Welcome Note

Welcome to Your CSO!

Welcome to the Symphony! We’re delighted to have you with us this month for an exciting lineup of concerts both showcasing the familiar and offering the chance for new discoveries. Don’t miss Remember When Rock Was Young, a concert featuring your favorite hits from the legendary Sir Elton John. We’re also thrilled to welcome guest conductor Keitaro Harada, who will lead your CSO in Mozart’s “Jupiter” Symphony and Wieniawski’s Concerto for Violin No. 2, featuring violinist Francisco Fullana.

As part of our observance of Black History Month, join us for Saint-Georges’ Sword & Bow, a family-friendly concert delving into the remarkable story of Joseph Bologne, an accomplished violinist, conductor, composer, and fencer — and the first classical composer of African descent to attain widespread acclaim in European music. Throughout this special month, our spotlight will extend to the many contributions of Black composers and artists in orchestral music. Visit our website or follow us on social media, where we’ll share notable performances, delve into the history of Black pioneers in classical music, and celebrate the composers and artists of today who are enriching the orchestral music scene and inspiring countless future musicians.

Looking towards our future musicians and music enthusiasts, I’m proud to share that our “One Musical Family” concerts in January brought over 3,000 4th and 5th-graders to the Belk Theater to experience the magic of live classical music — many for the first time. We are now preparing to welcome another 7,000 students in March. Education remains a cornerstone for us, and we’re committed to bringing the joy of live music to young audiences.

For our subscribers, please keep an eye out for a special offer in the mail this month inviting you to renew your subscription for the 2024–25 season early — at 2023–24 prices! — and receive an exclusive gift. With the arrival of Music Director Kwamé Ryan next season, this is an opportunity you won’t want to miss.

Thank you for your continued support. Enjoy the concert!

David Fisk President & CEO