The Spirit of Boulder
60
th
2017-2018 SEASON
Dear Friends, The audience was on its feet at the Kennedy Center as the Boulder Phil completed its stunning performance in March. They had experienced a program that had it all: a celebration of the natural word, visual elements that deepened the music’s impact, a novel presentation of a familiar masterwork, and the birth of a new piece, a welcome addition to the orchestral repertoire. Along with musical hikes, outdoor chamber performances, and discussions with composers and performers, a national audience had embraced the spirit of Boulder with open arms. That same spirit and vision enlivens our exciting 60th Anniversary season. This season, the Boulder Phil shares the stage with some of the greatest soloists in the world. Van Cliburn Gold Medalist Jon Nakamatsu joins us for Schumann, violinist Stefan Jackiw plays Prokofiev, and the brilliant Simone Dinnerstein returns to play her signature Bach along with a new work written for her (and co-commissioned by the Phil) by Philip Glass. Collaborations once again figure prominently, as we welcome collegiate choirs for works by Beethoven and Britten, along with Metropolitan Opera tenor Matthew Plenk and Boulder pianist David Korevaar. Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Ensemble brings a gorgeous new setting of The Lark Ascending, and we close our season with Central City Opera in a rare “in concert” presentation of West Side Story in honor of the 100th anniversary of Leonard Bernstein’s birth.
Along with symphonic staples by Dvořák, Sibelius, and Shostakovich, we’ll hear some less familiar masterpieces by Beethoven, Bach, and Britten, and a beautiful tone poem by Schoenberg. Music inspired by literature, nature, politics, and spirituality dots the landscape, and we introduce a new work (another Boulder Phil co-commission) by Christopher Theofanidis. We have something for everyone as Cirque de la Symphonie returns with an all-new program celebrating the magic of cinema and featuring the extraordinary aerial violinist, Janice Martin. We help you kick off your holidays with our annual Nutcracker performances with Boulder Ballet. And all season long, the Phil will be busy sharing the joy of music with young people through our school visits and Discovery Concerts for elementary students, as well as a sensory-friendly chamber concert at the Boulder Public Library designed for children with autism and their families. For 60 years, the Boulder Phil has brought the world of music to Boulder. Today, with national recognition and recording projects in the works, we are helping to bring Boulder to the world. The spirit of Boulder starts with you—our patrons, subscribers, and supporters. We are proud to be your orchestra, and we thank you for joining us for another season of musical adventures. Enjoy!
Michael Butterman, Music Director
Photo: Jati Lindsay
The Boulder Philharmonic and Frequent FlyersÂŽ Aerial Dance performed for a packed house at the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC, in March 2017
60
th
Boulder Phil at 60 Sunday, September 24―2 PM
Pinnacle Performing Arts Complex, Denver
Sunday, September 24―7 PM Macky Auditorium, Boulder
Boulder Philharmonic Orchestra Michael Butterman, conductor
“He has stunning technical control and can do anything at the piano he wants.” ~The New York Times
CHRISTOPHER THEOFANIDIS Dreamtime Ancestors A “Made in America” co-commission, with performances in all 50 states SCHUMANN Piano Concerto in A minor Jon Nakamatsu, piano DVOŘÁK Symphony No. 7 We are thrilled to welcome back Van Cliburn Gold Medalist Jon Nakamatsu to open our season with Schumann’s beloved piano concerto. Dvorak’s colorful 7th Symphony bathes the hall in the spirit of Bohemia, and we present a new work inspired by Aboriginal folklore by leading composer Christopher ORDER TICKETS Theofanidis, a Boulder Phil co-commission.
