, self-assurance and autocratic benevolence...” Elgar’s military bearing, walrus mustache, country gentleman’s attire were in keeping with his conservative, violently anti-Liberal politics. His music sounded fully sanctioned by the Royal College of Music. The reality was quite different. Elgar was born to a lower middle class family. Worst of all, his father was a music storeowner – “in trade,” as the upper crust in turn-ofthe-century Britain would say. Elgar was nervous, insecure, hypochondriacal and depressive; he had a chip on his shoulder for

not being “fully accepted.” He never served in the army. And he was a devout Catholic. He was, however, a model Edwardian composer, whose imperialist ideals fitted the pre-World War I era, for which he served as musical spokesman. His music was a natural product of late nineteenth-century Romanticism, containing a healthy infusion of Schumann, Brahms, Wagner, Dvorˇak and even early Strauss and Mahler. While he was older than the last two, economic conditions had forced him to teach, preventing him from concentrating on composing until his 40s. Although Elgar completely lacked academic musical training, he played the bassoon, the piano and especially the violin, which he taught well. And he had a muse: his beloved wife Alice, who lovingly bolstered his spirits and critiqued his efforts. To the chagrin of Britain’s music establishment, the “outsider” Elgar was the first English composer since Henry Purcell to achieve world fame; his Enigma Variations propelled him in 1899 from parochial obscurity to worldwide recognition. The trauma and social change spawned by World War I perplexed and embittered him, turning him into an anachronism in his own lifetime. His work went into decline and neglect and the Cello Concerto, premiered in October 1919, was his last great musical effort. Subsequent compositions from the last 15 years of his life were limited to salon pieces, marches and other potboilers. Towards the end of his life, Elgar began work on a third symphony, leaving behind extensive sketches that have recently been completed and recorded by Anthony Payne. The Cello Concerto has been called Elgar’s “War Requiem.” It isn’t, however, a requiem for the war dead, but rather for a lost way of life, the end of a civilization. He himself considered it his swan song, noting in his catalogue: “Finis. R.I.P.” The premiere was a disaster. For the concert, Elgar shared the podium with Albert Coates, described by his contemporaries as a nasty little tyrant. Coates, who was on a Skryabin kick, was to conduct the Poem of Ecstasy and ended up hogging all the rehearsal time. This is a concerto of sadness and disillusion. It owes much to Dvorˇak, especially to the Cello Concerto, which Dvorˇak also composed late

in life and reflects his personal regrets and heartache. The kinship extends to some of the technical aspects as well. Elgar wanted the cello to dominate the work. While the orchestral forces are large, the writing is always scaled down, economical, never overpowering the soloist who plays nearly continuously. The Concerto commences with a cello recitative that comes across as a challenge and sets the tone for the whole work, reappearing in the second and fourth movements. With the voice of a “wise old man,” it leads to the main theme, introduced by the violas. Despite the 6/8 time signature that so often suggests an air of lightheartedness, here the rocking quality that persists throughout the movement comes across almost as selfcomforting keening. The second theme is more dreamy and yearning, but the mood never truly picks up. The transition into the second movement, one of the classical repertory’s more “unplayful” scherzos, is mysterious and eerie, accented by orchestral outcries, cello pizzicatos, hesitant, stuttering and bowed sighs. The perpetual motion of the second movement has a frantic quality. The Adagio is one long meditation, again strongly recalling Dvorˇak’s Cello Concerto. It ends with an impassioned song, first on the cello, then with soloist and orchestra. The parallels with Dvorˇak continue into the Finale, where a battle seems to take place between the melancholy soloist with its passionate outbursts and brooding recitatives, and more energetic orchestra. But at the end, with sudden impatience, as if he has suddenly caught himself revealing too much of his personal feelings, Elgar cuts the work short by introducing the opening cello recitative and a final short flourish from the orchestra. Symphony No. 2 in E minor, Op. 27 Sergey Rachmaninov, 1873-1943 The premiere performance of Rachmaninov’s First Symphony took place in St. Petersburg in 1897. It was a dismal failure, in large part due to the shoddy conducting of Alexander Glazunov, who was drunk. The young composer’s disappointment brought on a severe depression, and for three years 2015 FALL

“Late Romantics” – Gary Hoffman THURSDAY • OCTOBER 15 • RIVER CENTER THEATRE Rachmaninov was unable to do any significant composing. Finally, in 1900 he went for therapy and hypnosis to Dr. Nikolay Dahl. The result was one of the first well-known successes of modern psychotherapy. Rachmaninov was consequently able to return to creative work on his Second Piano Concerto, dedicated to Dahl. However, relapses into depression dogged Rachmaninov for the rest of his life. Significantly, all his large instrumental compositions, as well as most of the rest of his oeuvre, are in minor keys. Rachmaninov refused to publish the failed symphony and only acknowledged its existence by calling his next one No. 2. The Second Symphony was composed in 1906-07 in Dresden, where Rachmaninov had escaped from the social and professional demands in Russia. This expansive work, reflecting the composer’s love for long Romantic themes, was premiered to great applause with Rachmaninov on the podium in St. Petersburg in January, 1908. The Symphony opens mysteriously, with a somber slow introduction, the low strings softly introducing a thematic motto that reappears throughout the work. The violins introduce the first theme, a variant of the motto that becomes urgent and driving. A solo clarinet followed by the other woodwinds, introduces the lyrical second theme, answered by murmuring strings. The tension and passion grow, culminating in a series of climaxes accentuated with a liberal use of timpani and ending with a passionate transformation of the first theme as a coda. The second movement is an energetic scherzo. Two of its most stunning aspects are Rachmaninov’s use of hushed fragments of his principal themes, to make suspenseful transitions between the large sections, and his use of the glockenspiel. Upon the return of the first two themes, Rachmaninov is said to have inserted one of his trademark musical quotations of the plainchant Dies irae, from the Catholic Mass for the Dead. But in this case, we beg to differ with the traditional analysis. While the melodic shape of the eight-note motive is the same, the important intervals are significantly altered and, in fact, outline the skeleton of the first theme rather than introducing symbolic new musical material. For the beautiful Adagio Rachmaninov created one of his most appealing and extended themes. Unfortunately, Hollywood has had a heyday with it, shredding the lush melody into trivialized fragments. As the movement continues Rachmaninov brings in the theme from the introduction to the first movement. The headlong rush of the exultant finale, Allegro vivace, is a wild and festive tarantella. The movement is an expanded sonata form, for which Rachmaninov introduces another broad, lyrical theme for the strings as the second theme. Throughout the movement, fragments of the principal themes of the three preceding movements recur. The movement ends with a joyous coda. Program notes by: Joseph & Elizabeth Kahn Wordpros@mindspring.com www.wordprosmusic.com

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IRENE W. & C.B.

PENNINGTON FOUNDATION

A Living Legacy

In 1975 while drilling a well near False River, Chevron discovered a rich mineral layer just three miles underground. Mount Pleasant sat squarely above this untapped stretch of oil and gas spanning from Alabama throughout South Louisiana, and in 1977 Amoco, seeing promise in Pennington’s prospect, drilled a well north of the plantation. That well struck one of the largest oil and gas finds in history, the Tuscaloosa Trend. The Penningtons vowed to share their success with the community that had been such an important part of their lives, and in 1980 began their legacy of giving with a staggering gift to Louisiana State University to create the Pennington Biomedical Research Center. The Center is recognized internationally as an institution that provides groundbreaking research in the fields of obesity, nutrition and health, and prevention-based medicine. This was only the beginning of the Pennington’s generosity. Already considered to be among the nation’s most generous philanthropists and volunteers, in 1982 the couple established the Irene W. and C. B. Pennington Foundation, tasked with serving as “a partner, champion, and ally for the State of Louisiana by investing in innovative projects that build resilient communities.” Dr. and Mrs. Pennington instilled their passion for philanthropy in their three grandchildren, Paula Pennington de la Bretonne, Claude Pennington III and Daryl Pennington. Together they carry on their family’s legacy and serve as the Trustees of the Foundation.

Left to right, Christopher and Alyce Blackstone, Dr. Michael Blackstone, Paula Pennington de la Bretonne, Van Cliburn, Mrs. Peggy Cole, Dr. Jacques de la Bretonne and Shannon Smith.

he story of Irene Wells and Claude Bernard Pennington and the foundation that bears their names is one born of Louisiana. It is filled with all the makings of any truly great story — one filled with strong characters possessing a dedication to hard work, conviction to beliefs, love for family, place and community, a commitment to building a better world and a dash of good luck. Officially established in 1982, the history of the Irene W. and C. B. Pennington Foundation actually begins in the early 1920s, when a young optometrist, Dr. C. B. “Doc” Pennington decided to change his career and began working in the oil and gas industry. By the arrival of the 1950s, his foray into this burgeoning field had already proven to be a wise decision — but far more spectacular things lay just ahead. Having developed a strong knowledge of the oil and gas industry and a keen understanding of geology, Pennington and his son, C. B. Pennington, Jr., set out to acquire Mount Pleasant Plantation — a 2,000 acre swath of land on the banks of the Mississippi River located near Port Hudson. In what has been called “the best real estate transaction since Peter Minuit bought Manhattan Island,” this purchase proved to be a most significant investment.

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Left to right: Dr. Jacques and Paula de la Bretonne, Itzhak Perlman, Mayor-President Melvin L. “Kip” and Lois Holden

The Foundation Today Under their leadership the Foundation continues to grow in the vision of its founders and annually provides millions of dollars of support to our community. The Trustees have an insightful understanding of the inter-relationships surrounding issues that affect the world in which we live and believe that solving these problems requires a comprehensive and collaborative approach that engages and inspires the community. The Foundation focuses on the Environment, Medical and Mental Health, Human Services, Emotional and Social Learning, Disaster Resilience, Community Development and Public Safety, and the Arts and Humanities.

