2024–25 Season Brochure

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2024/25 Season

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Classical Series Bank of America POPS Series PNC Family Series Summer & Specials Subscriber Benefits Performance Calendar Enhance Your Concert Experience Institutional Partners Jones Hall Renovations 5 19 27 31 39 47 49 51 53 3
TABLE OF CONTENTS
2024–25 Season

classical

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series

"Creating each season is a journey. We find the right moments for a worldrenowned soloist or music festival, we pay tribute to our musical legacy, and we honor our talent. We develop a beautiful mixture of musical colors by inviting our audience to experience something new and celebrating familiar masterpieces together. The unique orchestration of these elements defines how we will experience this incredible art form.

I am looking forward to sharing this exciting new season of music.”
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BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY FESTIVAL

OPENING WEEKEND:

DVOŘÁK’S NEW WORLD

OCTOBER 4, 5* & 6

JURAJ VALČUHA conductor SVATOPLUK SEM baritone HOUSTON SYMPHONY CHORUS

B. DESSNER Mari **

MARTINŮ Czech Rhapsody DVOŘÁK Symphony No. 9, From the New World

**Saturday and Sunday performances only.

Juraj Valčuha and the orchestra kick off the season with one of the world’s most beloved masterpieces, Dvořák’s soulstirring New World Symphony. This spotlight on great Czech composers also includes Martinů’s joyful Czech Rhapsody, written in celebration of Czechoslovakia’s 1918 independence.

OPENING NIGHT

CONCERT & GALA

October 4, 2024

For Gala information visit houstonsymphony.org/OpeningNight or call 713.337.8523

Concert Sponsor and Lead Gala Underwriter

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BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY FESTIVAL

DVOŘÁK’S VIOLIN CONCERTO

OCTOBER 12 & 13*

JURAJ VALČUHA conductor

JAMES EHNES violin

KAPRÁLOVÁ Military Sinfonietta

DVOŘÁK Violin Concerto

JANÁČEK Sinfonietta

Multi-Grammy Award winner James Ehnes is “a violinist in a class of his own” (The Times), and he’ll set toes tapping and spirits soaring with Dvořák’s exuberant Violin Concerto. Discover a new favorite composer as Juraj Valčuha shares remarkable music of Vítězslava Kaprálová, who left a powerful stamp on the music world despite her tragically early death at the age of 25. Blazing with triumphant fanfares and powered by an extra-large brass section, 12 trumpets strong, Janáček’s Sinfonietta closes the program with festive flourish.

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HANSEL AND GRETEL & DON QUIXOTE

NOVEMBER 1, 2* & 3

SIR DONALD RUNNICLES conductor

JOAN DERHOVSEPIAN viola

BRINTON AVERIL SMITH cello

WAGNER Tannhäuser: Overture

HUMPERDINCK Selections from Hansel and Gretel

R. STRAUSS Don Quixote

Tag along on the colorful, sometimes comical exploits of Miguel de Cervantes’s “Man of La Mancha” in Strauss’s action-packed Don Quixote, featuring the orchestra’s Joan DerHovsepian and Brinton Averil Smith. Music from Humperdinck’s Hansel and Gretel enchants from “once upon a time” to “happily ever after.”

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BACH, MOZART & BRAHMS

NOVEMBER 23 & 24*

YOONSHIN SONG violin and leader

JONATHAN FISCHER oboe

COLIN GATWOOD oboe

MARK NUCCIO clarinet

CHRISTIAN SCHUBERT clarinet

RIAN CRAYPO bassoon

ELISE WAGNER bassoon

WILLIAM VERMEULEN horn

IAN MAYTON horn

J.S. BACH Violin Concerto No. 1 in A minor

MOZART Serenade No. 12 for Winds in C minor, K.388, Nachtmusik

BRAHMS Serenade No. 1 in D major

Members of the Houston Symphony shine in smaller-ensemble works by three of music’s most enduringly popular composers, Bach, Mozart, and Brahms. Marvel at the dazzling invention of Bach’s Violin Concerto No. 1, performed by Concertmaster Yoonshin Song. Then, bask in the glorious melodies and effervescent charm of sparkling serenades by Mozart and Brahms.

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VIENNA CALLING FESTIVAL THANKSGIVING WEEKEND: BEETHOVEN’S EMPEROR CONCERTO

NOVEMBER 29, 30* & DECEMBER 1

JURAJ VALČUHA conductor

YEFIM BRONFMAN piano

SCHUBERT Symphony No. 8, Unfinished

BERG Three Pieces for Orchestra

BEETHOVEN Piano Concerto No. 5, Emperor

Massive in scale and visionary in scope, Beethoven’s Emperor Concerto redefined what a piano concerto could be, reaching towering new heights unsurpassed to this day. Powerhouse pianist Yefim Bronfman performs this bold and uplifting masterpiece on Thanksgiving weekend in a program also featuring Schubert’s ever-popular Unfinished Symphony.

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VIENNA CALLING FESTIVAL A VIENNESE WALTZ CHRISTMAS

DECEMBER 7 & 8*

JURAJ VALČUHA conductor

JOHANN STRAUSS JR. Kaiser-Walzer

Bauern-Polka

Egyptischer Marsch

JOSEF STRAUSS Die Libelle

Moulinet-Polka

JOHANN STRAUSS JR. Perpetuum Mobile

JOSEF STRAUSS Feuerfest!

JOHANN STRAUSS JR. Die Fledermaus Overture

Der Zigeunerbaron Overture

Im Krapfenwald'l

Éljen a Magyar!

