Prelude Magazine Winter 2024/2025

BOB MARLEY

CELEBRATING THE REGGAE ICON IN A GROUNDBREAKING COLLABORATION

Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra

205 8 Ave SE

Calgary, AB T2G 0K9

Box Office: 403.571.0849

calgaryphil.com

Zoltan Varadi

Editor

Omar Jeha

Art Director

Janet Bwititi Editorial Advisor

contributors:

Elizabeth Chorney-Booth

Stephen Hunt

Jun-long Lee

Charlotte Lilley

Stephania Romaniuk

David Sussman

Calgary Downtown Association

For advertising inquires, please email Zoltan Varadi at zvaradi@calgaryphil.com

Prelude is published three times a year by the Calgary Philharmonic Society. Copyright 2024 by Calgary Philharmonic Society. No part of this publication may be reproduced without express written consent of the publisher.

A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT + CEO

Hallo everyone — based on ticket sales and the energy you're bringing to the hall, we think you must be enjoying the season so far. Thank you for creating community with us.

Gosh, have we got some fun concerts coming this winter. Canadian superstar violinist James Ehnes — also the nicest man in showbiz — is going to wow us, as will another Canadian giant, singer Chantal Kreviazuk. There are lots of ways to celebrate the holidays, from The Muppet Christmas Carol with live orchestra through to A Traditional Christmas at Grace Presbyterian, which sells out fast every year.

Our Symphony Sundays for Kids continue with that most wonderful Canadian story, The Hockey Sweater, and who wouldn't want to put their best bowtie or ballgown on and get shaken and stirred with Bond + Beyond featuring the dangerously brilliant vocals of Morgan James?

We celebrate three birthdays in early 2025. First, in partnership with One Yellow Rabbit for their annual High Performance Rodeo in January, we revive the happy tradition of the Mozart's Birthday concert, in which we jointly toast Wolfgang Amadeus, born 268 years ago, as well our very own Rune Bergmann (age undisclosed!). Then in February, we come together with our friends at Jones & Jones and Arts Commons Presents for A Tribute to Bob Marley on the occasion of the 80th anniversary of the reggae great's birth. You don't want to miss this unique show!

Here's wishing you happy holidays, inspiring music, and shared community.

MARC STEVENS

President + CEO

Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra

JESSE JONES JONES & JONES PRODUCTIONS

JAMES EHNES VIOLIN

MARIA VAN DER SLOOT

FIRST VIOLIN

In its nearly 70-year history, the Calgary Philharmonic has grown to be one of Canada's most celebrated live music ensembles. Led by Music Director Rune Bergmann, the Orchestra presents a wide range of concerts and inspiring education programs. In a typical season, the Calgary Phil welcomes over 100,000 visitors, connecting audiences to live music experiences, and serves the city of Calgary by fostering creativity and belonging.

In addition to 66 full-time orchestra musicians, the Calgary Phil is one of two major symphony orchestras in Canada that has its own chorus of over 120 volunteer singers. Led by Chorus Director Mark Bartel, the Chorus performs a wide variety of repertoire, including oratorio, opera, classical standards, pop favourites, and commissioned new works.

Learn more about the Orchestra and Chorus at calgaryphil.com.

frequentlyasked questions

Where will I park? What if I clap at the wrong moment? Can I wear Crocs? Taking in a performance at the Calgary Phil is meant to be a joyful — not stressful — experience. So don't worry, we've got you covered with these handy answers to a few of our most frequently asked questions (and, yes, you can wear Crocs).

What do I wear to the Orchestra?

You'll see everything from designer gowns to business casual to jeans 'n tees at Calgary Phil performances. We have no formal dress code and just want you to feel happy, comfortable, and relaxed!

What is your mobile phone policy?

While we hope everyone has the chance to experience live music without distractions, we realize that there are times when you don't want to miss an important message. If you need to leave your device on, please turn the brightness down, the sound off, and be considerate of other concertgoers.

Where can I find parking?

There are several parking lots in the area, but we suggest you leave yourself plenty of time to find a spot — they fill up fast! Underground parking is available at Arts Commons and the nearby Civic Plaza and TELUS Convention Centre parkades. If you take the CTrain, the stations are located one block from Arts Commons. Bike racks can also be found on Stephen Avenue in front of the Jack Singer Concert Hall.

Are drinks allowed in the concert hall?

Aside from the occasional concert, drinks are permitted! You're invited to arrive a little early, mingle with your fellow music fans, and enjoy a beverage in the lobby before the show begins. You can also pre-order a round for pick up from the bar at intermission.

Can I take photos in the concert hall?

For most concerts, you can take a quick photo, but don't use flash — it can interfere with the musicians' performance. Don't forget to tag us in your favourite moments! You can find @calgaryphil on Instagram, X, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

When do I clap?

Traditionally in classical music culture audiences hold their applause until the end of an entire piece (there can be multiple movements with short breaks between them in one piece). This is intended to respect the performers' focus and the flow of the music. You'll know when the piece is finished because the conductor typically puts their arms down completely and turns to the audience. But, if you do happen to clap before the piece is finished, that's okay! The musicians will be happy to know you're enjoying the performance.

What happens if I'm late?

Sometimes even the best laid plans go sideways. Ushers do their best to seat latecomers at appropriate breaks in the performance, but in some cases this may not be possible until the completion of an entire work. We don't want you to miss anything, so you can listen to the music and watch the screens in the lobby.

How long is a concert?

While the length varies, most evening performances are about two-hours long including intermission (shorter concerts may forgo the break). Symphony Sundays for Kids concerts are usually one hour long with no intermission.

For more useful tips, visit calgaryphil.com/FAQ

Rune Bergmann* Music Director

Juliane Gallant* Resident Conductor

Cris Derksen Artistic Advisor

Roberto Minczuk Music Director Laureate

Hans Graf Music Director Laureate

Mario Bernardi

Conductor Laureate

Cenek Vrba

Concertmaster Emeritus

FIRST VIOLINS

Diana Cohen* Concertmaster

John Lowry*

Associate Concertmaster

Donovan Seidle Assistant Concertmaster

Eric Auerbach

Jeongah Choi

Edmund Chung

Olga Kotova*

Genevieve Micheletti

Maria van der Sloot*

Hojean Yoo

SECOND VIOLINS

Lorna Tsai* Principal

Stephanie Soltice-Johnson* Assistant Principal

Erin Burkholder

Theresa Dumbrique

Jeremy Gabbert

Hyewon Grillet-Kim ~

Craig Hutchenreuther*

Minnie Min Kyung Kwon*

Adriana Lebedovich

Steven Lubiarz

* Endowed Chairs (page 64)

~ On-leave

CALGARY PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA

VIOLAS

Laurent Grillet-Kim* Principal

Marcin Swoboda Assistant Principal

Arthur Bachmann

Jeremy Bauman

Peter Blake

Michael Bursey

Alisa Klebanov

Jesse Morrison

CELLOS

Arnold Choi* Principal

Josué Valdepeñas Assistant Principal

Clare Bradford

Kathleen de Caen*

Thomas Megee

David Morrissey*

Daniel Poceta

BASSES

Sam Loeck ~ Principal

Matthew Heller

Trish Bereti-Reid

Patrick Staples

Jonathan Yeoh

FLUTES

Sara Hahn-Scinocco* Principal

Gwen Klassen Assistant Principal

PICCOLO

Gwen Klassen*

OBOES

David Sussman Assistant Principal

ENGLISH HORN

David Sussman

CLARINETS

Jocelyn Colquhoun Assistant Principal

BASSOONS

Antoine St-Onge Principal

Michael Hope Assistant Principal HORNS

Nikolette LaBonte Principal

Jennifer Frank-Umana Associate Principal

Peter Clark Assistant Principal

Maxwell Stein Assistant Principal

Heather Wootton* Assistant Principal

TRUMPETS

Adam Zinatelli* Principal

Miranda Cairns ~ Assistant Principal

TROMBONES

James Scott Principal

Kristofer Leslie Assistant Principal

BASS TROMBONE

David Reid Principal

TUBA

Tom McCaslin Principal

TIMPANI

Alexander Cohen Principal

PERCUSSION

Chris Sies* Principal

HARP

Emily Melendes Principal

Repertoire often requires extra musicians:

Rolf Bertsch, keyboard

Jeremy Brown, saxophone

Sean Buckley, percussion

Stan Climie, clarinet

John Feldberg, bassoon

Sheila Garrett, bass

Gareth Jones, trumpet

Janet Kuschak, cello

Lidia Haeju Lee, violin

Malcolm Lim, percussion

Sarah MacDonald, flute

Nikki McCaslin, trombone

Elisa Milner, violin

Emily Phernambucq, flute

Richard Scholz, trumpet

Eva Sztrain, violin

Doug Umana, horn

Roberta Yee, violin

RUNE BERGMANN

MUSIC DIRECTOR

Norwegian conductor Rune Bergmann is Music Director of the Calgary Philharmonic, Chief Conductor of Switzerland's Argovia Philharmonic, and Music Director of the Peninsula Music Festival in Wisconsin. Guest engagements in the 2024/2025 season return Rune to the podiums of the Pacific Symphony and Sarasota Orchestra. He also debuts with the Yale Philharmonia and Nashville Symphony. Rune's recent guest engagements include the Baltimore, Colorado, Detroit, Edmonton, Houston, New Jersey, Pacific, and Utah Symphony Orchestras in North America, and the Beethoven Orchester Bonn, Bergen Philharmonic, Orchestra della Svizzera Italiana, Orquesta Sinfonica Portuguesa, Orquesta de Valencia, Malaga Philharmonic, Spain's ADDA Simfonica, Staatskapelle Halle, Wrocław Philharmonic in Europe, to name a few. He has also led performances of Il barbiere di Siviglia and La traviata at the Norwegian National Opera, while previous guest engagements have led him to such auspices as the Oslo Philharmonic, Münchner Symphoniker, Mainfranken Theater Würzburg, as well as the symphony orchestras of Malmö, Helsingborg, Kristiansand, Stavanger, Trondheim, and Odense among many others. 2018 saw the release of Rune's first recording with the Szczecin Philharmonic, which featured the 'Resurrection' Symphony by Mieczyław Karłowicz, a piece which has since become a major focus of Rune's repertoire.

JULIANE GALLANT RESIDENT CONDUCTOR

New Brunswick-born conductor

Juliane Gallant is the Resident Conductor of the Calgary Philharmonic. She has appeared as guest conductor with the National Arts Centre Orchestra, Victoria Symphony, PEI Symphony Orchestra, Okanagan Symphony Orchestra, Kingston Symphony Orchestra, and Symphony New Brunswick, and as assistant and cover conductor with many orchestras and opera companies across Canada. Initially a collaborative pianist, répétiteur, and vocal coach, Juliane began her conducting career in opera. She has led productions of Carmen, La bohème, Tosca, Eugene Onegin, La Traviata, Don Giovanni, and numerous others, both in Canada and in the UK. In 2021, she made her Royal Opera House debut in Mami Wata in collaboration with Pegasus Opera. Juliane is a graduate of the National Opera Studio, the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, the Conservatoire de musique et d'art dramatique de Montréal, the University of Ottawa, and the Université de Moncton. She is an alumna of Tapestry Opera's Women in Musical Leadership Fellowship. In London, Juliane was one of only 12 conductors selected for the first Women Conductors Course: Conducting for Opera, run by the Royal Opera House, the National Opera Studio and the Royal Philharmonic Society, and has received continued support by the Royal Opera House throughout her training.

CRIS DERKSEN ARTISTIC ADVISOR

JUNO-nominated Cris Derksen is an internationally respected Indigenous cellist and composer. Originally from Treaty 8 in Northern Alberta, she comes from NorthTall Cree Reserve on her father's side and Mennonite homesteaders on her mother's. Cris' composition strength lies in her diversity for all artistic fields including dance, theatre, film, television, animation, fashion, podcasts, symphonic, chamber, choral, and installations. She performs as soloist-composer for symphonies and chamber orchestra's across Canada and has been commissioned by the Calgary Philharmonic, the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, Thunder Bay Symphony, and Orchestre Metropolitan. Cris was the composer for the Canadian Pavilion for the World Expo in Dubai in 2022, and her work on the podcast Stolen: Surviving St. Michael's by Connie Walker and Gimlet Media won both a Pulitzer and Peabody. Recent achievements include their Carnegie Hall Debut with Orchestra Metropolitan conducted by Yannick Nézet-Séguin, a collaboration with the Royal Winnipeg Ballet and the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra of new ballet Tel Wild Man of the woods, and scoring a National Geographic Documentary. Cris is always up for the challenge of bringing an Indigenous perspective to all aspects of sonic storytelling.

Ina

* Endowed Chair (page 64)

CALGARY PHILHARMONIC CHORUS

Anne Rodger

Anne Roggensack

Liv Sawyer

Patti Vaillant

Corné van Nierop

Julia Vanden Heuvel

Alexandra Wang

Emma Woo

Karen Yackel

TENORS

Tim Ahrenholz

Dean Allatt

Neil Bazzana-Adams Tim Bell

Section Representative Keevin Berg Tristram Chivers Fergus Crawford

Dano

Favaro Lorna Gilfedder

Richard Harding

Hryciw

Chorus Administrator

James Hume

Jungsoo Kim Joycelyn Kristoff

Juan Manuel López

Abraham Ortega Alexander Pacunayen

Michael Pierson

Jason Ragan

Principal

Peter Rilstone

Vitalii Semion

Dennis Voth

Joel Wabo

BASSES

Archibald Adams

Garrett Banfield

Aaron Bartholomew

Principal

Pearson Berko

Cam Bischoff

Glenn Bontje

Maxime Chambers-Dumont

Ian Charter

Chad Conrad

Timothy Cooke

Kevin Di Filippo

Arthur Dick Carel du Toit

Mark Dumbrique

Section Representative

John Ghitan

Allan Huber Jeff Jackman

Eric Klaassen

Drew Kotchan

Darcy Krahn

David Kroeger

Mark Louie

David Mark

Keith Odegard

Kori Patrick

Dave Pattison

David Rim

Dana Salter

David Schey

Albi Sole

Richard Wanner

Jim Weisert

Keith Wyenberg

MARK BARTEL

CHORUS DIRECTOR

Mark Bartel is in demand as a versatile conductor and music educator. He is known for his musical, educational, and community collaborations and has established a reputation as a successful builder of choirs and choral programs. Mark is a passionate advocate of the impact of music on the lives of choristers, audiences, and communities. He has conducted university choirs for over 25 years and has extensive experience leading a wide range of community choirs in both the United States and Canada. After a 16-year tenure in the US, he returned to Canada in 2019 to join the faculty at Calgary's Ambrose University as Associate Professor of Music. Since arriving in Calgary, he has also served as Director of the Spiritus Chamber Choir. In addition to his interest in choral-orchestral works and choral music of the baroque era, he brings expertise as a singer and vocal pedagogue to his work with choirs. His current research focuses on how choirs around the world engage in active peacebuilding through the choral experience. Originally from Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, Mark is a graduate of the University of Winnipeg and Canadian Mennonite University. He holds Master of Music and Master of Sacred Music degrees from Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas, and a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in conducting from the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, New York.

Discover Your Sound

AN ENDURING CONNECTION

BY STEPHANIA ROMANIUK

PHOTO BY SAM OBADERO

As Rune Bergmann's time as Music Director nears its end — earlier in 2024 he announced that the current season would be his last with the Calgary Philharmonic — longtime donors Valerie and Allen Swanson can't help but reflect on his time here, beginning with his first appearance on the podium in 2016 before being officially appointed to his position.

"Rune came bounding onto the stage, and he had such enthusiasm. The symphony he led was wonderful," shares Allen. "And of course he was picked."

For the past eight years of Rune's tenure with the Orchestra, Valerie and Allen have built a meaningful friendship with the Music Director, which has been matched in kind.

"We've had the great fortune to sponsor concerts which feature Rune as the conductor. In getting to know one another, we've had wonderful conversations together and invited Rune to our home for dinner," explains Valerie. "He introduced us to the compositions of Mahler and opened our minds, especially to the Scandinavian composers, and I thank him for that."

Evenings at the Swansons' home have even included collegial feedback on Allen's own compositions. As he pulls out two photographs of the trio together, Allen explains, "Rune's at his computer here, working on a piece of music that I wrote. We're sitting there, talking back and forth, grinning and laughing to ourselves."

The Swansons relish the relationships that they have developed while supporting the Calgary Philharmonic, including with the orchestral musicians. When their granddaughter Elsie was considering the French horn as an instrument for school band, the Swansons had the opportunity to meet with Heather Wootton, Assistant Principal Horn, who coached and encouraged Elsie in her decision.

"When you become involved as supporters, you can develop a closer, more intimate relationship with the Orchestra, and to me that means everything," says Valerie.

The Swansons began supporting the Philharmonic over twenty years ago. During that time, they met Paul Dornian

(a Calgary Phil Board member) when he was Director of the Mount Royal University Conservatory where Valerie had studied Speech Arts and Drama. It was when Dornian went on to serve as President and CEO of the Calgary Philharmonic Society (2015–2021) that he encouraged them to sponsor some of Rune's concerts.