The Pennington Foundation and BRSO While the Foundation’s advocacy for BRSO spans decades, it was Paula’s specific vision that forged a partnership that has forever changed our orchestra and given our city an extraordinary gift: The Irene W. and C. B. Pennington Foundation Great Performers in Concert Series. In early 2002 working closely with Artistic Director Timothy Muffitt and BRSO activists Johnny and Diane Tate, Paula inspired a visionary plan to bring the world’s greatest artists to Baton Rouge in a series that would be affordable and available to everyone. The series officially began the following season with overwhelming success and featured the legendary violinist Itzhak Perlman. More than twelve seasons have passed since that first performance and the energy and excitement surrounding the announcement of the “next” Pennington Great Performer is truly palpable and is surpassed only by the actual performances. The list of artists is breathtaking and spans across an appealing array of genres.

Left to right: Paula de la Bretonne, Yo-Yo Ma, Dr. Jacques de la Bretonne

2003 — Itzhak Perlman, Violinist (inaugural performance) 2004 — Dame Kiri Te Kanawa, Soprano 2005 — Yo-Yo Ma, Cellist 2005 — Yefim Bronfman, Pianist 2006 — Van Cliburn, Pianist 2006 — Renée Fleming, Soprano 2007 — Itzhak Perlman, Violinist (encore performance) 2008 — Yundi Li, Pianist

Left to right: Chris Botti, Dr. Jacques and Paula de la Bretonne, Diane and Johnny Tate

2009 — Chris Botti, Jazz Trumpeter 2010 — Chris Botti, Jazz Trumpeter (encore performance) 2011 — Denyce Graves, Soprano, and Richard Troxell, Tenor 2012 — Natalie Cole, Recording Artist 2013 — Diana Ross, Recording Artist 2013 — Audra McDonald, Mezzo Soprano 2014 — Lang Lang, Pianist 2015 — Johnny Mathis, Recording Artist Equally impressive are the relationships the series has forged across our community on behalf of BRSO. All combined, the gifts directly from the Foundation and the subsequent giving in response to the series has raised quite literally millions of dollars in support for BRSO and its commitment to the Baton Rouge community.

Left to right: Dr. Jacques de la Bretonne, Kristen de la Bretonne, Dr. Andrew Smith, Kelly Love, Paula de la Bretonne, Diana Ross, Shannon Smith, Harris and Kristin Britt, Alyce and Christopher Blackstone, Dr. Dana and Courtney Hart

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The Legacy Continues Recently, BRSO’s relationship with the Irene W. and C. B. Pennington Foundation entered an exciting new chapter. Understanding that sharing great music together nurtures communities, that great orchestras belong in truly great cities, and that these gifts should be available to everyone, the Pennington Family Foundation has made another extraordinary gift to both the Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra family and our city: a $500,000 Challenge Grant. True to both her vision and the vision of the Pennington Family Foundation, the challenge to BRSO is simple: engage and embrace our community. The Symphony has accepted this opportunity and as a result has launched new initiatives, built new and stronger partnerships with organizations throughout the region and is creating new ways to make great music real, relevant and accessible to everyone. BRSO invites each and every member of its family to celebrate the legacy of this extraordinary gift. In the coming weeks you will receive information outlining the details of this once-in-alifetime opportunity to express your enthusiasm for BRSO and appreciation to the Irene W. and C. B. Pennington Foundation. You can also learn more about the Pennington Million Dollar Challenge online at BRSO.org/PenningtonChallenge.

Left to right: Ms. Xu Erwen, Consul General of the People’s Republic of China, Lang Lang, Paula de la Bretonne

Please join the Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra’s Board of Directors, the staff, orchestra musicians and chorus members, the Louisiana Youth Orchestras and the Baton Rouge Symphony League in offering our most sincere gratitude and appreciation to the Trustees of the Irene W. and C. B. Pennington Foundation for their extreme generosity and commitment to the Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra and to our city.

Left to right: Julie Blackstone and Dr. Michael Blackstone, Paula de la Bretonne, Natalie Cole, Dr. Jacques de la Bretonne, Kristin Britt, Christopher and Alyce Blackstone, Dr. Sam and Kelly Love, Richard Blackstone

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PACIFICA STRING QUARTET

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2015 • 7:30 P.M. LSU SCHOOL OF MUSIC RECITAL HALL Recognized for its virtuosity, exuberant style, and daring repertory, the Pacifica Quartet is one of the world’s finest chamber ensembles. Performing in major concert halls worldwide, Pacifica was the “quartet-in-residence” at the Metropolitan Museum of Art and wind the 2009 Grammy for Best Chamber Music Performance. A “ must see” performance if you love chamber music!

$15 public admission, $15 LSU faculty/staff, $10 LSU students with I.D.

STRING QUARTET SERIES

225-578-3527 cmda.lsu.edu /events

Funded by the LSU Performing Arts Fee

DIAVOLO ARCHITECTURE IN MOTION

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2015 7:30 P.M. LSU UNION THEATER Using spectacular sets and precise choreography in a fusion of ballet, contemporary dance, acrobatics and martial arts, Diavolo expresses human struggle, fear, survival, chaos, destiny, faith and love

PRESTIGE PERFORMING ARTS SERIES Funded by the LSU Performing Arts Fee

$20 public admission, $20 LSU faculty/staff, $15 LSU students with I.D.

225-578-3527 cmda.lsu.edu /events 2015 FALL

Music. theatre. dance. coMedy.

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Distributed Widely

In Print and Online

Lamar Family Chamber Series BATON ROUGE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA & THE LAMAR FAMILY

Sharon Isbin: Baroque & Beyond November 19, 2015 - 7:30 pm First Presbyterian Church, Baton Rouge Program to announced from the stage SHARON ISBIN, Guitarist Acclaimed for her extraordinary lyricism, technique and versatility, multiple GRAMMY Award winner Sharon Isbin has been hailed as “the pre-eminent guitarist of our time”. She is the winner of Guitar Player magazine’s “Best Classical Guitarist” award, and the Munich, Toronto and Madrid international competitions. She has appeared as soloist with over 170 orchestras and has given sold-out performances in the world’s finest halls, including New York’s Carnegie and Avery Fisher Halls, Boston’s Symphony Hall, Washington D.C.’s Kennedy Center, London’s Barbican and Wigmore Halls, Amsterdam’s Concertgebouw, Paris’ Châtelet, Vienna’s Musikverein, Munich’s Herkulessaal, Madrid’s Teatro Real and many others. She has served as Artistic Director/Soloist of festivals she created for Carnegie Hall, the Ordway Music Theatre (St. Paul), New York’s 92nd Street Y, and the acclaimed national radio series Guitarjam. A frequent guest on NPR’s All Things Considered and Garrison Keillor’s A Prairie Home Companion, she has been profiled on television throughout the world, including CBS Sunday Morning and A&E, and was featured as soloist on the GRAMMY nominated soundtrack of Martin Scorsese’s Academy Award-winning movie The Departed. On September 11, 2002, Ms. Isbin performed at Ground Zero for the internationally televised memorial. Among other career highlights, she performed in concert at the White House for President and Mrs. Obama in 2009, and was the only classical artist to perform in the 2010 GRAMMY Awards. She has been profiled in periodicals from People to Elle, The Wall Street Journal and the New York Times, as well as appearing on the cover of over 45 magazines. Ms. Isbin appears as soloist with orchestras throughout the world, including the New York Philharmonic, National Symphony, Baltimore, Detroit, Houston, Dallas, Pittsburgh, Minnesota, St. Louis, Nashville, New Jersey, Louisville, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Phoenix, Buffalo and Utah Symphonies; Saint Paul, Los Angeles, Zurich, Scottish and Lausanne Chamber Orchestras; the London Symphony and

Orchestre National de France; and BBC Scottish, Lisbon Gulbenkian, Prague, Milan Verdi, Belgrade, Mexico City, Jerusalem and Tokyo Symphonies. Her festival appearances include Mostly Mozart, Aspen, Ravinia, Grant Park, Interlochen, Santa Fe, Mexico City, Bermuda, Hong Kong, Montreux, Strasbourg, Paris, Athens, Istanbul, Ravenna, Prague and Budapest International Festivals. Sharon Isbin began her guitar studies at age nine in Italy, and later studied with Andrès Segovia and Oscar Ghiglia. A former student of Rosalyn Tureck, Ms. Isbin collaborated with the noted keyboardist in publishing and recording the first performance editions of the Bach Lute Suites for Guitar (Warner Classics/ G. Schirmer). She is the author of the Classical Guitar Answer Book, and is Director of the guitar departments at the Aspen Music Festival and The Juilliard School, which she created in 1989. Please visit her on Facebook, Twitter and http://www.sharonisbin.com

Charles and Carole Lamar

arole and I are pleased to sponsor the Chamber Series for another year. These concerts have become an important engagement for our family in the cultural life of Baton Rouge, and the growth of the audiences has been gratifying. The Lamar Chamber concerts present special opportunities to enjoy classical music. Chamber Concerts offer such warm experiences between audience and musicians. The small ensemble seems to be playing directly to each patron. We hope that each of you find the concerts as satisfying as we do. The Lamar Family takes great pleasure in the arts. Lamar Advertising Company supports the arts in communities throughout the United States; but it is particularly pleasing to sponsor the Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra in our hometown. Tonight’s Performance Underwritten by THE TUESDAY NIGHT SUPPER CLUB

Please turn off all signal watches, cellular phones and pagers. All programs and artists are subject to change. Baton Rouge Symphony performances are made possible in part by the Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge; Community Fund for the Arts Campaign; City of Baton Rouge and the Parish of East Baton Rouge; and the Louisiana State Arts Council, Division of the Arts. 2015 FALL

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The Baton Rouge Symphony League For more than 65 years the BR Symphony League has been an integral part of the BRSO family, fostering music appreciation and awareness across our city by providing much needed volunteer service and financial support to our orchestra. From its very beginning, the League’s membership has been comprised of innovative and energetic women with the common belief that a great community deserves a great symphony and to that music has the power to change lives. Each season the League hosts numerous fundraising events and special activities designed to engage and inspire. You can get involved! If you or someone you know has a passion for music and would like to become a part of this spectacular group of community leaders, please visit brso.org/ symphony-league or call 225.400.0335 to join!

