CSO Holiday Pops 2023 - program 12-15-23

DIGITAL PROGRAM BOOK

December 15–17, 2O23 Knight Theater

charlottesymphony.org

CONTENTS

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WHAT’S INSIDE...

A Message from the President & CEO 3 Music Director Announcement 4 Concert Program 6 Artist Biographies 8 Sing-Along Lyrics 12 Charlotte Master Chorale 15 2023/24 Musician Roster 16 About the CSO 19 Holiday Gift Guide 20 Annual Fund Donors 22 Corporate & Foundation Sponsors 28 Infusion Fund 31 Board of Directors & Trustees 32 Administration 33

join the musical dialogue What did you think of the performance?

@cltsymphony #cltsymphony

WELCOME

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Welcome to Your CSO! ‘Tis the season for joy and celebration here at the Charlotte Symphony, and we are delighted to have you join us in the festivities!

As we embrace the holiday spirit, we reflect on the values that make this time so special – family, togetherness, faith, and generosity. This season is all about coming together through music. Whether you’re here to herald the holidays with “Majestic Brass,” experience a “Soulful Christmas” through our special program of Black-centered Christmas music, or enjoy any of our other festive holiday concerts, your presence is truly appreciated. Our carefully curated programming this season aims to offer something for everyone, making the Symphony a place where cherished traditions are celebrated and new ones are created.

If you’re looking to give your loved ones a truly special experience for the holidays, think about giving the gift of music. Our holiday gift guide, found on page 20, includes musical gifts that will delight everyone on your list. As the year comes to a close, we invite you to support the Charlotte Symphony with a charitable contribution.

Your generosity helps sustain the joy of music within our community. You can make a difference by giving here or visiting our website and clicking on the donate button.

Thank you for being a cherished part of our musical family. Whether you are a longtime supporter of the Charlotte Symphony or attending for the first time, we promise an experience that will fill your heart with joy and leave you with a sense of wonder. Happy Holidays!

David Fisk President & CEO

OUR NEW MUSIC DIRECTOR

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ANNOUNCING THE CHARLOTTE SYMPHONY’S NEXT MUSIC DIRECTOR

We are thrilled to announce that Kwamé Ryan, hailed as a “dynamic conductor” by The Baltimore Sun, will assume the role of your Charlotte Symphony’s 12th Music Director, beginning in 2024–25, ushering in a new era for the Orchestra’s 93rd season.

“On my very first visit to Charlotte, I felt instantly connected with the dynamic energy of the city and then profoundly inspired by the wonderful musicians of the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra … I very much look forward to discovering how this exciting new partnership can enrich the orchestra’s legacy and the cultural fabric of Charlotte.”

– Music Director Designate Kwamé Ryan Born in Canada and raised on the Caribbean island of Trinidad, Kwamé Ryan discovered his passion for conducting at the age of nine. He studied Musicology at Cambridge University and trained in conducting under the guidance of renowned composer/conductor Peter Eötvös. An active guest conductor, Ryan has led orchestras across the United States, UK, and Germany. In the fall of 2023, Ryan conducted the world premiere of Jake Heggie’s Intelligence at Houston Grand Opera, and in 2024, he makes his debut with Opera Theatre of St. Louis and the New York Philharmonic.

OUR NEW MUSIC DIRECTOR (continued)

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When not on the podium, Ryan dedicates his time to educational and community engagement initiatives. He has previously served as Musical Director of the National Youth Orchestra of France and as Director of the Academy for the Performing Arts at the University of Trinidad and Tobago.

Additionally, Ryan is the host of “8 Minute Idea,” a podcast in which he offers insights, tools, and life hacks.

“As a dynamic leader who understands the full potential of the relationship between an orchestra and its community, Kwamé will undoubtedly deepen the Charlotte Symphony’s service to Charlotte and the region, and, with his passion for music education, bring extraordinary, powerful music-making to a wider audience of all ages.”

– President & CEO David Fisk

Ryan’s selection was unanimous by the Music Director Search Committee, comprised of Charlotte Symphony musicians, staff, and members of the Board of Directors.

“From the outset, there was an incredible chemistry between Kwamé Ryan and the musicians which created an atmosphere of collaboration and inspiration.

Kwamé’s dynamic performances, as well as his ability to connect with audiences in a meaningful way, truly distinguished him. We are thrilled to welcome this exceptional conductor to Charlotte!”

– Bassist Jeffrey Ferdon and Principal Violist Ben Geller, who served on the Music Director Search Committee Kwamé Ryan will return to Charlotte this spring to conduct the Orchestra in two performances of Wang Jie’s Symphonic Overture “America, the Beautiful,” Brahms’s Symphony No. 1, and Tchaikovsky’s Variations on a Rococo Theme, April 5–6.

CONCERT PROGR AM

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Friday, December 15, 2023 at 7:30 pm Saturday, December 16, 2023 at 7:30 pm Sunday, December 17, 2023 at 3:00 pm Sunday, December 17, 2023 at 7:30 pm Knight Theater at Levine Center for the Arts

Christopher James Lees, conductor Gary Fry, composer & arranger Joshua Carswell, special guest Charlotte Master Chorale Kenney Potter, artistic director RED CAST

GREEN CAST

(12/15 @ 7:30pm, 12/17 @ 3 pm)

(12/16 @ 7:30pm, 12/17 @ 7:30pm)

Tommy Armstrong Bridie Armstrong Maggie Armstrong

Ariana Bryson Alexander Wax Lyn Armstrong

SPECIAL THANKS TO

Rich Lange Nicholas Feddersen Charlotte Feddersen

CONCERT PROGR AM (continued)

IRVING BERLIN

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Happy Holiday!

GARY FRY

Christmastime in Charlotte (lyrics p. 10)

TRADITIONAL

A-Soalin’

CÉSAR FRANCK

Panis Angelicus

P. I. TCHAIKOVSKY

Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy

LEROY ANDERSON

Sleigh Ride

GARY FRY

Cookies for Santa and Carrots for Rudolph

JOHNNY MARKS

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (lyrics p. 12)

GARY FRY

'Twas the Night before Christmas

GARY FRY

A World of Joy

INTERMISSION TRADITIONAL

(arr. Harris)

Good King Wenceslas

THE GREAT CHARLOT TE BAKING SHOW A SNOWY SING-ALONG (lyrics p. 12-13) IRVING BERLIN

White Christmas

STYNE/CAHN

Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!