Persischer Marsch

Tritsch-Tratsch-Polka

Unter Donner und Blitz

JOSEF STRAUSS Jockey-Polka

JOHANN STRAUSS JR. An der schönen blauen Donau

Waltz your way into the holidays with glittering musical delights by Johann and Josef Strauss! From sprightly polkas to the iconic “Blue Danube” Waltz, this concert is guaranteed to have you dancing in your seat.

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AN ESCHENBACH & BRUCKNER BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION

JANUARY 11 & 12*

CHRISTOPH ESCHENBACH conductor

BRUCKNER Symphony No. 4, Romantic

Tap into your inner hero and envision yourself on an epic quest as the orchestra performs Bruckner’s sweeping and expansive Symphony No. 4. Drawing inspiration from the romance and adventure of medieval times, Bruckner 4 captivates from the opening horn call to the heart-pounding, brass-filled finale. A momentous weekend is in store as we celebrate two special milestones: the 200th anniversary of Bruckner’s birthday; and the upcoming 85th birthday of our beloved former Music Director, Christoph Eschenbach, one of the world’s most widely acclaimed Bruckner conductors.

BEETHOVEN’S

VIOLIN

CONCERTO & TCHAIKOVSKY

JANUARY 24, 25* & 26

TABITA BERGLUND conductor

YOONSHIN SONG violin

A. THORVALDSDÓTTIR Metacosmos

BEETHOVEN Violin Concerto

TCHAIKOVSKY Symphony No. 6, Pathétique

Filled with irresistible melodies and staggering virtuoso demands, Beethoven’s Violin Concerto is one of the best-known and best-loved concertos of all time—and it’s in good hands with the Symphony’s outstanding Concertmaster, Yoonshin Song. Known for beautiful melodies, fiery brass, and a haunting ending that slowly fades into silence, Tchaikovsky's Symphony No. 6 channels an entire world of emotion. Exploring the meeting point of beauty and chaos, Metacosmos is a “rumbling, shimmering sound sculpture that completely envelopes and astonishes” (NPR Music).

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VIVA ITALIA! OPERA BEYOND WORDS

FEBRUARY 7 & 9*

JURAJ VALČUHA conductor

RESPIGHI Belfagor: Overture

CASELLA La donna serpente: Suite No. 2

VERDI Macbeth: Act III Ballet Music

PUCCINI Manon Lescaut: Intermezzo from Act III

Suor Angelica: Intermezzo

Madama Butterfly: Intermezzo

ROSSINI William Tell: Overture

Nothing says “drama” like Italian opera—and while vocal arias may be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of composers like Verdi, Puccini, and Rossini, they poured some of their most breathtakingly beautiful melodies into the orchestral music they created for their operas. In this concert, Music Director Juraj Valčuha and the orchestra share a treasure trove of overtures and interludes from Madama Butterfly, Macbeth, and more, capped off by Rossini’s famous William Tell: Overture.

DUKE BLUEBEARD’S CASTLE

FEBRUARY 15 & 16

JURAJ VALČUHA conductor

DOROTTYA LÁNG mezzo-soprano (Judith)

GÁBOR BRETZ baritone (Bluebeard)

U. CHIN Alice in Wonderland: Prelude to the Mad Tea Party

PROKOFIEV The Love for Three Oranges: Symphonic Suite

BRITTEN Peter Grimes: Four Sea Interludes

BARTÓK Duke Bluebeard’s Castle

A dark, mysterious castle. A husband keeping secrets. Seven locked doors, each masking a blood-stained surprise. It may sound like the perfect setup for a horror movie, but it’s actually the starting point for Bartók’s brilliant one-act opera, Duke Bluebeard’s Castle. Buckle up for an evening of chills, thrills, and astonishing theatrical power as the story unfolds before you, with a stellar cast and stunning scenic projections to immerse you in every moment.

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HILARY HAHN PLAYS BRAHMS

MARCH 7, 8* & 9

ANDRÉS OROZCO-ESTRADA conductor HILARY HAHN violin HOUSTON SYMPHONY CHORUS

BRAHMS Violin Concerto R. STRAUSS Also sprach Zarathustra BRAHMS Schicksalslied

“I cannot think of a single performer who begins to compare with Hilary Hahn. This is, quite simply, magnificent violin playing” (Gramophone). One of the greatest violinists of all time meets one of the most treasured masterpieces ever composed when Hilary Hahn performs Brahms’s radiant Violin Concerto with Andrés Orozco-Estrada and the Symphony. From its earth-shattering opening (as famously heard in 2001: A Space Odyssey) to its otherworldly ending, Also sprach Zarathustra is a stunning adventure in sound.

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FAIRYTALES FESTIVAL KORNGOLD’S VIOLIN CONCERTO & CINDERELLA

MARCH 14, 15* & 16

JURAJ VALČUHA conductor

SIMONE LAMSMA violin

K. AL-ZAND Al-Jazari’s Ingenious Clocks

Houston Symphony Commission, World Premiere

KORNGOLD Violin Concerto

PROKOFIEV Suite from Cinderella

Korngold’s Violin Concerto contains everything audiences love about violin concertos, in spades: shimmering beauty, fingerflying fireworks, and melodies that soar to the stratosphere as only a violin can. Journey into a world of boundless innovation and imagination as the Symphony gives the world premiere of Al-Jazari’s Ingenious Clocks, inspired by the fantastical inventions of 12th century Islamic polymath Ismail al-Jazari. Prokofiev’s Cinderella whisks us through a world of fairy tale magic, leading up to the stroke of midnight.