LJA Mother Daughter Tea 2015 Freshman LJA Class The Baton Rouge Symphony League’s Les Jeunes Amies held a tea to honor its Senior class of 2015-2016 and to introduce the incoming Freshman class at Baton Rouge Country Club on August 17, 2015” Photographed: Anne Marie Bradford, LJA Chairwoman, Mary Jane Dillenberger, President of the Baton Rouge Symphony League, Shannon Hyde, LJA chairwoman, Louann Bombet, LJA Program Adviser, Maia Jalenak, Ball Chairwoman and not pictured was Paula Davis a Ball Chairwoman

2014-2015 Senior LJA Class – Bal de la Symphonie November 29, 2014 Crowne Plaza Hotel

2015-2016 BRSL Officers Mary Jane Dillenberger, President Jan Wells,. President Elect & Mad Hatters Chair Jenny Gray, Past President Amy Phillips, First Vice President Ellen Murphy, Second Vice President Paula Davis, Secretary Ann Michele Logan, Treasurer Louann Bombet, LJA Program Adviser

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Visionary Society Special thanks to these donors who have made three year pledges in support of BRSO’s continued efforts to attain excellence in artistic endeavors and community engagement.

Anonymous Anonymous Dr. and Mrs. Wesley J. Belton P. Carrigan Byrd Robert R. Casey Gerard and Brooke Dynes Judi and James George Elizabeth Hampton Debbie and Jim Hanna Hargrove Engineers and Constructors Meredith Hathorn Ava and Cordel Haymon Mark R. James Ronell E. Johnson Ann Michele and James Logan ‘Blue’ and Megan Loupe Camp and Barbara Matens Liz and Scott Miller Timothy and Elise Muffitt Sammy and Therese Nagem Sandy Noel Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center Miriam C. E. Overton Janice and Gerald Pellar Andrew Perry Jeanette and Bob Rackley Harvey and Betty Schwartzberg Deborah Dunlevy Todd John G. Turner and Jerry G. Fischer Stephen and Candace Walker

Your Name Here!

Please consider joining us by making a gift to the Pennington Challenge and by becoming a member of the Visionary Society. For more information, contact Miriam Overton 225-400-0339 miriam@brso.org

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In Appreciation PENNINGTON CHALLENGE DONORS The Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra is endebted to the following donors who have made special gifts in recognition of the extraordinary generosity of Paula Pennington de la Bretonne and the Irene W. and C. B. Pennington Foundation Challenge Gift. Anonymous Anonymous Kathy and Ed Baker George and Terri Bell Dr. and Mrs. Wesley J. Belton Lee and Cindy Bloch P. Carrigan Byrd, Jr. Leslie and Joshua Campbell Robert R. Casey Donald and Jerry Daigle Christopher and Jenny D’Elia Mary Jane Dillenberger Jerry and Brooke Dynes Judi and James George Cynthia and Gary Hallam Elizabeth Hampton Debbie and Jim Hanna Hargrove Engineers and Constructors Meredith Hathorn Angela C. Haycook Ava and Cordel Haymon Kelly and Enrique Hurtado Deidra Jackson Mark R. James Mary Scott Johnson Ronell E. Johnson Carole and Charlie Lamar Deborah Lamb Lynn and Henry Lastrapes Ann Michele and James Logan ‘Blue’ and Megan Loupe Camp and Barbara Matens Liz and Scott Miller Jeff and Jerry Lynn Mills Timothy and Elise Muffitt Sammy and Therese Nagem Sandy Noel Miriam C. E. Overton Janice and Gerald Pellar Andrew Perry Jeanette and Bob Rackley Maurice and Denise Rankins Gwen Redding Lois S. Saye Harvey and Betty Schwartzberg Yolunda and Jonathan Taylor Deborah Dunlevy Todd David Torns John G. Turner and Jerry G. Fischer Stephen and Candace Walker Brooke and Tom Yura

Home for the Holidays FRIDAY & SUNDAY • DECEMBER 4 & 6 • RIVER CENTER THEATRE

Home for the Holidays Timothy Muffitt, Music Director Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra David Shaler, Chorus Master Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra Chorus Quiana Lynell Green, Soprano Dan Borné, Narrator Greater Baton Rouge Interfaith Ensemble, Everrett Parker

ANDERSON

Christmas Festival

TCHAIKOVSKY

Selections from “Nutcracker”

March Trepak HANDEL

Suite from “Messiah”

“There Were Shepherds” “Glory to God” “Hallelujah” LINDENFELD, Arranger The First Noel ADAM/HAMILTON

Oh Holy Night

COURTNEY

A Musicological Journey Through the Twelve Days of Christmas

FRY, Arranger

Songs in the Air INTERMISSION

BRADFORD, Arranger

Carol of the Bells

ANDERSON

Sleigh Ride

WENDELL, Arranger

This is Hannukah

WILLIAMS

Home Alone

NAUGHTEN

Twas the Night Before Christmas

HALL, Arranger

We Three Kings

HUTCHINS, Arranger

Go Tell It On The Mountain

FRY, Arranger

World of Joy

WENDELL, Arranger

Merry Christmas Sing Along

Tonight’s Performance Underwritten by

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2015 - 2016 Louisiana Youth Orchestras Series BRSOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Louisiana Youth Orchestras SEASON OPENER Monday, November 9, 2015, 7:00 pm Baton Rouge River Center

DAVID TORNS Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra Associate Conductor

Underwritten by Tom and Brooke Yura and Family Louisiana Junior Youth Orchestra String Ensemble Program to be announced

Louisiana Youth Orchestra Music Director and Conductor

Louisiana Junior Youth Orchestra JOHANNES BRAHMS - arranged by Roy Phillipe Hungarian Dance No. 5

BRSO Engages the Young Music Scene With the Louisiana Youth Orchestras

River Songs Arranged by Douglas Wagner (based on Deep River and Shall We Gather At The River)

The Louisiana Youth Orchestras are the Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s longest running and most successful educational initiative. Under the direction of BRSO Associate Conductor David Torns, the LYO supports the music education of over 170 students each year. The program has helped spark a renaissance amongst Baton Rouge area youth who are interested in playing orchestral music. Students travel from as far away as Mississippi to participate in weekly rehearsals that include coaching from members of BRSO. These talented young musicians are sure to bring you to your feet at one of their free concerts throughout the year.

The Louisiana Youth Orchestras Inspire Young Musicians Young musicians need support, encouragement, and an environment that inspires them to challenge their notions of what is possible. The Louisiana Youth Orchestras provide this support for aspiring young artists at all stages of their development. We hope that you will consider enrolling your young musician in our program, and watch them grow not only in their musical abilities, but also as members of the community.

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ANTONIN DVORAK - arranged by Paul Herfurth From The New World (excerpts from mvts. 2&4 of Symphony No.9) Louisiana Youth Orchestra Percussion Ensemble Program to be announced

Louisiana Youth Orchestra WILLIAMS: Olympic Fanfare and Theme MENDELSSOHN: Violin Concerto in E minor Op. 64 I. Allegro molto appassionato Erina Buchholz, Violin GOULD: American Salute Upcoming Concert Dates February 18, 2016 May 17, 2016 The Louisiana Youth Orchestras perform three concerts each season at the Baton Rouge River Center Theatre.