NOW! www.BoulderPhil.org 303.449.1343
6 PM AT MACKY Pre-Concert Talk with Michael Butterman and Jon Nakamatsu
Music of Resistance
Boulder Philharmonic Orchestra Michael Butterman, conductor
Saturday, October 14―7:30 PM
BEETHOVEN Choral Fantasy David Korevaar, piano CU Boulder and Western Illinois University Choirs
Macky Auditorium, Boulder
BRITTEN Ballad of Heroes Matthew Plenk, tenor CU Boulder and Western Illinois University Choirs SHOSTAKOVICH Symphony No. 5
Photo: Adam Riggs
We explore the intersection of art and politics in a program of three works by composers with definite points of view. Shostakovich’s thrilling 5th Symphony was a bold (if somewhat veiled) rejection of Stalin’s totalitarianism. Britten’s Ballad of Heroes suggests that failing to take a stand is equivalent to acquiescence. And Beethoven praises music as the tonic to tame our propensity for aggression in a work that foreshadows his famous Symphony No. 9. Metropolitan Opera tenor Matthew Plenk is joined by Boulder pianist David Korevaar along with the combined choral forces of CU and Western Illinois University. Sponsored by Steve and Jayne Miller, Eleanor and Harry Poehlmann, Ursula Dickinson, Peter A Gilman and Margaret A. LeMone, Outdoor Craftsmen, Bob and Francine Myers, and Betty Van Zandt
6:30 PM AT MACKY Pre-Concert Talk with Michael Butterman and guests
Special Add-On Event! Subscribers get 10% off
The Nutcracker Ballet Friday, November 24―2 PM Saturday, November 25―2 PM & 7 PM Sunday, November 26―2 PM Macky Auditorium, Boulder
Boulder Philharmonic Orchestra Boulder Ballet Boulder Children’s Chorale TCHAIKOVSKY The Nutcracker, Op. 71
Photo: Eli Akerstein
This Thanksgiving Thank weekend, the curtain rises for Americ America’s favorite ballet, brought to life by Boulder B Ballet and the Boulder Phil. Make your plans now for this thrilling and heart-warming spectacle, all performed to Tchaikovsky’s masterful score.
Bach Transfigured Saturday, January 13―7:30 PM Macky Auditorium, Boulder
Sunday, January 14―2 PM
“Arresting freshness and subtlety” ~TIME
Pinnacle Performing Arts Complex, Denver Boulder Philharmonic Orchestra Michael Butterman, conductor C.P.E. BACH Symphony in C Major
Photo: Lisa-Marie Mazzucco
J.S. BACH Keyboard Concerto in G minor Simone Dinnerstein, piano
PHILIP GLASS Piano Concerto No. 3 Colorado premiere, a Boulder Phil co-commission Simone Dinnerstein, piano SCHOENBERG Transfigured Night
Brilliant pianist Simone Dinnerstein returns to Boulder for two concertos, including the premiere of a Boulder Phil co-commission by Philip Glass, consciously inspired by Bach. Bach’s spirit also pervades the program through his G minor concerto and in a work by his son, struggling to both honor his father and assert his independence from him. After intermission, themes of forgiveness and redemption prevail in the lush, romantic Transfigured Night by Schoenberg, a man deeply influenced by Bach’s bold chromaticism and flawless voice leading.
ORDER TICKETS NOW! www.BoulderPhil.org 303.449.1343
6:30 PM AT MACKY Pre-Concert Talk with Michael Butterman and Simone Dinnerstein Sponsored by Judy and Steve Knapp, Wayne Itano and Christine Yoshinaga-Itano, and Andy and Audrey Franklin
Cirque Goes to the Movies Saturday, February 3―2 PM & 7:30 PM Macky Auditorium, Boulder
part of a 6-concert subscription package
Cirque de la Symphonie Boulder Philharmonic Orchestra Michael Butterman, conductor Join us for a spectacular family experience featuring music from Harry Potter, Star Wars, Mission Impossible, Pirates of the Caribbean, and Titanic, plus the dazzling magic of the circus with aerialists, acrobats, contortionists, and more! We’ll also present the enthralling aerial violinist Janice Martin, a special member of the Cirque troupe.
NEW SUBSCRIBERS (5 OR 6 CONCERTS) GET 50% OFF SINGLE TICKET PRICES!
Sponsored by Marla and Jerry Meehl
SAVE 10% WITH 3- OR 4-CONCERT CREATE-YOUR-OWN PACKAGES!