Raised in Swansonville, Washington — a rural community founded by his Norwegian grandfather — Allen grew up with vocal music in his home and was studying at the University of Washington when he met Valerie, a born and raised Calgarian who had studied at the University of Alberta and then pursued graduate studies south of the border. Marrying shortly after they first met, the pair both pursued professional careers — Valerie in information science and libraries, and Allen in transportation engineering — and ultimately raised their family in Calgary. Describing the changes they have seen to the city's arts and culture scene over the past decades, Valerie and Allen agree that Calgarians are now more aware of our arts organizations and ensembles, which are also receiving broader industry recognition.

"Guest artists know and respect us and so you attract a stronger level of performer," says Valerie.

A confident and warm speaker, Valerie has also been asked to share her experiences as a patron of the arts from the stage of the Jack Singer Concert Hall before orchestral concerts.

"I want people to know that if they are supporting, if they get involved, they will receive so much from the relationship. It will reward you equally to what you have given," she says.

The two have also decided to contribute to the Calgary Philharmonic as Legacy donors through their wills. This lasting gift will help ensure that the music plays on and inspires the next generation of listeners.

"To me, the arts take you outside of all the problems of the world, which seem to be getting greater and longer," reflects Valerie. "And if you have something that makes your spirits rise, some way that we can bring about the best side of society, the arts are what do that."

22 + 23 November

Friday: 7:30PM

Saturday: 2PM + 7:30PM

Jubilee Auditorium

Disney's The Muppet Christmas Carol in Concert Live-to-Film

Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra

The Calgary Phil and Glatz Concerts present Disney's The Muppet Christmas Carol in concert featuring a screening of the complete film with the musical score performed live to the film! Experience the classic Charles Dickens holiday tale as told by The Muppets in this family-friendly event.

Miles Goodman Disney's The Muppet Christmas 111' Carol in Concert Live-to-Film

EVAN MITCHELL CONDUCTOR

Evan Mitchell is proving to be one of the ablest and most imaginative conductors in Canada. Evan has enjoyed eight triumphant seasons as Music Director of the Kingston Symphony (KSO), garnering praise for his programming, approach, and musical results. Four full seasons' worth of Masterworks Series performances were sold out under his leadership prior to the pandemic. Evan is a prolific conductor of film scores live in concert, with a repertoire of more than 20 films. Several of these performances have been North American premieres, including Gene Kelly: A Life in Music, a specially curated showcase of the artistry of Gene Kelly, created and hosted by Patricia Ward Kelly, Gene's biographer and wife. During the 2020 pandemic, Evan wrote, produced, directed, and edited several standout digital orchestral initiatives, exponentially increasing the KSO's online profile viewership. The Kingston Symphony's isolated digital world premiere of John Estacio's Domestic Divertimento, their customtailored Symphonic Education Partnership digital performance, and the landmark web series for young audiences entitled Harmon in Space, among others, have reached over 100,000 viewers, and have been internationally acclaimed as being the benchmark for digital excellence in innovation.

Evan Mitchell, conductor

30 November

7:30PM

Jack Singer Concert Hall

On Stage with James Ehnes

Music Director Endowed Chair Supporters: Ted + Lola Rozsa

Rune Bergmann, conductor

James Ehnes, violin

Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra

Jean Sibelius Finlandia, Op. 26

Johannes Brahms Violin Concerto in D Major, Op. 77

INTERMISSION

Jean Sibelius Symphony No. 1 in E Minor, Op. 39

I. Andante, ma non troppo – Allegro energico

II. Andante, ma non troppo lento

III. Scherzo: Allegro

IV. Finale (quasi una fantasia)

Finlandia, Op. 26

Jean Sibelius (1865–1957)

Jean Sibelius was the most influential Finnish composer at a time when Finns were searching for a national song. That turned out to be Finlandia — a tone poem written by Sibelius in 1899 and then revised in 1900. The poem served as a covert protest against growing censorship by the Russian Empire. The revised version premiered on 2 July 1900 at the Helsinki Orchestral Society. Political tension was so thick that organizers changed its name to avoid Russian censorship whenever Finlandia — which was somewhere between seven and a half and nine minutes long — was performed. Alternative titles included Happy feelings at the awakening of Finnish spring and A Scandinavian Choral March. In 1900, Sibelius re-arranged it for solo piano, but Finlandia kept evolving — Sibelius reworked it into a stand-alone hymn, and in 1941 added words by Veikko Antero Koskenniemi. Although the work is not officially Finland's national anthem, it has repetitively been put forth as so. Finlandia's melody has crossed over to other cultures as well — it was also the national anthem of the short-lived nation of Biafra, a Christian hymn, and a Welsh tune that translates into A Prayer for Wales.

Violin Concerto in D Major, Op. 77 Johannes Brahms (1833–1897)

Johannes Brahms was born into a musical family in 1833. They resided in a less-than-reputable neighbourhood in Hamburg, where his father eked out a living playing the double bass around the city before securing a position with the Hamburg Philharmonic. By 1878, Brahms the younger had established himself as a significant figure in the music world (to put it mildly), having served from 1872–1875 as the director of Gesellschaft der Musikfreunde in Vienna, then the musical Mecca of Europe. Though Brahms wasn't a violinist, he learned to play the instrument, along with cello and piano, as a child. In 1878, he composed the Violin Concerto in D Major, Op. 77, dedicating it to his friend, violinist Joseph Joachim. Though Joachim described Violin Concerto in D Major as one of the great German violin concerti, it was to be Brahms' only violin concerto. The piece was recognized as yet another success following the warm reception to his First Symphony, further solidifying

Brahms position as one of the three Bs — Beethoven, Brahms, and Bach — whose immense contributions helped cement Vienna's reputation as the musical capital of the continent.

Symphony No. 1 in E Minor, Op. 39

Jean Sibelius

Sibelius's father died of typhoid in 1868 when he was two, leaving his family in dire financial straits in the Grand Duchy of Finland, which was at the time an autonomous entity in the Russian Empire. To cope with their debts, his mother moved the family back to live with her own mother. Sibelius grew up in an environment full of women, apart from his uncle Peter, who shared his love of music with the young Sibelius. By the age of seven, Sibelius began studying the piano followed by violin, setting him on a path that would take him from Helsinki to Berlin and, ultimately, to Vienna by 1891. Although his stay in Vienna lasted only a year, it was during this time that he transitioned from aspiring to be a virtuoso violinist to focusing on orchestral composition — a shift that flourished upon his return to Helsinki. Sibelius conducted the premiere of Symphony No. 1 on 26 April 1899, when it was performed by the Helsinki Orchestral Society. It was a politically turbulent time for Finns — they had a Russia problem! — and Sibelius knew how to connect through national belonging with his Symphony No. 1, and especially with a second work, A Song for the Athenians, a choir piece for men and boys that roused the patriotic feelings of the Finnish.

Program notes by Stephen Hunt © 2024 Rune Bergmann biography on page 11

JAMES EHNES VIOLIN

James Ehnes has established himself as one of the most sought-after musicians on the international stage. Gifted with a rare combination of stunning virtuosity, serene lyricism, and an unfaltering musicality. He is a favourite guest at the world's most celebrated concert halls. Recent orchestral highlights include the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra, Tonhalle-Orchester Zürich, London Philharmonic Orchestra, NHK Symphony, Boston Symphony, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, and Cleveland Orchestra. Throughout the 2024/2025 season, he will be Artist in Residence with Melbourne Symphony and will tour to Asia, where he will perform the complete Beethoven sonatas at Kioi Hall, Tokyo, as well as performances with Hong Kong Philharmonic and Singapore Symphony Orchestras. James has an extensive discography and has won many awards for his recordings, including two Grammy's, three Gramophone Awards, and 12 JUNO Awards. In 2021, James was announced as the recipient of the coveted Artist of the Year title in the 2021 Gramophone Awards which celebrated his recent contributions to the recording industry, including the launch of a new online recital series entitled Recitals from Home which was released in June 2020. He is a Member of the Order of Canada and the Order of Manitoba, a Fellow of the Rosyal Society of Canada, and an honorary fellow of the Royal Academy of Music, where he is a Visiting Professor. As of summer 2024, he is appointed as Professor of Violin at the Indiana University's Jacobs School of Music.

Photos © Benjamin Ealovega

7:30PM

Jack Singer Concert Hall

A Choral Christmas

Guest Artist Supporter: Naomi + John Lacey Virtuoso Program

Chorus Supporter: Borak Forte Program

Adam Johnson, conductor

Miriam Khalil, soprano

Cantaré Children's Choir

Calgary Philharmonic Chorus

Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra

Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov Polonaise from Christmas Eve Suite

Francis Poulenc Gloria

I. Gloria

II. Laudamus te

III. Domine Deus

IV. Domine Fili unigenite

V. Domine Deus Agnus Dei

VI. Qui sedes ad dexteram Patris

INTERMISSION

Mark Sirett The Stars Point the Way

Rosephanye Powell Christus Natus Est

Leontovich-Wilhousky Carol of the Bells /

(arr. Richard Hayman) Ukrainian Christmas Carol

Craig Courtney A Musicological Journey Through

Twelve Days of Christmas

Irving Berlin White Christmas

(arr. Roy Ringwald)

John Williams Merry Christmas, Merry Christmas

from Home Alone

Program and artists subject to change without notice

Polonaise from Christmas Eve Suite Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov (1844–1908)

Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov was one of The Five — a group of St. Petersburg composers also including Mily Balakirev, César Cui, Modest Mussorgsky, and Alexander Borodin — committed to creating authentically Russian classical music in the 1860s. In addition to his musical pursuits, Rimsky-Korsakov spent a significant chunk of his life as a naval officer and composed a number of works while at sea (although he was 50 years old when he composed the Christmas Eve Suite in 1894, so chances are he wrote it on dry land). Christmas Eve, a four-act opera from which the Suite is derived, is adapted from an 1832 short story called Christmas Eve by Nicholai Gogol from a collection of Russian folk tales called Evenings on a Farm Near Dikanka. It premiered on 10 December 1895, in St. Petersburg. The Polonaise is a Polish national dance, which is still the opening dance at major events, balls, and student proms.

Gloria Francis Poulenc (1899–1963)

Francis Poulenc grew up in Paris in a wealthy family whose businessman father knew better than to let him study music — even if his mother was an aspiring artist herself. However, after his parents died a few years apart when he was a teenager, Poulenc went to study with pianist Ricardo Viñes, who became his musical mentor. Among those he crossed paths with in Paris was Erik Satie, a ringleader of sorts for a group of young French composers who came to be known as Les Six in the early 1920s. In his earliest work, Poulenc was known for his irreverent, boisterous compositions, but as the world shifted from Roaring Twenties to Dirty Thirties, Poulenc found spirituality and by the mid-1930s he alternated between light-hearted and deeply spiritual music. Some said that this represented a blend of his father's personality, which was deeply religious, and his mother's side, which was deeply artistic, leading one critic to describe Poulenc as "half monk, half naughty boy." Poulenc enjoyed a long and notable career composing and performing. Inspired by a Catholic mass ordinary and structured in six distinct movements, Gloria premiered in January 1961 when it was performed by the Boston Symphony Orchestra. It became one of Poulenc's greatest successes.

The Stars Point the Way

Mark Sirett (b. 1952)

The Stars Point the Way was commissioned by the Cantilon Choirs of Edmonton, Alberta and was awarded Outstanding Choral Composition for 2010 by the Association of Canadian Choral Communities. This Christmas carol is sub-titled Cosmic Bethlehem and is a beautiful mix of traditional metaphors and contemporary references.

Christus Natus Est

Rosephanye Powell (b. 1962)

Christus Natus Est is a setting of a poem of the same title by AfricanAmerican poet Countee Cullen. As I read Cullen's poetry, I found myself transported back in time, imagining the hope of Christ's birth in the lives of my forefathers and mothers as they struggled for equality, justice, and freedom during the time of slavery through the Civil Rights Movement. A spiritual that was very familiar to and impactful for me as a child was Go Down Moses. Because its message is so well aligned with Cullen's poetic rumination, and because it points back to the biblical place and time about which Cullen speaks, it seemed fitting as a musical underlay. Christus Natus Est expresses both the angst of hope deferred and expectation of hope for that which is to come — both of which are exemplified in the birth and return of Christ. I believe that as the poet agonizes over the injustices in the world, he hopes in the return of Christ, heard in the phrase "Christ must and will come to his own". Cullen resolves that life's ills will remain until Christ returns to his own — not as the innocent child in the manger but as a warrior for freedom and justice.

Program notes by Stephen Hunt, Rosephanye Powell © 2024

Rune Bergmann biography on page 11 Calgary Phil Chorus biography on page 12

ADAM JOHNSON CONDUCTOR

Working at the highest levels of the Canadian music scene, awardwinning conductor Adam Johnson has been hailed as "an exciting talent" and for his "charismatic and commanding presence" on the podium. Raised in Hinton, Alberta, Adam is a highly sought after leader and is currently Music Director of the Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra and the Guelph Symphony Orchestra. He completed his tenure as resident conductor of the Orchestre Symphonique de Montréal (OSM) in 2019, and recorded his first full album, Riopelle Symphonique, with the OSM in 2022 in addition to winning an Opus Prize with the famed orchestra in 2018. Prior to his tenure in Montreal, Adam worked for three seasons with the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra and continues to regularly guest conduct orchestras across Canada. Internationally, he has conducted at the Opéra National de Paris and has led orchestras in Spain, Germany and the United States. Known for his extraordinary versatility, Adam has conducted sold-out concerts with dozens of leading artists in a wide range of styles from pop to jazz to Broadway. He is also regularly invited to studio record with orchestras for major international projects and has recorded for virtual reality exhibits. A recipient of a Canada Council conducting award, he holds a doctorate in piano performance from the Université de Montréal and a prize in orchestral conducting from the Conservatoire de musique de Montréal.

MIRIAM KHALIL SOPRANO

A 2 X JUNO nominated artist, Miriam Khalil has established herself as one of Canada's most versatile and expressive performers. Recently, Miriam appeared as the soprano soloist in the world premiere of Karim Al-Zand's Al Hakawati with the Cabrillo Festival of Contemporary Music, which she then reprises with WDR Sinfonieorchester Köln. Last season, Miriam returned to Pacific Opera Victoria for Golijov's Ainadamar, Symphony Nova Scotia for Beethoven's Ninth Symphony, and Edmonton Opera for her renowned interpretation of Golijov's song cycle Ayre. Miriam joined Beth Morrison Projects for the world premiere of Kouyoumdjian's Adoration for the 2024 PROTOTYPE Festival, where she received great acclaim for her portrayal of Sabine. She revisits the work this season with Los Angeles Opera, marking her debut with the company. Miriam has recently made her debuts with Vancouver Opera, Newfoundland Symphony Orchestra, Edmonton Symphony, Symphony of Northwest Arkansas, and Vancouver's Music in the Morning for repertoire including Leila in Bizet's Pearl Fishers, Handel's Messiah, Gorecki's Symphony of Sorrowful Songs, Beethoven's Ninth Symphony, Ravel's Shéhérazade and more. Miriam also appeared in her hometown of Ottawa, Ontario for Mozart's Don Giovanni, singing Donna Elvira with the National Arts Centre Orchestra under the baton of Alexander Shelley. She has sung on numerous opera stages across North America and the U.K., including Glyndebourne Festival Opera, Minnesota Opera, Opera Tampa, and Calgary Opera.

© Albert Zablit

© Shayne Gray

CANTARÉ CHILDREN'S CHOIR ENSEMBLE

Founded in 1997 by Catherine Glaser-Climie, Cantaré Children's Choir is widely known as one of Calgary's premiere performing arts institutions. Cantaré's central tenet, "More Than Music," uses collective singing to develop young people into sensitive, creative, and engaged artists who are passionate justice seekers and informed global citizens. Singers develop a comprehensive musical foundation at an early age so they can thoughtfully engage with numerous musical styles from around the world in their youth. Choristers in Cantaré become comfortable tackling masterworks from the Renaissance to Romantic periods along with contemporary gems — including 18 commissioned works. Cantaré's award-winning program has received a host of accolades including First Prize in the National Music Festival. In its vibrant musical community, Cantaré is the proud partner of Calgary Opera and the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra, producing over 65 productions with the two companies in the choir's 26-year history. The choristers are the Resident Artist of the Field Of Crosses Memorial Project, singing on Global TV's Remembrance Day broadcast every year, and stewarding the Act Of Remembrance in their communities. Cantaré nurtures a network of alumni excellence across the world in all career fields. Our alumni have gone on to represent us and sing together in the National Youth Choir of Canada, the World Youth Choir, and in a host of amateur and professional choirs across Canada.

Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

'TIS THE SEASON TO GIVE THE GIFT OF MUSIC!

TICKETS TO CALGARY PHIL CONCERTS MAKE GREAT STOCKING STUFFERS FOR EVERY AGE AND TASTE.

FOR THE CLASSICS BUFF

SYMPHONIE FANTASTIQUE

28 FEBRUARY + 1 MARCH

FOR THE LITTLE ONES

THE UNICORN ' S BIRTHDAY 16 MARCH

FOR THE DANCING QUEENS

THE MUSIC OF ABBA WITH RAJATON 28 + 29 MARCH

FOR THE REGGAE LOVER

A TRIBUTE TO BOB MARLEY

8 FEBRUARY

FOR THE THEATRE FANATIC

A NIGHT ON BROADWAY WITH ASHLEY BROWN 23 + 24 MAY

FOR THE ROMANTIC TCHAIKOVSKY IN LOVE 14 + 15 FEBRUARY

FOR THE NEW MUSIC ENTHUSIAST

CONTROLLED BURN 15 MARCH

FOR THE CALGARY PHIL SUPERFAN

A GIFT CARD FOR A CONCERT OF THEIR CHOICE!