2015 - 2016 Louisiana Youth Orchestras Series LOUISIANA JUNIOR YOUTH ORCHESTRA Violin 1 Yena Jang Emery Gischler Shon Lee Grace Qian Samuel Li Jason Park Mathilde Fox-Smith Ju-woo Nho Brennan Davis Brandon Lee Caroline Wilcox Ally Sutton Charles Roemer James Power Leo Hackney Marcus Schafer Violin 2 Sydney Boudreaux Emma Kate Conner Connor Davis Olivia King Adrianna Whitney Katie Wang Justin Smith Cindy Xu Amy Hau Emory Templet Lilyan Jarreau Jonathan Ding Allison Gammon Kaydence White Makenna Witmer Bailey Todtenbier Aubrey Smallhorn Amelia Dauer Abigail Becnel Leighton Flannagan Jayke Fullerton Lilli Verma Gregory Samuels Viola Naomi Cates Lanie Wang Cello Connor Porthouse Anna Sloan Peter Cates Kennedy Morgan Justin Kim Elizabeth Constant Flute Nellie Jun Jenny Kim Nicholas Waguespack Marina Neal Priscilla Fore Josie Dial Clarinet Anna Marie Rossman Jhansi Yadlapatu Savannah Koonce Maggie Stewart Dallin Clark

Bassoon Samuel Frison Katie Miranda Alto Sax Landon Pettigrew

Bass Scott Elder, Principal Aubry Procell, Assistant Principal Ben Groover Lance Gaupp

French Horn Juan Cecchini Avery Stewart Lisveth Abreu

Harp Rachel Yura, Principal Aubrey Adams Antoinette Gladney

Trumpet Anthony Bailey Christopher Dugas

Flute Marisa Russo, Principal Kaitlyn Parker, Assistant Principal Sarah Banker Alanna Wheat

Trombone Jonas Truax Alyssa Hobdy Jefferson Koonce Matthew Sterling Tuba Christain Noto Percussion Timothy Marquess LOUISIANA YOUTH ORCHESTRA Violin I Anna Jang, Concertmaster Erina Buchholz, Assistant Concertmaster Hannah Park Lena Cates Cindy Zhuang Elizabeth Copeland Cole Roland Alex Acosta Violin II Yena Jang, Principal Orianne Luo, Assistant Principal Dixon Lin Adeline Roemer Matthew Gravois Meredyth Yorek Dayne Salassi Tess Cunningham Qhuentin Myles Jimmy Phan Lauryn Hinton Viola Jaime Pellicero-Calvo, Principal Carneshia Harris, Assistant Principal Greyson Yorek Cello Luc Kharey, Principal Rachel Copeland, Assistant Principal Abigail Sands Sean Parker Julia Power Camron Wang Miguel Nabatilan Aidan Reid Kaelyn Hinton

Oboe Hannah Graham, Principal Sienna Williams, Assistant Principal Gabriel Keowen Solie Falcon Clarinet Gena Bergeron, Principal Maddie Schram, Assistant Principal Richard Clark Levi Thompson Ethan Archer Manny Bailey Addie Otterstetter Collin DeVillier Kristen Sterling Bassoon Allison Gendron, Principal Samuel Frison

LOUISIANA YOUTH ORCHESTRA SPOTLIGHT: Erina Buchholz Erina Buchholz is a 15-year-old sophomore at Baton Rouge Magnet High School. She began playing the violin at the age of six and has studied with Jennifer Cassin and her current teacher, Stefka Madere. She has played the violin with the Louisiana Youth Orchestras for eight years. She currently serves as co-concertmaster of the BRMHS advanced orchestra and she was concertmaster of the 2014 Louisiana All-State Orchestra. In January of 2015, she performed the first movement of the Mendelssohn Violin Concerto with the Acadiana Symphony Orchestra in Lafayette as part of their Link Up educational concert. This past summer, Ms. Buchholz attended the Sewanee Summer Music Festival in Tennessee where she studied with Dr. Lin He. In addition to her musical interests, Erina is involved in several school clubs including Mu Alpha Theta, Spanish club, STEM club, and the International Cultural Association.

Alto Sax Thompson Saffell, Principal Ryan DeVillier Brian Long Horn Blakelynn Prettelt, Principal Miguel Clouatre, Assistant Principal Juan Cecchini Julia Savoy Avery Stewart Lisveth Abreu Miller Clark Trumpet Brandon Schittone, Principal Robert Cobden Morris Arena Anthony Bailey Trombone Dylan Walsworth, Principal Austin Noto Jonas Truax Cameron Bradley Tuba Brendon Ratliff, Principal Julia Hollingsworth Percussion Brian Harley Rodney Pardue Timothy Marquess

thanks to our sponsor DEBORAH DUNLEVY TODD

Growing

up in a musical family and studying music privately and in public school has had a very positive impact on my life so I want to share that with members of the LYO by sponsoring another season of the Louisiana Youth Orchestra. Please join me in supporting and enriching the lives of our fine young musicians by attending all of their concerts during the 2015-2016 season and contributing to their success with your financial support. 2015 FALL

The Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra – EDUCATION AND COMMUNITY INITIATIVES

Young People’s Discovery Concert Series In keeping with BRSO’s 2015-2016 season theme of “Explorers and Discoveries,” each composition featured in this year’s Discovery concerts tells a story from a different part of the world. Students will be taken on a journey through beloved tales, both familiar and exotic, set to music by some of the greatest composers of all time! At the concert, students explore how great composers have used music to depict characters, scenes, and action from stories; through the accompanying lesson plans, students learn to recognize how the elements of music come together to tell a story. Concerts are held at Christian Life Academy the mornings of October 21, 22, and 23 this fall. Discovery registration forms, listening activities and hand-outs for students are available from BRSO.org

After-School Program Brings Music to Students Last year BRSO partnered with the Gardere Initiative to bring an afterschool music program to students in the Gardere neighborhood. Students met our musicians and learned about the orchestra, and even attended symphony concerts with their families! This fall the program is expanding to engage even more students and families, getting them even more involved in our vibrant music community.

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The Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra – EDUCATION AND COMMUNITY INITIATIVES Blues at the West Baton Rouge Museum This summer BRSO’s musicians brought the music of the Blues to life for students and teachers at the West Baton Rouge Museum’s summer camp and Teachers’ Institute. “This presentation served as such as special part of this year’s theme, Rockin’ Through the Ages! The interactive lecture/performance provided a creative way to present the history of Blues music to a younger audience of children ages 6 - 12 and an opportunity to see a live musical performance. This presentation also taught elements of this American made music and ideas of how Blues songs are created. Later in the week, we were able to build upon this presentation by working with the participating children to write their own versions of the Blues. – Jeannie Luckett, Education Curator, West Baton Rouge Museum

BRSO’s musicians can really rock!

Bringing Musicians and Audiences Together Through a collaboration with LSU’s School of Music, BRSO provides opportunities for student ensembles to perform for our own symphony audience. Arrive early for our Masterworks concerts in October and April to hear performances by members of the LSU Wind Ensemble led by Dr. Damon S. Talley, director of bands. Lobby music performances will also feature the talented youth from some of the wonderful school music programs in our community.

Music Stirs Memory BRSO partners once again with Alzheimer’s Services of the Capital Area and Charlie’s Place to bring engaging and interactive music programs to their clients who live with Alzheimer’s and dementia. This year’s “Fall into Music” programs at Manship Theatre will explore music from around the world, bringing our own international and world-travelling musicians to share their musical experiences and talents with participants.

All of these programs are made possible through grants and gifts to the BRSO. Your continued support of the BRSO enables us to bring more music into our community!

Scott Miller, DMA Director of Education and Community Initiatives 2015 FALL

The Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra – EDUCATION AND COMMUNITY INITIATIVES

Left to Right: Susan Chernetz (2015 Music Teacher of the Year), Scott Miller (Director of Education and Community Initiatives, BRSO), Dana Lux (2015 Music Ensemble Teacher of the Year), Cary Byrd (Executive Director, BRSO), Sherry Barron (Immediate past Education Committee Chairman, BRSO)

BRSO’s Music Teacher of the Year Program During the month of March, BRSO was proud to honor Susan Chernetz, Elementary Music Specialist at Forest Heights Academy of Excellence, as the recipient of the Music Teacher of the Year Award. Dana Lux, Choral Director at McKinley Middle Magnet also won the BRSO’s Music Ensemble Teacher of the Year Award. These outstanding music educators were nominated by principals, faculty, friends, or students. The criteria for each award were met with high standards, teaching excellence, professional development and community outreach opportunities. In her 10 years as a music teacher at Forest Heights Academy of Excellence, Susan Chernetz was instrumental in bringing in several grants that supported arts integration in the school. She is a National Board Certified teacher, and her lesson plans consistently integrated music with core curriculum topics and multicultural learning. Dana Lux directs the Beginning, Intermediate, Advanced, and Show Choirs at McKinley Middle Academic Magnet, leading them in performances all around our community. Additionally, Mrs. Lux serves as Louisiana State Show Choir chairperson for the Louisiana Chapter of American Choral Directors, LMEA District IV Large Ensemble Coordinator, District IV Choral Directors Association Treasurer, and is a regular presenter at LAACDA workshops. Since 2005 BRSO has honored outstanding music and classroom teachers who successfully integrate music with other disciplines across the curriculum and showcase the value of the arts in developing problem solving, creativity, logic, and other cognitive skills. Anyone can nominate an outstanding teacher for this award – friends, family, colleagues, and students. For information about the BRSO’s Music Teacher of the Year awards, or to nominate your teacher for the 2015-2016 award, visit www.brso.org and follow the Education link. Nominations can be submitted starting in November 2015. Sherry Barron Immediate Past Education Committee Chairman Congratulations! THANK YOU TO OUR 2015 TEACHER OF THE YEAR SPONSORS

Allied Systems, Inc. McGraw Hill

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Your Highest Expectations... Met.

Cox and Manship Theatre. Cox and the Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra. Entertainment Entertainment atat its its best.best.

Only Contour lets you record 6 shows at once, even if they’re on at the same time. Plus you get personal recommendations based on all your likes. You can even watch live TV anywhere in the house. So every side of you will say “Contour is TV just for me.”

cox.com/CONTOUR Only Contour lets you record 6 shows at once, even if

from COX they’re on at the same time. Plus you get personal recommendations based all reserved. your likes. Youtocan ©2014 Cox Communications, Inc. Allon rights Available residential customers with Cox Advanced TV and Internet Essential. Digital receiver/remote and Cox approved modem required. Live TV anywhere in your home requires compatible tablet even watch live TV anywhere in the house. So every or smartphone and WiFi connection. Screen images simulated. Other conditions apply. side of you will say “Contour is TV just for me.” 2015 FALL

2014 – 2015 Party Snap Shots We are so thankful for our hosts Jane & Ron Ross and Kelly & Chris Williams this past season! House Parties allow for a special experience with BRSO guest artists. Please contact Liz Miller (225) 400-0335 if you are interested in being a host this season!