BERNARD/SMITH

Winter Wonderland

NELSON/ROLLINS

Frosty the Snowman

STILLMAN/ALLEN

(There’s No Place Like) Home for the Holidays

GARY FRY

Latke Recipe

TORMÉ/WELLS

The Christmas Song

TRADITIONAL

The Twelve Days of Christmas

TRADITIONAL

Love Came Down at Christmas

(arr. Rutter)

(arr. Rutter)

JOHN WILLIAMS

Bless Us All

concert duration: approximately 2 hours, with one 20-minute intermission.

CONDUCTOR BIO

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Christopher James Lees resident conductor

Emerging American conductor Christopher James Lees brings passionate and nuanced orchestral performances to the stage, a fierce commitment to contemporary music, and a natural charisma to audiences all around the world.

In 2018, Mr. Lees began an appointment as Resident Conductor of the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra and Principal Conductor of the Charlotte Symphony Youth Orchestra. In addition to the more than 50 annual concert appearances with the CSO, he has annually stepped in to conduct Subscription Classical performances on five occasions, including two gala concerts with legendary artists and Grammy Award winners Branford Marsalis and Rhiannon Giddens, respectively.

An active guest conductor, Mr. Lees has returned for performances with the Los Angeles and Rochester Philharmonics, the Houston, Detroit, Milwaukee, North Carolina, Portland, and Flint Symphonies, and conducted debuts with the New York Philharmonic, and New World, Indianapolis, Kansas City, Toledo, and Vermont Symphonies.

Additional engagements have taken him to the National Arts Centre Orchestra, Orchestra de Chambre de Paris, Aspen Philharmonic Orchestra, Cabrillo Festival Orchestra, and at the Music in the Mountains Festival & Festival Internacional de Inverno de Campos do Jordão in Brazil.

Only the second American Gustavo Dudamel Conducting Fellow with the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Mr. Lees made his debut with the orchestra in April 2013 and returned for concerts in February 2015.

With the New York Philharmonic, St. Louis & Atlanta Symphonies, among others, Mr. Lees has served as a assistant conductor for the world’s leading conductors, including: Gustavo Dudamel, Paavo Järvi, Leonard Slatkin, David Robertson, Robert Spano, Marin Alsop, Pablo Heras-Casado, Stéphane Denève, Susanna Mälkki, and Nicholas McGegan. (continued next page)

CONDUCTOR BIO (continued)

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After two summers of study with Robert Spano at the Aspen Music Festival, Mr. Lees was named winner of both the 2011 James Conlon Conducting Prize and the 2012 Aspen Conducting Prizes, respectively. In 2013, Mr. Lees returned for a third summer as assistant conductor for the Aspen Music Festival and School.

An active pianist, and equally comfortable in the opera pit, Mr. Lees has served as Music Director or Assistant Conductor for a wide array of operas: Aida (Atlanta Symphony), Peter Grimes & John Harbison's The Great Gatsby (Aspen Opera Theatre Center), Louis Andriessen's De Materie, and Philip Glass' the CIVIL warS (Los Angeles Philharmonic), Don Giovanni & Mark Adamo's Little Women, (University of Michigan Opera Theatre), and Nino Rota’s Il Capello di paglia di Firenze (AJ Fletcher Opera Institute).

A recipient of a Career Assistance Grant from the Solti Foundation US, Mr. Lees was also chosen for showcase on the Bruno Walter Memorial Foundation National Conductor Preview, hosted by the League of American Orchestras and Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra.

A dedicated advocate for music of our time, Mr. Lees has premiered more than one hundred fifty new works by a diverse range of composers, and collaborated closely with Pulitzer Prize winners John Adams, William Bolcom, John Corigliano, Jennifer Higdon, Joseph Schwantner, Steven Stucky, Caroline Shaw, Roger Reynolds, and Julia Wolfe.

An equally passionate advocate for music education, Mr. Lees has brought inspirational energy to student orchestras across the country, from the Colburn School to the Shepherd School at Rice University and the New England Conservatory.

A native of Washington, D.C., Mr. Lees holds bachelors and master's degrees from the University of Michigan, and has studied conducting with Larry Rachleff and Robert Spano, as well as having participated in masterclasses with Lorin Maazel, Michael Tilson Thomas, Gustav Meier, and Jorma Panula.

When not performing, Mr. Lees can be found riding roller coasters with his eight-year old son, reading the stack of books by his nightstand, or training for the Boston Marathon in April 2024.

GUEST ARTIST BIOS

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Gary Fry

composer/arranger

Gary Fry is an Emmy-winning composer, arranger, producer, conductor, and music educator. He has crafted music for recordings, films, commercials, and live performances. Significant credits include his work as arranger/composer for the Chicago Symphony Orchestra’s Welcome, Yule! holiday concerts for nearly 20 years, his current position as arranger/composer for the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra’s Holiday Pops programs, artistic consultant to the Dallas Symphony Orchestra for their annual Christmas Celebration concerts, and over 100 commissions for Christmas and holiday music from those orchestras and others around the nation.

Long one of the nation’s foremost commercial music producers, Gary has written and produced over 2,500 nationally broadcast radio and television commercials for companies such as McDonald’s, Sears, United Airlines, Kellogg’s, the U.S. Air Force, and hundreds of other advertisers. He won an Emmy Award in 2006 for his original commercial music for WBBM-TV (Chicago).

Gary and his wife, Carol, live in the Charlotte area, where two of their grown children live.

RED CAST (12/15 @ 7:30pm, 12/17 @ 3 pm) BRIDIE ARMSTRONG is a 7th grader at Holy Trinity Middle School where last year she played the role of Veruca Salt in Willy Wonka Jr. She is a competitive Irish Dancer who also loves singing and art.

MAGGIE ARMSTRONG is a 3rd grader at Pineville Elementary School. Like her older sister, she is a competitive Irish dancer who also loves singing and art.

TOMMY ARMSTRONG is a 2nd grader at Pineville Elementary School. His most recent letter to Santa requested only one gift, $1M for the homeless people.