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FAIRYTALES FESTIVAL RACHMANINOFF’S RHAPSODY & THE LITTLE MERMAID

MARCH 21, 22* & 23

JURAJ VALČUHA conductor

KIRILL GERSTEIN piano

LIADOV The Enchanted Lake

RACHMANINOFF Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini

ZEMLINSKY The Mermaid

Based on a catchy little tune by Paganini, Rachmaninoff’s diabolically difficult Rhapsody blends explosive piano feats with melodies that melt the heart. In the hands of Kirill Gerstein— one of today’s leading Rachmaninoff masters—it promises to be nothing short of spectacular. And, Music Director Juraj Valčuha leads music sprinkled in fairy tale magic: swim through the wonders of Liadov’s Enchanted Lake, then dive under the sea with Zemlinsky’s lavishly romantic The Mermaid, inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s “Little Mermaid” story.

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SIBELIUS 5 & STRAVINSKY

APRIL 18 & 19*

DALIA STASEVSKA conductor

LEILA JOSEFOWICZ violin

STRAVINSKY Violin Concerto SIBELIUS Symphony No. 5

Experience the awe-inspiring power and grandeur of Sibelius’s monumental Fifth Symphony, under the baton of dynamic conductor Dalia Stasevska. With soundscapes as breathtaking as the Finnish terrain and a soaring finale inspired by swans in flight, this is music guaranteed to leave you exhilarated. Fearless virtuoso Leila Josefowicz brings “stunning brilliance and high-voltage presence” (LA Times) to Stravinsky’s daring and invigorating Violin Concerto.

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BEETHOVEN 7 & MOZART

MAY 1, 3* & 4

MATTHIAS PINTSCHER conductor CÉDRIC TIBERGHIEN piano

TAKEMITSU Twill by Twilight MOZART Piano Concerto No. 20 in D minor, K.466 BEETHOVEN Symphony No. 7

Join us for beloved masterpieces by Beethoven and Mozart! Beethoven’s mega-popular Symphony No. 7 has enthralled audiences for more than 200 years, and in typical Beethoven fashion, it fearlessly embraces the full gamut of emotion, from dark and brooding to free-spirited and fun-loving. Mozart’s genius blazes with white-hot intensity in his stormy and dramatic Piano Concerto No. 20.

MARGARET ALKEK WILLIAMS SPOTLIGHT SERIES

Made possible through generous support from Margaret Alkek Williams, Spotlight Series performances feature outstanding conductors and artists, including Music Director Juraj Valčuha, and other renowned guest artists. These concerts include curated musical selections by some of the greatest composers of all time such as Beethoven, Tchaikovsky, Brahms, and Rachmaninoff alongside contemporary works, offering audiences inspiring musical experiences that will stay with them after they leave the concert hall. Thanks to Margaret Alkek Williams, the Houston Symphony can serve our audiences with the highest level of artistry.

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TRUMPET BRILLIANCE & BOLÉRO

MAY 9, 10* & 11

DOMINGO HINDOYAN conductor

PACHO FLORES trumpet

R. SIERRA Alegría

A. MÁRQUEZ Concierto de Otoño (Autumn Concerto)

P. D’RIVERA Concerto Venezolano (Venezuelan Concerto)

DEBUSSY Ibéria from Images

RAVEL Boléro

Sensuous sounds, showstopping brilliance, and irresistible rhythms! Venezuelan trumpet virtuoso Pacho Flores heats up Jones Hall with not one but two crowd-pleasing concertos, both composed specifically for him: first, hear Arturo Márquez’s fiery Concierto de Otoño, followed by Paquito D’Rivera’s jazzy Venezuelan Concerto. Domingo Hindoyan leads the orchestra through a bewitching array of music inspired by Spain, ending with Ravel’s hypnotic and sultry Boléro

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BRUCE LIU PLAYS CHOPIN

MAY 23, 24* & 25

JURAJ VALČUHA conductor

BRUCE LIU piano

WALKER Icarus in Orbit

CHOPIN Piano Concerto No. 1

SCHUMANN Symphony No. 2

Commanding “rock-star status in the classical music world” (The Globe and Mail) following his first-prize win at the 2021 International Chopin Piano Competition, Bruce Liu makes his Houston Symphony debut with Chopin’s impassioned and poetic Piano Concerto No. 1—a match made in music heaven. Robert Schumann composed his Second Symphony during one of his darkest hours. Brimming with sparkling tunes, delicate grace, and unwavering hope, it stands as a profound testament to humankind’s strength, grit, and resilience.

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JURAJ VALČUHA CONDUCTS MAHLER 3

MAY 30, 31* & JUNE 1

JURAJ VALČUHA conductor MARINA PRUDENSKAYA mezzo-soprano SOPRANOS AND ALTOS OF THE HOUSTON SYMPHONY CHORUS

MAHLER Symphony No. 3

Dive into new worlds as Music Director Juraj Valčuha leads Mahler’s cosmic, beyond-epic Symphony No. 3. Immense even by Mahler’s standards, and probing secrets of nature, humanity, and the divine, nowhere else is Mahler’s declaration—“a symphony must be like the world. It must embrace everything”— more true. This is music that speaks to everyone, and can take you anywhere—as Mahler himself wrote, “you just have to bring along ears and a heart.”

ENCORE AFTER-PARTY TO FOLLOW SATURDAY’S PERFORMANCE!

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pops bank of america

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series

"Each and every year, I imagine what is possible. This wide-ranging season takes us on a musical journey from classic rock to world music, from Uptown to Motown, and from James Bond to The Bee Gees. Come experience music in a new way, reconnect with cherished memories, and create new ones.

We invite you to join us for an unforgettable season of fun at the Houston Symphony!"