A Song for Swans Saturday, April 7―7:30 PM Macky Auditorium, Boulder
Boulder Philharmonic Orchestra Michael Butterman, conductor VAUGHAN WILLIAMS The Lark Ascending Charles Wetherbee, violin Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Ensemble SIBELIUS Symphony No. 5 PROKOFIEV Violin Concerto No. 2 Stefan Jackiw, violin
“Talent that’s off the scale” ~Washington Post
Renowned choreographer Cleo Parker Robinson unveils her vision of serenity in a gorgeous setting of Vaughan Williams’ The Lark Ascending, featuring concertmaster Charles Wetherbee. The 5th Symphony of Sibelius, inspired by the sight of swans in flight, conjures the stark beauty of Finnish tundra and the northern lights. And violin sensation Stefan Jackiw thrills with his approach to Prokofiev’s famous Violin Concerto No. 2, full of both stunning virtuosity and sublime lyricism. 6 PM AT MACKY Community Play-In (replaces pre-concert talk)
Sponsored by Nancy Clairmont and Bob Braudes
West Side Story: Bernstein at 100 Saturday, April 28―7:30 PM Macky Auditorium, Boulder
Boulder Philharmonic Orchestra Michael Butterman, conductor BERNSTEIN West Side Story in concert a collaboration with Central City Opera As a gifted composer, conductor, pianist, author, educator, advocate and communicator, Leonard Bernstein could do it all. His West Side Story stands as one of the signal achievements of American musical theater. Its melding of sophisticated formal construction with toe-tapping rhythms and irresistible melodic turns makes it one of the enduring treasures of the 20th century. Join us as we present a rare opportunity to hear the entire score in dramatic concert with full symphony orchestra and soloists. There’s no better way to celebrate the 100th birthday of this American musical legend, or to bring our 60th anniversary season to a triumphant conclusion. 6:30 PM AT MACKY Pre-Concert Talk with Michael Butterman and guests
ORDER TICKETS NOW! www.BoulderPhil.org 303.449.1343
Community Events Boulder Phil Brass at Flagstaff Amphitheater
Saturday, September 9―11 AM Celebrate Boulder Open Space and Mountain Parks’ 50th Anniversary with this free family-friendly outdoor concert.
Boulder Phil String Quartet at the Boulder Public Library
Sunday, September 10―2 PM Join Boulder Phil musicians for this free family-friendly chamber music performance featuring many familiar favorites.
Greater Boulder Youth Orchestras at Pinnacle PAC with special Boulder Phil guests
NEW! “Reach for the Stars” Free Community Concert Sunday, March 4―2 PM
Join Michael Butterman and the Boulder Phil for this free family-friendly concert. Featuring a space exploration theme in honor of NASA’s–and the Boulder Phil’s–60th Anniversary, the program explores concepts of history, courage, and innovation while featuring some of the most engaging orchestral music ever written. The concert will also feature an instrument petting zoo, provided by HB Woodsongs.
Sunday, October 28―2 PM Join the talented young GBYO musicians as they pair with Boulder Phil musicians to present a free family-friendly matinee for the whole community.
Sensory-Friendly Concert at the Boulder Public Library
Boulder Phil Brass Quintet Saturday, March 3―11 AM Created especially for families living with autism and other disabilities, this free event is a welcoming concert experience for the whole family.
Community Play-In at Macky Auditorium
Saturday, April 7―6 PM Dust off your instrument to join Michael Butterman and Boulder Phil musicians for a performance on the Macky stage. Includes rehearsals, a social event, and a ticket to the Phil’s April 7 concert. Register at BoulderPhil.org.
For more information, contact Cynthia Sliker, Director of Community Engagement, at 303.443.9203 or csliker@boulderphil.org.
Education Programs Discovery Concerts
Meet the Maestro & In-School Visits
The Boulder Phil’s Discovery Concerts take students in grades 3-6 on a journey to explore orchestral music in a fun, interactive format featuring nationally-acclaimed Music Director Michael Butterman. Students attend a 50-minute performance during the school day at the historic Macky Auditorium. Playing our part in a national effort to support school-based music education, the Discovery Concert program introduces students to the world of orchestral music and inspires them in their own pursuit of instrumental music study.
Through his classroom visits, Maestro Butterman becomes a resource for area music educators, visiting classrooms and rehearsals while offering an enriching experience. Schools can also host a Boulder Phil chamber ensemble, where musicians highlight instrument families, composers, science of sound themes, and provide plenty of time for questions. These up-close-andpersonal experiences bring instrumental music alive for students.
“The music was superb. Maestro Butterman is a hit with my kids every year.” ~BVSD Teacher
For more information about Boulder Phil Education Programs, contact Cynthia Sliker at csliker@boulderphil.org or 303.443.9203.