GUEST ARTIST BIOS (continued)

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Joshua Carswell vocalist

Joshua Carswell is an accomplished vocalist and performer of commercial music, musical theatre, sacred and opera. A native of North Carolina, Mr. Carswell graduated from Elon University with a Bachelors in Vocal Performance, garnering the university’s prestigious Presser Music Scholar award.

He has concertized and been a guest soloist in venues as diverse as Carnegie Hall’s Isaac Stern Auditorium, The Kennedy Center, The Grand Ole Opry, 54 Below and made appearances with the Greensboro Opera, North Carolina Symphony, Indiana Wind Symphony and the Savannah Philharmonic. Recent dramatic roles include Professor Harold Hill in The Music Man (Packard Playhouse) and Rooster Hannigan in Annie (Packard Playhouse) as well as a series regular on the successful children’s television show The Wonderful World of Benjamin Cello.

Mr. Carswell’s exceptional interpretive skill has garnered national attention, winning the grand prize in the prestigious American Traditions Competition in Savannah, GA. He is a winner of state and regional levels of NATS for Classical and Musical Theatre. Joshua has released two albums of American Standards and will be releasing his debut original album Innerspace in the Spring of 2024.

GREEN CAST (12/16 @ 7:30pm, 12/17 @ 7:30pm) LYN ARMSTRONG is an 8th grader at Northwest School of the Arts. She is currently part of the Ballantyne Arts Center performing company.

ARIANA BRYSON is in the 7th grade. She enjoys reading, hanging out with her sisters and playing soccer.

ALEXANDER WAX is a 5th grader at Charlotte Preparatory School. When not playing piano, running cross country or acting in school plays, he enjoys bike riding, hiking and traveling, and spending time with his family, and four legged siblings, DaVinci (cat) and Dakota (pup).

SING-ALONG LYRICS

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CHRISTMASTIME IN CHARLOTTE (AUDIENCE REFRAIN)

Yes, I love Christmastime in Charlotte That’s where I want to be No place else has everything That Christmas means to me Oh, nothing could be finer Than the joy of Carolina…

And the magic of Christmas in Charlotte

RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Had a very shiny nose And if you ever saw it You would even say it glows All of the other reindeer Used to laugh and call him names They never let poor Rudolph Join in any reindeer games Then one foggy Christmas Eve Santa came to say “Rudolph, with your nose so bright Won’t you guide my sleigh tonight?”

Then how the reindeer loved him As they shouted out with glee “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer You’ll go down in history!”

A SNOWY SING-ALONG WHITE CHRISTMAS I’m dreaming of a white Christmas Just like the ones I used to know Where the tree tops glisten And children listen To hear sleigh bells in the snow, in the snow I said, I’m dreaming of a white Christmas With every Christmas card I write May your days be merry and bright And may all your Christmas’ be white

(continued next page)

SING-ALONG LYRICS (continued) LET IT SNOW! Oh, the weather outside is frightful but the fire is so delightful And since we’ve no place to go, let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!

Well, it doesn’t show signs of stopping, but I’ve brought some corn for popping The lights are turned way down low, let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!

WINTER WONDERLAND Sleigh bells ring, are you listenin’?

In the lane, snow is glistenin’ A beautiful sight, we’re happy tonight, walkin’ in a winter wonderland Gone away is the bluebird, here to stay is a new bird He sings a love song as we go along walkin’ in a winter wonderland In the meadow we can build a snowman…

FROSTY THE SNOWMAN Frosty the Snowman was a jolly happy soul With a corn cob pipe and a button nose And two eyes made out of coal Frosty the Snowman is a fairytale they say He was made of snow, but the children know How he came to life one day There must have been some magic In that old top hat they found For when they placed it on his head He began to dance around Oh, Frosty the Snowman was alive as he could be And the children say he could laugh and play Just the same as you and me Thumpety thump thump, thumpety thump thump Look at Frosty go Thumpety thump thump, thumpety thump thump Over the hills of snow

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Christopher James Lees, conductor

December 20 – 23 Knight Theater

The circus meets the symphony! Back with a fresh show filled with awe-inspiring acrobatics and musical holiday favorites, this event will fill your family with the wonder of the season.

704.972.2OOO | charlottesymphony.org

CHARLOTTE MASTER CHOR ALE

Kenney Potter, Artistic Director Phil Biedenbender, Assistant Conductor & Pianist Erin Schwarz, Chorus Manager SOPRANO Monica Amery Romy Cawood Claire Crabtree Allie Miller Crosswhite Angela Gwinn Allyson Harvel Frances Morrison Virginia A. Neisler Mariah Seidel Rebecca Smith Morgan Stoeling Mary Theisen Melissa Theiss Sarah Barton Thomas Victoria Wojciechowski

ALTO Carin Bissiere-Grote Brett Blumenthal Chloe Gore Kristen Grzeca Brooke Haney Claire Incorvati Patti Kelly Kirsten Maley Laura Reinbold Angelica Stanley Susanna Trotter Cricket Weston

TENOR David Benton Miles Caraballo Rajah Chacko David Herring David Jacobs Adam Krahn Thomas Moncrief Chris Pringle Jesse M. Tillman, III

BASS Aj Calpo Parkes Dibble Donnell Dorsey Jeff Hollowell Zachariah Hunter Ethan Price

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MUSICIAN ROSTER

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YOUR CHARLOTTE SYMPHONY Kwamé Ryan, Music Director Designate Christopher James Lees, Resident Conductor Christopher Warren-Green, Conductor Laureate FIRST VIOLINS Calin Ovidiu Lupanu, Concertmaster The Catherine & Wilton Connor Chair Joseph Meyer, Associate Concertmaster Kari Giles, Assistant Concertmaster Susan Blumberg°° Jane Hart Brendle Cynthia Burton Emily Chatham°° Ayako Gamo Lenora Leggatt Jenny Topilow Dustin Wilkes-Kim Hanna Zhdan SECOND VIOLINS Oliver Kot, Principal The Wolfgang Roth Chair Kathleen Jarrell, Assistant Principal The Pepsi-Cola Foundation of Charlotte Chair Carlos Tarazona° Monica Boboc Martha Geissler Sakira Harley Tatiana Karpova Ellyn Stuart VIOLAS Benjamin Geller, Principal The Zoe Bunten Merrill Principal Viola Chair Chihiro Tanaka, Acting Asst. Principal Ellen Ferdon Cynthia Frank Wenlong Huang Viara Stefanova Ning Zhao CELLOS Jonathan Lewis, Principal The Kate Whitner McKay Principal Cello Chair Allison Drenkow, Acting Asst. Principal Alan Black, Principal Emeritus* Marlene Ballena Jeremy Lamb Amy Sunyoung Lee Sarah Markle Oksana McCarthy†