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AIN’T NO MOUNTAIN HIGH ENOUGH: THE MUSIC OF MOTOWN

SEPTEMBER 28 & 29*

STEVEN REINEKE conductor

CAPATHIA JENKINS vocalist

RYAN SHAW vocalist

With joyful, dance-friendly beats and lyrics that remain as relatable today as in the '60s, the artists of Motown defined the sound of a generation. Groove to that iconic “Motown Sound” as vocalists Capathia Jenkins and Ryan Shaw join the orchestra for songs guaranteed to leave you “Dancing in the Streets,” including hits of Diana Ross and The Supremes, Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell, and many more.

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IT DON’T MEAN A THING: SWINGIN’ UPTOWN CLASSICS WITH BYRON STRIPLING

NOVEMBER 8, 9* & 10

BYRON STRIPLING conductor, trumpet, and vocalist CARMEN BRADFORD vocalist

LEO MANZARI vocalist and tap dancer

It Don’t Mean a Thing if it Ain’t Got That Swing! Inspired by legendary musical hot spots like The Cotton Club and The Savoy, this electrifying concert will transport you to Harlem’s hippest nightclub, when Duke Ellington’s orchestra was the house band and Cab Calloway, Ella Fitzgerald, and Ethel Waters showcased the biggest jazz hits of the day.

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*Performance also livestreamed ENCORE AFTER-PARTY TO FOLLOW SATURDAY’S PERFORMANCE!

VERY MERRY POPS

DECEMBER 12, 14* & 15

STEVEN REINEKE conductor JESSICA VOSK vocalist HOUSTON SYMPHONY CHORUS

Jingle all the way to Jones Hall for Houston’s beloved holiday music tradition, Very Merry Pops! From treasured carols to a special visit from Santa himself, there’s no better way to get in the spirit of the season. “Considered by some to be the finest Elphaba that Wicked ever had” (Theater Pizzazz), Broadway sensation Jessica Vosk brings her energy, humor, and gravity-defying voice to your yuletide favorites.

“Great music, and a wonderful holiday tradition to share with friends and family.”
–Ginger A., concertgoer
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22 2024–25 Bank of America POPS Series *Performance also livestreamed

NEW YEAR’S CELEBRATION! PINK MARTINI WITH CHINA FORBES: 30TH

ANNIVERSARY SEASON

JANUARY 3, 4* & 5

What better way to toast 2025 than with the always fun and fabulous Pink Martini?

The world-famous “little orchestra”, featuring original lead singer China Forbes, will get you in the mood to party with a fresh, fizzy cocktail of multi-lingual delights, from music of Brazilian Samba to jaunty Parisian café songs to retro jazz and oldfashioned pop.

Performance does not include the Houston Symphony.

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007: JAMES BOND FOREVER

FEBRUARY 28, MARCH 1* & 2

STEVEN REINEKE conductor LENA HALL vocalist

“The name is Bond…James Bond.” Grab your favorite drink (shaken, not stirred) and settle in for an evening of style, sophistication, and intrigue as the Houston Symphony celebrates 60 years of 007. Tony Award-winning Broadway star Lena Hall joins the orchestra for unforgettable Bond themes spanning Connery to Craig, including favorites such as Goldfinger, Skyfall, Diamonds are Forever, and Live and Let Die.

06 SHOWSTOPPERS! CELEBRATING ICONIC WOMEN OF BROADWAY

APRIL 4, 5* & 6

STEVEN REINEKE conductor MANDY GONZALEZ vocalist

“Everyone deserves the chance to fly” (Wicked). In this spectacular Broadway show, you’ll hear electrifying showstoppers from Wicked, In the Heights, Hamilton, and more, each with a nod to powerful female characters who never let anyone bring them down. Possessing one of the most dynamic and expressive voices on Broadway, no one’s better suited to these songs than Mandy Gonzalez. As a special treat, Mandy also shares a song written just for her by Lin-Manuel Miranda.

ENCORE AFTER-PARTY TO FOLLOW SATURDAY’S PERFORMANCE!

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CIRQUE ROCKS!

APRIL 25, 26 & 27

JASON SEBER conductor

DAN DOMENECH vocalist

CHLOE LOWERY vocalist

CIRQUE DE LA SYMPHONIE

Experience the ultimate fusion of sight and sound in this all-new Cirque show. High-powered vocalists and a huge orchestra turn up the volume on your favorite songs by Aerosmith, Journey, Styx, Heart, The Eagles, Cyndi Lauper, and more, while the world’s greatest aerial flyers, acrobats, contortionists, jugglers, and strongmen perform death-defying feats above and around the musicians.

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STAYIN’ ALIVE: THE BEE GEES & BEYOND

MAY 16, 17* & 18

STEVEN REINEKE conductor RAJATON vocal ensemble

Break out your sequins and bellbottoms—we’re celebrating the best of The Bee Gees, and beyond! You should (and will!) be dancing in your seat as world-renowned a cappella sensation Rajaton bring their smooth harmonies to the songs that lit up the disco era. Relive the magic of an unforgettable time in this high-energy concert, led by Principal POPS Conductor Steven Reineke.

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JOHN WILLIAMS & STEVEN SPIELBERG: MOVIE MAGIC

JUNE 6, 7* & 8

STEVEN REINEKE conductor

Spanning 50 years and 29 films, John Williams's and Steven Spielberg’s legendary partnership has created unparalleled movie magic. Relive the unforgettable music from Jaws, Jurassic Park, Raiders of the Lost Ark, E.T., Schindler’s List, Close Encounters of the Third Kind, and more in this symphonic celebration of Hollywood’s dynamic duo.

26 2024–25 Bank of America POPS Series *Performance also livestreamed

family

series

Our PNC Family Series is the perfect way to introduce your little ones to the magic of live music!