“The Discovery Concerts are a wonderful way to give a diverse group of students an opportunity to see a professional orchestra, to visit a large university, and, to be inspired to enjoy, perform, and compose classical music.” ~BVSD Teacher
“Mr. Butterman's visit to our school had a huge impact on our students. Children who have never attended a classical concert felt a sense of familiarity and accessibility that they would not have felt without his visit.” ~BVSD Teacher
Celebrating the Boulder Phil’s 60th Anniversary The Boulder Philharmonic Orchestra began as a community orchestra with its 1957-1958 season, during which it performed in local public school auditoriums. Macky Auditorium became the orchestra’s permanent home in 1975, and, in 1998, the Phil became a fully professional ensemble. This season, the Boulder Phil is proud to be celebrating its 60th anniversary. Voted “Best of Boulder” for the past five years in a row, the Phil now reaches audiences of more than 20,000 each year through various performances across the Front Range and beyond. From multi-genre productions featuring dance, choral and visual elements to concerts with a unique hometown flavor, the Phil’s imaginative programming has resulted in increasing numbers of sold-out concerts and nationwide recognition. The orchestra also achieved national prominence by being selected to perform for a packed house at the Kennedy Center’s inaugural SHIFT Festival of American Orchestras in March 2017. In recent seasons the Phil has collaborated with an impressive 50+ local organizations, encompassing arts, science, nature, youth, social services, and more. By going beyond simply performing great music, our orchestra strives to connect ever more people to the inspiring power of symphonic music. For a comprehensive history of the Boulder Phil, and to find out how you can support our mission, visit BoulderPhil.org.
Looking Back
60
th
Moving Forward
Thanks to Our Sponsors Season Sponsors
The Academy Sydney and Robert Anderson Boulder County Arts Alliance Boulder Arts Commission Patricia Butler City of Boulder Office of Arts + Culture Colorado Creative Industries The Community Foundation Serving Boulder County Eide Bailly, LLP Flatirons Bank Hotel Boulderado KUNC Micro Motion/Emerson National Endowment for the Arts Noris Foundation Scientific and Cultural Facilities District Three Leaf Catering Virginia Hill Charitable Foundation
Concert Sponsors
Nancy Clairmont and Bob Braudes Wayne Itano and Christine Yoshinaga-Itano Judy and Steve Knapp Marla and Jerry Meehl Steve and Jayne Miller Eleanor and Harry Poehlmann
Guest Artist Sponsors Outdoor Craftsmen Bob and Francine Myers Betty Van Zandt
Masterworks Sponsors
Ursula Dickinson Andy and Audrey Franklin Peter A. Gilman and Margaret A. LeMone
Musical Hikes
The Boulder Phil and the City of Boulder Open Space & Mountain Parks (OSMP) have created an ongoing “Nature & Music” collaboration to connect community members with the natural world through music. This inventive partnership includes guided musical hikes designed to complement specific works to be performed by the Boulder Phil. Free and open to the public.
Songs for Swans
March 25 & 31, 7:30-10 AM Join naturalist Dave Sutherland for an early morning hike to explore beautiful music inspired by birds: Sibelius’ 5th Symphony and The Lark Ascending by Ralph Vaughan Williams. For details, visit www.BoulderPhil.org.
Events of Note
These special occasions bring together music lovers and our acclaimed guest artists, while supporting the Phil’s artistic and education programs.
Jon Nakamatsu House Recital
Saturday, September 23 Private home Van Cliburn International Piano Competition Gold Medalist Jon Nakamatsu has toured and recorded extensively since his win in 1997. His famously elegant playing will be deeply felt in this intimate setting.
“Back to School” Brunch
Sunday, October 1 1:30-3:30 PM Private home NEW annual fundraiser supporting student participation in Boulder Phil education programs, featuring a performance by the Boulder Phil Education String Quartet and a delicious brunch by Three Leaf Catering.
Simone Dinnerstein House Recital
Thursday, January 11 Private home Simone Dinnerstein is a thoughtful, inventive pianist with a thing for Bach. She spearheaded the Philip Glass co-commission, which brings her back to Boulder, and her house recital will reflect her style and passion.
Progressive Pairings
Thursday, March 22 Lee Hill Drive Wineries Two players, three wineries, one exceptional evening. Each of the three Lee Hill Drive Wineries will host a pairing of music, delicious bites, and handcrafted wine—and you will experience all of them at this multi-sensory pairing event.