DOUBLE BASSES Kurt Riecken, Principal* Jason McNeel, Acting Principal Judson Baines, Assistant Principal* Justin Cheesman, Acting Asst. Principal Jeffrey Ferdon Luis Primera† FLUTES Victor Wang, Principal The Blumenthal Foundation Chair Amy Orsinger Whitehead Erinn Frechette PICCOLO Erinn Frechette OBOES Erica Cice, Acting Principal The Leo B. Driehuys Chair‡ Teil Taliesin† Terry Maskin ENGLISH HORN Terry Maskin CLARINETS Taylor Marino, Principal The Gary H. & Carolyn M. Bechtel Chair Samuel Sparrow Allan Rosenfeld E♭ CLARINET Samuel Sparrow BASS CLARINET Allan Rosenfeld BASSOONS Joseph Merchant, Principal Joshua Hood Nicholas Ritter CONTRABASSOON Nicholas Ritter

MUSICIAN ROSTER (continued) HORNS Byron Johns, Principal The Mr. & Mrs. William H. Van Every Chair Andrew Fierova Philip Brindise† The Robert E. Rydel, Jr. Third Horn Chair Richard Goldfaden Andrew Merideth† TRUMPETS Alex Wilborn, Principal The Betty J. Livingstone Chair Jonathan Kaplan Gabriel Slesinger, Associate Principal The Marcus T. Hickman Chair TROMBONES John Bartlett, Principal Thomas Burge

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TIMPANI Jacob Lipham, Principal The Robert Haywood Morrison Chair PERCUSSION Brice Burton, Principal HARP Andrea Mumm Trammell, Principal The Dr. Billy Graham Chair

This roster lists the full-time members of the Charlotte Symphony. The number and seating of musicians onstage varies depending on the piece being performed. ° Non-revolving position °° Alternates between first and second violins

BASS TROMBONE Scott Hartman, Principal

† Acting member of the Charlotte Symphony

TUBA Colin Benton, Principal The Governor James G. Martin Chair

‡ Funded by The Symphony Guild of Charlotte, Inc. * On leave

ARTISTIC OPERATIONS Michael Reichman, VP of Artistic Operations & General Manager Carrie Graham, Senior Director of Artistic Planning Tim Pappas, Director of Operations Nixon Bustos, Principal Music Librarian Erin Eady, Personnel Manager Claire Beiter, Operations Coordinator John Jarrell, Stage Manager

The Charlotte Symphony is a proud member of the League of American Ochestras.

Your Charlotte Symphony Experience Whether you’re attending your first Symphony performance, or you’re a longtime subscriber, we’d like to extend to you a warm and inclusive welcome! Below is some helpful information to ensure you make the most of your Charlotte Symphony experience.

What should I wear?

The Charlotte Symphony has no specific dress code. We encourage you to be comfortable and come as yourself in a style of your choice.

When do I applaud?

Audiences applaud to welcome the concertmaster, conductor, and featured artists onstage. Some works may have several sections, or movements, separated by a brief silent pause. It is tradition to hold applause until the last movement. If you are unsure, wait for the conductor to face the audience. But if you feel truly inspired, do not be afraid to applaud!

Can I take photos?

Certainly! We welcome and encourage you to capture and share photos before and after the concert, as well as during intermission. Feel free to use your cell phone for photography without flash during the performance, but please refrain from video or audio recording.

ABOUT THE CSO

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One of the premier music organizations in the Southeastern United States and the oldest operating symphony orchestra in the Carolinas, the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra (CSO) connects with more than 100,000 music lovers each year through its lively season of concerts, broadcasts, community events, and robust educational programs. The CSO is committed to its mission of uplifting, entertaining, and educating the diverse communities of Charlotte-Mecklenburg and beyond through exceptional musical experiences.

The Charlotte Symphony upholds the highest artistic integrity and takes bold steps to engage with its community through music. Its 65 professional, full-time musicians perform throughout the region — from community parks and breweries, to places of worship and senior care centers — and offer significant educational support, aimed at serving the underresourced areas of our community.

The Charlotte Symphony is deeply committed to the notion that music, accessible to all and experienced in its many forms, enriches and unifies our community. The CSO believes in equity and inclusion and strives to be an industry leader in imaginative, relevant programming by intentionally seeking out women conductors, underrepresented in our industry, and conductors, composers, and guest artists of color.

Founded in 1932, the Charlotte Symphony plays a leading cultural role in the Charlotte area and serves the community as a civic leader, reflecting and uniting our region through the transformative power of live music.

OUR MISSION The Charlotte Symphony uplifts, entertains, and educates the diverse communities of Charlotte-Mecklenburg and beyond through exceptional musical experiences.

OUR VISION Reaching out through the transformative power of live music, the Charlotte Symphony will be a civic leader, reflecting and uniting our region.

For more information, visit us online at

charlottesymphony.org

GIFT GUIDE

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Holiday Gift Guide Delight your loved ones with these musical gifts!

Looking for the perfect gift to give the music lovers in your life?

We have something for everyone this holiday season.

For more information, visit us at

charlottesymphony.org/giftguide

For the CSO Devotee...

Friends and family will love to show off their Charlotte Symphony pride with official Charlotte Symphony merch! This season, we’re offering cozy sweatshirts, eco-friendly totes, and more.

For the music lover...

Find the perfect gift for the music lover in your life with a Classical or Pops package of 3 performances for only $99. Only a limited number of packages available, so don’t wait!

GIFT GUIDE (continued)

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For the beer connoisseur...

What can be better than a cold beer in hand while enjoying classical music performed live at your local brewery? A pair of tickets to On Tap will elevate their brewery experience with great music performed by your Charlotte Symphony.

For the film buff...