Concerts take place in a casual, interactive space where kids can move, dance, and engage with the music.

Enhance your experience with free lobby activities at every concert, including an Instrument Petting Zoo.

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CLAP YOUR HANDS, SAY YEAH! THE GREAT AMERICAN MUSIC ADVENTURE

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 9

10 & 11:30 A.M.

BYRON STRIPLING conductor, trumpet, vocalist

Tap your toes, stamp your feet, and sing along as you journey through quintessential American genres like jazz, blues, gospel, and even patriotic tunes! Charismatic singer and trumpeter Byron Stripling will have your little ones singing, dancing, and clapping along in this fun and interactive concert filled with music and stories. Get ready to hear beloved favorites that everyone knows and loves!

SHERLOCK HOLMES AND THE CASE OF THE MISSING MAESTRO

SATURDAY, MARCH 1

10 & 11:30 A.M.

GONZALO FARIAS conductor

As the concert begins, the orchestra will discover that their Maestro is suddenly missing. Luckily, famous detective Sherlock Holmes is available—but to crack the case, he’ll need help from the audience! All the musicians are suspects, and no one is to be trusted. While the orchestra performs, you’ll help Sherlock investigate each of the instrument families for clues to the mystery. The game’s afoot in this fun-filled musical whodunit!

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HOLLY JOLLY HOLIDAY

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14

10 & 11:30 A.M.

GONZALO FARIAS conductor

“He’s making a list and checking it twice!” Santa stops by Jones Hall to spread lots of Christmas cheer! Make special memories with the Symphony’s annual holiday concert for kids. One of our most popular events of the year, the concert will include a host of kid-friendly holiday songs, plus free hot chocolate, interactive lobby activities, and a chance to visit with Santa.

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CIRQUE FOR KIDS

SATURDAY, APRIL 26

10 & 11:30 A.M.

JASON SEBER conductor

DAN DOMENECH vocalist

CHLOE LOWERY vocalist

CIRQUE DE LA SYMPHONIE

Watch them “fly through the air with the greatest of ease” in this Cirque de la Symphonie concert designed especially for children! Jones Hall transforms into a magical circus wonderland as jugglers and aerial flyers perform dazzling feats, with live music by the Symphony. Make it a morning of musical fun with hands-on lobby activities, including our Instrument Petting Zoo.

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Concert Extras: Play a violin, slide a trombone, or bang a drum at our popular Instrument Petting Zoo!
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summer & spec ials

Add These Concerts to Your Subscription Summer Series Specials

The Music of Abba

JUNE 15, 2024, 2:30 & 7:30 P.M.

THE HOBBY CENTER

RAJATON vocal ensemble

“See that girl, watch that scene, digging the dancing queen…”

Mamma Mia, here we go again! Dance, jive, and have the time of your life as the Houston Symphony salutes Swedish pop supergroup ABBA. World-renowned a cappella sensation Rajaton joins the orchestra for all your favorite ABBA hits: “Mamma Mia,” “Gimme, Gimme, Gimme,” “Dancing Queen,” “S.O.S.,” and so much more.

2024–25 Summer and Specials
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JURASSIC PARK IN CONCERT

JUNE 22, 2024, 2:30 & 7:30 P.M.

JUNE 23, 2024, 2:30 P.M.

THE HOBBY CENTER

Featuring visually stunning imagery and groundbreaking special effects, the action-packed adventure of Jurassic Park pits man against prehistoric predators in the ultimate battle for survival.

Experience it now, projected in HD on a giant screen, with the full Houston Symphony performing John Williams’s iconic score live to picture!

THE MUSIC OF THE ROLLING STONES

JUNE 28, 2024, 7:30 P.M.

JUNE 29, 2024, 2:30 P.M.

THE HOBBY CENTER

With countless chart-toppers and unmistakable swagger, The Rolling Stones have defined “cool” since the ‘60s. Backed by the power of a full orchestra and rock band, incredible lead singer Mick Adams delivers a fabulous rendition of Mick Jagger’s vocals (and moves) to recreate The Rolling Stones’ biggest hits through the decades—“Satisfaction,” “Paint It Black,” “Ruby Tuesday,” “Honky Tonk Women,” “Angie,” “Wild Horses,” “Jumpin’ Jack Flash,” and many more!

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trifonov in concert

OCTOBER 10, 2024, 7:30 P.M.

JONES HALL

JURAJ VALČUHA conductor

DANIIL TRIFONOV piano

KAPRÁLOVÁ Military Sinfonietta

DVOŘÁK Piano Concerto

JANÁČEK Sinfonietta

“He is, no other word, a phenomenon” (The Guardian). Superstar pianist Daniil Trifonov brings his one-of-a-kind artistry to Dvořák’s grand and dramatic Piano Concerto in this special performance with Music Director Juraj Valčuha and the Symphony.

2024–25 Summer and Specials

Yo-Yo Ma in concert

DECEMBER 9, 2024, 7:30 P.M.

JONES HALL

JURAJ VALČUHA conductor YO-YO MA cello

JOHANN STRAUSS JR. Die Fledermaus Overture DVOŘÁK Cello Concerto

It’s hard to think of an artist more universally beloved than Yo-Yo Ma. The 19-time Grammy Award-winner joins the Houston Symphony for one of the greatest cello concertos ever composed in this one-night-only event at Jones Hall.

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ON SALE EXCLUSIVELY TO 2024–25 SEASON SUBSCRIBERS!

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND

DISNEY TIM BURTON’S THE NIGHTMARE BEFORE CHRISTMAS IN CONCERT

NOVEMBER 16, 2024, 2:00 & 7:30 P.M.

NOVEMBER 17, 2024, 2:00 P.M.