FOR THE ROCK N ' ROLLER

SIMPLY THE BEST : THE MUSIC OF TINA TURNER 8 MARCH

FOR THE PIANO DEVOTEE

JENEBA KANNEH-MASON PLAYS MOZART 21 + 22 MARCH

ONE LOVE, THREE HEARTS

TRULY COLLABORATIVE CONCERT CELEBRATES BOB MARLEY ' S MESSAGE OF UNITY

BY ELIZABETH CHORNEY-BOOTH

Very few musical artists have had the global impact of Bob Marley. Defying typical definitions of genre, nationality, geography, and era, Marley's music continues to be embraced by music lovers over 40 years after his passing. His work has introduced listeners all over the world to reggae music and created instant fans with its messages of peace, love, and resistance. Sounds like perfect material for an orchestra with a mission to draw people from all walks of life into its audience.

That's what Calgary Phil President and CEO Marc Stevens thought when he approached Jesse Jones backstage at the 2021 JUNO Awards. Jones had just got offstage after accepting the Walt Grealis Special Achievement Award. The honour was bestowed upon his late mother Denise Jones, who, along with her husband Allan, dedicated her life and career to connecting Canadians with Afro-Caribbean music and entertainment, creating the popular JAMBANA One World festival in Ontario and serving as the founding chair for the JUNOs' reggae category. The younger Jones, who has been carrying on his parents' work through the Jones & Jones Group, started chatting with Stevens about potentially bringing a reggae project to the Calgary Philharmonic. The two eventually devised the idea of a show to celebrate what would have been Bob Marley's 80th birthday.

"I asked if he was focused on bringing in some non-traditional ideas and told him about a Bob Marley concept we had," Jones said. "In that moment both of us really lit up and we started planning."

That plan goes beyond what Calgary Phil audiences may expect from the Orchestra's frequent dips into genres that go beyond traditional classical music. Since Marley is such a well-known figure, Jones wanted to be sure that the production would appeal to both casual fans best acquainted with big hits like One Love and Redemption Song and dedicated reggae lovers wanting a deep dive into Marley's legacy, all presented in new and inspiring arrangements.

" OUR SET LIST IS REALLY GOING TO TAKE PEOPLE ON A MUSICAL JOURNEY AND AN EMOTIONAL JOURNEY. WE ' RE REALLY GOING TO BE TELLING A STORY THROUGH

THE ARTISTS, THE BAND, AND THE ORCHESTRA. "

Making the project all the more collaborative is the participation of Arts Commons Presents, who came on board along with Jones & Jones and the Calgary Phil as coproducers through their BD&P World Stage series. They in turn enlisted Calgary multidisciplinary art collective FOREIGNERZ, who will create visuals to tell the story of Bob Marley. Bringing the songs to life, the Calgary Philharmonic will be joined by a live band, guest conductor Christopher Dragon, and featured vocalists Ammoye, Steele, Omega Mighty, and Edmonton's Soji Joseph, all accomplished artists in their own rights.

"Our set list is really going to take people on a musical journey and an emotional journey. We're really going to be telling a story through the artists, the band, and the orchestra," Jones says. "I describe it as a 'rockumentary' that takes you through a series of emotions as you hear Bob Marley's music reimagined in a way it hasn't been before."

While Calgary may not seem like the most obvious place for a Torontobased production company to throw a posthumous birthday party for Jamaica's most famous artist, Jones believes Calgary is actually the perfect host city for the show, largely because it is so unexpected. Jones acknowledges that despite stereotypes, Calgary often doesn't get credit for its cultural diversity and the contributions of its thriving Black and Caribbean communities. He also recognizes the unique power Marley's music has in bridging cultural divides and bringing people together and knows the One Love messaging pouring from the stage will resonate profoundly with Calgary audiences.

"I think Calgary is one of the most exciting cities in Canada," Jones says. "There's a really great opportunity for us to highlight the beauty that makes up the city, the province and our country as a whole."

This viewpoint echoes Arts Commons' mandate to act as a place for Calgarians of all backgrounds to come and enjoy programming that not only reflects Canadians of all backgrounds, but to also share different cultural perspectives to build connection and understanding within the city. Arts Commons VP of Programming Sarah Garton Stanley says that shows like this tribute help to build a stronger and more inclusive arts centre to better serve every Calgarian.

"If our community of Calgary is not contributing to curating the work we see, then we are not fully seeing the community we serve," she says. "So yes, from our perspective, opening the doors in new ways, having different conversations, listening to different voices, all of it contributes to keeping all of Arts Commons vibrant and alive. From my perspective, the Calgary Phil is already doing a stellar job at thinking and acting on these imperatives."

While the Calgary Philharmonic has long been offering programming designed to expand the definition of what a symphony orchestra is capable of and who the orchestra speaks to, reggae is not typically a genre tackled by traditional philharmonics. Jones' enthusiasm for the Bob Marley tribute is matched by the musicians and staff at the Calgary Phil, who hope to attract new audiences to the performance while bringing something new to philharmonic regulars.

"The Calgary Phil has been wanting to do a reggae concert for some time, so it was serendipitous indeed when Marc crossed paths with Jesse," says Andrea Davison, Director, Artistic and Education for the Calgary Philharmonic. "The Calgary Phil believes the orchestra is for everyone, and this celebration of Bob Marley is a great example of how we design our concert seasons to include a diverse array of music for every age and taste, and for all of our communities across the city."

Ultimately, Jones doesn't see this collaboration as simply a reggae concert or a local Calgary event. His vision is to bring Calgarians, and ultimately Canadians, together as a physical manifestation of Marley's message of unity. The best music — be it played by violins and cellos, electric guitars and steel drums, or a combination of both — has a magical way of bringing people together, something Bob Marley very likely would have smiled at on his 80th birthday.

"There's a big connection between Canada and the islands, especially Jamaica. My parents came to this country in the late '80s with a vision of bringing together people from all walks of life through the culture they grew up in," Jones says. "To have another generation of that family connect with Calgary and the Philharmonic to carry on that tradition of crossing cultural barriers — that is what Canada is about."

A musical timeline

Robert Nesta Marley is born on 6 February in Nine Mile, Jamaica.

Marley forms a 'ska' vocal group with Peter Tosh and Neville O'Riley Livingston, aka Bunny Wailer. They perform under several names including The Teenagers and The Wailing Rudeboys before settling on The Wailers.

The group record their studio debut, The Wailing Wailers, which includes an early version of the song One Love

Credited as Bob Marley and the Wailers, they release Soul Rebels, their second album and the first to be distributed outside of Jamaica. It is recorded by legendary reggae producer Lee "Scratch" Perry along with his band, The Upsetters.

After signing to Island Records, The Wailers produce two albums in one year — Catch A Fire and Burnin' — bringing them international recognition. They tour the U.K. and U.S., including a three-night-stand in New York City with another new artist on the rise, Bruce Springsteen.

Peter Tosh and Bunny Wailer leave the group in pursuit of solo careers. Marley soldiers on under the Wailers banner with the release of Live! in December, spawning a hit single with that album's version of No Woman, No Cry.

With Rastaman Vibration, Marley gains his first Top-10 album in the U.S. charts. Months after its release, Marley survives an assassination attempt at his home in Kingston.

Now self-exiled in London, Marley goes Gold in the U.S., U.K., and Canada with Exodus, which features classic tracks such as Jammin, Turn Your Lights Down Low, Three Little Birds, and One Love/People Get Ready.

Marley makes a triumphant return to Jamaica headlining the One Love Peace Concert. With the country embroiled in civil unrest, Marley famously joins the hands of leaders from opposing political factions on stage.

Having released the song Zimbabwe the previous year, Marley is invited to perform at that country's independence celebrations in April. His anthem is cited as being instrumental to its' liberation movement. Uprising, the final studio album released in his lifetime, comes out in June. It includes the beloved acoustic version of Redemption Song.

Bob Marley dies of the cancer he had been fighting since 1977.

The posthumous compilation album Legend is released, going on to become the best-selling reggae album of all time.

7 December

7:30PM

Jubilee Auditorium

Chantal Kreviazuk: A Holiday Special

Resident Conductor Endowed Chair Supporter: Mary Rozsa de Coquet

Juliane Gallant, conductor

Chantal Kreviazuk, vocals + piano Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra

Gear up for the holiday season with this one-night-only concert featuring platinum-selling, Grammy and three-time JUNO Award-winning artist Chantal Kreviazuk. The cherished Canadian singer-songwriter and classically trained pianist performs some of her greatest hits like Feels Like Home, Leaving On A Jet Plane, and Time, as well as music from her holiday album, Christmas Is A Way Of Life, My Dear

Program to be announced from stage

Concert includes a 20-minute intermission Program and artists subject to change without notice

CHANTAL KREVIAZUK VOCALS + PIANO

Chantal Kreviazuk made her critically acclaimed full-length debut, Under These Rocks and Stones, in 1997. Since then, the Winnipeg-born and internationally celebrated 3 X JUNO Award and Grammy-winning singer-songwriter and musician, classically trained pianist, actress, movie producer, philanthropist, humanitarian, and proud wife and mother of three has recorded 10 albums, including a live album, a holiday album and a collaboration with her husband and Our Lady Peace frontman Raine Maida. A prolific songwriter, Chantal has written global smashes for the likes of Drake, Gwen Stefani, Pitbull, Christina Aguilera, Britney Spears, Carrie Underwood, Avril Lavigne, Shakira, Kelly Clarkson, and Kendrick Lamar. Equally committed to helping those in need, Chantal and Raine were awarded the Order of Canada in 2014 for their efforts to raise awareness and support for human and animal rights, mental health, education, and the environment. Chantal has been an ambassador to War Child for more than two decades and one of the organization's founding artists.

10, 11 + 12 December

7:30PM

Grace Presbyterian Church

Traditional Christmas

Resident Conductor Endowed Chair Supporter: Mary Rozsa de Coquet

Juliane Gallant, conductor Nicole Leung, soprano Tayte Mitchell, tenor Calgary Men's Chorus Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra

Traditional Christmas a la Valse

(arr. Robert Wendel)

Judith Clurman, Eight Days of Lights

David Chase

Traditional It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas

(arr. Mark Hayes)

Traditional The First Nowell

(arr. David Willcocks)

Pietro Yon Gesu Bambino

(arr. William Ryden)

Traditional Silent Night

(arr. Dan Forrest)

Traditional Hark! The Herald Angels Sing

(arr. David Willcocks)

Adolphe Adam O Holy Night

(arr. William Ryden)

Traditional Jingle Bells

(arr. Mark Hayes)

Traditional O Come All Ye Faithful

(arr. David Willcocks)

Leroy Anderson Sleigh Ride

This concert has no intermission Program and artists subject to change without notice

NICOLE LEUNG SOPRANO

Praised for "her natural warmth matched equally by innate lyricism," (Opera Canada) Canadian soprano Nicole Leung most recently joined the Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity in its workshop of The Handmaid's Tale, singing the role of Ofglen. Recently selected as a laureate of Les Jeunes Ambassadeurs Lyriques for the 2024/2025 season, she will be performing in a series of concerts and featured in its 30th anniversary gala this October in Montreal. She is an alumna of the McPhee Artist Development Program at Calgary Opera, where she spent the past two seasons. While at Calgary Opera, she made her professional debut in the role of Adina in L'elisir d'amore, a role she first sang at The Yale School of Music and covered at Festival Napa Valley as a Manetti Shrem Vocal Fellow. She also performed the roles of Barbarina in Le Nozze di Figaro, Frasquita (Carmen), Delia in Joe Illick's Stone Soup, and Héro (Béatrice et Bénédict) at Calgary Opera. Other operatic roles include Pamina (The Magic Flute), Rosalba (Florencia en el Amazonas), Morgana (Alcina), and Romilda (Serse). An avid interpreter of art song, Nicole has attended SongFest in Los Angeles both as a Studio Artist and Young Artist, underwritten by the Art Song Foundation of Canada. Nicole holds degrees from the New England Conservatory of Music and the Yale School of Music and currently studies privately with renowned operatic tenor and acclaimed voice teacher, Jason Ferrante.

TAYTE MITCHELL TENOR

Tayte Mitchell is a Canadian Lyric Tenor and Opera Stage Director, born and raised in Vulcan, Alberta. He is an alumnus of prestigious training programs such as the McPhee Artist Program with Calgary Opera, The Brott Opera Festival, Wolf Trap Opera Studio, and the Music Academy of the West. For the 2024/2025 season, Tayte serves as the Stage Director in Residence with Vancouver Opera. During the 2023/2024 season, Tayte sang the role of Alfredo in La Traviata at the Brott Opera Festival, performed the role of Bob Wallace in Nuova Vocal Arts' production of White Christmas by Irving Berlin, was the tenor soloist in Mozart's Requiem with the Firebird Symphony and Chorus, and participated in a workshop for Songs of Manyselves, a new music composition by composer Sebastian Hutchings. In his role as founding Artistic Director of Calgary's newest opera company, Ammolite Opera, Tayte directed and produced the Canadian premieres of two contemporary operas: Empty the House by Rene Orth and Mark Campbell and Proving Up by Missy Mazzoli and Royce Vavrek. Tayte earned his Bachelor of Music degree from the Oberlin Conservatory of Music in 2018, where he double majored in Voice Performance under Lorraine Manz and Opera Directing under Jonathon Field. He went on to complete a master's degree in Voice at the Cincinnati CollegeConservatory of Music, studying with William E. McGraw, supported by the Arts Graduate Scholarship from the Government of Alberta in both 2019 and 2020.

CALGARY MEN'S CHORUS ENSEMBLE

The Calgary Men's Chorus (CMC) is an inclusive Tenor/Baritone/ Bass (TTBB) choir that has been a staple of Calgary's LGBTQ2S+ and arts communities for 30 years. The Calgary Men's Chorus sing everything from Queen to Mozart and has a lot of fun doing it! CMC is open to all, regardless of socioeconomic status, physical ability, or musical experience. While most singers are gay and bi men, they welcome persons of all sexual orientations and gender expressions with TTBB vocal ranges. Through choral music, CMC encourages a sense of community and positive self-image within Calgary's choir community and works to build important bridges of understanding to the public.

VOLUNTEER WITH THE CALGARY PHIL

Join the Calgary Phil Volunteer team in bringing the magic of orchestral music to life! Help at concerts, events, festivals, and more, while making new friends and supporting your community.

TWO TIMES THE FUN

CELEBRATING WOLFGANG AND RUNE AT MOZART ' S BIRTHDAY PARTY

BY JUN-LONG LEE

PHOTO BY HARDERLEE PHOTOGRAPHY

Rune Bergmann has been fascinated with the music of Mozart since early childhood. When Bergmann got a hold of his first recording — Mozart and Beethoven symphonies — he was immediately intrigued by both composers.

Mozart, in particular, stood out: "[There is] something about the lightness, the brightness, and the happiness in that music...there is some kind of energy that I've really loved since I was very little."

He was surprised to find out that they share the same birthday on 27 January; later, when he became a conductor, he decided that they would celebrate their birthdays together.

Now Bergmann is Music Director of the Calgary Philharmonic, Chief Conductor of Switzerland's Argovia Philharmonic and holds similar positions — not to mention his numerous guest appearances — all over the world. He has a decade of Mozart double-birthday celebrations under his belt, performed wherever he might be at the time, including a sold out 2019 concert in Calgary featuring period costumes and cupcakes.

This coming January he'll be taking up the baton once again for Mozart's Birthday Party, conducting the Calgary Philharmonic in their performance of Symphony No. 38 and Mass in C Major

"With most composers you always have to think 'which piece should I do?' or 'what would be best?' With Mozart you could just throw all the numbers of symphonies and whatever he wrote in a hat, make a draw, and still have a great program," Bergmann jokes. "Everybody says 'how would you rate Mozart's symphonies?' It's impossible! There is something magical about them all."

Symphony No. 38, nicknamed 'Prague', is indeed one of those magical symphonies. Light, bright, and elegant, it was first performed in the Bohemian capital during Mozart's first visit. The Bohemians adored Mozart, which was not always the case with his compatriots in Salzburg and Vienna.

"He was an amazing, incredible genius. He had so much in him, so many stories to tell, so much to give to the world," says Bergmann. "Unfortunately, as always, the world wasn't ready for him. That's how the world is."

It didn't help that Mozart was reportedly eccentric and impulsive, possessing a prodigious genius that few of his contemporaries could understand.

"Who knows how many diagnoses he would have today; he was really hyper! He didn't sleep much and wrote music faster than we can write a shopping list. The harmonies, the energy, the tempos, he broke the rules of the time. The way he broke them, we still don't understand how he did it. [But] you don't have to understand it to enjoy it."

Luckily, these days, Mozart's music has been given its due recognition. Mass in C Major, nicknamed 'Coronation,' is one of his most popular, though it remains surprisingly under-performed. Bergmann believes that it is a fantastic match for Symphony No. 38 and a pairing that will make for an enchanting evening.

"We haven't had the chorus so much involved in our Mozart concerts," he says. "This will be a perfect occasion!"