Give the experience of enjoying fulllength films on the big screen as the Charlotte Symphony performs the scores LIVE! This year’s package includes Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Jaws, & more.

For the philanthropist...

Honor your friends, family, and loved ones by making a tax-deductible donation in their name to the Charlotte Symphony, ensuring that our community stays alive with music today, tomorrow, and always.

For everyone...

Whether it’s for your friend, boss, or family member, a Charlotte Symphony gift certificate ensures that you give them a gift that they will love.

SUPPORTERS

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We gratefully acknowledge these generous donors to the Charlotte Symphony Annual Fund.

This list reflects gifts received between July 1, 2023 through November 30, 2023

BENEFACTOR CIRCLE $100,000+ Catherine & Wilton Connor*

Douglas Young

$50,000 – $99,999 J. Porter & Victoria Durham Jane & Hugh McColl*

Patricia & Thrus Morton

$25,000 – $49,999 Anonymous Joan & Mick Ankrom Ruth & Richard Ault Dr. Milton & Arlene Berkman Philanthropic Fund Judith & Mark Roberta H. Cochran Jean & Dick Cornwell Linda & Bill Farthing Karen Fox

Maria & John Huson Richard Krumdieck Jacqueline B. Mars Patrick J. O'Leary Richard J. Osborne Debbie & Pat Phillips Kathy & Paul Reichs Carolyn Shaw Andromeda & John Williams

$15,000 – $24,999 Anonymous (2) Melissa & Daren Anderson Nicola & Emanuel Clark Ralph S. Grier Michael & Mary Lamach Betty P. & Jeffrey J. Lee

DeDe & Alex McKinnon Ulrike & Alex Miles Robert Norville Judy & Derek Raghavan Sherry & Thomas Skains Sienne & Adam Taylor

$10,000 – $14,999 Anonymous (3) Joye D. Blount & Jessie J. Knight Jr. Katharine & Frank Bragg Mr. & Mrs. R. Alfred Brand III Lynne & Colby Cathey Margarita & Nick Clements Jeanie & Tom Cottingham Lisa & Carlos Evans Robin & Christoph Feddersen Caren & Charles Gale Janet M. Haack Susan & Chris Kearney Ginger Kelly

Ms. Nina Lesavoy Laura & Perry Poole Ann & Fritz Rehkopf Kelli & Michael Richardson Mrs. Rosalind S. Richardson Pat Rodgers Amanda & Corey Rogers Marjorie Moses Schwab Melinda & David Snyder Drs. Jennifer Sullivan & Matthew Sullivan Mary Claire & Dan Wall Jill & Kevin Walker Lisa & Richard Worf

* The Charlotte Symphony recognizes donors of exceptional generosity whose cumulative giving to the CSO exceeds $1 million with the designation of Music Director Society.

SUPPORTERS (continued) VIRTUOSO CIRCLE $5,000 – $9,999 Wedge & Debbie Abels Howard P. Adams & Carol B. McPhee Jeannette & Francisco Alvarado Philipp J. Bischoff & Dawn Beatty Katrice & Steve Boland Mary & Charles Bowman Nancy Brand & Bill Freeman Barbara & Twig Branch Robin & William Branstrom Katherine & Thomas Bunn Shirley & Michael Butterworth Mr. & Mrs. Keith Cockrell Tammy & Malcomb Coley Morgan & Brain Cromwell Denise & Peter DeMaio Donna & Alvaro de Molina Mary Anne Dickson Peggy & Richard Dreher Mary & Robert Engel Heather & Thomas Finke David J.L. Fisk & Anne O'Byrne Joan & Parker Foley Carol & Ron Follmer Eileen Friars & Scott Pyle Patty & Alex Funderburg Dr. Robert A. Gaines & Toni Burke Sarah & Frank Gentry Laurie & Barry Guy James & Rebecca Hovis Shirley & Bob Ivey Chris Jensen Page & Ed Kizer Hartmut & Irene Kossack Vivian & Robert Lamb Anna & Lazlo Littmann Zaydee López-Ibáňez Tanya & Steve Makris Leslie & Michael Marsicano Susanne & Bill McGuire Mr. & Mrs. Paul McIntosh Susan & Loy McKeithen Mrs. Sandra Levine Dick Metzler Chuck Miller & Marcy Thailer Elizabeth & Jay Monge Mr. & Mrs. Brian T. Moynihan Holly & Jason Norvell Kim & Torsten Pilz Emily & Nima Pirzadeh Nancy & Charlie Robson Sara Garcés Roselli & Dan Roselli Bette Roth Ylida & Bert Scott Laura & Michael Schulte

page 23 Susan & Donald Sherrill Glenn Sherrill, Jr In honor of Robin Branstom Mr. & Mrs. Harley F. Shuford, Jr. Mr. & Mrs. Pope A. Shuford Nancy E. Simpson Lori & Eric Sklut Kevin Taylor Chris & Jim Teat Judith & Gary Toman Mr. & Mrs. C.L. Trenkelbach Suzie & Nick Trivisonno In Memory of Tess Verbesey Kevin & Jill Walker Floyd Wisner & Glenda Colman Sidney & Bobby Youngs Joan Zimmerman Abby & Albert Zue

$3,500 – $4,999 Anonymous Mr. James Biddlecome, in Loving Memory of Bernadette Zirkuli Biddlecome Si & Michael Blake Ms. Judith Carpenter Sally & Derick Close Mary & Phil Delk H. Clay Furches Leigh & Watts Humphrey David S. Jacobsen Richard I. McHenry & Cynthia L. Caldwell Arrington & Burch Mixon Courtney Reichs Mixon Linda & Tony Pace Marsha & Robert L. Stickler Kathleen & Daniel Troy Karen & Ed Whitener George McLendon & Carol Quillen

$2,500 – $3,499 Anonymous Julian Andretta Merilyn & Craig Baldwin Mrs. Harriet B. Barnhardt Bill & Georgia Belk Tiffany & Jason Bernd Jan & Bob Busch Cathy Bessant & John Clay Mr. & Mrs. Alan Blumenthal Amy & Philip Blumenthal Dr. & Mrs. O. Robert Boehm Ann Thomas Colley Dorothy & Mike Connor Melissa Cornwell Deborah J. Cox & Bob Szymkiewicz Alfred & Amy Dawson (continued next page)