JONES HALL

Watch one of Tim Burton’s most celebrated films like never before! The Nightmare Before Christmas will be projected in its entirety on the big screen, accompanied by Danny Elfman’s darkly charming score played live by the orchestra.

HANDEL’S MESSIAH

DECEMBER 20, 2024, 7:30 P.M.

DECEMBER 21, 2024, 7:30 P.M.

DECEMBER 22, 2024, 2:00 P.M.

JONES HALL

HOUSTON SYMPHONY CHORUS

Jones Hall will be filled with joyous refrains and exultant arias, including the iconic “Hallelujah” Chorus, in this powerful presentation of the greatest story ever told.

"Attending the symphony, especially with choral performances, is a moment of magic."
–Carolyn B., concertgoer
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©Disney
licensed by Disney Concerts
Presentation

HARRY POTTER AND THE PRISONER OF AZKABAN™ IN CONCERT

JANUARY 18, 2025, 2:00 & 7:30 P.M.

JANUARY 19, 2025, 2:00 P.M.

JONES HALL

Relive the magic of your favorite wizard in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban™ in Concert. Based on the third installment of the classic saga, the thrilling tale is accompanied by the music of a live symphony orchestra as Harry soars across the big screen. From the moment Harry uses the Marauder’s Map to when the Patronus Charm bursts from his wand, you’ll be transported back into the world you love.

STAR WARS: THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK IN CONCERT

FEBRUARY 21, 2025, 7:30 P.M.

FEBRUARY 22, 2025, 2:00 P.M. & 7:30 P.M.

JONES HALL

Luke Skywalker trains with Master Yoda and learns a shocking truth about Darth Vader in this critically acclaimed second installment of the original Star Wars trilogy. The action unfolds on the giant screen at Jones Hall while you experience every note of John Williams’ masterful score, live.

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WIZARDING WORLD and all related trademarks, characters, names, and indicia are © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Publishing Rights © JKR. © &™LUCASFILM LTD Presentation licensed by Disney Concerts
2024–25 Summer and Specials
"There is a genre for everyone, and the Houston Symphony is one of the top orchestras in the world.”
–Julie C., subscriber

sub scriber benefits

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Join Our Subscriber Family!

The biggest savings on tickets, insider access, and ultimate flexibility are just the beginning— when you become part of the Houston Symphony family, we do everything we can to ensure you’re getting the best of the best. Join our growing community of 8,000+ subscribers, and enjoy a premium experience with all the perks.

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classical series season ticket options

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PRICE LEVEL 18 CONCERTS 9 CONCERTS 6 CONCERTS Premium Aisle $2,025 $1,134 $765 Premium $2,007 $1,125 $759 Level 2 $1,557 $891 $612 Center Aisle $1,251 $729 $489 Level 3 $1,233 $720 $486 Level 4 $945 $576 $375 Level 5 $612 $396 $261 Side Aisle $450 $270 $174 Level 6 $441 $261 $168 FRONT ORCHESTRA MIDDLE ORCHESTRA REAR ORCHESTRA GRAND TIER RIGHT BOXES LEFT BOXES STAGE

9-concert packages

9-CONCERT SERIES A

Opening Weekend: Dvořák’s New World

October 4, 5 & 6

Juraj Valčuha, conductor

Bach, Mozart & Brahms

November 23 & 24

Yoonshin Song, leader

A Viennese Waltz Christmas

December 7 & 8

Juraj Valčuha, conductor

Beethoven’s Violin Concerto & Tchaikovsky

January 24, 25 & 26

Tabita Berglund, conductor

Duke Bluebeard’s Castle

February 15 & 16

Juraj Valčuha, conductor

9-CONCERT SERIES B

Dvořák’s Violin Concerto

October 12 & 13

Juraj Valčuha, conductor

Hansel and Gretel & Don Quixote

November 1, 2 & 3

Sir Donald Runnicles, conductor

Thanksgiving Weekend:

Beethoven’s Emperor Concerto

November 29, 30 & December 1

Juraj Valčuha, conductor

An Eschenbach & Bruckner Birthday Celebration

January 11 & 12

Christoph Eschenbach, conductor

Viva Italia! Opera Beyond Words

February 7 & 9

Juraj Valčuha, conductor

Korngold’s Violin Concerto & Cinderella

March 14, 15 & 16

Juraj Valčuha, conductor

Sibelius 5 & Stravinsky

April 18 & 19

Dalia Stasevska, conductor

Beethoven 7 & Mozart

May 1, 3 & 4

Matthias Pintscher, conductor

Bruce Liu Plays Chopin

May 23, 24 & 25

Juraj Valčuha, conductor

Hilary Hahn Plays Brahms

March 7, 8 & 9

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor

Rachmaninoff’s Rhapsody & The Little Mermaid

March 21, 22 & 23

Juraj Valčuha, conductor

Trumpet Brilliance & Boléro

May 9, 10 & 11

Domingo Hindoyan, conductor

Juraj Valčuha Conducts Mahler 3

May 30, 31 & June 1

Juraj Valčuha, conductor

42 2024–25 Season

6-concert packages

FROST BANK GOLD CLASSICS PACKAGE

Dvořák’s Violin Concerto

October 12 & 13

Juraj Valčuha, conductor

Thanksgiving Weekend:

