A Message from the President & CEO

Happy Holidays!

It truly is the most wonderful time of the year — especially at the Charlotte Symphony! Our programs are full of holiday cheer this season, and we’re so glad that you and your family are joining us for the festivities.

For so many, this is a time for family and togetherness, faith and generosity. As I look back on the past year, I’m humbled by the generous spirit of our patrons and supporters, and I’m proud of how much the CSO has accomplished! We celebrated the Symphony’s 90th birthday, launching new learning and community engagement initiatives including a third youth orchestra — the Charlotte Symphony Youth Ensemble — and performed for tens of thousands of friends and neighbors.

It’s always a joy to welcome Conductor Laureate & Music Adviser Christopher Warren-Green back to Charlotte, and I’m especially excited that we are presenting his world-renowned interpretation of Handel’s Messiah with the Charlotte Master Chorale. We’ll also welcome visitors from the North Pole to light up the stage at Holiday Pops, and experience awe-inspiring acrobatics alongside musical holiday favorites at Cirque de Noël.

If you’re looking to give your loved ones a truly special experience for the holidays, consider giving the gift of music! Our holiday gift guide, found on page 16, includes musical treats for everyone on your list. There really is nothing that compares to the power of live music. And please consider putting the Symphony on your year-end list of worthy nonprofits to support with a charitable contribution as this tax year draws to a close: you can give here or by visiting our website and clicking on the donate button.

Thank you for making the Charlotte Symphony part of your family tradition this year. We wish you and yours a wonderful holiday season.

David Fisk

President & CEO