Mad Hatters 2015 Viva Las Vegas! Ellen Murphy - Chairwoman, Jenny Gray League President, Jan Wells - Co-Chair Mad Hatters 2015 took place on March 2, at the Crowne Plaza Hotel. Attendees were exuberantly dressed for the theme, “Viva Las Vegas!”

Our very own Mad Hatter, Hypolite Landry, accompanying a fabulously costumed guest!

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Mozart on the Lake Betty Schwartzberg and Lois S. Saye, Chairs The performance and dinner took place May 17. 2015, in the gorgeous ball room of White Oak Plantation.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Mozart on the Lakeâ&#x20AC;? cocktail hour, White Oak Plantation

Alexander Nevsky Private Screening April 21, 2015 Screen shot from the Alexander Nevsky Screening. Our guest soloist Sonja Bruzauskas, Mezzo Soprano attended to discuss what the film and music meant to her personally.

2015 FALL

Whitney Bank

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Member FDIC

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I V E R S A RY 1 0 TH A N N M A N SHIP THE ATRE

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MAE BELTON

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2015 Recipient BRSO Chair’s Award

SKIPPYJON JONES SNOW WHAT!

The Chair’s Award has been given for the last several years at the Annual Meeting of the Association to an individual whom the current Chair believes has shown extraordinary dedication to the Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra. Mae Belton, the recipient of this award at the Annual Meeting held on June 23, 2015, has served several terms on BRSO Board of Directors since 1994. Along the way, she served a term as Board Secretary, cochaired the 50th Anniversary Committee with current Board Chair, Judi George and twice served as Chair of the Annual Fund. She has served on numerous committees, including Education, Teacher of the Year, and Prelude Party Committees. Mae’s passion for classical music began in her youth in music appreciation class. She sparkled when she said, “It was just SO beautiful!” Whenever she travels to visit her children, she attends symphonic concerts with them. Reminiscing, she recalled when her children were younger. They were not as eager to attend the symphony when they were young – but she insisted on and persisted with their attendance and is now the matriarch of a family of lovers of classical music. Serving on a number of boards - including the Louisiana United Methodist Foundation, the Louisiana United Methodist Conference Board of Pension and Health Benefits, Our Lady of the Lake Elderly Housing Board, the Cenikor Foundation Advisory Board and the Woman’s Club - Mae takes the betterment of her community seriously! Not content to limit herself to Louisiana, she brings her effervescent enthusiasm and seemingly boundless energy to the world. Having accomplished a long career in nursing administration, Mae has served on medical mission teams to Cambodia, Mexico, Senegal West Africa, Kenya, India, Tonga, Fiji and Brazil, with a Russian mission trip planned for 2016. With regard to the upcoming season, Mae noted that she is very excited about BRSO’s renewed emphasis on relevant programing, which is serving a very diverse community through world-class music. Her genuine enthusiasm for the symphony is a delight to witness. BRSO deeply appreciates Mae’s many years of volunteer work on behalf of her community and most especially the Orchestra.

NOVEMBER 12 | 7PM KIDS CLUB MEET & GREET POST-SHOW KIdS CLUB

THE SHOEMAKER AND THE CHRISTMAS ELVES DECEMBER 6 | 2PM KIDS CLUB PRE-PARTY AT 12:30 PM KIdS CLUB

BEAUSOLEIL HOLIDAY CONCERT DECEMBER 12 | 8PM

BECOME A MEMBER TODAY! VISIT WWW.MANSHIPTHEATRE.ORG/SUPPORT.ASP FOR MORE INFORMATION

2015 FALL

WWW.BRSO.ORG

Lamar Holiday Brass FRIDAY 窶｢ DECEMBER 11 窶｢ 7:30 PM 窶｢ ST. JOSEPH CATHEDRAL

Lamar Holiday Brass St. Joseph Cathedral David Torns, Conductor Robbie Giroir, Organ Stephanie Gustafson Amfahr, Harp Featuring the Baton Rouge Magnet High School Festival Singers Arr. by GIROIR SAINT-SAﾃ起S Arr. by RUTTER Arr. by HARVEY Arr. by BERRY

Chorale Fanfare Praise Ye the Lord of Hosts Joy to the World Fantasy de Noel Still, Still, Still

HARP SELECTION Arr. by BERRY Holst, Arr. by BERRY Arr. by FRACKENPOHL Arr. by BERRY

I Saw Three Ships In the Bleak Midwinter Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer O Come, O Come Emmanuel

HARP SELECTION Arr. by BERRY Arr. by HARVEY

While By My Sheep Jingle Bells/We Wish You a Merry Christmas

INTERMISSION WILLIAMS KIRKPATRICK, Arr. by HARVEY Arr. by HARVEY

Merry Christmas, Merry Christmas Away in a Manger Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas

HARP SELECTION Arr. by BERRY Arr. by BERRY Arr. by Smallman Arr. by HARVEY

Corde Natus Ex Parentis Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it Snow What Child Is This Sleigh Ride

HARP SELECTION LEONTOVYCH HANDEL

Carol of the Bells Hallelujah

2015 FALL

2015 Edith K. Kirkpatrick Lifetime Achievement Award MARY SUE CHAMBERS

f you have ever worked in the “not-for-profit” world, you know that a major part of getting something accomplished involves networking. You have to know your friends. If you’ve lived in Baton Rouge long enough, and been involved in the “not-for-profit music scene” and have asked to how to go about getting something done, you will no doubt have heard: “Well, have you talked with Mary Sue?” Throughout her life Mary Sue Chambers has been a passionate advocate for music. I have known her for seventeen of those years and can say without a doubt that she is truly one of BRSO’s greatest friends! But in setting out to write this, I realized that in all the years we have been friends I had never once thought to ask her, “why music?” So I did. She grew up during the Depression in the small rural community of Silver Creek, Mississippi (population 300). When you are a young child in the country, you quickly find ways to entertain yourself. It happened that Mary Sue’s grandmother played piano for the local Baptist Church, and it wasn’t long before Mary Sue found herself spending much of her time at the keyboard. She quickly became hooked, and began taking piano lessons, eventually playing church services with her grandmother and ultimately deciding to major in piano performance at LSU. “It was either piano or mathematics,” she said, “so I went with piano.” Mary Sue went on to have a very successful career as a mother, business woman, political activist and, yes, champion for the arts and the Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra. Over the years she worked in practically every aspect of symphony operations. She ran the box office, selling tickets from a desk in Sears Department Store. She was instrumental in creating BRSO’s Discovery Concert Series — a program specifically designed for young people that now offers six concerts to over 6,000 school children annually. When it comes to fundraising however, just the mere mention of her name can put fear into the even the most robust bank account — if her passion for music and powers of persuasion weren’t already enough, they become a force majeure when combined with her southern charm and lilting drawl. But I have yet to tell you her answer to my question. “Why have you been so dedicated to music?” She said, “I think it’s because music was my salvation. It was always my escape and I wanted to give back.” We are so grateful that she does. The Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra is honored to recognize Mary Sue Chambers as the recipient of the 2015 Edith K. Kirkpatrick Lifetime Achievement Award.

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Baton Rouge Ballet Theatre presents

Nutcracker The

A Tale from the Bayou

photo by Eye Wander Photo

River Center Theatre for the Performing Arts December 19 & 20 • 2pm & 6pm Tickets: $20 - $55 Featuring the Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra

BRBT 225.766.8379 • www.batonrougeballet.org • Ticketmaster 2015 FALL

THE BATON ROUGE BALLET THEATRE presents

BalletX Philadelphiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premier contemporary ballet

October 1 7:30 PM River Center Theatre for the Performing Arts

BRBT 225.766.8379 www.batonrougeballet.org Ticketmaster Photo by Alexander Iziliaev

Our Community. Our Commitment. Peoples Health is a proud supporter of the Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra

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2015 FALL

WEEKDAYS | 4-6 pm on beginning november 3

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PRESTIGE PERFORMING ARTS SERIES Funded by the LSU Performing Arts Fee

JONATHAN BISS PIANO PERFORMANCE

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2015 • 7:30 P.M. LSU SCHOOL OF MUSIC RECITAL HALL A world class pianist, Jonathan has performed with the New York Philharmonic, the Los Angeles Philharmonic, the Boston and BBC Symphony Orchestras and Amsterdam Concertgebouw. We are pleased to have the first American BBC New Generation Artist at LSU!

Tickets

$20 public admission, $20 LSU faculty/staff, $10 LSU students with I.D.

225-578-3527 • cmda.lsu.edu /events 2015 FALL

The Baton Rouge Symphony Donors & Corporate Partners DEDICATED, INSPIRED, COMMITTED

The BRSO gratefully acknowledges the following donors and sponsors for their generosity . Their support allows us to work together and build upon our legacy of artistic excellence and community enrichment. This donor list reflects giving for the past 18 months as of September 2015.