Beethoven’s Emperor Concerto

November 29, 30 & December 1

Juraj Valčuha, conductor

An Eschenbach & Bruckner

Birthday Celebration

January 11 & 12

Christoph Eschenbach, conductor

SHELL FAVORITE MASTERS PACKAGE

Opening Weekend: Dvořák’s New World

October 4, 5 & 6

Juraj Valčuha, conductor

Bach, Mozart & Brahms

November 23 & 24

Yoonshin Song, leader

Beethoven’s Violin Concerto & Tchaikovsky

January 24, 25 & 26

Tabita Berglund, conductor

GREAT PERFORMERS PACKAGE

Hansel and Gretel & Don Quixote

November 1, 2 & 3

Sir Donald Runnicles, conductor

A Viennese Waltz Christmas

December 7 & 8

Juraj Valčuha, conductor

Viva Italia! Opera Beyond Words

February 7 & 9

Juraj Valčuha, conductor

Hilary Hahn Plays Brahms

March 7, 8 & 9

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, conductor

Trumpet Brilliance & Boléro

May 9, 10 & 11

Domingo Hindoyan, conductor

Juraj Valčuha Conducts Mahler 3

May 30, 31 & June 1

Juraj Valčuha, conductor

Duke Bluebeard’s Castle

February 15 & 16

Juraj Valčuha, conductor

Korngold’s Violin Concerto & Cinderella

March 14, 15 & 16

Juraj Valčuha, conductor

Beethoven 7 & Mozart

May 1, 3 & 4

Matthias Pintscher, conductor

Rachmaninoff’s Rhapsody & The Little Mermaid

March 21, 22 & 23

Juraj Valčuha, conductor

Sibelius 5 & Stravinsky

April 18 & 19

Dalia Stasevska, conductor

Bruce Liu Plays Chopin

May 23, 24 & 25

Juraj Valčuha, conductor

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pnc Family series package

Enjoy all 4 concerts for $89!

Clap your hands, say yeah!

The Great American Music Adventure

November 9

Holly Jolly Holiday

December 14

Sherlock Holmes and the Case of the Missing Maestro

March 1

Cirque for Kids

April 26

2024–25 Season
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bank of america pops series season ticket options

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PRICE LEVEL 9 CONCERTS 6 CONCERTS Premium Aisle $1,332 $921 Premium $1,242 $858 Level 2 $972 $669 Center Aisle $819 $549 Level 3 $810 $546 Level 4 $630 $420 Level 5 $432 $297 Side Aisle $288 $258 Level 6 $279 $183 FRONT ORCHESTRA MIDDLE ORCHESTRA REAR ORCHESTRA GRAND TIER RIGHT BOXES LEFT BOXES STAGE

Concert packages

9 CONCERTS

Ain’t No Mountain High Enough: The Music of Motown

September 28 & 29

Steven Reineke, conductor

It Don’t Mean a Thing: Swingin’ Uptown Classics with Byron Stripling

November 8, 9 & 10

Byron Stripling, conductor

Very Merry Pops

December 12, 14 & 15

Steven Reineke, conductor

Pink Martini with China Forbes: 30th Anniversary Season

January 3, 4 & 5

007: James Bond Forever

February 28, March 1 & 2

Steven Reineke, conductor

Showstoppers! Celebrating Iconic Women of Broadway

April 4, 5 & 6

Steven Reineke, conductor

Cirque Rocks!

April 25, 26 & 27

Jason Seber, conductor

Stayin’ Alive: The Bee Gees & Beyond

May 16, 17 & 18

Steven Reineke, conductor

John Williams & Steven Spielberg: Movie Magic

June 6, 7 & 8

Steven Reineke, conductor

6 CONCERTS

It Don’t Mean a Thing: Swingin’ Uptown Classics with Byron Stripling

November 8, 9 & 10

Byron Stripling, conductor

Very Merry Pops

December 12, 14 & 15

Steven Reineke, conductor

Pink Martini with China Forbes: 30th Anniversary Season

January 3, 4 & 5

007: James Bond Forever

February 28, March 1 & 2

Steven Reineke, conductor

Cirque Rocks!

April 25, 26 & 27

Jason Seber, conductor

Stayin’ Alive: The Bee Gees & Beyond

May 16, 17 & 18

Steven Reineke, conductor

46 2024–25 Season

performance calendar

June 2024

September 2024

The Music of ABBA

June 15

Jurassic Park in Concert

June 22 & 23

Ain’t No Mountain High Enough: The Music of Motown

September 28 & 29

October 2024

Opening Weekend: Dvořák’s New World

October 4, 5 & 6

Trifonov in Concert

October 10

November 2024

Hansel and Gretel & Don Quixote

November 1, 2 & 3

It Don’t Mean a Thing: Swingin’ Uptown Classics with Byron Stripling

November 8, 9 & 10

Clap your hands, say yeah!

The Great American Music Adventure

November 9

December 2024

A Viennese Waltz Christmas

December 7 & 8

Yo-Yo Ma in Concert

December 9

Very Merry Pops

December 12, 14 & 15

The Music of The Rolling Stones

June 28 & 29

Dvořák’s Violin Concerto

October 12 & 13

Disney Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas in Concert

November 16 & 17

Bach, Mozart & Brahms

November 23 & 24

Thanksgiving Weekend: Beethoven’s Emperor Concerto

November 29, 30 & December 1

Holly Jolly Holiday

December 14

Handel's Messiah

December 20, 21 & 22

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S S S S S S S
Bank of America POPS Series S Summer & Specials PNC Family Series Classical Series