Bergmann has had a thrilling, though busy — and tiring — year. Living out of a suitcase while performing across Canada, USA, Colombia, Poland, Switzerland, Spain, and elsewhere has him often missing home, though the inspiration he finds in these places is worth the jetlag. The 2024/2025 season will be his last as Music Director with the Calgary Phil. As such, he's determined to make this Mozart Birthday Party a special one.

"When we celebrate Mozart, everything is possible, and everything can happen. My goal is to have a great, fun evening that everybody will enjoy," he says. "Even though Mozart left us many, many years ago he still keeps himself alive in his music and his energy. This is what I try to do as a conductor, I try to give that energy and continue that journey."

David Reid, Bass Trombone, and Trish Bereti Reid, Bass, sport Calgary Phil's new jacket. Get yours today!

17 + 18 January

7:30PM

Jack Singer Concert Hall

Bond + Beyond

Guest Artist Supporter: Naomi + John Lacey Virtuoso Program

Michelle Di Russo, conductor

Morgan James, vocals

Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra

Embark on a thrilling escapade for your ears with your Calgary Phil through more than six decades of iconic music from the James Bond films!

Performing songs from the list below:

A View To A Kill / Diamonds are Forever / For Your Eyes Only / Goldfinger / Live and Let Die / Mission Impossible Theme / Moonraker / Nobody Does It Better / On Her Majesty's Secret Service / Peter Gunn / Pink Panther / Raiders of the Lost Ark / Secret Agent Man / Soul Bossa Nova / The Incredibles / We Have All the Time in the World / You Only Live Twice

Concert includes a 20-minute intermission Program and artists subject to change without notice

about the music

No. 1

The great Shirley Bassey is the only singer to have recorded more than one Bond theme. In fact, she performed three: the iconic Goldfinger, Diamonds Are Forever, and Moonraker.

No. 2

The first rock song to feature in a Bond film, Paul McCartney's Live and Let Die, co-written with his wife Linda and performed by their band Wings, saw the former mop-top reunited with Beatles producer George Martin for its recording.

No. 3

This message will not self-destruct in five seconds… One of the most recognizable scores of all time, Lalo Schifrin's enduring Mission Impossible Theme has long outlasted the original TV series, appearing in numerous films, TV shows, video games, and Tom Cruise's multi-sequel cinematic reboot.

No. 4

Composer and conductor Henry Mancini claimed that his swinging Peter Gunn owed more to rock and roll than jazz. "I used guitar and piano in unison, playing what is known in music as an ostinato, which means obstinate. It was sustained throughout the piece, giving it a sinister effect," he said.

No. 5

Ranked among the best of Bond songs, Adele's Skyfall consciously hearkened back to the sound and mood of the series' most classic themes. Among its many awards and accolades, Skyfall captured the 2012 Academy Award for Best Original Song — the first Bond track to do so.

MICHELLE DI RUSSO CONDUCTOR

A graceful yet powerful force on the podium, Argentinian-Italian conductor Michelle Di Russo is known for her compelling interpretations, passionate musicality, and championship of contemporary music. Currently serving as Associate Conductor in her third season with North Carolina Symphony, she is a Dudamel Fellow with the Los Angeles Philharmonic, a recipient of a 2024 Solti Foundation U.S. Career Assistance Award, and mentee of the Taki Alsop Fellowship. Michelle is a former conducting fellow of Chicago Sinfonietta's Project Inclusion program and The Dallas Opera Hart Institute, as well as a recipient of the Richard S. Weinert award from Concert Artists Guild. She was a 2022 Joel Revzen fellow at the Napa Valley Festival and has served as Interim Director of Orchestras at Cornell University and Assistant Conductor of Phoenix Youth Symphony Orchestra. She has been the recipient of the American Austrian Foundation/Faber Young Conductors Fellowship (selected by members of Vienna Philharmonic), a Bruno Walter Memorial Foundation Conducting Scholarship at the Cabrillo Music Festival of Contemporary Music, and was a conducting fellow at the Cortona Sessions for New Music in Italy. During the pandemic Michelle co-created Girls Who Conduct, an organization dedicated to bridge the gap between women and men in the conducting field and encourage younger generations of women and non-binary conductors to overcome any obstacles presented due to their gender.

MORGAN JAMES VOCALS

Morgan James is a Juilliard trained singer, songwriter, actress, and recording artist in New York City. Morgan is currently on tour supporting her fifth studio album, Nobody's Fool. She independently released her studio albums of original soul music, entitled Memphis Magnetic and A Very Magnetic Christmas, which were recorded to analog tape in Memphis, Tennessee. Other albums include Reckless Abandon, which prompted the Huffington Post to call MJ the "Brightest Breakout Artist of the Year." In addition to her original music, Morgan co-produced and starred in an all-female concept recording of Jesus Christ Superstar. Morgan has taken on full album covers of the Beatles' iconic White Album, Joni Mitchell's Blue, Jeff Buckley's Grace, and many more. Morgan recorded two full-length albums with Epic Records, Hunter and "Morgan James Live," a celebration of Nina Simone All her music can be found on all streaming platforms, and hard copies on her website or at shows. On Broadway, Morgan was in five backto-back original companies: The Addams Family (starring Nathan Lane and Bebe Neuwirth), Wonderland, Godspell, and Motown: The Musical, and as a guest at Kristin Chenoweth's For The Girls With viral sensation Postmodern Jukebox and with her own YouTube channel, Morgan's music videos have accumulated more than 285 million views (and climbing).

Aged 35 and under? Register for a free Cpossibilities membership today!

19 January

Instrument Discovery Zoo: 2PM Concert: 3PM

Jack Singer Concert Hall

The Hockey Sweater

Dr. Lola Rozsa Birthday Concert

Maria Fuller, conductor

Cassie Campbell-Pascall, narrator Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra

Roch Carrier's timeless classic The Hockey Sweater comes to life in vivid orchestral scope. Abigail Richardson-Schulte's enchanting music not only sets the stage, but with costumes and choreography — including a hockey game onstage — this beautiful Canadian story is sure to warm even the frostiest heart this winter.

Dolores Claman Hockey Night in Canada Theme 4' (arr. Howard Cable)

Abigail Richardson-Schulte The Hockey Sweater 22'

Émile Waldteufel Skater's Waltz 7'

Vangelis Chariots of Fire 4' (arr. Henry Mancini)

Bill Conti Gonna Fly Now (Theme from Rocky) 7'

This concert has no intermission Program and artists subject to change without notice

Do you have a young music fan on your hands? Symphony Sundays for Kids concerts are about one hour long with no intermission and feature orchestral favourites every child should know.

Arrive early for the Instrument Discovery Zoo in the Jack Singer lobby, where they can visit different stations hosted by Orchestra musicians. Each station features an instrument or musical activity for children to try!

This fun, hands-on experience is the perfect way to indulge your child's curiosity and excitement about visiting the Orchestra.

The Instrument Discovery Zoo starts at 2PM and the performance starts at 3PM.

MARIA FULLER CONDUCTOR

Hailed as an artist of "subtle control, careful focus and thorough professionalism" (Chronical Journal) and as "fiery and dynamic" (The Walleye Magazine), Canadian conductor Maria Fuller demonstrates unparalleled energy and an infectious joy in her music-making. Admired for her diversity and breadth of abilities, she performs internationally as a conductor, pianist, trumpeter, and is also an acclaimed vocal coach and collaborator, awardwinning composer, and sought after arranger. Last November, Maria was a finalist at the 11th Grzegorz Fitelberg International Conducting Competition. 2024 marked Maria's first season as the founding Music Director of Ammolite Opera, with whom she will conduct the world premiere of her own oratorio, The Return of the Messiah, this December. During her brief time as a conductor, Maria has represented Canada in the inaugural La Maestra International Conducting Competition, received the prestigious David Effron Conducting Fellowship at the Chautauqua Institute, has conducted orchestras across Canada both as a guest conductor, and, through partnership with Tapestry Opera, was the Resident Conductor of the Thunder Bay Symphony. She looks forward to a close mentorship with conductor Yannick Nézet-Séguin in Montreal this season. As an arranger, her holiday arrangements have been endorsed by the conductor and arranger Jeff Tyzik, and are performed by orchestras across Canada.

Maria Fuller appears with the Calgary Phil as a member of Tapestry Opera's Women in Musical Leadership.

CASSIE CAMPBELL-PASCALL NARRATOR

Cassie Campbell-Pascall is one of the greatest hockey players in Canadian history. During her 16-year career, she rewrote history and created a pathway for women in sport. Starting her career with two unsuccessful attempts at being selected to join Team Canada in 1990 and 1992, Cassie fought through adversity to earn her way on the team in 1994. She went on to become one of Canada's most decorated hockey players of all-time, winning three gold medals and capturing eight World Championships. Following retirement, Cassie joined Hockey Night in Canada's broadcast team and was quickly called up to become the first woman to do colour commentary on the program. Covering commentary for three Olympic Games, Cassie is currently an analyst for ESPN and a Special Advisor for the PWHL. Continuing her breakaway in sport media and creating opportunities to advance the women's game is the next phase for the trailblazer to stamp her legacy in hockey.

Rogers Birdies for Kids presented by AltaLink is a proud supporter of the Calgary Phil and its education programs.

© Courtesy of Sportsnet

EVERY PERFORMANCE COMES ALIVE

30 YEARS ON, JAMES EHNES CONTINUES TO FIND MEANING IN BRAHMS ' VIOLIN CONCERTO

BY CHARLOTTE LILLEY

PHOTO BY BENJAMIN EALOVEGA

For James Ehnes, Brahms' Violin Concerto has become a familiar friend. A staple of the violin repertoire, and one which the acclaimed Canadian violinist has been playing for over 30 years, the Concerto has helped to inspire a career which has seen Ehnes perform with orchestras the world over. "It's a fantastic piece, and one of the reasons I became a violinist really was to get to play music like this," he says.

Featured in Calgary Phil's On Stage with James Ehnes on 30 November, the Concerto itself has a storied history. Despite its nowiconic status, the piece's 1879 premieres in both Leipzig and London were met with mixed reviews, a fact which Ehnes suggests had more to do with audience expectations than the piece itself. "Brahms was — not really through any efforts of his own — a controversial figure in certain circles in that there were these philosophical battles on the direction that music should take," he explains. "When [Brahms] wrote this Concerto it was quite different from maybe what people would have expected out of a violin concerto of the day. People were expecting the violin to be more traditionally virtuosic, for the violin to be more consistently leading the musical line."

While the Concerto does — especially in its last movement — still have its fair share of what Ehnes calls "traditional virtuosic pyrotechnics," it is more commonly recognized for its extensive dialogues between soloist and orchestra, a feature which Ehnes says makes it "deeply rewarding" to play.

"It's really like a symphony with a solo violin, its relationship to the orchestra is so entwined," he says. "It's just a much more immersive experience for the solo player."

Despite what Ehnes refers to as the concerto's "difficult birth," many of its elements — including technical demands which led to it infamously being labelled "unplayable" by Brahms' contemporary Henryk Wieniawski — have become "part of the vernacular," proof of both the ways in which the expectations of musicians and audiences alike have shifted over the past century and a half, and the innovation behind Brahms' original composition.

"With new music there's always been this very fine line between impossible and highly inconvenient," Ehnes explains. "With a lot of the pieces that are now quite standard repertoire, a fair number of them were seen as unplayable at the time because the players had just not really seen anything quite like that, which I think

is a testament to a composer having an individual voice. If you have an individual voice with a composer, chances are it's going to fit in the hands a little differently than someone else's writing."

Just as audience expectations around the Concerto have evolved in the time since its composition, so has Ehnes' interpretation of the piece changed since he started playing it three decades ago. Importantly though, while Ehnes notes that he "undoubtedly" performs the piece differently now than when he first learned it as a teen, his feelings for the piece "have not really changed."

"It's just that I've changed, and I continue to change," says Ehnes, who's gone on to have a highly acclaimed career with both Grammy and JUNO awards under his belt. "And I think that over time one's understanding of what it means surely evolves, because we're different people, and things mean different things to us at different stages of our life."

Ehnes' familiarity with the piece now lends his performance a flexibility and responsiveness which he likens to telling a joke to a group of friends, knowing when to draw a moment out, or when to move on: "You can feel the reaction and adjust accordingly, and I think experience certainly plays a lot into that. But there's also just a lot of human nature with that that makes every performance alive and a little bit different."

And while Ehnes does note that performing a piece as well-known as the Brahms can lead to an impulse to second-guess one's interpretation in search of a unique or innovative approach, that individuality ultimately comes naturally from the musician themself: "If you are yourself, then by definition it is individual," he says.

"I think you have to liberate yourself from the idea of expectation and just tell the story as you think it goes and be as compelling as you can."

Looking ahead to November's concert, Ehnes — originally from Brandon, Manitoba — is excited to bring the Brahms to Western Canada. "I think everyone from Calgary through Winnipeg feels maybe a certain kinship as Canadians," he explains. "I've been playing in Calgary for at least 25 years, and the community has always been so supportive of me. In my early career having the support of wonderful orchestras like the Calgary Phil and wonderful communities like Calgary, that meant a very, very great deal to me, and continue to mean a very great deal to me."

PATRON PROGRAMS

CALGARY PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA

Calgary Phil's 2024/2025 concert season marks the return of our Wolfgang, Amadeus, and Mozart Patron Programs! By joining, your membership donation provides critical support for the Calgary Phil's annual operations. Receive a tax receipt for the majority of your donation while developing a deeper connection to the Calgary Phil and its musicians through exclusive benefits and one-of-a-kind experiences.

To learn more about how you can support your Calgary Phil by becoming a member of Wolfgang, Amadeus or Mozart, please visit calgaryphil.com/patron-programs

WOLFGANG

Ticket(s) to three pre-selected concerts with post-concert receptions per year

Listing on calgaryphil.com

Listing in Prelude magazine (Duet only)

Access to the Founders' Room

Access to Subscriber Rewards

15% discount on select merchandise

Tax receipt: Solo $50 Duet $100

AMADEUS

MOZART

Invitation(s) to four Music to My Ears events per year

Family invitation to Naomi Lacey Family Christmas Party

Listing on calgaryphil.com

Listing in Prelude magazine

Access to the Founders' Room

Access to Subscriber Rewards

15% discount on select merchandise

Tax receipt: Solo $1,000 Duet $2,000

Invitation(s) to two Exclusive Guest Artist Recitals per year

Invitation(s) to four Music to My Ears events per year

Family invitation to Naomi Lacey Family Christmas Party

Listing on calgaryphil.com

Listing in Prelude magazine

Access to the Founders' Room

Access to Subscriber Rewards

15% discount on select merchandise

Tax receipt: Solo $2,000 Duet $4,000

25 January

7:30PM

Jack Singer Concert Hall

Mozart's Birthday Party

Presented in partnership with One Yellow Rabbit's High Performance Rodeo

Concert Supporters: Valerie + Allen Swanson

Music Director Endowed Chair Supporters: Ted + Lola Rozsa

Guest Artist Supporter: Naomi + John Lacey Virtuoso Program

Chorus Supporter: Borak Forte Program

Rune Bergmann, conductor

Mireille Asselin, soprano

Lillian Brooks, mezzo-soprano

John Tessier, tenor

Stephen Hegedus, bass-baritone

Calgary Philharmonic Chorus

Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

Overture to Così fan tutte, K. 588 5'

Symphony No.38 in D Major, K. 504 26'

I. Adagio – Allegro

II. Andante

III. Presto

Mass in C Major, K. 317 24'

I. Kyrie

II. Gloria

III. Credo

IV. Sanctus

V. Benedictus

VI. Agnus Dei

This concert has no intermission Program and artists subject to change without notice

Overture to Così fan tutte, K. 588

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756–1791)

The opera singer Adriana Ferrarese del Bene, who originated the role of Fiordiligi in the original 1790 production, was not one of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's favourites. She had — in Mozart's opinion — an irritating tendency to drop her chin on low notes and throw her head back on high ones. Legend has it that Mozart wrote Fiordiligi's signature tune, Come scoglio, with so many sudden transitions between low and high notes that it made Ferrarese's head 'bob like a chicken' onstage. There were only five performances of Così fan tutte's 1790 debut because Emperor Joseph II died during the run, causing the show to close to mourn his passing. It was never presented again in Vienna during Mozart's lifetime. The title roughly translated means 'Women are Like That' and the work was considered vulgar or immoral at the time. It rose to fame again after the Second World War and continues to be an operatic staple to this day.

Symphony No. 38 in D Major, K. 504 (Prague Symphony)

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

Symphony No. 38 in D Major is also known as the Prague Symphony, because that is where it premiered in 1787 and because Mozart was consistently popular there, whereas his reputation bounced around a little in Vienna. Some believe that Mozart's Prague popularity came from the production of the opera Le nozze di Figaro, which showcased Mozart's considerable composing talents for the Prague musical community during the 1786/1787 season. Wind instruments are showcased throughout the Prague Symphony and it's no coincidence, because Bohemian wind players were famous across Europe. It features flutes, oboes, bassoons, horns, trumpets, timpani, and strings, and it marked a major advance in Mozart's symphonic composing. Perhaps not coincidentally, when Hollywood immortalized Mozart in the Academy Award winning biopic Amadeus, the director hired to shoot it was Czech-born Milos Forman, who shot the film in Prague.