Tickets for Events of Note can be purchased online at www.BoulderPhil.org or by calling 303.449.1343.
Ways to Support Us
Make a 60th Anniversary Gift
For 60 years we have relied on the generosity of our community to make music happen— on stage at Macky, in schools, libraries, open spaces, and more. Every contribution from our audience members makes an impact you can hear. A donation in support of our 60th Anniversary will ensure that Boulder County’s cultural gem will continue to thrive.
Become a Performance Sponsor
Show your support by sponsoring a guest artist, individual piece, Masterworks concert, or even an entire concert season. Your sponsorship entitles you to recognition as a Boulder Phil sponsor, as well as exceptional benefits.
60
th
Friends of the Phil
Volunteer
Planned Giving
For more information, contact Eve Orenstein, Director of Development, at 303.443.0542 or eve@boulderphil.org.
Make a pledge of two or more years as a Friends of the Phil sponsor to underwrite a portion of a professional musician’s salary. Your sponsorship will give you the chance to experience the orchestra from the inside out while forging a special connection between you and the performers on stage. There are many ways to manage your assets while providing lasting financial support to the Phil. Are we already in your estate plans? Let us know so we can recognize your generosity.
From office help to Discovery Concerts and fundraising events, we rely on our volunteers to support all aspects of the Phil. If you are available to help out once in a while or regularly, we would love to hear from you.
Why Subscribe? • The best seats, at the best price • Make a date with great music now, and have wonderful nights out to look forward to! • Free ticket exchanges—use for yourself or invite friends to join you • Invitation to subscriber receptions • Discounts on additional tickets and performances
Subscriber Tickets Are Flexible! If you can’t use your tickets, please call at least one day prior to select your FREE option: • Exchange for additional ticket(s) to another concert and invite friends (most popular!) • Exchange for a concert not already in your series, such as The Nutcracker Ballet or Cirque Goes to the Movies • Reissue your tickets under a friend’s name for them to pick up conveniently at Will Call • Convert the value of your tickets to a tax-deductible contribution—thank you!
2017-18 Season Ticket Pricing MACKY AUDITORIUM SEATING CHART
SUBSCRIPTION PACKAGES—5 or 6 concerts New Subscribers: 50% Off Single Ticket Prices!
NEW Subscribers 6 Concerts—50% Off 5 Concerts—50% Off Returning Subscribers 6 Concerts—15% Off 5 Concerts—10% Off
ORDER NOW!
O1
O2
O3
O4
GC
OB
L1
L2
L3
$132
$111
$64
$40
$184
$141
$79
$40
$110
$85
$50
$33
$150
SOLD OUT
$110
$63
$33
$224
$189
$109
$68
$312
$240
$133
$68
$198
$153
$90
$59
$270
$198
$113
$59
ONLINE BoulderPhil.org
$12
PHONE 303.449.1343
SOLD OUT
CREATE YOUR OWN—Choose 3 or 4 concerts for 10% off single ticket prices
Create Your Own— 10% Off
$40
$31
$18
$12
$54
SOLD OUT
$40
$23
SINGLE TICKETS—Students only $5 for concerts on 9/24, 10/14, 1/13, 4/7 and 4/28!
Single Tickets
$44
$34
$20
$13
$60
Sub. Add-on—10% Off
$40
$31
$18
$12
$54
SOLD OUT
$44
$25
$13
$40
$23
$12
NUTCRACKER BALLET and CIRQUE GOES TO THE MOVIES
Single Tickets
$44
$52
$28
$15
$67
$82
$62
$32
$15
Sub. Add-on—10% Off
$40
$47
$25
$14
$60
$74
$56
$29
$14
PINNACLE CONCERT SERIES 9/24 and 1/14 $15/$25 Students only $5
Box Office Hours: 11 AM - 4 PM Mondays through Fridays, plus other times as available
N EW S U B S C RI B E RS : 50% O FF! BOULDER PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA MICHAEL BUTTERMAN, MUSIC DIRECTOR
www.BoulderPhil.org
Sydney and Robert Anderson Patricia Butler
60
th
Voted ‘Best Classical Music’ for the past 5 years in a row by Boulder Weekly readers
Photo: Adam Riggs
Visit the Boulder Phil website for music clips, videos & more
2590 Walnut Street Boulder, Colorado 80302