SUPPORTERS (continued) $2,500 – $3,499 (continued) Chris & Elizabeth Daly In Memory of Betty Haggarty Peter De Arcangelis Cheryl DeMaio Peggy & Charles Dickerson Timothy & Kara Gallagher Harvey & Cindy Gannt Todd & Andrea Griffith Mr. Billy L. Gerhart, in memory of Judith Gerhart Mariam Abdul Hamid Ivan Hinrichs Brian & Juliet Hirsch Christy & Ben Hume Fran & Greg Hyde Jim & Peggy Hynes Bruce & Martha Karsh Ginger Kemp Mr. & Mrs. Luke Kissam Dr. & Mrs. Christ A. Koconis Meghan & Luis Lluberas James Lynch Dottie & Jim Martin Rob Roy McGregor Dee Dee McKay Diane & Aderito Morais Joan Morgan Celene & Marc Oken Dr. Reta R. Phifer Mr. Vincent Phillips & Mr. Paul Pope Kathleen D. Prokay Mr. & Mrs. Robert R. Rollins, Jr. Dr. Mahesh Sardesai Paulette Sherrill George & Tricia Sistrunk Emily & Zach Smith Morris & Patricia Spearman Elizabeth Connor Stewart Dottie Stowe in loving memory of Dickson Stowe Dr. Mark R. Swanson Drs. Chris & Lillian Teigland Eric & Annette Telljohann In Memory of Dr. Chandler Thompson Dr. John A. Thompson, Jr. & Dr. Lee Rocamora Dr. Cynthia H. Tyson Mindy & Don Upton Paul & Susan Vadnais Bill & Rita Vandiver Dr. Shante Williams Steph & Gemo Yesil

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PATRON CIRCLE $1,500 – $2,499 Anonymous Marcia Adams Ross & Michele Annable Clay & Denise Armbrister Dan & Barbara Austell Dianne & Brian Bailey Sharon Baker & Peter Moore Mr. & Mrs. Taylor Batten Erskine & Crandall Bowles Kelly & Jackie Brown Sarah & Marco Carbone Ms. Catherine P. Carstarphen Mr. Brent Clevenger Neil & Claire Cotty Elizabeth Betty Eaton William & Patricia Gorelick Family Foundation Angela & Michael Helms Mr. & Mrs. Benjamin F. Hill, Jr. Mr. James Howell & Mrs. Deanna Kelly Joan Irwin Gene & Helen Katz Christopher James Lees Stacy & Adam Marino Anna Marriott Ms. Rosemarie Marshall & Mr. Lee Wilkins Mr. Glenn Mincey & Mrs. Macie Mincey Eleanor W. Neal Caroline Olzinski Pamela Pearson & Charles Peach John & Susan Rae Jane Perry Shoemaker Katie & Raleigh Shoemaker Ken Spielfogel & Richard Withem Robert & Maxine Stein Gail & Scott Syfert Tillie S. Tice Jenny & Ken Tolson James H. Trexler & Kelly Zellars Vera Watson Grant Webb Linda & Craig Weisbruch Cricket Weston & David Molinaro Mrs. Eugenia N. White Bryan Wilhelm Noni Williams Deems Wilson Ms. Deborra Wood & Mr. Russell Propst

For more information on how to make a gift to the CSO Annual Fund, please contact Libby Currier, Director of Individual Givings, at 704.714.5137 or lcurrierl@charlottesymphony.org. (continued next page)

SUPPORTERS (continued) $1,000 – $1,499 Anonymous (5) Ashley & Steve Allen Kathleen & Richard Anderson Mary Lou & Jim Babb Mr. & Mrs. Lincoln A. Baxter Morgan & Katie Beggs Katherine W. Belk John & Katherine Beltz Shirley W. Benfield Donald H. & Barbara K. Bernstein Family Foundation Ms. Brett Blumenthal & Mr. David Wax Carole Bourret Khary Brown in Memory of Kyden Justice Brown Herbert Browne Mr. Charles Budd Jane & Larry Cain Maggie Callen Bill & Pauline Chinnis David M. Cody Mr. Mark Copeland & Mrs. Kathleen Goldammer-Copeland Ann F. Copeland Dr. & Mrs. Mark Couture Sarah & Larry Dagenhart Gwin Dalton Rufus Dalton Dan & Jeannette Davis Dr. Kandi & Gary Deitemeyer Dena Diorio Ralph & Troyann Dougherty Matt & Julie Drinkhahn Jay & Lisa Duggins Shobhan & Pritika Dutta Virginia Dulaney Bob & Judy Erb Martin Ericson, Jr. Julie & Tom Eiselt Lisa & Carlos Evans Trae & Kate Fletcher Ms. Toni Freeman Stephen C. & Jean S. Geller Jenn & Taylor Gherardi Kathy Gray Joyce & Ed Hamilton Anne J. Henderson Mical Hutson Paul & Linda Ibsen Martha D. Jones Lea & Stuart Johnson Mr. & Mrs. John E. Kibler Joan Kirschner Marilyn Kroll Jonathan Lamb Ms. Barbara Laughlin

page 25 Mark & Katherine Love Lucinda Nisbet Lucas Dr. & Mrs. Randolph Mahnesmith Mrs. Allison Malter Holly & Christopher Maurer Ms. Nydia McCrohan Shawn & Kelly McGrath Martha Monserrate Susan D. Montgomery Janet Preyer Nelson Peter & Janet Nixon Mr. & Mrs. E. O. Oakley Michael & Debbie O’Hara Karen L. Oldham Elaind Papadimitriou Arvind & Helen Patil Gwen Peterson & Tom Hodge Catherine Philpott Lucy Quintilliano & Leonard Fumi Dr. & Mrs. R. Pinkney Rankin, Jr. Morry Alter & Joan Rasmussen Brendan Reen Dave & Anne Regnery Rita & Thomas Robinson Sally & Russell Robinson Mrs. Gail Salmon Dr. Stephen P. Schultz & Donna Dutton Thomas & Natasha Scrivener Mr. & Mrs. William Seifert Molly & Conrad Sloan Scott Smith Murray & Hazel Somerville Kathryn Stewart Al & Alice Sudduth Ann & Wellford Tabor Richard R. Taylor Mr. & Mrs. Hans Teich Catherine Thompson B. Maureen Turner Vint & Libby Tilson Sarah S. Tull Drs. Iris Cheng & Daniel Uri Dr. & Mrs. Bill Chu & Jin Wang Ward Wellman & Laura Meyer Wellman Pam & Steve West Peter White David Wilcox Mr. Gary Wilhite Ms. Judith Wood Eugene Woods Ms. Barbara Yarbrough