Mass in C Major, K. 317 (Coronation Mass)

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

Coronation Mass was finished on 23 March 1779, not long after Mozart came home to Salzburg after 18 futile months of searching for work in Paris and Manheim. He caught a break thanks to his father Leopold who found him a job as a court organist and composer at the Salzburg Cathedral. It was there that Mass in C Major is thought to have been performed for the first time on Easter Sunday, 1779, though its first documented performance occurred during the coronation of Francis II as Holy Roman Emperor in 1792. It was also performed at the Vatican in 1985 with Pope John Paul II officiating. It is said to have become known as Coronation Mass (or Krönungsmesse) because in the nineteenth century it became the preferred choice for numerous royal and imperial coronations within the Imperial Court of Vienna as well as for services of thanksgiving.

Program notes by Stephen Hunt © 2024 Rune Bergmann biography on page 11 Calgary Phil Chorus biography on page 12

MIREILLE ASSELIN SOPRANO

Canadian-American soprano Mireille Asselin has gained widespread recognition for her versatility and artistry, including five celebrated seasons at the Metropolitan Opera, where her standout roles included Adele in Die Fledermaus and Poussette in Manon. An expert in early music, Mireille frequently collaborates with renowned period ensembles across North America and Europe. Her discography spans labels such as Marquis Classics and Centrediscs, featuring works like Haydn's Harmoniemesse with Harry Christophers and the Handel and Haydn Society. In the 2023/2024 season, Mireille's operatic appearances included Euridice in Opera Atelier's Orphée et Euridice, Eleanor of Aquitaine in Vancouver Opera/ Re:Opera's Sanctuary and Storm, and Zerlina in Edmonton Opera's Don Giovanni. In the U.K., she made a triumphant return to Garsington Opera as La Folie in Rameau's Platée On the concert stage, she performed as a soloist with Symphony Nova Scotia, Thirteen Strings, Victoria Symphony, and the Newfoundland Symphony Orchestra. Looking ahead to the 2024/2025 season, Mireille will make her role debut as Jonathas in Charpentier's David et Jonathas with Opera Atelier, and reprise her role in Cecilia Livingston, Donna McKevitt and Tim Albery's The Garden of Vanished Pleasures with Soundstreams. She will also join the Richard Eaton Singers and the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra for Handel's Messiah. Mireille is an alumna of the Canadian Opera Company Studio, Yale University, and Toronto's Royal Conservatory of Music.

LILLIAN BROOKS

MEZZO-SOPRANO

Canadian mezzo-soprano Lillian Brooks has been praised for her "lyric sound" (Ludwig van Toronto), "easy handling of coloratura" (Schmopera), and noted for her "wonderful sensitivity to story and the development of song" (FYI Music). This season, Lillian looks forward to returning to both Chorus Niagara and the Peterborough Singers for Bach's B Minor Mass and Mozart's Requiem, respectively. Other recent engagements include Handel's Messiah with Brott Opera, Beethoven's Missa Solemnis with Chorus Niagara, and Mahler's Rückert Lieder with innerCHAMBER. Lillian continues to be in high demand for her interpretations of oratorio repertoire, including Handel's Messiah and Dixit Dominus, Bach's St John Passion and St Matthew Passion, Vivaldi's Gloria, Duruflé's Requiem, and Mahler's Das Lied von der Erde. She was elated to perform the Canadian premieres of both Last Light Above the World by Alan Bevan and The Cross of Christ by Romulo Delgado. Equally at home on the operatic stage, she has recently performed as Sister Bridgeman in Florence: the Lady with the Lamp with VOICEBOX: Opera in Concert, and as Fetill/Third Lady in Rose's A Northern Lights Dream with Toronto Operetta Theatre. Recent highlights include Fenena in Nabucco and Lucia in Cavalleria Rusticana with Toronto City Opera, and a return to Toronto's Koerner Hall for the Royal Conservatory's production of Sondheim's A Little Night Music

© Kristin Hoebermann

JOHN TESSIER

TENOR

JUNO Award-winning tenor John Tessier has garnered international attention and praise for the beauty and honesty of his voice, for a refined style and artistic versatility, and for his handsome, youthful presence in the lyric tenor repertoire. He has worked with many of the most notable musicians of our day including Plácido Domingo, Lorin Maazel, Emmanuel Haim, Valery Gergiev, Charles Dutoit, Leonard Slatkin, Bryn Terfel, Sir Thomas Allen, Thomas Hampson, Pinchas Zukerman, Itzhak Perlman, Deborah Voigt, Samuel Ramey, Bobby McFerrin, John Nelson, Franz Welser-Möst, Donald Runnicles, Robert Spano, Dame Kiri Te Kanawa, Dame Gwyneth Jones, Carlos Alvarez, and Bernard Labadie. Appearances of the recent past and near future include performances at the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, Wiener Staatsoper, Carnegie Hall, Teatro Colon, Oper Frankfurt, Grand Théâtre de Genève, English National Opera, Washington National Opera, Seattle Opera, the New York Philharmonic, Wiener Musikverein, National Symphony Orchestra, San Francisco Symphony, Philadelphia Orchestra, Cleveland Orchestra, Royal Liverpool Philharmonic, Orchestre National de Lyon, Ensemble Orchestral de Paris, and the Toronto Symphony Orchestra. Equally comfortable in the genres of opera, oratorio, and recital, John is also an award-winning professor at the University of Alberta and is in high demand for coaching, master classes, and private consultations. His discography includes recordings on the Decca, Naxos, Telarc, BIS, Challenge Records, and Dorian labels.

STEPHEN HEGEDUS BASS-BARITONE

Hailed as a singer possessing "...an instrument of rare beauty, majestic and commanding from the bottom of his range to the top" (Ottawa Citizen), bass-baritone Stephen Hegedus balances a busy schedule of both operatic and oratorio repertoire. Stephen's 2023/2024 season included engagements with the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra (Bruckner's Te Deum), Vancouver Symphony Orchestra (Haydn's Creation), and Handel's Messiah with the Victoria Symphony, Grand Philharmonic Choir and Guelph Chamber Choir. He returned to both Opéra de Montréal and joined the Canadian Opera Company for the first time on cover assignments in the world premiere of Bilodeau's La reine-garçon and Cherubini's Medea, respectively. Additional recent engagements include Handel's Messiah with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, Bach's B Minor Mass with the Vancouver Bach Choir, and appearances with Orchestre symphonique de TroisRivières for both Puccini's La bohème and Beethoven's Symphony No. 9. Especially appreciated for his performance in Messiah, he has been heard in Handel's masterpiece with the National Arts Centre Orchestra, the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, Minnesota Orchestra, l'Orchestre symphonique de Montréal, Seattle Symphony, Houston Symphony, San Antonio Symphony, Edmonton Symphony, the Vancouver Chamber Choir, Naples Philharmonic, Victoria Symphony, and Orchestre Métropolitain led by Yannick Nézet-Séguin.

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Rozarii

Lynch

7:30PM

Jack Singer Concert Hall

Unplugged: Nirvana Reimagined

Presented in partnership with One Yellow Rabbit's High Performance Rodeo 31 January

Resident Conductor Endowed Chair Supporter: Mary Rozsa de Coquet

Juliane Gallant, conductor

Andrew Polec, vocals

Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra

Throw yourself back to the '90s when grunge music reigned supreme and rock out to Nirvana's biggest hits — given extra oomph with a full symphony orchestra.

Performing songs from the list below:

About a Girl / All Apologies / Come As You Are / Dumb / Jesus Doesn't Want Me For A Sunbeam / Lake of Fire / Oh, Me / On a Plain / Pennyroyal Tea / Plateau / Polly / Something in the Way / The Man Who Sold The World / Where Did You Sleep Last Night

Concert includes a 20-minute intermission Program and artists subject to change without notice

about the music

No. 1

The title of Smells Like Teen Spirit came from Bikini Kill singer Kathleen Hanna, a friend of Kurt Cobain's who graffitied "Kurt Smells Like Teen Spirit" on his wall in reference to a brand of deodorant.

No. 2

Kurt Cobain wore his influences on his tattered flannel sleeves, covering songs by artists as diverse as David Bowie, The Vaselines, and Leadbelly. He also invited psychedelic countrypunks The Meat Puppets to perform with Nirvana on the MTV Unplugged in New York special. Three of their songs — Plateau, Oh Me, and Lake of Fire — made it onto the subsequent album.

No. 3

After reportedly spending an afternoon listening to The Beatles, Cobain wrote the delicate and melodic About A Girl, somewhat of a standout on Nirvana's otherwise superbly sludgy and grungy debut album, Bleach

No. 4

With the line "Give me a Leonard Cohen afterword/so I can sigh eternally," Penny Royal Tea is likely the only Nirvana song with a direct shoutout to a Canadian music icon. Cobain told an interviewer that when he was depressed or ill, he would often turn to artists like Cohen or Samuel Beckett.

No. 5

Though perhaps best remembered for their guitar and drum dynamic, Nirvana also turned to cello on occasion, notably the original recordings of Something in the Way and Dumb, and on many of the tracks recorded for MTV Unplugged in New York

ANDREW POLEC VOCALS

Andrew Polec is a dynamic performer, best known for his role as Strat in the West End productions of Jim Steinman's Bat Out of Hell: The Musical at the Dominion Theatre and London Coliseum, where he won the Joe Allen Best West End Debut Award. Born in Philadelphia, Andrew earned B.A.s in English and Music from the University of Rochester and an M.F.A. in Theatre from Brown University/Trinity Rep. His Off-Broadway credits include Sergei Yesenin in The Beautiful Lady (La Mama) and Matt in The Fantasticks (Theatre Center). Regionally, he has starred as The Grinch in Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas! and Berger in Hair at The Old Globe. Andrew's film and television work includes roles in Katy Keene and Prodigal Son. As a musician, he has released Disillusioned Funk and The Bat Unplugged EP. In 2021, he won First Prize in the Lotte Lenya Competition.

Candice Lin, La Charada China, 2024, detail. Photo by Elyse Bouvier.

exploring exploring

Downtown is the vibrant hub of culture, food, and entertainment in Calgary, offering a variety of unique experiences for everyone to enjoy. Before or after enjoying a spectacular show from the Calgary Philharmonic, explore downtown for an unforgettable time!

DINING IN DOWNTOWN CALGARY: A CULINARY ADVENTURE

Downtown boasts an exciting and diverse food scene, offering a wide array of restaurants that are a stone's throw away from the Jack Singer Concert Hall.

TEATRO

Just a walk across the street is one of Calgary's best Italian restaurants, Teatro. Their incredible dining space and menu make for a perfect complement to a night out at the orchestra. From handmade pastas to a huge selection of wines from all over, it's easy to see why Teatro is a regular on best restaurants in Calgary lists.

CHARCUT ROAST HOUSE

If you're in the mood for hearty Canadian fare with a farm-to-table ethos, Charcut Roast House is a must. Known for its wood-fired meats, housemade charcuterie, and bold flavours, this restaurant delivers a quintessentially Albertan dining experience. The signature dishes include whole roasted chicken, aged steaks, and an impressive selection of sides like truffle fries.

MAJOR TOM

Located 40 floors above street level in Stephen Avenue Place, Major Tom offers an incredible cosmopolitan cocktail experience. Featuring a wide selection of original and classic drinks, Major Tom is an excellent spot to celebrate special occasions. While known for their cocktails, their menu offers delectable dishes and shareables to be enjoyed by many. It's an excellent way to cap off a night at the Philharmonic.

And that's only a few of the great spots! Check out Centini, Klein/Harris, Modern Steak, and Barbarella, among others.

WHERE TO STAY: TOP DOWNTOWN HOTELS

From luxury accommodations to boutique hotels, downtown offers excellent options for a magical night in the heart of the city.

FAIRMONT PALLISER

As one of Calgary's most iconic hotels, the Fairmont Palliser combines historic charm with modern amenities. Located in the heart of downtown, the Palliser is known for its luxurious rooms, worldclass service, and proximity to many attractions. Guests can enjoy fine dining at the Hawthorn Dining Room & Bar within the hotel or relax in the hotel's spa and pool facilities.

LE GERMAIN HOTEL

If you're looking for sleek, modern luxury, Le Germain Hotel is a perfect choice. The rooms are known for their clean, minimalist design, with comfortable beds and high-end finishes. Guests can enjoy the hotel's sophisticated atmosphere, excellent customer service, and easy access to nearby restaurants and Stephen Avenue.

HYATT REGENCY

For a mix of elegance and comfort, the Hyatt Regency is a prime option. Located right on Centre Street and 8th Avenue, this hotel offers spacious rooms and a fantastic on-site spa. The Sandstone Lounge and Thompson's Restaurant are great spots to unwind after a day of exploring, with menus featuring local ingredients and innovative dishes.

Other great hotels to check out in the core are The Westly, The Dorian, and The Marriot.

IMMERSE YOURSELF IN DOWNTOWN ATTRACTIONS

Downtown is home to a thriving cultural scene, with spaces catering to art lovers, and family-friendly activities.

STEPHEN AVENUE WALK

With a variety of restaurants, shopping, public art, and historical buildings, it's easy to spend a whole day on Stephen Avenue. The street is known for its lively atmosphere and hosts plenty of buskers, events, and even the occasional market. It's the perfect place to take a leisurely stroll while taking in the beauty of urban art and culture.

CALGARY TOWER

While the Calgary Tower is primarily known for its panoramic views of the city and surrounding Rocky Mountains, it also has Sky360 restaurant where you can take in rotating views with fine dining, a small museum exhibition/ theatre room on the tower's history, and a gift shop featuring all things Calgary.

CONTEMPORARY CALGARY

A premier art gallery in downtown West, Contemporary Calgary can round out a day of fine art and fancy. Exhibitions range from a variety of mediums like multi-media, paintings, and sculptures just to name a few. They also host plenty of events each month, from film screenings to workshops, and their popular Free First Thursdays. Take a quick hop on the train to visit them by Kerby Station!

Take a stroll around the core to find many public art pieces and boutique shopping experiences.

Whether you're exploring outside of your suburban comfort or coming from out of town, downtown Calgary is the place to be for a terrific night out on the town! From world-class restaurants to lively arts and culture and premier hotels, downtown is the place to live, work, learn, shop, and play. Visit downtowncalgary.com to learn about all the great things to do!

Calgary Downtown Association is a non-profit Business Improvement Area (BIA) representing over 2,500 businesses in a 120-block area. The CDA advocates for Downtown's prosperity and resilience on behalf of all Calgarians.

8 February

7:30PM

Jack Singer Concert Hall

A Tribute to Bob Marley

Co-produced with Arts Commons Presents + The Jones & Jones Group

Concert Sponsors:

Burnet, Duckworth & Palmer, LLP

ALSA Road Construction Ltd.

SerVantage Services Inc.

Christopher Dragon, conductor

Ammoye, vocals

Omega Mighty, vocals

Soji Joseph, vocals

Steele, vocals

FOREIGNERZ, visual artists

Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra

The Calgary Phil, Arts Commons Presents, and Jones & Jones Productions — through their Legends of Reggae series — come together for a brand-new orchestral experience celebrating the 80th birthday of reggae icon Bob Marley!

Performing songs from the list below:

Concrete Jungle / Crisis / Exodus / Is This Love / Jammin / No Woman No Cry / Redemption Song / Roots, Rock, Reggae / Slave Driver / Stir It Up / Three Little Birds / Turn Your Lights Down Low / Waiting in Vain

Concert includes a 20-minute intermission Program and artists subject to change without notice

CHRISTOPHER DRAGON CONDUCTOR

Australian conductor Christopher Dragon is the Music Director of the Wyoming Symphony Orchestra and Resident Conductor of the Colorado Symphony, which he joined in the 2015/2016 season as Associate Conductor. For three years prior, he held the inaugural position of Assistant Conductor with the West Australian Symphony Orchestra, where he was mentored by Asher Fisch. Christoper has a versatile portfolio ranging from live-to-picture performances including Nightmare Before Christmas, Toy Story, and Star Wars: Return of the Jedi, a wide variety of collaborations with artists such as The Wu-Tang Clan, Cynthia Erivo, and Joshua Bell, to standard and contemporary orchestral repertoire such as Danny Elfman's violin concerto, Eleven Eleven; all areas of which he has become highly sought after. Christopher has become known for his charisma, high energy, and affinity for a good costume, consistently delivering unforgettable performances that have made him an audience favourite. Recent highlights include his successful debut with the San Francisco Symphony performances of Danny Elfman's Music from the Films of Tim Burton, with Danny Elfman reprising the role of Jack Skellington, and historic performances with Nathaniel Rateliff at Walt Disney Concert Hall and David Geffen Hall at Lincoln Center.

AMMOYE VOCALS

Ammoye is a unique multidimensional vocalist raised in the tradition of reggae music. Hailing from Clarendon, Jamaica and now residing in Toronto, Canada, this 6 X JUNO Award nominee is at the forefront of the genre domestically and making waves internationally. Ammoye is easily cast as one of Canada's best reggae and fusion vocalists and considered by many music tastemakers as Canadian reggae's 'Next Big Thing.' With her star-powered stage presence, Ammoye radiates uplifting messages of love, unity, and social justice. Ammoye's songs speak to themes of compassion, forgiveness, empowerment, and the importance of standing up for what is right. Ammoye's sophomore album, Water (2021), earned her a 2023 JUNO Award nomination for Reggae Recording of the Year as well as Grammy Award consideration. A blend of old-school rocksteady, dancehall and dubstep sprinkled with gospel, soul, and R&B, the 13 track LP featured a cast of producers from Canada, Jamaica, the U.S., and Germany. With its release and acclaim began a new era of international appeal and opportunities.