January 2025

February 2025

March 2025

Pink Martini with China Forbes: 30th Anniversary Season

January 3, 4 & 5

An Eschenbach & Bruckner Birthday Celebration

January 11 & 12

Viva Italia! Opera Beyond Words

February 7 & 9

Duke Bluebeard’s Castle

February 15 & 16

Sherlock Holmes and the Case of the Missing Maestro

March 1

Hilary Hahn Plays Brahms

March 7, 8 & 9

April 2025

May 2025

Showstoppers! Celebrating Iconic Women of Broadway

April 4, 5 & 6

Sibelius 5 & Stravinsky

April 18 & 19

Beethoven 7 & Mozart May 1, 3 & 4

Trumpet Brilliance & Boléro May 9, 10 & 11

Stayin’ Alive: The Bee Gees & Beyond

May 16, 17 & 18

June 2025

John Williams & Steven Spielberg: Movie Magic

June 6, 7 & 8

Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban™ in Concert

January 18 & 19

Beethoven’s Violin Concerto & Tchaikovsky

January 24, 25 & 26

Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back in Concert

February 21 & 22

007: James Bond Forever February 28, March 1 & 2

Korngold’s Violin Concerto & Cinderella March 14, 15 & 16

Rachmaninoff’s Rhapsody & The Little Mermaid

March 21, 22 & 23

Cirque Rocks! April 25, 26 & 27

Cirque For Kids April 26

Bruce Liu Plays Chopin May 23, 24 & 25

Juraj Valčuha Conducts Mahler 3 May 30, 31 & June 1

48 2024–25 Season S S

ENHANCE YOUR CONCERT EXPERIENCE…

Connect more closely to the music you love and experience your Symphony in new ways while making a true difference to our orchestra and our community.

Please consider making a gift with your subscription order and explore new music opportunities as a Houston Symphony donor.

When you donate, you can unlock benefits tailored to your musical tastes such as:

• Invites to private rehearsals with pre-rehearsal lectures

• Special Meet and Greets with orchestra musicians and guest artists

• Complimentary drinks in the donor lounges

• Valet parking, and so much more!

Gifts of all sizes are needed and valued—and will unlock specific benefits just for you. Whether you subscribe to the Bank of America POPS series, or are a classical aficionado, your support will be rewarded with fun and engaging opportunities curated for our donor family.

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Houston Symphony brass musicians perform at a donor event
50 2024–25 Season
Donors enjoying the Toomim Family Green Room Children participating during an Upper Elementary Student Concert Patrons converse with guest artist Tony DeSare at a private reception

thank you to our institutional partners

The Houston Symphony salutes our corporate, foundation, and government partners whose generosity allows the orchestra to reach new heights in music, education, and community engagement.

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POPS Series Gold Classics Print Media Sponsor & Special Events Favorite Masters Official Health Care Provider & Underwriter

Diamond Guarantor

$1,000,000 or more

The Brown Foundation, Inc. ++

Houston Symphony Endowment ++

Houston Symphony League ++

The Wortham Foundation, Inc. ++

Premier Guarantor

$500,000 or more

The Alkek and Williams Foundation

City of Houston through Houston Arts Alliance

The C. Howard Piper Foundation

Grand Guarantor

$150,000 or more

The Cullen Foundation ++

The Cullen Trust for the Performing Arts ++

The Hearst Foundation

The Humphreys Foundation +

MD Anderson Foundation ++

National Endowment for the Arts +

Texas Commission on the Arts ++

ROUP G R AND

Guarantor

$100,000 or more

City of Houston through the Miller Theatre Advisory Board ++

The Houston Arts Combined Endowment Fund

The Jerry C. Dearing Family Foundation

Underwriter

$50,000 or more

Albert & Ethel Herzstein Foundation +

Beauchamp Foundation

Houston Symphony Chorus Endowment

John P. McGovern Foundation ++

The Powell Foundation ++

The Elkins Foundation

Sponsor

$25,000 or more

William S. & Lora Jean Kilroy Foundation

The Vivian L. Smith Foundation ++

The William Stamps Farish Fund

The Melbern G. & Susanne M. Glasscock Foundation

52 2024–25 Season G ARAGE Family Series Specials Holiday Series Summer Series

JONES HALL RENOVATIONS

Our beloved Jones Hall has never looked better. While the iconic exterior remains an unchanged landmark of the downtown Houston cityscape, over the last several summers, we’ve already seen wonderful changes to Jones Hall’s interior, including:

• The creation of vertical aisles in the auditorium for easier access to seating.

• All new seating in the auditorium.

• Shiny, new bathrooms at the Courtyard level along with substantially more bathroom accommodations, and easy, direct access to them through the creation of a new lobby stairwell.

• More wheelchair seats, and ADA improvements to the lobby and auditorium.

• The reconfiguration and reinforcement of the auditorium’s side walls to substantially improve acoustics.

• A brand new orchestral shell onstage for state-of-the-art acoustics.

But wait! There are more vital changes still to come, including:

• A forestage acoustic reflector at the top of the proscenium for even greater acoustic performance in the hall benefitting both musicians and audience.

• Reconfiguring the Texas Street side of the lobby so that the auditorium is fully wheelchair accessible directly from that entrance.

• Renovations to improve backstage accommodations for performers, including better sound isolation from the loading dock.

Once all of the renovations are completed, the rejuvenated Jones Hall will not only gleam on its surface, but it will feel more comfortable and inviting than ever, and deliver the thrilling sounds of our Houston Symphony directly to us in an exciting, visceral way that we’ve up until now only dreamed of. Visit

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houstonsymphony.org/JonesHallRenovation for more information.
54 2024–25 Season FOR REFERENCE ONLY - NOT FOR REGULATORY APPROVAL, PERMITTING OR CONSTRUCTION. EDWIN R. GARRETT, STATE OF TEXAS REGISTERED ARCHITECT #7921 Jones Hall 05/31/2023 RECEIVING
Louisiana Street, Houston, TX 77002 houstonsymphony.org
Jones
Hall for the Performing Arts 615
Juraj Valčuha, Music Director

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