$500 – $999 Anonymous (4) Michael & Lee Abbott Doug & Linda Abel Mark Abrams & Iris Prandi (continued next page)

SUPPORTERS (continued) $500 – $999 (continued) Mr. Lester Ackerman & Mr. Layton Campbell Larry Anderson Leigh & Rhonda Armistead JWD Atchison Bob & Cathy Becker Emerson Bell Ms. Melody Birmingham James Broadstone Aram & Scott Bryan Greg & Mary Lou Cagle Barbara F. Caine Ms. Lisa Callen Mary Case Amanda & Kevin Chheda Hobart B. Cheyne Dr. W. Gerald Cochran & Mr. Timothy D. Gudger Mr. Thomas E. Collins, Jr. Mrs. Jane M. Conlan Jack Cook Dr. Kilian Cooley Martin & Leslie Cooper Ellen M. Crowley Mr. Todd Croy Mrs. Judy Crozier Angela & Jesse Cureton Craig Selimotic Danforth Dr. Roy E. DeMeo, Jr. & Ms. Linda A. Evanko Doug & Diane Doak Cheryl Drake-Bowers Rebecca Elliott Gloria Evans Melisa & Frank Galasso Dr. John & Eileen Gardella Pete & Stacy Gherardi Donna Gibson Sarah Goad Mr. Walter H. Goodwin, Esq. Dan & Linda Gordon Ms. Cynthia Greenlee Tara & Richard Harris Mr. & Mrs. Lowrance Harry Mr. Charles Haughey Patrick & Johanne Hawk Mr. & Mrs. Michael D. Heafner Mr. Stefan Heinzelmann Robert Henderson Logan & Jennifer Henderson Barbara Holt Dr. & Mrs. Alexander Horowitz Pete & Phyllis Johnson Vickie & Eugene Johnson Michael & Priscilla Johnson Tim & Kathryn Johnson Joseph & Patty Kahle Emily Kalfayan Steven & Mary Kesselman James King Nancy H. Kiser Dr. & Mrs. Jack Kramer

page 26 Theodore & Dorothy Kramer Fran & Bart Landess Linda Lane Harry & Gloria Lerner Jerome & Barbara Levin Mr. Michael Lewandowski Mr. George Linfors Shira Lissek Kathryn Long Mark & Katherine Love Vi Lyles Dr. & Mrs. William W. MacDonald Bruce & Leigh Marsh Linda Marshall Francis & Paula Martin Ed & Wendy Matthews Mr. & Mrs. Kiran H. Mehta Eric Miller Anne & Brad Mitchell Christopher Montgomery Tom & Sally Moore Gary & Fran Morrison Robert & Carla Murray Nancy Olah & Bill Pace Cookie & Jerry Parnell Janet & Rick Pfeiffer John & Wilma Pinter Mr. & Mrs. Rodney C. Pitts Jeanine & Naeem Qasim Haywood & Sabine Rankin Ana & Manuel Rey Jose & Megan Rosado Shonn Ross Nancy Rutledge & Jim Rutledge Robert & Christine Rydel Alyssa Sharpe Katy & Raleigh Shoemaker Michael Silverman Carol Smith Dr. & Mrs. Henry L. Smith II John-Palmer Smith Rebecca & Eric Smith Julia J. Souther Bill & Mary Stanton Mr. & Mrs. Larry Stern William & Catherine Stone Wesley & Claudia Sturges George & Brenda Sweet Ms. Sarah Teague Gretchen & Jean-Claude Thill Tim Timson James & Melanie Twyne Greg & Sandy Vlahos Minyan Wang Lyman Welton Barnet & Harriet Weinstock Mr. & Mrs. John A. Yakob Dan & Susan Yardley

SUPPORTERS (continued)

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The Encore Society includes individuals who have made provisions for the CSO in their estate plans. We are honored to recognize their support: Lucille & Edwin Jones Paul and Paula McIntosh Nellie McCrory† M. Marie Mitchell† Cricket Weston & David Molinaro Joan & Richard Morgan Don C. Niehus Eva Nove Richard J. Osborne Gwen Peterson & Tom Hodge James Y. Preston† Mrs. Clayton (Dusty) Pritchett Ann & Fritz Rehkopf Elizabeth Waring Reinhard Nancy W. Rutledge Mike Rutledge Harriet Seabrook Mr. & Mrs. William Seifert Morris & Patricia Spearman Bob & Maxine Stein Dr. Ben C. Taylor III Mr. & Mrs. Hans Teich Cordelia G. Thompson Tim Timson Jenny & Ken Tolson Ms. Debora Wood & Mr. Russell Propst

Anonymous (3) Geraldine I. Anderson† Richard & Ruth Ault Baldwin Family Trust Barnhardt Thomas Trust Larry & Joyce† Bennett Donald H. & Barbara K. Bernstein Mark & Louise Bernstein† Rosemary Blanchard† Twig & Barbara Branch Saul Brenner Mike & Joan Brown† Mrs. Joan Bruns† Jan & Bob Busch Dr. Helen G. Cappleman, Ph.D.† Jim Cochran† Robin Cochran Tom Covington Charles & Peggy Dickerson Mr. Martin Ericson, Jr. David J.L. Fisk & Anne P. O’Byrne Peter & Ann† Guild William G. & Marguerite K. Huey Fund† Dr. Nish Jamgotch, Jr. Betty & Stanley Livingstone† † Deceased

Leave a lasting legacy of great music through your planned gift.

For more information, please contact Shayne Doty at 704.714.5104.

Support your CSO. With your gift, the Charlotte Symphony uplifts, entertains, and educates the diverse communities of Charlotte-Mecklenburg and beyond through exceptional musical experiences.

Every gift makes a difference.