OMEGA MIGHTY VOCALS

Canadian R&B-fusion/dancehall artist Omega Mighty has an eclectic sound, switching from Jamaican patois, sultry vocals, and an energetic rap flow with confidence. Her 2021 EP, Me & Youforia, put her on the map with its exploration of genres such as R&B, dancehall, afro-beats, and pop. Born to a Jamaican father and British-Bajan mother, Omega's earliest memories are of playing records at home. She started in music early, training in classical piano at the age of four, vocals by age six, and dance by age nine. Growing up in what is known as the most diverse city in Canada, Toronto, Omega has been exposed to varying rich cultures which has helped to shape her sound. Omega has since been seen gracing the stages of various festivals including RBC Canadian Open, Canada Day Vancouver, Riverfest, AfrowaveTO and more while opening for acts such as Flo Rida, Fefe Dobson and the legendary band the Wailers. Inspired by '90s R&B and new age music alike, Omega draws influence from artists such as Rihanna, Wstrn, Doja Cat, Missy Elliott, Brandy, Stefflondon and Vybz Kartel. Her live performance encompasses smooth sultry vocals, vibrant movement, and a militant aura. Wearing multiple hats, Omega brings together energetic stage performances as singer-songwriter, producer, and creative director.

SOJI JOSEPH VOCALS

Like many other gifted artists, Soji didn't discover music...it found him, and not surprisingly given his early exposure to the majestic sounds of syncopated beats and soul stirring lyrics as eclectic as his upbringing. In fact, the Zimbabwe-born, Canadianraised global citizen, who attended boarding school in Ireland, credits his family moving around a lot with the inevitable progression of his musical love affair. Soji's worldly perspective and sincere appreciation for a wide range of genres is also the reason that defining his sound is no easy task, something the Edmonton native relishes since he has no interest in being pigeonholed culturally or creatively. From his first EP in 2017, Me To You, to his 2019 sophomore release, Agape, and his most recent offering, Me To You 2.0., Soji's ability to create music without borders is evident in the convergence of afrobeat, pop, rock, reggae, R&B, and several other genres that are skillfully woven into a vibe that flows effortlessly from entrancing to energizing. But no matter how bright his future may be, Soji hasn't lost sight of who and what is most important — spending quality time with his family, playing basketball and hanging with friends, waking up without an alarm clock, excited and hopeful for the day, going to the studio and putting in work (even after a long day at work), and, above all else, believing — without a doubt — that what's meant for him will come to him.

© Robin Waters

STEELE VOCALS

The 3 X JUNO nominated, multiple award-winning artist Steele is described as dynamic and sensational with versatility and range that defies restriction to any one genre. He is as captivating in his handling of R&B material as he is with soul, reggae, classical, and jazz, but make no mistake, REGGAE is his first love. Born in Lucea, Jamaica, Steele's inspiration comes from his parents who sang on the church choir; his first taste of success came with his recording of Stevie Wonder's Ribbon in the Sky, produced by veteran singer and producer Tristan Palmer. Steele is now regarded as one of the most consistent reggae artists to call Canada home, with his music transcending all ages, gender, and colour. Over the years he has made an indelible imprint on reggae musicloving audiences with appearances at various venues in most major cities in the country and internationally.

Founded in 1987 by Denise Jones and Allan Jones, Jones & Jones Productions is your connection to Canada's diversity. The company is rooted in the creation of experiences (Event Management and Production) and continues to have a strong emphasis on the sourcing, development and management of Black and multi-cultural creatives. With over 40+ years in the business, arts and entertainment industries, Jones & Jones Productions helps companies connect to AfroCaribbean and multicultural communities nationally and abroad. We reach people wherever they are and work with brands to maintain relevance within the ever-changing cultural landscape.

Arts Commons Presents invites you to discover the transformative power of the Arts. As the programming arm of Arts Commons, Arts Commons Presents programs and presents the signature subscription series: BD&P World Stage, National Geographic Live, and Classic Albums Live, as well as TD Amplify and a number of special presentations. Through this work, we are able to do our part to further enrich our city, as well as create opportunities for Calgary-based artists on many levels.

FOREIGNERZ is an art and production house focused on pushing boundaries in film, music, art and culture. The team is composed of multidisciplinary artists who are working to create visionary films, creative campaigns, installations, visuals and music video productions with a focus on uncovering new narratives in Canada and beyond. Our work and vision amplifies bold stories, uncompromising artistry and seeks to re-imagine the future.

Listen and Learn Concerts and Classes

Join UCalgary Continuing Education and the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra for a unique classroom and concert experience that deepens your appreciation of classical music. For over 15 years, this popular program has captivated participants. Classes are held on weekday evenings from 6 - 8 p.m. at UCalgary’s Main campus, led by esteemed double bassist Matthew Heller, a member of the Calgary Philharmonic since 2007. Don’t miss this opportunity to enrich your musical journey—register now and immerse yourself in the world of classical music!

Evenings with the Calgary Philharmonic COURSE: HUM 405 | 8 Hours | $199 + GST 041 | February 10 - March 10 | Monday | 6 - 8 p.m. | Main Campus Concerts: March 1 and March 15

Please note: An additional charge of $80 includes the cost of 1 ticket to each concert; this fee can be waived if you already have tickets

14 + 15 February

7:30PM

Jack Singer Concert Hall

Tchaikovsky in Love

Music Director Endowed Chair Supporters: Ted + Lola Rozsa

Rune Bergmann, conductor

Julian Rhee, violin

Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra

Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky Romeo and Juliet Fantasy Overture, TH 42 19'

Violin Concerto in D Major, Op. 35, TH 59 33' INTERMISSION 20'

Francesca da Rimini, Op. 32, TH 46 22'

Waltz of the Flowers from The Nutcracker 7'

Program and artists subject to change without notice

Romeo and Juliet Fantasy Overture, TH 42

Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky (1840–1893)

Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky wrote Romeo and Juliet at the urging of his Russian composer friend and colleague Mily Balakirev, who had just given him a withering set of notes following the premiere of another piece called Fatum At the time, he was a young professor teaching at the Moscow Conservatory who had already written his first symphony and opera. When he tried out the idea of the 'symphonic poem' that was Fatum, however, Balakirev was not very impressed. "The seams show, as does all your clumsy stitching," he wrote to Tchaikovsky. Even though he was just 28, Tchaikovsky felt burnt out and had stalled on his latest major work, an opera called Undine, so when Balakirev suggested he compose something based on Romeo and Juliet, he took him up on it. Balakirev had done something similar with King Lear and suggested to Tchaikovsky that he borrow that structure. Unfortunately, the premiere in 1870 was marred by a 'Me Too' moment involving the conductor, Nicolai Rubenstein, and a female music student, which overshadowed Tchaikovsky's composition.

Violin Concerto in D Major, Op. 35, TH 59 Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky

Tchaikovsky wrote Concerto in D Major, his only violin concerto, in 1878 on the shores of Lake Geneva in Switzerland while still smarting from his catastrophic marriage to Antonina Milyukova, which ended after only two months. Since he wasn't a violinist himself, he worked at Clarens with violinist Iosif Kotek to create the piece. In a note to his patron, he wrote that he was inspired by another violin concerto, Edouard Lalo's Symphonie espagnole, which, he said, "has a lot of freshness, lightness, of piquant rhythms, of beautiful and excellently harmonized melodies." Initially, Tchaikovsky dedicated the concerto to Kotek, who was rumored to have been his lover. However, due to societal homophobia, he retracted this dedication and instead offered it to Hungarian violinist Leopold Auer. Auer, however, declined to perform the piece. Eventually, violinist Adolph Brodsky agreed to take it on, albeit with mixed reviews following its premiere. Consequently, Tchaikovsky dedicated the

© Kun Lee

work to Brodsky. Concerto in D Major has since become one of the most celebrated violin concertos in the repertoire.

Francesca da Rimini, Op. 32, TH 46

Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky

Francesca da Rimini, Op. 32 is a symphonic poem inspired by an ill-fated lover from Dante's Inferno. In the narrative, Francesca falls in love with her husband's brother; her cruel and jealous spouse murders the pair, who then end up in Hell for their troubles. Tchaikovsky composed it in 1876, admitting he was channeling a bit of Wagner's Nibelungs, even though he wasn't exactly a big Wagner fan. It's also thought that just before he wrote Francesca da Rimini, Tchaikovsky had a gig reviewing Liszt's Dante Symphony, which was based on the same fictional character. Critic Herman Laroche called Francesca "extraordinarily brilliant", noting that the "blinding play of the orchestral colours, inexhaustibly rich and incessantly changing, holds the listener from beginning to end as if held sway by some hallucination."

Waltz of the Flowers from The Nutcracker Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky

Composed in 1892, Waltz of the Flowers is a piece of orchestral music considered by many to be the highlight of the second act of The Nutcracker. In the late nineteenth century, Vienna was the epicentre of the waltz, but Russia was where the best ballet was being made, and Tchaikovsky loved ballet. While he was working on it, he is said to have told musical colleagues that he was working on a "fantastic" ballet called The Nutcracker. "It's awfully fun to write a march for tin soldiers, a waltz of the flowers," he said. Waltz of the Flowers is about Flora's transition from a girl to a woman, and it went on to become a part of the repertoire of ballet companies around the world. Years later, the animated Disney film Fantasia, which included Waltz of the Flowers, won two Academy Honorary Awards.

Program notes by Stephen Hunt © 2024 Rune Bergmann biography on page 11

JULIAN RHEE VIOLIN

Winner of the prestigious 2024 Avery Fisher Career Grant, KoreanAmerican violinist Julian Rhee has enthralled listeners internationally and praised for his refinement and beauty of sound, and for "the kind of poise and showmanship that thrills audiences" (The Strad). Julian came to international prominence following his prizewinning performances at the 2024 Queen Elisabeth International Violin Competition and Silver Medal finish at the 11th Quadrennial International Violin Competition of Indianapolis. He has appeared with orchestras including the Milwaukee Symphony, Belgian National Orchestra, Antwerp Symphony, Indianapolis Symphony, Pittsburgh Symphony, Richmond Symphony, and San Diego Symphony alongside Francesco Lecce-Chong, Antony Hermus, Leonard Slatkin, and Rune Bergmann, among others. Equally passionate about chamber music, Julian is the newest member of Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center CMS's prestigious Bowers Program. He has performed at and attended festivals including the Ravinia Steans Institute, Marlboro Music, and NorthShore Chamber Music Festival, performing alongside esteemed musicians such as Vadim Gluzman, Jonathan Biss, and Mitsuko Uchida. He is the recipient of the outstanding 1699 "Lady Tennant" Antonio Stradivari violin and Jean Pierre Marie Persoit bow on extended loan through the generosity of the Mary B. Galvin Foundation and the Stradivari Society.

What will you learn ?

20, 21 + 22 February

7:30PM

Jubilee Auditorium

Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix™ in Concert

Evan Mitchell, conductor (biography on page 16)

Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra

Get ready to join Dumbledore's Army™! When Professor Umbridge™ takes over Hogwarts™ School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, what else can Harry do to resist her terrible rule? Find out in Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix™ in Concert, accompanied by the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra.

Nicholas Hooper

Harry Potter and the Order 155' of the Phoenix™ in Concert

WIZARDING WORLD and all related trademarks, characters, names, and indicia are © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Publishing Rights © JKR

Presented in association with Glatz Concerts Concert includes a 20-minute intermission Program and artists subject to change without notice

21 QUESTIONS WITH KRISTOFER LESLIE

Kristofer Leslie has lived in many places — Florida, Puerto Rico, California, Boston, Toronto, and now Calgary — but he considers his hometown to be China, Maine. Before joining the Calgary Phil as Assistant Principal Trombone in the 2023/2024 season, Kristofer's freelance career saw him perform with the Toronto Symphony, Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony, Esprit Orchestra, and the Hannaford Street Silver Band. As he settles into his second season here, Kristofer obliged to provide answers to a few pressing questions...

Favourite Composer?

I really like to play Bruckner, but my favourite to listen to would probably be Mahler.

Favorite Thing About Calgary/Alberta?

My favorite thing outside of Calgary is the mountains. Every day that I have off that has nice weather, I try to go out and do hiking and scrambling. My favourite thing inside town has got to be all the river pathways, but the brewery and coffee scene is also awesome.

Favourite Thing About Maine?

It has got to be the coastal mountains.

Currently Reading?

I just finished reading Margaret Atwood's Oryx and Crake trilogy, which is about a futuristic society where shadowy corporations control everything and every time I tell someone that they're like, "wait, isn't that just today?"

Currently Watching?

The Boys. I don't know if it's a good show, but it's an addictive show.

Pancakes or Waffles?

Pancakes. Waffles have too much going on.

Vinyl or Streaming?

I stream because I'm a young person.

Rain or Snow?

Snow. No question about it.

Cats or Dogs?

Dogs

Crossword or Wordle? Neither. Soduku.

Ocean or Lake?

I like lakes, but if I could pick a third thing it would be 'river.'

Waterskiing or Hiking?

I love waterskiing. All my family water skis. My dad was like a competitive water skier at one point. But I think hiking is more my thing. Just don't tell my parents.

Big City or Small Town?

I like visiting small towns but, for a place to live, a big city.

Maximalism or Minimalism?

Minimalism. Maybe three times a year I listen to Einstein on the Beach, the Philip Glass opera, which is minimalist as hell in the best way possible.

Laundry or Dishes?

Dishes. I can do dishes in 30 minutes, but laundry takes me like six days.

Roller Coaster or Ferris Wheel?

I think I like roller coasters, but I will get very scared waiting in line.

Morning Person or Night Owl?

I like a good morning — wake up before sunrise, go see the sunrise, drink coffee, and all that stuff.

English or Math?

Math. I was really good at math in high school, really good at science, and really, really terrible at English.

Casual or Formal?

When push comes to shove: very casual. I've been known to wear crocs for a variety of occasions.

Introvert or Extrovert?

I tend to be a little bit more extroverted, but I'm very independent with it — an independent extrovert.

A Christmas Carol or Die Hard? Die Hard

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28 February + 1 March

7:30PM

Jack Singer Concert Hall

Symphonie fantastique

Guest Artist Supporter: Naomi + John Lacey Virtuoso Program

Kensho Watanabe, conductor

Diana Cohen, violin

Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra

Maurice Ravel Alborada del gracioso

Sergei Prokofiev Violin Concerto No. 2 in G Minor, Op. 63

I. Allegro moderato

II. Andante assai

III. Allegro; ben marcato

INTERMISSION

Hector Berlioz Symphonie fantastique, Op. 14

I. Rêveries, Passions

II. Un bal

III. Scène aux champs

IV. Marche au supplice

V. Songe d'une nuit du sabbat

Program and artists subject to change without notice

Alborada del gracioso

Maurice Ravel (1875–1937)

Alborada del gracioso is the fourth movement of a piano suite called Miroirs that Maurice Ravel wrote in 1905. Ravel was a French composer who ran afoul of more conservative French musical gatekeepers who chafed against his fascination with the implications of the twentieth century, including Impressionism and jazz. By the time the twentieth century reached the 1920s, Ravel was generally recognized as the greatest living French composer, but it took a while! Alborada del gracioso is driven by a kind of comedic impulse featuring a character who was part of a traveling troubadour show. Fourteen years after he wrote it as a piano piece, Ravel orchestrated it to have it included in a ballet, Les jardins d'Aranjuez, which was presented in London in 1919. Just ahead of that production, the orchestrated version was presented in Paris.

Violin Concerto No. 2 in G Minor, Op. 63

Sergei Prokofiev (1891–1953)

When he wrote Concerto No. 2 in 1935, Sergei Prokofiev was touring, which means this work came into existence in cities all over Europe. The first movement's main theme was written in Paris, the second movement's first theme came to be in Voronezh (Russia), and the orchestration was completed in Baku (Azerbaijan). It then premiered at Teatro Monumental in Madrid. Prokofiev started out his career in Russia, where he composed a trio of ballets — Chout, Les pas d'acier and The Prodigal Son — all of which provoked great excitement among both the Russian public and critics. After the Russian Revolution, he left the country for extended stays in Paris, Germany, and the U.S. where his biggest opera success, The Love for Three Oranges, was produced by the Chicago Opera. However, cultural commissions dried up during the Depression, and Prokofiev turned his attention back to Russia, where he was still revered, eventually returning with his family in the mid-1930s. Concerto No. 2 starts simply, evoking Russian folk music, and the third movement rondo's theme is inflected with Spanish-infused castanet.

Hector Berlioz

Symphonie fantastique, Op. 14

Hector Berlioz (1803–1869)

Hector Berlioz was a French composer who put the Romantic in the Romantic Era when he created Symphonie fantastique. The impulse for the symphony came at an 1827 performance of Hamlet, where Berlioz fell for the Irish actress Harriet Smithson, who was performing in the role of Ophelia. He was completely smitten but Smithson steered clear of Berlioz, refusing to even meet with him — talk about swiping left! Nursing his wounds through creativity, Berlioz created Symphonie fantastique about an artist's infatuation with a woman and the suffering that leads him to become suicidal. The symphony contains five movements rather than the traditional four and is full of unfulfilled longing and hallucinatory scenes. It was popular with both conductors and audiences, and in 1831 Berlioz wrote a sequel that he called Lélio. Eventually word of Berlioz's musical love letter reached Smithson, but she didn't attend the Paris premiere in 1830. Finally, in 1832, she attended a revised version that included the sequel, which included spoken commentary from actors on stage along with Berlioz's compositions. She agreed to meet him — and after a romance, they were married.

