ENGAGE WITH THE RSO MUSIC DIRECTOR FINALISTS Whether you're joining us in person or online, there are several opportunities to get to know the Music Director Finalists so you can Be Part of the Choice.
Before They Visit Rockford Visit the Finalist's page on the RSO website to read their bio and view an introductory video. View the Concert Event page to learn about the repertoire they'll be presenting to us, including interactive program notes and a playlist of the music that you can listen to in advance.
While They Are in Rockford Each Finalist will be recording a Podcast audio interview while they are in town. These will be posted on the "Podcast" page of our website under the "Engagement" tab. Attend SoundBites at The Mauh-Nah-Tee-See Club on Fridays to hear Principal Trumpet Mark Baldin engage in a lively conversation with each Finalist. Eat lunch, ask questions, and greet the Finalist in person. If you are a Full Finalist subscriber, attend the exclusive Meet & Greet event, for an opportunity to talk to the Finalist. Attend the Pre-Concert Lecture at 6:30pm before the performance to hear the Finalist talk to the audience directly about the evening's program. This is free and open to all ticketholders.
After They Visit Rockford Visit the Finalist's page on the RSO's website to catch up on any events you missed! You can listen to their Podcast interview and SoundBites conversation, and also view photos of the Finalist's time with us in Rockford. Visit the Digital Stage concert page to view the Program Book and listen to the Pre-Concert Lecture. If you are a Full Finalist subscriber, you will recieve an email with a link to view the concert on the ComEd Digital Stage two weeks after the live performance. If you are not a Full Finalist subscriber, you can purchase the concert for just $10!
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Mark Baldin, Principal Trumpet Mark Baldin has been playing with the RSO since 1980, and has served as our principal trumpet for 39 of those years. This season, Mark is also serving as the host of our SoundBites luncheon series at The Mauh-Nah-Tee-See Club.
When Mark isn't playing his trumpet he can be found enjoying his record collection (he is a selfdescribed "stereo hound"), reading books, or watching movies (particularly sci-fi and horror). He also loves good conversation, particularly with a good cup of coffee. We asked Mark about his favorite musical experience with the RSO and he told us: "being in the middle of a great piece of music with the truly wonderful musicians and great friends of the RSO, that is the biggest thrill...to be able to sit back and hear the playing of the great musicians and friends around me, that's magic. There's nothing like it." SoundBites is sponsored in part through a grant from the Rockford Area Arts Council.