Make your contribution today:

charlottesymphony.org/give-today

SPONSORS

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CORPORATE PARTNERS We are grateful for the following outstanding corporate funders:

For more information, please contact Mandy Vollrath at mvollrath@charlottesymphony.org

SPONSORS

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GOVERNMENT & FOUNDATION SUPPORT We are grateful for the following outstanding foundation and government funders:

amily FOUNDATION DONALD & KATHLEEN

The Truist Charitable Fund is a donor-advised fund created by Truist and administered by The Winston-Salem Foundation

The Trexler Foundation Dowd Foundation, Inc. The Dickson Foundation Cole Foundation The Charlotte Mecklenburg Community Foundation The Mary Norris Preyer Fund The George W. & Ruth R. Baxter Foundation Barnhardt/Thomas Trust Kathryn Stephenson Pipe Organ Endowment Foundation Blumenthal Foundation Minor Foundation, Inc.

For more information, please contact Mandy Vollrath at mvollrath@charlottesymphony.org

We're rolling out something big! This spring, your Charlotte Symphony takes the music on the road for CSO Roadshow, a traveling concert series that will bring pop-up music experiences to neighborhoods across Charlotte.

Our mobile stage will bring the power of live music to the heart of local communities as our 40-foot trailer takes Charlotte Symphony musicians to streets, parks, and plazas in free "walk up" concerts for all to enjoy. Keep an eye out for upcoming CSO Roadshow concerts near you!

charlottesymphony.org/csoroadshow

The Charlotte Symphony is supported, in part, by the Infusion Fund and its generous donors.

Multimillion Dollar Commitment City of Charlotte $1.5 million and above Bank of America C.D. Spangler Foundation / National Gypsum Company John S. and James L. Knight Foundation Trane Technologies $600,000 - $1 million Albemarle Foundation Atrium Health Barings Duke Energy Honeywell JELD-WEN, Inc. LendingTree Foundation Lowe’s Companies, Inc. Novant Health Red Ventures Truist $300,000-$600,000 Ally Financial The Centene Charitable Foundation Childress Klein Properties Coca-Cola Consolidated Deloitte EY The Gambrell Foundation Moore & Van Allen PwC Robinson, Bradshaw & Hinson, P.A. Rodgers Builders Wells Fargo Up to $300,000 Fifth Third Bank Foundation For The Carolinas Deidre and Clay Grubb Leslie and Michael Marsicano Jane and Hugh McColl Nucor Corporation PNC Bank Premier, Inc. Jane and Nelson Schwab

LEADERSHIP

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BOARD OF DIRECTORS Linda McFarland Farthing Chair Richard Krumdieck Vice Chair John Williams Vice Chair Mick Ankrom Treasurer Manny Clark Secretary David Fisk President & CEO Joye D. Blount Mike Butterworth Nick Clements Catherine Connor

Mary Delk* Denise DeMaio Sidney Fletcher Kevin Gottehrer Byron Johns* Stephen Makris Alex McKinnon Ulrike W. Miles Sara Garcés Roselli Ylida Scott Melinda Snyder Jennifer Sullivan Jenny Tolson* Jenny Topilow* Kevin Walker *ex officio

BOARD OF TRUSTEES Richard Osborne, Chair Paul Anderson Ruth & Richard Ault Kat Belk Arlene & Milton Berkman Jason & Tiffany Bernd Mary & Charles Bowman Frank Bragg Robin & Bill Branstrom Derick & Sallie Close Robin Cochran Wilton Connor Jeanie & T. Thomas Cottingham III Brian Cromwell Alessandra & Pasquale De Martino Alvaro & Donna de Molina Peggy & Richard Dreher Lisa Hudson Evans Eileen Friars & Scott Pyle Todd Gorelick Ralph S. Grier Laurie Guy Janet Haack Reginald B. Henderson, Esq.

Mark & Whitney Jerrell Jeff Lee Gov. James G. Martin Jane & Hugh McColl Susan & Loy McKeithen George McLendon Mica Oberkfell Patrick J. O’Leary Debbie & G. Patrick Phillips Paul Reichs Nancy & Charles Robson Patricia A. Rodgers M.A. Rogers Laura & Mike Schulte Carolyn Shaw Emily & Zach Smith Bob & Marsha Stickler Adam Taylor Cynthia Tyson Braxton Winston Richard Worf Joan Zimmerman Albert Zue

ADMINISTR ATION

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EXECUTIVE David J. L. Fisk, President & CEO Samantha Hackett, Executive Administrator ARTISTIC OPERATIONS (see p. 17) DEVELOPMENT Shayne Doty, Vice President of Development Mandy Vollrath, Director of Corporate & Institutional Relations Libby Currier, Director of Individual Giving Tammy Matula, Senior Manager of Development Operations Jennifer Gherardi, Development Manager - Campaign & Special Events FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION Angel Adams, Vice President of Finance & Administration Chazin & Company, Financial Services Amy Hine, HR Coordinator & Office Administrator HUMAN RESOURCES Maribeth Baker, Human Resources Counselor LEARNING & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT Aram Kim Bryan, Vice President of Learning & Community Engagement Dylan Lloyd, Senior Manager of Youth Orchestras Michaela Sciacca, Project Harmony Manager Gavin Fulker, Education & Community Programs Assistant Lily Moore, Youth Orchestras Assistant Jirah Montgomery, Youth Orchestras Program Assistant Bria Alexander, Learning & Community Engagement Assistant MARKETING Mical Hutson, Vice President of Marketing & Audience Development Deirdre Roddin, Director of Institutional Marketing & Communications Nicole Glaza, Senior Manager of Digital Marketing Chad Calvert, Visual Communications Manager Laura Thomas, Marketing Manager Meghan Starr, Patron Experience Manager Garrett Whiffen, Ticketing Manager

128 S. Tryon Street, Suite 350 Charlotte, NC 28202 tickets: 704.972.2000 office: 704.972.2003

charlottesymphony.org

FILM WITH LIVE ORCHESTR A

January 12 & 13 Ovens Auditorium A tale as old as time comes to the big screen at Ovens Auditorium! Experience Disney's beloved animated classic, overflowing with unforgettable characters and Academy Award®-winning music.

704.972.2OOO | charlottesymphony.org