Program notes by Stephen Hunt © 2024

KENSHO

WATANABE CONDUCTOR

Critically acclaimed for "a combination of authority, charisma, and technical aplomb rarely found in a young conductor" (Seen and Heard International), Kensho Watanabe is quickly establishing himself internationally as an artist known for his collaborative leadership and intelligently crafted performances. Following successful debut performances at The Metropolitan Opera last season with Kevin Puts' The Hours and Terrence Blanchard's Champion, Kensho returns to The Met this season to conduct the full revival run of The Hours. Equally at home in both symphonic and operatic repertoire, Kensho opened the 2023/2024 season by making his Detroit Opera debut with Puccini's Madama Butterfly. In addition to his work at The Metropolitan Opera, he has led numerous operas, including performances of La bohème at Spoleto Festival USA in 2022. He has also previously worked with the Curtis Opera Theatre, the Castleton Festival, and Opéra de Montréal. Recent highlights include debuts with the London Philharmonic and Tokyo Philharmonic orchestras, Scottish Chamber Orchestra, Orchestre National du Capitole de Toulouse, Turku Philharmonic, and his Polish debut with Filarmonia Szczecin. Kensho has also enjoyed collaborations with the Houston Symphony, Detroit Symphony, Brussels Philharmonic, BBC National Orchestra of Wales, the Seiji Ozawa Matsumoto Festival, and Orchestre Métropolitain in Montreal.

Diana Cohen has a multifaceted career as a concertmaster, chamber musician, and soloist. She is the Concertmaster of the Calgary Philharmonic and Founder and Artistic Director of the acclaimed music festival ChamberFest Cleveland. In 2022, Diana and her husband, concert pianist Roman Rabinovich, launched ChamberFest West (chamberfestwest. com), an annual international summer chamber music festival bringing the most exciting musicians from around the globe to Calgary. She has appeared as a soloist with numerous orchestras, has performed at some of the most prestigious festivals, and collaborated with renowned artists, including Garrick Ohlsson, Mitsuko Uchida, Jonathan Biss, and members of the Juilliard, Dover, Miró, and Parker string quartets. Diana has toured and recorded with the Grammy Award-winning Orpheus Chamber Orchestra and performed with the East Coast Chamber Orchestra, Cleveland Orchestra, and New York Philharmonic. A Cleveland Institute of Music graduate, she studied with Donald Weilerstein and received the Jerome Gross Prize. Last year, Diana received the prestigious Alumni Achievement Award from the Cleveland Institute of Music. Her father, Franklin, was longtime Principal Clarinet of the Cleveland Orchestra, and her brother Alexander is Principal Timpani for the Calgary Phil. Her late mother, Lynette Diers Cohen, was an esteemed bassoonist. Cohen lives in Calgary with her husband and her daughter Noa Lynette, who makes music and dances all day long.

DIANA COHEN VIOLIN

© HarderLee Photography

8 March

7:30PM

Jack Singer Concert Hall

Simply the Best: The Music of Tina Turner

Concert Supporters: Michelle Bailey + John Whelan

Resident Conductor Endowed Chair Supporter: Mary Rozsa de Coquet

Juliane Gallant, conductor LaKisha Jones, vocals

Matthew Johnson, vocals

Nova Y. Payton, vocals

Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra

Get ready to rock out on International Women's Day with a tribute to pop legend Tina Turner! Your Calgary Phil and guest vocalists bring their electrifying energy to the Queen of Rock n' Roll's biggest hits!

Performing songs from the list below: All Night Long (All Night) / Goldeneye / I Want to Take You Higher / It Takes Two / It's Only Love / Let's Stay Together / Living for the City / Love is All You Need: A Tribute to the Beatles / Nutbush City Limits /Pinball Wizard / Private Dancer / Proud Mary / River Deep, Mountain High / Son of a Preacher Man / The Best / Tonight / We Don't Need Another Hero / What's Love Got to Do With It

Concert includes a 20-minute intermission Program and artists subject to change without notice

about the music

No. 1

Nutbush City Limits refers to Nutbush, Tennessee, the small, rural community where Tina Turner was born Anna Mae Bullock in 1939. Today, visitors can take the Tina Turner Highway to the Tina Turner Museum in Nutbush, where the population is just over 1,000 people.

No. 2

Though originally a hit for Creedence Clearwater Revival in 1969, Ike and Tina Turner's take on Proud Mary two years later also proved to be a chart-topper, reaching no. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 and winning the duo a Grammy Award.

No. 3

Decades before Furiosa there was Auntie Entity, Tina Turner's character in the third Mad Max film, Beyond the Thunderdome. Besides starring in the film, Tina contributed two songs to the soundtrack including We Don't Need Another Hero, which became the no. 1 song in Canada in 1985.

No. 4

The fifth single from her fifth solo album of the same name, Private Dancer started life as a Dire Straits song, but frontman Mark Knopfler, also the track's songwriter, ended up rejecting it for his own band. Several members of Dire Straits played on Turner's version, which became a top 10 hit.

No. 5

Turner's biggest selling single, What's Love Got to Do With it also provided her 1993 biopic with its title. That film, starring Angela Bassett as Turner, chronicled her abusive relationship with Ike Turner and her ultimate triumph as a survivor and stunningly successful solo artist.

LAKISHA JONES VOCALS

Best known to millions of TV viewers as a top four finalist during the 2007 season of American Idol, LaKisha Jones is ready to reclaim centre stage in music, theatre, and television. Having worked with hit-making songwriters and producers including Tony Nicholas (Patti LaBelle, Luther Vandross), Ro & Sauce (Brandy, Ne-Yo), and Greg Curtis (Keyshia Cole, Yolanda Adams), LaKisha's album, So Glad I'm Me, featured a spirited mix of R&B and soul. Her drive and motivation dates to her childhood in Flint, Michigan. Raised by her mother and grandmother, she was encouraged to sing in church choirs and music programs. Joining various choral groups and a cappella choruses throughout high school, LaKisha entered and won the top prize at Flint's local talent contest, The Super Show in 1997. She then went to New York to audition for American Idol and then segued to the Broadway stage for The Color Purple, where she played Sophia, a role she alternated with R&B icon Chaka Khan who became LaKisha's mentor, inviting her to participate in her 35th Anniversary tour. LaKisha has performed as a guest soloist with the National Symphony, San Diego Symphony, Utah Symphony and Opera, Winnipeg Symphony, Jacksonville Symphony, Houston Symphony, Phoenix Symphony, Colorado Symphony, Winnipeg Symphony, Vancouver Symphony, Calgary Philharmonic, Reno Philharmonic, Oregon Symphony, Long Bay Symphony and the Festival Cesky Krumlov in the Czech Republic, among many others.

MATTHEW JOHNSON VOCALS

The multi-talented Matthew Johnson is an actor, singer, dancer, and musician who has performed with the likes of Pharrell, John Legend, Jennifer Lopez, Childish Gambino, and Stevie Wonder. His musical theatre roots were cultivated at the Alvin Ailey American Dance Center, and through his mentor, Debbie Allen, who helped mold him into the triple threat performer he is today. Matthew has done vocal arrangements for the Grammy Awards and has performed at the Emmys and the Billboard Awards. He honed his skills as a vocal chameleon on some of the world's most watched television shows such as American Idol, The Voice, X Factor, and Late Night with James Corden. He's shared the stage and studio with some of Hollywood's biggest names including Kelly Clarkson, Sam Smith, Demi Lavato, and Jennifer Hudson. On the big screen, Matthew starred as Mack in Warner Brother's Emmy Award-winning Christmas on the Square with Dolly Parton and Christine Baranski.

NOVA Y. PAYTON VOCALS

Having performed for U.S. President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris and sung the National Anthem at the dedication of the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, Nora Y. Payton has shared the stage with Stevie Wonder, Roberta Flack, Levi Kreis, Bobby McFerrin, John Michael Higgins, Yolanda Adams, Betsy Wolfe, Michael Uris, Anthony Hamilton, and Michelle Williams. She has also opened for heavyweights like Ashford and Simpson, Will Downing, Stephanie Mills, Melba Moore, The Chi-Lites and the Dramatics. Recognized with many nominations and awards, Nova's soul-stirring rendition of Effie White in Dreamgirls earned her the 2006 Barrymore nomination for Outstanding Leading Actress in a Musical. She also starred in 3 Mo' Divas, which received a 2010 NAACP nomination for Outstanding Duo, Group or Collaboration. In 2012, Nova was honoured as the Helen Hayes Award Recipient as the Best Supporting Actress in a Resident Musical for her portrayal of MotorMouth Maybelle in Hairspray For her performance as Effie White in Dreamgirls during the 2012/2013 season at Signature Theatre, Nova was nominated for the Helen Hayes Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Resident Musical. In 2015, Nova was nominated for Best Supporting Actress (Musical) for her role in Elmer Gantry. She was also nominated in 2018 for Lead Actress (Musical) in Caroline, Or Change and Supporting Actress (Musical) in Ragtime. In 2022 alone, she starred in Grace The Musical, The Color Purple, Into The Woods, and Fela!

VIOLINIST MARIA VAN DER SLOOT

EQUIPS STUDENTS WITH THE TOOLS TO SUCCEED IN MUSIC ... AND BEYOND

BY ZOLTAN VARADI

By her own account, Maria van der Sloot was something of a late starter in her musical career, starting her violin lessons at the age of six rather than the customary three to five age range typical for serious students of the instrument.

Despite being so dangerously close to being over the hill, van der Sloot managed to advance through her studies, going on to secure as position in the First Violin section of the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra.

"Somehow, I turned it around," she laughs.

The fact that she not only comes from a musical family but one in which both parents are music educators undoubtably helped young Maria make up for lost time. In fact, she learned to play from her father, William van der Sloot, formerly of the Mount Royal Conservatory here in Calgary and currently a Professor of Violin at Oberlin College + Conservatory and Associate Teaching Professor of Violin at Carnegie Mellon University. Her mother, Aleksandra Danicic, teaches violin at El Sistema Calgary, which provides accessible music education in underserved communities and also performs with local alt-folk group The Wandering V's.

A few ground rules kept the arrangement from creating friction at home: she took her lessons at Mount Royal like any other student, but back at van der Sloot family HQ, "dad was just dad."

Additionally, she was adamant that she be allowed to practice alone.

"I told my parents when I started that I would only do it If I could practice by myself, so you can't be in the room with me at home, that has to be my space."

Given her current position with the Calgary Phil, the approach obviously worked. Not only did the experience teach her how to be a musician, but it also paved the way for her own practice as a violin teacher. When van der Sloot isn't performing with the Calgary Phil, chances are she's teaching one of her 15 or so private students or leading both the Advanced Performance Program and the Senior Violin Masterclass at the MRU Conservatory.

"I always say I am very much my dad's daughter — the whole method of learning that I grew up with … I use the same general approach with my students," she explains. "Of course, I have my own spin because I had other teachers and also because I'm just a different person."

Beyond working with her students on intonation, rhythm, melody, and all the technical aspects of learning violin, van der Sloot says one of her favourite things about teaching is in the relationships she develops not just with her students but their families as well.

"Their parents put so much trust in you as being a separate, non-parental figure," she says. "You're guiding [the students]

through this very, very long process, and I really think the parents are just as much a part of that. I feel like it's a big responsibility to see them through this big journey and whether or not they go into music, it's something that will affect their trajectory."

Among the students van der Sloot has seen through to graduation is Jewel Chiang, winner of the most recent Marley Rynd Memorial Performance Scholarship. Managed by the Calgary Foundation with the Calgary Phil serving as an adjudicator, the award is presented annually to an emerging musician with the aim of assisting in their career development. This past fall, Chiang began studies at Oberlin Music Conservatory in pursuit of an undergraduate degree in violin.

"I've known Jewel since she was probably eight or nine years old. I wasn't her teacher the whole time. It was a couple of years ago that I became her private teacher," explains van der Sloot. "I worked with her in summer programs when she was really little and saw her progress from afar. Then, as her teacher, I took on a more hands on role. So, yes, it's very special to see her pursue a future in music."

Besides her teaching practice in Calgary and role with the Orchestra, van der Sloot serves as faculty at the Valhalla Summer School of Music in British Columbia and performs with the Land's End Ensemble. One can't help but wonder how she manages it all, but she maintains the rewards are more than worth her time and effort.

"It can be a really useful tool for kids," she says of learning an instrument. "There are a lot of things that happen when you're growing up that you don't understand and things that change in life. Music is a good outlet. It keeps them present and able to engage with whatever they're going through and experience their emotions in a way that is not destructive but that is healthy and is safe."

MARIA VAN DER SLOOT First Violin

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This philanthropic program was created in memory of Joyce and Dick Matthews, who were dedicated and generous supporters of your Calgary Phil for more than 50 years, providing the opportunity to recognize someone special.

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Estate of Evelyn Christine Kings

HD Klebanoff Memorial Fund

Kool 101.5

Sir Jack Lyons Charitable Trust

Macquarie Group Foundation

Allan Markin

Masters Gallery Ltd.

Estate of Mary McIntosh

Meludia SAS

Janice + James Morton

John + Jean Partridge

Anne Marie Peterson Legacy Fund

Rogers Charity Classic

Rabinovitz Family Fund

RBC Foundation

Seagram Company Ltd.

Clarice Siebens

Margaret Southern

Carla + Klaus Springer

Josie + Trent Stangl

Mary Ann Steen

Dori Wood + James Doleman

Shirley Zielsdorf

Three Anonymous Donors

Endowed Chairs

Ted + Lola Rozsa Endowed Chair

Music Director: Rune Bergmann

Mary Rozsa de Coquet Endowed Chair

Resident Conductor: Juliane Gallant

Ellen + Allen Borak Endowed Chair

Chorus Director: Mark Bartel

John + Ethelene Gareau Endowed Chair  Concertmaster: Diana Cohen

Peter + Jeanne Lougheed Endowed Chair  Associate Concertmaster: John Lowry

Hotchkiss Endowed Chair

First Violin Section Member

H.D. Klebanoff Endowed Chair

First Violin Section Member: Olga Kotova

Gerard Rostoker in Memory of Pamela Bacchus Endowed Chair

First Violin Section Member:

Maria van der Sloot

Esther Violet Hall (née Young) Endowed Chair

Principal Second Violin: Lorna Tsai

Debbie Lynne Hall (daughter of Esther Violet Hall) Endowed Chair

Assistant Principal Second Violin: Stephanie Soltice-Johnson

Dennis Sharp + Hélène Côté-Sharp Endowed Chair

Second Violin Section Member: Craig Hutchenreuther

Dalgleish Endowed Chair 66

Second Violin Section Member: Minnie Min Kyung Kwon

Eckhardt-Gramatté

Foundation Endowed Chair

Principal Viola: Laurent Grillet-Kim

Naomi Lacey Endowed Chair in Honour of Philip Hansen

Principal Cello: Arnold Choi

John + Jean Partridge Endowed Chair Cello Section Member: David Morrissey

Deborah Yedlin + Martin Molyneaux Endowed Chair

Cello Section Member: Kathleen de Caen

Margaret + Paul Boëda in Memory of Jennifer Boëda-Dahl Endowed Chair Principal Flute: Sara Hahn-Scinocco

Bill + Irene Bell Endowed Chair Piccolo: Gwen Klassen

Janet Poyen Family Foundation Endowed Chair

English Horn: David Sussman

Judith + William Kilbourne

Named Chair in Recognition of the Kilbournes' long-term support

Assistant Principal Horn: Heather Wootton

Frank + Carol Gray Endowed Chair in Memory of Vincent Cichowicz

Principal Trumpet: Adam Zinatelli

Frank + Carol Gray Endowed Chair  in Recognition of Tim Rawlings' 42 years of service to Calgary Phil  Principal Percussion: Chris Sies

Joyce + Dick Matthews Endowed Chair Piano

Annual Donors

The Calgary Philharmonic expresses its deep gratitude to the following supporters who made generous gifts to the Calgary Philharmonic Society and the Calgary Philharmonic Foundation between 1 July 2023 and 30 September 2024. For complete listing, visit calgaryphil.com/support

* Gifts to the Calgary Philharmonic Foundation

* 10 years or more of lifetime giving

* 20 years or more of lifetime giving

Gifts of $500,000 and above

Alberta Foundation for the Arts Canada Council for the Arts

Calgary Philharmonic Foundation* Government of Canada*

Gifts of $250,000–$499,999

Calgary Arts Development Authority

Gerard Rostoker*

Taylor Family Foundation*

Gifts of $100,000–$249,999

Heather Edwards

Honens Calgary Philharmonic Society Fund

Gifts of $50,000–$99,999

Ellen + Allen Borak**

Ms. Letha MacLachlan, K.C.*

Palmer Family Foundation*

Two Anonymous Donors

Gifts of $25,000–$49,999

Azrieli Foundation

Jenny Belzberg**

Brookfield Properties

Calgary Foundation*

Canadian Natural*

Walter + Irene DeBoni**

Réal + Dominique Doucet

Annie Freeze**

Government of Alberta

Jacky + Geoff Granville*

RBC Foundation*

Mary Rozsa de Coquet*

Robbin Shandel*

Rozsa Foundation*

One Anonymous Donor

Gifts of $10,000–$24,999

Alan D. Castle Endowment for the Arts

AWS InCommunities Calgary Fund

Michelle Bailey + John Whelan

Bailie Family Foundation

Beverly Berkhold

Heather + Ian Bourne*

Burns Memorial Fund

Estate of Dorothy Madge Clarke*

Gertrude Cohos**

Terry Dalgleish*

Deloitte

The Fidelio Foundation

Liz + Tony Fricke**

Carol Gray**

Ryan Green

Jan + Brian Grier

Ang + Sam Hayes*

Juli Hegg + Bill Hogg**

Jim Hughes**

Judith Kilbourne**

Mawer Investment Management Ltd

Michael Lipnicki Fine Pianos

Nickle Family Foundation*

Nicola Wealth

Tae Nosal + John Reid*

Anne Marie Peterson Legacy Fund*

Lisa Poole

Rabinovitz Family Community Fund*

Rogers Charity Classic

Margaret Southern**

Valerie + Allen Swanson*

TD Canada Trust*

United Active Living Inc.