INDIVIDUALS

Stradivarius Society $20,000+ Anonymous Mary Sue Chambers Judi and Jim George Mr. and Mrs. Brian Harris Ava and Cordell Haymon Carole and Charles Lamar Janice and Gerald Pellar Jeanette and Robert Rackley John G. Turner and Jerry G. Fischer Timothy and Elise Muffitt Anonymous

Guarneri Society $10,000 - $19,999 Becky and Jack Harris Meredith Hathorn and Rawley Penick Deborah Dunlevy Todd Nedra and William Zartman

Amati Society $5,000 - $9,999 Jane Ann Atkinson P. Carringan Byrd Robert R. Casey Kelly and Enrique Hurtado Mark James Ann Michele and James W. Logan Patsy and Don Lyle Camp and Barbara Matens Marcia and Roger Moser Nadine C. Russell Harvey and Betty Schwartzberg Charles E. Schwing Sandy and Gary Young

Golden Baton $2000 - $4,999 Christie and William C. Baird Dr. and Mrs. Wesley J. Belton Stephen J. and Miriam R. Bensman, Ph.Ds. Susan and Frederic Billings Lee and Cindy Bloch

WWW.BRSO.ORG

Melanie and Russell Chapman Cynthia and Frank Chemay Juanita M. Coutee Jenny and Christopher D’Elia Mary Jane and Kelley Dillenberger Debbie and Julio Dumas Jerry and Brooke Dynes Earl T. George Jr. Cynthia and Gary Hallam Margaret and Bill Hart Sarah Lou Hill Jolene K. Johnson and David S. Hanson Ann Keogh Alice and Lawrence Kronenberger Deborah Lamb Helen Levy Blue’ and Megan Loupe Dr. Wendy Holden-Parker and Mr. Robert Parker Barbara J. Golden and Thomas P. Perone Lois S. Saye Marci and Frank Simoneaux Wei-Ling Song Yolunda and Jonathan Taylor Dr. and Mrs. Stephen Walker Dr. and Mrs. Robert D. Westerman Mr. and Mrs. Michael Dudley Williams Sr. Juliet and Thomas Youngblood Tom and Brooke Yura

Conductor’s Circle $1000 - $1,999 Gloria Anderson Genevieve and John Barry Veris Batie Barbara and Roby Bearden Joann M. Bowers Elizabeth Bruser Leslie and Joshua Campbell Mr. and Mrs. Dudley W. Coates Kathy and John D’Angelo Susan H. Dawson Charlene Favre Linda and Tom Flynn Toni and Fred Foster Kimberly and Terry Ginn Dee and Peter Grant

Debbie and Jim Hanna Alice and Clyde Johnson Dr. and Mrs. Robert J. Kenney Jane and Kris Kirkpatrick Alan D. Kupfer Lynn and Henry Lastrapes Mr. and Mrs. Carruth McGehee Kenissa and Slater McKay Jeff and Jerry Lynn Mills Anne and George Newton Josephine Nixon John Oliver Andrew A. Perry Sally and John Power Mr. and Mrs. Robert R. Rainer Jane and Ronald Ross Mary-Lynn Sachse Alexis and Bud Thompson Georgianna and Stephen Tuuri Chau Wang Candace Wright Brooke and Tom Yura

Concert Master $500 - $999 Anonymous Jan and Bruce Attinger Sherry and Brian Barron George and Terri Bell Bobby Bennett Mr. and Mrs. Terry W. Bennett Roelof Bosma and Stella Beard Eleanor B. Callon Helen and William Campbell Jennifer and Dan Cassin Mr. and Mrs. Van Cox Jerry and Donald Daigle Van and Clyde Day Mr. and Mrs. Jerry P. Draayer Keith R. Gibson and Elise B. Allen David Goldsmith Alfred N. Gordon Jo Ann and Edwin M. Hackenberg Kay and Robert Hawthorne Richard Hebert Helen Hoffpauir Frances and John Hu Betty and Terry Hubbs Priya Jacob Michael Jimenez and Maria Sotile DeLouise

Susan C. King Crissie and Charles Landry Anne G. Laville David Lindenfeld Mr. and Mrs. Richard Lipsey Anne and Andrew Maverick Anne and Tom Meek Wayne Miley Liz and Scott Miller Ralph Mills Jessie Mulkey Sonni and Robert Muller Carolyn and Denis Murrell Mary Elizabeth Norckauer Dr. and Mrs. Jack B. Parker Judith and Kirk Patrick Gwen Redding Rieta and Ben Reiser Anne and Alvin G. Rotenberg Esther and Victor Sachse Rhonda and William Shea Amy Shelby Kelly Sills Mr. and Mrs. William Silvia Maggie Stoeckle Diane and Johnny Tate Cindy and Michael Teague Janice and Cornell Tramontana Dr. and Mrs. Hubert J. Waguespack Lynn and Felix Weill Kimberly and Garris Wilcox Jean and Will Wilcox Joe Wiley Mary Williams

First Chair $250 - $499 Gail M. Acree Patricia Alford Anonymous Charles Becnel Dr. and Mrs. Bradley C. Black Neal D. Blanchard Ethel Haas Boagni Lucy Bowers John and Carolyn Bowman Peggy and Raymond Brandes Annadora Bruce-Keller Constance Carroll Regina Cates Cathy Coates and Brian Hales

The Baton Rouge Symphony Donors & Corporate Partners DEDICATED, INSPIRED, COMMITTED John Costonis and Susan Costonis Monica Courville Lamar Drummonds Richard Duerr Beth and John Dupaquier Shirley A. Eslinger Borislava Iltcheva and Aaron Farrell Ernest Gammon Jr. Kay and Scott Gaudin Elizabeth Hampton Murelle Harrison Mark Hermann Fred Hogeman James and Suzanne Horton Becky and Alston Johnson Klileen and George Jones Louise Kinney Paul and Marcia Kirk Diane and Warren Kirsch Cheryl and Don Kobetsky Mrs. Thomas C. Landrum Senator Paul Laxalt Polly and Conville Lemoine Aaron Matassa Harriet Miller Helen and Bill Morgan Jean E. Muffitt Boris Navratil Miriam C. E. Overton Lynn Phillipe Patricia Pine Maurice and Denise Rankins Melinda Frantz-Risher and James S. Risher Katherine L. Roane Charles and Tena Roemer Willa and Marvin Roof Peter Roques Joyce and Lemuel Seale Ina Shirley David Stigall Joseph Storer Charles and Carolyn Stutts Mr. and Mrs. Troye Svendson Joan and Lowell Tilley Joy and Tim Tsai Nancy Turkmen Ly Vu Dr. and Mrs. Stephen Walker Regina and Edwin Walker Eloise Yerger Wall Malcolm and Martha Wright Michael and Lauren Yorek

Section Player $100 - $249 Laura and Joseph Acosta Arthur Adams Beth and James Ard Mauricio Arena Erin and Christopher Belleau David Bergeron Judith Bergeron David Berke Jolie and Gene Berry Jeanne and John Billodeaux Anne Bolner Karen Bolton Louann and Ronnie Bombet Julianne and Louis Bonnecaze Claude Bouchard Frances Boudreaux Joan Bringaze Patrick Broderick Paul Burton Ed Calamari Katherine and Mike Catanzaro Jeane Cato Prithiva Chanmugam Renee Chatelain Hyun Jung Cho David Coco Joan and Gere Covert Sean Cunningham Rebecca T. Cureau Louis D. Curet Kay and Mortimer Currier Phyllis Cutrer Chandra Daniel Debbie Daniel Michael Dauer Paul Davey Linda and John Davies Bonnie J. Davis Dr. and Mrs. Jack de la Bretonne Dieyun Ding Edward Dodd Gresdna Doty Daniel K. Dwyer Dr. and Mrs. Brian Dyess Brooke and Gerard Dynes Ray Eaglin Jo and Bob Emmert Janice and Robert Evans Terri Farriel John Firestone Ashley and James Fox-Smith Thomas Garrett Mr. and Mrs. Heinz P. Geiss Tony Gendron Mickey Giroir

June Gonce Lowry A. Griffon Benjamin R. Groover Mary Groves Roland Guidry Mary Helen and William Hamilton Treva Hancock Thomas Hansbrough Brian Harley Paul Hayden and Katherine Hemler James Heege Linda Heffernan Sallly and William Hermann Nancy Hester Mrs. Robert Hines, Sr. Paula Hoffman Mr. and Mrs. William R. Holden Kenneth Holmes Deidra Jackson Kevin L. Jarreau Colton Johnson Elise Kaufman Alok Kharey Max and Anne King Ivy E. and Martha E. Kirkpatrick Kay Kirkpatrick Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Koonce Jessica Lacher-Feldman Eunice and Arlo Landolt James T. Landry Jeonghoon Lee Sheila and John Lee William Lee Billie and Todd Lemmiksoo Bernice Lennox Bond and Nita Lux Phuong Ma Linda Manes John Marquess Anthony Martin Troy McCullen Robert McDaniel Molly and W. Shelby McKenzie Jane and William J. Metcalf Dorothy Middleton Catherine Miller Toby Miller Hannah Mitchell William Monroe Stan Montelaro Joyce Moreland Dana Morgan Lynn Tucker Judith and Richard Najolia Sung Chul No Christina Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Brien

Gregory Oivanki Kathleen and Dan Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Leary Susan Ottinger Wynona Peters Tracy Pettigrew Moc Pham Gregory Pleasant Jorge Ponjuan Corey Prettelt Pat and Harold Price Dr. and Mrs. William A. Pryor Tao Qian Kelin and Todd Queen Maxine and Gene Rak Jhann Ratliff A. Ravi Prakash Rau Maxine Reddoch Martha and Tom Richard Margaret Roberson James Robinson Mr. and Mrs. Jay Roccaforte Mr. and Mrs. Kerry T. Roybal Carol C. Ruderman Adelaide M. Russo Tom Saffell Lorice Say Kenneth Schafer Heather Schultz Joe F. Scoggin and Grace G. Moore Kathleen Screen Donna and David Shaler Anne Shirley Debra Simino Laurie Sisco Trudy Smith Sydney Snyder Katherine Spaht Linda and John Spain Mindy Stewart Mr. and Mrs. John L. Stiteler Kirsten P. Stone Carole Tabor Thomas Telhiard Doniell Templet Edgardo and KJ Tenreiro Suzanne and E. Graham Thompson Betty H. Thornhill Carolyn R Thornhill Tara Todtenbier David Torns David Tsilis Mrs. Bert S. Turner Mr. and Mrs. William Tweedy Renee Verma Bao Wang Xiaoyun Wang 2015 FALL