Valentine Volvo + Volvo Cars Royal Oak

Two Anonymous Donors

Gifts of $5,000–$9,999

Andal Family Fund*

Irene Bakker**

Belinda +Tom Boleantu**

Ann Calvert

Calgary Party 50

Chris Cran

Jane Crow + Michael Matthews

Rosemarie + Michael D'Avella

Ernest Enns*

Estate Of Jack Ferguson*

Chris Flodberg

Shirley Foster**

The Herman Family Foundation*

William Hopson*

James and Patricia Burns Flow Through Fund

Mary Anne Katzenberg

Jeanette King**

Ann Lewis + Tony Luppino**

Sharon Martens

Masters Gallery Ltd.

Janet + Rick Matthews*

Ann McCaig**

Jean + Roderick McKay

Drs. Marilyn Mooibroek +David Lau*

Janice + James Morton**

Michelle O'Reilly Foundation

Maureen Payne

Sonia + Bob Reynolds

Betsey (Matthews) Ryan

Ruchi + Chris Ryley*

Sheelagh Mercer + Henry Schultz

ShineFM

Clarice Siebens*

Agatha Starczyk + Mike Miller*

Claire + Marc Stevens

Franklin Templeton*

Marvin & Catherine Waiand Foundation

Gloria Wong + Arthur Hibbard*

Bing Wu

Deborah Yedlin + Martin Molyneaux**

Janet Yuchem + Roy Christie

Zissos Family Foundation Fund

Three Anonymous Donors

Gifts of $2,500–$4,999

AfterTwelve Inc.

Dinesh + Rajendra Agrawal*

Marian + Paul Beer**

Brad Boychuk*

Andrea Brussa**

Eleanor + Lawrence Bryan*

Calgary Airport Authority

Monica Cheng + Ujay Kim

Harry & Martha Cohen Foundation

Rae + Phillip Cram*

Fern Cyr

Rao Darsi**

Walter + Ute Dilger**

E. Ann Falk*

Kate Fischer + Joel Douglas

Linda Le Geyt

Marty Grams

Pamela Grigg Charitable Fund

Corinne Grigoriu

Sharie Hunter

Madeleine King + Bob Taylor*

Dr. John Lacey*

Karen Neary + Robert Langill

Lennox Family Foundation

Ian Loch

Chris MacKimmie*

Mancal Corporation

Vickie + Russell McKinnon*

Elizabeth Middleton

Rosemary Moore

Shelagh + Faiz Nadir*

Tim Onyett

Joaquina + Fritz Painsi*

John + Jean Partridge*

Kelly Pitaoulis + Zack Laurent*

Polish Canadian Association

Polish Combatants Association in Canada

Calgary Branch No. 1

Dori Wood + James Doleman*

Ruth + Garry Ramsden-Wood

Joan + Geoffrey Simmins*

Marie + Nathan Smith

Trépanier Baer Gallery

James Ulrich*

T. Gai Ward*

Christine Woolner

Gifts of $1,000–$2,499 Accenture

Jim Allard*

Altalink Ltd. Partnership

Karen Ashbee + Dr. Paul Salo*

Matthew Atwood

Roy, Hazel and Nancy Austin Fund

Andrew Azmudeh

Mary Barr*

Barbara R. Beaton*

Blakes, Cassels & Graydon LLP

John Bonnycastle

BMO – Nesbitt Burns

Eleanor + Richard Byers*

Cassels Brock Lawyers

Chanel Canada ULC

Meredith + Pat Cashion

Jin Chun Yuan*

Georgina Clark

Marie-Josee Claveau + Nicholas Tremblay

Catherine Glaser + Stan Climie*

Michael Corner

Ruth Cross Fund at The United Church of Canada Foundation

David Daly*

Dr. Alice de Koning + Dr. Yrjo Koskinen

DIAMOND Integrated Marketing

Jane Ebbern*

Ecclesiastical Insurance

Lisa Evren

Tibor Fekete*

Philippa FitzGerald-Finch**

Maria Geppert

Tony Hailu

Maggie Hall

Janice Heard + Bruce McFarlane*

Herringer Kiss Gallery

Matt Hill

Katt Hryciw

Imperial Oil Limited

Inspirati Fine Linens

Dr. Helen Isaac*

Arlene + Glen Johnston Fund

Val + Craig Johnstone

Jan + Chris Kayser

KDR Consulting Ltd

Keyera

Nick Kuzyk*

John Kwisses

La Maison Simons

Jennifer + Oscar Larios

Alison + Andrew Love

Nancy + Blake Lowden*

Diane + David Macdonald*

Mackenzie Investments

Aoife MacNamara

Simone MacRae*

Heather + Peter Marreck*

John Martin

Laurie Matiation

Elizabeth + Gene Maurice*

Jane McCaig

Mcleod Law LLP

Janet McMaster + Tom Byttynen

Doug Mcneill

The Estate of Joanne Meis

Joan + Dale S. Meister*

Patricia Moore**

Louise Moore

Glen + Nancy Charitable Gift Fund

Dean + Leanne Newhouse

NFP Canada Corp

Sarah Palmer + Tom Plunkett

Panache Ventures

Patricia + Robert Peabody

Chris Petrik

Karin Richter

Marley Rynd Foundation

Wendy + Rod Schultz

Alison Scott

Tony Settari**

Stacha + Stanislava Sikora

Lorna + Roger Smith

Alfred Sorensen*

Michele Stanners

Betty Stein**

David Still

Susan Swan

The Donald Terry Swystun Charitable Fund

John Thompson*

Ryan Townend

Nadine Tratch + Tyler Cumberford

Adam Unick

Janna A Vaisman

Margaret + Russell Varnam*

VivianeARt

Stanley Waterman

Wellness and Leadership Inc.

Bruce Williams*

Rena Willson*

Terry + Anne Wilson*

Wirth Institute for Austrian and Central European Studies

Wood Pittman Fund

Reg Worsley

Lee Woytkiw

Helen Young + Don Smith*

Patricia + Frederick Young*

Mark Yousefzadeh

Anne + Frank Zinatelli*

Fourteen Anonymous Donors

Gifts of $500–$999

Vlad Aldea

Gwen + Ian Anderson*

Laura Atherton

Barb Atnikov + Albert Rosengarten

Foundation*

Diane M. Auld*

Heather Lynn Benson

John Burton

Eileen Butler*

Callow & Associates Management Consultants Inc.

Meaghan Cameron

Jim Campbell*

Robin Cox

Linda + John Crawford*

Tim Crawshaw

Deborah Cullen

Joseph De Angelis

Sherry + Harvey Doerr

Daniel A. Downie

Chris Dowdeswell

Matt Evans

Stephanie + Brian Felesky**

Dianne + Thomas Ferguson

Mary Fishman*

Greg Fletcher*

Audrey + John Fry*

Jan Geggie + Paul Paetkau*

Larisa Golovatskaya + Perry Jasson

Danelle Hames + Matthew Law*

Brian Hamm

Kay Harrison*

Ian Hawkins

Caroline + David Henley*

Glenda Hess

Mary Ann + Bill Hews

J.E. Hodgson Family Fund

Christine + Allan Huber

Cathy + Frank Van Humbeck

Elzbieta Kaminska

Tricia Leadbeater*

Sandra + Jack Lee

Mary Jo Leslie and Joseph Dallaire Endowment Fund

Blair Lipkind

Herb Longworth

Donna + Dave Lougheed

Bernice + Jim Love

Ian Lucy

H. Matsune

Dennis McDermott

James Merchant

Kent Milani*

Elizaveta Mironova + William Zhou

Francois Montandon*

Ooh La La

Ellen Parker

Dan Philips*

Maxine Rystephanick

Barbara Schneider

Don Seaman*

Toshimi + William Sembo*

Betty + David Smith

Ron Spafford*

Shannon Stevenson*

Llyn L Strelau

Jody Sutherland + Marco Baldasaro

Thominski

Rihanna Vanin

Ingrid Vicas

Dixie + Tony Webb

Shelley Weiss + Gordon Graham

Philippa White

Mae Yuchem

Six Anonymous Donors

Gifts made in honour of

Diana Cohen

Reva Faber

Dr. John Lacey

Matthews Family Celeste Donation

Joyce and Dick Matthews

Liz Middleton

Peter + Jeanne

Beat Beethoven Campaign for runner

Kristyna Rempel

Gifts made in memory of

Pamela Bacchus

Glennis Buehning

Dawn Darsi

Alf + Kay Longworth

Beverly MacLeod

Deborah Martinez

Larry Paterson

Ray Rystephanick

Stacey Christina Worsley

We're grateful for the gifts

received through:

Aqueduct Foundation

Benefaction

Benevity

Calgary Foundation

Canada Gives

Canada Helps

GiftFunds Canada

Jewish Community Foundation of Calgary

Private Giving Foundation

Raymond James Canada Foundation

Strategic Charitable Giving Foundation

United Church of Canada Foundation

United Way of Calgary & Area

WCPD Foundation

Volunteers

These Volunteers contributed their precious time in the 2023/2024 Season — we celebrate them and their ongoing dedication.

Cecilia Armada

Mariah Atkinson

Priscilla Babunga

Catalina Barboza

Partow Bayzaee

Andrea Becker

Larry Becker

Frances Bradley

Celia Burns

Peggy Chan

Carole Clement

Steve Clement

Maggie Couper

Carol Dann

Julie Docken

James Doney

Graham Edwards

Amanda Ferguson

Lorna Fulsom

Prasad Ganesan

David Grant

Larry Hamm

Gloria Hare

Robin Harwig

Cindra Kennedy

Shane Kidd

Wendy Kunsman

Yuliia Lebid

Elizabeth Lietz

Vi Llewellyn

Shawna MacGillivary

Moira MacPherson

Marina Milovanova

Minh Nguyen

Jolanta Pawlikowska

Roy Stuart

Nick Tang

Noah Urquhart

Cindy Wang

Joseph Wang

Louis Warners

Gayna Wong

Galyna Zhuravel

Board of Directors

Samuel Hayes Board Chair

Corinne Grigoriu

Outgoing Board Chair

Tracy Seaman

Governance Chair

Human Resources Sub-Committee Chair

Monica Cheng

Finance + Audit Committee Chair

Rebecca Finley-Schidlowsky

Board Secretary

Michelle Bailey

Kim Berjian

Glenn Bontje

Erin Burkholder

Jocelyn Colquhoun

Fern Cyr

Almas Kassam

Geoff Krause

James Kusie

Dr. John Lacey

Paul Lee

Jane McCaig

Elizabeth Middleton

Casey Smith

Maria Wu

Calgary Philharmonic Foundation

The Honourable Lois E. Mitchell

Honourary Patron of the Calgary Phil Foundation

David Daly

President

Joel Douglas Vice President

Elaine Clark

Treasurer

Alex Wan

Assistant Treasurer

Ana Cherniak-Kennedy

Secretary

Jim Hughes

Letha MacLachlan

Byron Neiles

Ellen Parker

Monica Cheng

Ad Astra Cabinet

Dr. John Lacey

Honourary Chair

Elizabeth Evans

Co-Chair

Elizabeth Middleton Co-Chair

Michelle Bailey

Ann Calvert

David Daly

Ellen Parker

Cork + Canvas Committee

Tim Onyett Chair

Kaitlan Caldwell

Elizabeth Middleton

Allison Onyett

Ellen Parker

Emma Rokosh

Agatha Starczyk

Holly Wong

Stakeholder Relations Committee

James Kusie

Chair

Courtney Cathcart

Almas Kassam

Elizabeth Middleton

Colleen Potter

A CASE OF THE

JITTERS

HOW MUSICIANS COPE WITH NERVOUS ENERGY

BY DAVID SUSSMAN

Do you ever get nervous? There are some musicians that feel most comfortable when performing in front of an audience and never get nervous. These people are very rare. Most musicians get nervous at times.

Players may experience sweaty palms, dry mouth, shortness of breath, or a racing heart. They may feel as though their instrument or bow will slip right out of their hands. Some even throw up before a performance or must make repeated visits to the washroom.

Most musicians get nervous because they fear failing. They have good reason. There are truly countless things that can go wrong in a live performance. Once a piece has begun, we have no choice but to play at a specific moment in time, one that is not of our choosing. This moment will come whether we are ready or not and we have a single chance to play our parts correctly.

There are many factors that can affect how nervous we get. Auditions rate highest, followed by solos, but any member of the orchestra may get nervous playing for certain conductors or soloists either because they want to please them, or may distrust or fear them. The presence of a critic or esteemed colleague in the audience or a recording microphone hanging down may raise some people's blood pressure.

Difficult passages can make us nervous. For some this may mean things that are very high or low or very loud or soft. For others this could mean fine control of the airstream or bow. For some, fast coordination of fingers and bow or tongue is tricky. Sometimes, pitch or rhythm may be a challenge. Occasionally, a musician's instrument may be the only one playing at the time.

WE ASKED A FEW MUSICIANS WHAT SETS THEIR HEARTS A FLUTTER?

Playing a piece for the first time can be nerve-wracking, as can playing an offstage part with conducting cues from a television monitor. Sometimes we must come in 'cold,' after not having played a note for several minutes.

Where we sit can be a source of nervousness. Some string players are very much aware of the audience when they sit on the edge of the stage. Others miss that comforting cushion of sound when they are seated at the back of the section.

Sometimes younger players may feel nervous because every performance is a first for them. However, they may also feel they have nothing to lose. Older players can feel confident building on the success of past performances. But, with experience expectations rise as well. An imperfect start or end to a single note may seem like a glaring mistake. We cannot rest on the success of the past. We are only as good as our last performance.

Many players do not want to let down their colleagues. For them, their first rehearsal with a big solo is the scariest. They may feel they are being judged by their peers. After that, playing for the audience is a 'piece of cake.'

Every player has some special piece which is their nemesis — a piece they just cannot seem to get right. When this piece is programmed, it could mean a long time of dread leading up to the performance.

How do musician's handle these nerves? Mostly with meticulous preparation. Players put in hours and hours of practice until the part is so well known it could be played in their sleep.

Sometimes, this just isn't enough. Musicians may perform rituals. They may be careful of what to eat and when, what clothing is worn (including undergarments

or shoes), and what time to arrive at the hall. They may take their instruments out of their cases in a certain way and have predetermined warm-up routines. The music stand may be set at a certain height, the chair at a specific angle, and sufficient personal space claimed on stage. Relaxation techniques may be employed by players including listening to calming meditations or visualization of a successful performance in their minds.

Chemical means are the choice of some musicians. Beta-blockers may be prescribed to avoid an incapacitating adrenaline rush.

A conductor can help or hinder by how they respond to nervous players in rehearsal. Confidence can be gained or drained. Colleagues are also a source of support. Spouses and partners endure a great deal when musicians are nervous.

Nerves are not all bad. Without them we may have trouble concentrating and focusing on the music. The extra adrenaline we get from being a little bit nervous adds to a performance and gives it an exciting edge. We can play with extra sensory awareness. Sometimes this allows us to play beyond our usual standard to give an exceptional performance.

I'm very lucky to experience very little performance anxiety or stage fright when it comes to solo chamber or orchestral performances, but the one thing that triggers the jitters for me is an orchestral audition. I'll start feeling those jitters as far as a month out and have to work everyday to manage that as the audition draws closer.

CLARE BRADFORD, Cello

My first solo of each season always makes me nervous! I settle down by the concert, but at the first big rehearsal of the year for me always feels like the first day of school.

ADAM ZINATELLI, Principal Trumpet

Over the years I have played as Concertmaster in front of hundreds or even thousands of people, and while I can get nervous sometimes, I am more or less used to the situation. Years ago, however, I found myself in a little Greek restaurant, and when they saw my violin case, they begged and cajoled me to play something for them. I believe there was an audience of only twelve, but it was so unexpected and unusual that I was extremely nervous, my bow was shaking, etc. It's funny the way the mind works...

JOHN LOWRY, Associate Concertmaster

DAVID SUSSMAN Assistant Principal Oboe + English Horn

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