The Baton Rouge Symphony Donors & Corporate Partners DEDICATED, INSPIRED, COMMITTED Dr. and Mrs. Richard Webb Carlos Welch Jan andTim Wells Tarsha White Kim Wigley Dan Williams Robert Williams

CORPORATIONS Grand Benefactor $50,000 - $100,000

Baton Rouge Symphony League LSU College of Music and Dramatic Arts

Stradivarius Society $20,000 - $49,999 All Star Automotive Group Baton Rouge General Credit Bureau of Baton Rouge Foundation Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center

Guarneri Society $10,000 - $19,999 Essential Federal Credit Union (formerly Dow) Exxon Mobile Matching Gift Investar Bank Price LeBlanc Lexus Whitney Bank

Conductor’s Circle $1000 - $1,999

First Chair $250 - $499

Allied Systems Amedisys, Inc. Hargrove Engineering Kean Miller LLP Merrill Lynch Morgan Stanley Olinde’s Phelps Dunbar, LLP Taylor Porter Wright and Percy Insurance

Albemarle Matching Gift Program

Section Player $100 - $249 Albertson’s Community Partners Program

FOUNDATIONS

Grand Sustainer $100,000 and above

Irene W. and C. B. Pennington Foundation

Grand Benefactor $50,000 to $100,000 Baton Rouge Symphony League

Stradivarius Society $20,000 - $49,999 Baton Rouge Area Foundation

Amati Society $5,000 - $9,999

Guarneri Society $10,000 - $19,999

Associates in Women’s Health BASF Baton Rouge Metro Airport Dunlap Fiore Entergy Goss Wealth Management Group Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry Peoples Health St. James Place

Albemarle Foundation

Golden Baton $2000 - $4,999

Josef Sternberg Memorial Fund New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and Foundation, Inc. The Boo Grigsby Foundation

Dermatology Clinic Excel Group Services, Inc. Iberia Bank JB James Construction Co. Jones Walker LLP L’auberge Casino Hotel Lewis Mohr Agency Louisiana Lottery

WWW.BRSO.ORG

Amati Society $5,000 - $9,999 Baton Rouge State Fair Foundation

Golden Baton $2000 - $4,999

Conductor’s Circle $1000 - $1,999 Edith and Claude Kirkpatrick Foundation Fund Freeport-McMoRan Copper & Gold Foundation Kinder Morgan Foundation

Deborah Dunlevy Todd in honor of John G. Turner and Jerry G. Fischer

Section Player $100 - $249

John G. Turner and Jerry G. Fischer in honor of Kelly Hurtado

The Greater New Orleans Foundation

Felix Weill in honor of Teodora Peeva

GOVERNMENT & ORGANIZATIONS

Grand Benefactor $50,000 to $100,000

MEMORIALS

In memory of Janis Abernathy Baton Rouge Symphony League In memory of Callie P. Averna

City of Baton Rouge

Angela C. Haycook

Stradivarius Society $20,000 - $49,999

In memory of Edward “Ned” Borie Alice Carlin Robert Casey Melanie and Russ Chapman Louis Curet Daigrepont & Brian James Ford Douglas Harrison Kay and Robert Hawthorne Investar Bank Keileen and George Jones Lynn and Henry Lastrapes Jerry Lynn and Jeff Mills Mr. and Mrs. Donald Mitchell Anne and Joseph Polack Jeanette and Robert Rackley Mr. and Mrs. Robert R. Rainer Betty and Harvey Schwartzberg Diane and Johnny Tate Deborah Dunlevy Todd

Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge The Tuesday Night Supper Club

Amati Society $5,000 - $9,999 Chinese Culture Club

Golden Baton $2000 - $4,999 Louisiana Division of the Arts Musical Arts Society of New Orleans St. Francisville Symphony Association

Section Player $100 - $249

HONORARIUMSI

Music Club of Baton Rouge

Christina Boudreaux in honor of Young Violinist Melanie and Russ Chapman in honor of Musicians of the Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra Bernardo Nunez in honor of Julio and Debbie Dumas Carol Ruderman in honor of Ian Turner Betty and Harvey Schwartzberg in honor of Dr. Joseph Polack

In memory of Alex Buriege Phuong Ma In memory of Eric Crake Baton Rouge Symphony League In memory of Sherlene T. Carruth Sharon DuBard David Hurlbert Susan Newman Ann and Brody Saxon Debbie Vince In memory of: Duchein Cazedessus

Susan and Richard Webb In memory of Dot Craig Susan and Scott Crichton Paula and Jacques de la Bretonne Beth and John Dupaquier

The Baton Rouge Symphony Donors & Corporate Partners DEDICATED, INSPIRED, COMMITTED Faulk & Winkler, LLC Greater Baton Rouge Association of Realtors, Inc Mr. and Mrs. G. Griffin Lisabeth and Ted Harper Eunice and Arlo Landolt Lynn and Henry Lastrapes Louisiana Business Inc. Mary Alice and Dough Rountree Herta Spann Nancy Suarez Diane and Johnny Tate

In memory of Dempster W. Muffitt Jean Muffitt

In memory of Lyn Crosby Janice and Gerald Pellar

In memory of Darlin Riley Odom, Jr. Investar Bank

In memory of Corey Noel Gautreaux Investar Bank In memory of Sandra H. Graham Diane and Johnny Tate In Memory of Harvey Hester

Nancy Hester In memory of Edith Kirkpatrick Baton Rouge Area Foundation Eleanor Callon Linda and John Davies Rebecca Ellis

Klileen and George Jones Martha and Ivy E. Kirkpatrick Josephine Nixon Kathleen and Dan O’Leary Linda and John Spain Diane and Johnny Tate Mr. and Mrs. William Tweedy Jeanie Washer Robert Casey In memory of Lula Lea

Nancy Hester In memory of James Wesley Leake Kathy and Julius Mullins In memory of Matthew McDaniel Robert McDaniel In memory of Alma L. McGrew Mr. and Mrs. Robert R. Rainer Diane and Johnny Tate In memory of Madelon Mitchum Annie and Leon Jackson

In memory of Constance Navratil Constance Carroll Jennifer and Dan Cassin

Klileen and George Jones In memory of Annelise Overton Miriam Overton

In memory of Dan Peterson Judi and Jim George In memory of Victor A. Sachse III Gresdna Doty and James Traynham In Memory of Richard “Dick” Schneider

Melanie and Russ Chapman In memory of Jesse Scoggin and John Moore Grace Moore and Joe Scoggin In Memory of Margarita Maria Suarex

Diane and Johnny Tate In memory of David Thornhill Betty Thornhill In memory of Neil Traylor Post Architects Thank you for the in kind support from our media and community partners. MEDIA PARTNERS 225 Magazine Arts Council of Baton Rouge BR Parent Magazine Business Report Cable Cast Magazine City Social, Inc. Culture Candy DIG Magazine iHeartRadio Country Roads Magazine Cox Communications Cumulus Media

Downtown Business Association Guaranty Broadcasting inRegister Magazine Lamar Outdoor Advertising Louisiana Radio Network Metro Press Clipping Service Plaquemine Post South Nola.com The Advocate Visit Baton Rouge WAFB Channel 9 WRKF 89.3 FM COMMUNITY PARTNERS Albertson’s Baton Rouge Area Foundation Baton Rouge Ballet Theatre Baton Rouge Printing Baton Rouge River Center Theatre Saint Joseph Cathedral, Baton Rouge Christian Life Academy Crowne Plaza, Baton Rouge dezinsINTERACTIVE First Presbyterian Church, Baton Rouge Franklin Press Grace Episcopal Church, St. Francisville Hemingbough Cultural Arts Center Houmas House Plantation & Gardens Kids’ Orchestra LSU College of Music and Dramatic Arts LSU Rural Life Museum Manship Theatre at the Shaw Center for the Arts Matherne’s Supermarket Partner’s One Penske Truck Rental St. Francisville Symphony Association Stroube’s Chophouse Welcome Host Whole Foods Market

Special Thanks to the BRSO Designers and Video Producers! Jane Thomas, Thomasgraphics, who specializes in print and advertising design, serves as Art Director/Graphic Designer for this Program Magazine. Nicole Duet Latiolais, Solo Designs, who specializes in graphic design, branding, advertising, and creative brain power serves as Advertising and Graphic Designer for BRSO brochures and advertising. Andre Chapoy, Artworx Productions, who specializes in capturing, creating and all-around expertise with moving images and TV commercials. Kevin McQuarn, Phantom Light Productions, who specializes in capturing and creating moving stories in video. We are grateful for their expertise and excellent work in this program book, our brochures, and advertising. BRAVO!

Thank You

We apologize if your name was inadvertently omitted or misspelled. Please contact the Symphony at (225) 383-0500 ext. 106 and we will update your information. 2015 FALL

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2015 FALL

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From the classrooms of Runnels to the stage of Carnegie Hall

Meet Pete Sebastian, St. James Place’s resident DJ and woodworker extraordinaire. Whether he’s spinning vinyl at a community dance party or a chair leg on a wood lathe, Pete is all about staying busy and enjoying life. And around here, there’s plenty of it to enjoy. From the onsite woodworking shop and a full slate of daily activities, to two terrific restaurants just a stroll from his door, the lively beat of St. James Place is music to Pete’s ears – and one reason why we’re the region’s premier independent senior living community. To learn more, visit stjamesplace.org or call (225) 215-4510 to schedule a free personal tour.

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Runnels students Sean Parker (above left) and Alex Acosta performed on stage at Carnegie Hall this summer as junior ﬁnalists in the 2014 Middle School Honors Performance Series. Congratulations to them and their strings teachers at Runnels, Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra musicians, Jennifer and Dan Cassin.

For 2015-16 Runnels enrollment information, call 225-215-5706 or go to www.runnels.org. Preschool through High School 17255 S. Harrell’s Ferry Rd. Baton Rouge, LA

audphi.com | E-mail: info@audphi.com Phone: 225.936.5600 Authorized dealer for Audeze, AURALiC, BMC, Clearaudio, Gig Harbor, Hegel Music Systems, KEF, Light Harmonic/LH Labs, Nordost, Quadraspire, Quantum Resonant Technology, Rega Research, and Thales

The oldest independent school in Baton Rouge, Runnels has always been the school for all races, religions, and national origins. 2015 FALL

BRSO 2015 program_Layout 1 8/31/15 10:44 AM Page 1

STEINWAY SETS THE STAGE Warm. Powerful. Unmistakable. Incomparable sound and beauty are why handcrafted Steinway & Sons pianos are the overwhelming choice of today’s premier concert artists. Share the lasting joy and investment value of a Steinway with your family for generations to come. Visit HallPiano.com for details on all of our inventory, services, teachers and events.

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The Test of Time. Classical music has a value that passes the test. Congratulations to the Baton Rouge Symphony for over 65 seasons! We applaud loudly the cultural enrichment and enjoyment that began in our city, shortly after World War II. For almost 150 years, Rabenhorst Funeral Homes has anticipated the special needs of Baton Rouge’s families at their most difficult times. It’s the value of a Rabenhorst service.*

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Organizational Boards & Management Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra Board Judith George Board Chair Janice Pellar Board Chair-Elect Meredith Hathorn Treasurer Lynn Lastrapes Secretary Kathy Baker George H. Bell Mae Belton Cindy Bloch Leslie Campbell Robert R. Casey Donald Daigle Christopher D’Elia Mary Jane Dillenberger Gerard Dynes Jerry Fischer Cindy Hallam Craig Heinzen Sally Hermann Kelly Hurtado Deidra Jackson Mary Scott Johnson Deborah Lamb

Ann Michele Logan Jon ‘Blue’ Loupe Barbara Matens Sammy Nagem Gregory T. Oivanki Todd Queen Jeanette Rackley Denise Rankins Gwen Redding Lois S. Saye Kate Seba Yolunda Taylor, MD Deborah Todd Stephen Walker Jan Wells Paula G. Manship Memorial Honorary Member Timothy W. Muffitt Music Director/Conductor David Torns Associate Conductor P. Carrigan Byrd, Jr. Executive Director

Baton Rouge Symphony Chorus Board Gregory T. Oivanki President Emily Kay Vice-Chair Richard T. Speyrer Treasurer Mary L. McConnell Secretary

Daniel Dwyer, Jr. Greg Griffon Emily Kay Vivian Lehman Mary McConnell Gregory T. Oivanki Richard Speyrer Elaine Taylor

Past BRSO Board Leadership Dr. Cecil O. Lorio, 1948-51 Francis M. Porch, 1951-52 J. Burton LeBlanc, Jr., 1952-53 Robert Herzog, 1953-55 James Leake, 1955-56 L.R. Schneider, 1956-60 Victor A. Sachse, III, 1960-62 Jules F. Landry, 1962-65 Victor A. Sachse, III, 1965-66 Louis H. Faxon, 1966-67 Victor A. Sachse, III, 1967-69 Jack H. Sanders, 1969-70 Robert A. Leonard, 1970-72 Dr. A.N. Yiannopoulous, 1972-73 John B. Kent, Jr., 1973-75 James B. Towers, 1975-76 Mrs. Frank P. Simoneaux, 1976-77 Gerald LeVan, 1977-78 Raymond Strother, 1978-79 Ronald Pohl, 1979-80 Wesley W. Steen, 1980-81 Phillip S. Juban, 1981-82 Mrs. Frank P. Simoneaux, 1982-83 F. Charles McMains, Jr., 1983-84

Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra Management Cary Byrd Executive Director cary@brso.org (225) 400-0331

Miriam Overton Director of Development miriam@brso.org (225) 400-0339

Dr. Timothy W. Muffitt Music Director / Conductor tmuffitt@brso.org

Liz Miller Coordinator of the League, Development and Special Events liz@brso.org (225) 400-0335

David Torns Associate Conductor Louisiana Youth Orchestra Music Director dtorns@brso.org (225) 400-0332 James F Hanna Director of Artistic Operations Orchestra Personnel Manager Music Librarian jimhanna@brso.org (225) 400-0333

brso

J. Michael Cutshaw, 1984-85 Dr. Hypolite T. Landry, Jr., 1985-86 Mrs. D. Cleveland Franklin, Jr., 1986-87 Dr. Eugene Berry, 1987-88 Gordon A. Pugh, 1988-90 Beth G. Fuller, 1990-91 George F. Ballard, 1991-93 Charles W. Lamar, 1993-95 Fred Loy, 1995-97 Robert A. Hawthorne, Jr., 1997-99 James R. Austin, 1999-2000 Dr. Robert D. Westerman, 2000-01 Howard L. Harvill, 2001-02 Daniel J. Ahern, 2002-04 Carole M. Marshall, 2004-06 Johnny E. Tate, 2006-07 Anthony S. Kurlas, 2007-2008 Robert L. “Bobby” Freeman, 2008-10 Barbara L. Matens, 2010-12 John D’Angelo, 2012-14

Andrew Perry Director of Advancement and Communications andrew@brso.org (225) 400-0336

Angela Haycook Box Office Manager angela@brso.org (225) 383-0500 ext. 100 (Box Office) Scott Miller Education and Community Initiatives scott@brso.org (225) 400-0338 Sandy Noel Office Manager sandy@brso.org (225) 400-0337

2015 FALL

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伀甀爀䈀漀愀爀搀䌀攀爀琀椀昀椀攀搀䐀攀爀洀愀琀漀氀漀最椀猀琀猀

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Mohr Than Words. The Lewis Mohr Agency knows how to show their love and appreciation for music. As the proud sponsor of this season’s opening night Masterworks concert, we welcome the world-renowned pianist, Jonathan Biss. Giving back Mohr!

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⼀䐀䌀䈀愀琀漀渀刀漀甀最攀

⼀琀栀攀搀攀爀洀开挀氀椀渀椀挀

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Merrill Lynch Wealth Management makes available products and services offered by Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated (“MLPF&S”), a registered broker-dealer and member SIPC, and other subsidiaries of Bank of America Corporation (“BofA”). Investment products: Are Not FDIC Insured Are Not Bank Guaranteed May Lose Value The Bull Symbol, Merrill Lynch and Life’s better when we’re connected are trademarks of Bank of America Corporation. © 2014 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved. ARW9QA7N | AD-09-14-0502 | 470945PM-0314 | 09/2014

2015 FALL

Index of Advertisers Adams and Reese LLP........................................................4 Albemarle Foundation......................................................12 All Star Automotive..........................................................25 Audio Philosophy.............................................................69 Baton Rouge Ballet Theatre........................................58, 57 Baton Rouge General.......................................................4 Baton Rouge River Center Theatre....................................56 Brian Harris BMW.............................................................8 Chef John Folse, White Oak Plantation.............................75 City Social.......................................................................68 Community Fund for the Arts...........................................26 Country Roads.................................................................36 Cox Communications......................................................47 Crowne Plaza..................................................................52 Dermatology Clinic..........................................................73 dezinsINTERACTIVE.......................................................67 First Presbyterian Church.................................................72 Hall Piano........................................................................70 Hannon Jewelers..............................................................60 Hotel Indigo.....................................................................46 Jim Engster Show.............................................................60 Kids’ Orchestra................................................................24 Lamar Advertising............................................................10 Lee Michael’s Fine Jewelry.................................................2 Lewis Mohr.....................................................................73 Louisiana Business Inc......................................................55 LSU School of Music.................................................. 35, 61 Manship Theatre..............................................................51 Matherne’s.......................................................................66 Merrill Lynch...................................................................73 NK Boutique....................................................................54 O’Neill’s Music................................................................68 Opera Louisiane...............................................................28 Our Lady of the Lake........................................................38 Peoples Health.................................................................58 Price Leblanc Lexus...........................................................3 Rabenhorst Funeral Homes...............................................70 Red River Bank................................................................70 Runnel’s School................................................................69 Sammy’s Grill...................................................................59 Silver Sun........................................................................74 St. James Place.................................................................69 Stoma’s Furniture & Interiors............................................66 Sunshine Cleaners............................................................74 Taylor Porter....................................................................66 The Advocate...................................................................31 WAFB..............................................................................14 Whitney Bank..................................................................50 Whole Foods Market........................................................68 WRKF..............................................................................18 Z Aesthetic Dermatology..................................................67 Zeagler’s...........................................................................73

if you are interested in supporting BRSO through advertising your business in Braveaux please call 383-0500 ext.106 74

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• Local Off-site Venues • Capitol Park Museum, Old Governor’s Mansion, Old State Capitol, Rural Life Museum, Shaw Center for the Arts, and The Woman’s Club.

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225.383.0500