THOMAS DAUSGAARD, MUSIC DIRECTOR
“ … one of the most essential symphony orchestras in the country.”
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– WQXR, New York
“The Seattle Symphony … has enthusiastically embraced its role as a catalyst for change.” – Vanguard Seattle
“I have spent so many wonderful, magical hours in Benaroya Hall listening to the music. I cannot imagine life without this part of it.” – Art,
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Create Your Own Series subscriptions are back! Join Music Director Thomas Dausgaard and the Seattle Symphony for a glorious return to in-person performances at Benaroya Hall. Here are just some of the 2021/2022 season’s most anticipated programs:
Thomas Conducts Rachmaninov Symphonic Dances see page 6 Dausgaard Sibelius Symphony No. 1 see page 14 Mahler Symphony No. 6 see page 17
Stellar Soloists Ray Chen Plays Tchaikovsky Violin Concerto see page 8 An Evening with Itzhak Perlman see page 12 Lang Lang in Recital see page 17
Contemporary Works The Music of John Adams see page 12 #What2022SoundsLike see page 15 Evolution of Voices see page 18
By Popular Demand Avi Avital The Four Seasons see page 12 Aretha: A Tribute see page 12 Wayne Marshall Plays & Conducts Gershwin see page 22
Visit seattlesymphony.org/cyo to create your own series today! seattlesymphony.org | 206.215.4747
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Opening Night SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18
Opening Night Gala Thomas Dausgaard conductor REENA ESMAIL RE | Member (Seattle Symphony Co-commission & World Premiere) R. STRAUSS Don Juan STRAVINSKY The Firebird Suite (1919 version) Raise a glass to the return of live music and the launch of a new season with a unique and elevated opening night experience! Journey through Benaroya Hall with a front row seat to small, specially curated performances, all leading toward the main event on the S. Mark Taper Foundation Auditorium stage. Music Director Thomas Dausgaard leads the orchestra in a dazzling world premiere by Composer in Residence Reena Esmail, paired perfectly with Stravinsky’s dramatic and immensely popular Firebird Suite. This black-tie event celebrates the Seattle Symphony’s commitment to arts and culture in our community, and directly supports the Symphony’s artistic, educational and community programming.
For more information, or to reserve your Opening Night Gala experience, call 206.215.4728.
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MARCH 20 CELEBRATE ASIA
Thomas Dausgaard’s position is generously underwritten as the Harriet Overton Stimson Music Director. Reena Esmail is presented as part of the Seattle Symphony’s New Music WORKS initiative, supported in part by a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts.
Opening Night Gala tickets are currently available for gala only, and are not available as part of CYO 5 subscriptions.
sept THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, AT 7:30PM SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, AT 8PM SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, AT 2PM
R. Schumann Symphony No. 3
The start of a season is like the first day of school in its excitement and anticipation.
David Robertson conductor NATALIE DIETTERICH aeolian dust IVES Three Places in New England (Original Version) R. SCHUMANN Symphony No. 3, "Rhenish" In an intriguing triptych of composers exploring space and place, Natalie Dietterich's aeolian dust hovers in the atmosphere, coalesces and then dissipates. Three places dear to Charles Ives are captured in music at turns haunting, rousing and heartfelt. And Robert Schumann lays out a truly majestic portrayal of life on the Rhine in his Third Symphony.
– Kathleen Boyer,
Assistant Principal Second Violin
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oct THURSDAY, OCTOBER 7, AT 7:30PM SATURDAY, OCTOBER 9, AT 8PM
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 14, AT 7:30PM SATURDAY, OCTOBER 16, AT 8PM
Rachmaninov Symphonic Dances
Dausgaard Conducts Stravinsky
Thomas Dausgaard conductor Patricia Kopatchinskaja violin
Thomas Dausgaard conductor Adeliia Faizullina soprano
ROSSINI Semiramide Overture FRANCISCO COLL Violin Concerto (Seattle Symphony Co-commission & U.S. Premiere) RACHMANINOV Symphonic Dances
RAVEL Le tombeau de Couperin BRETT DEAN Carlo ADELIIA FAIZULLINA Tatar Folk Songs STRAVINSKY Pulcinella Suite
Music Director Thomas Dausgaard and the Seattle Symphony shine in Rachmaninov’s Symphonic Dances, evoking church bells and Russian Orthodox chants — the composer reminiscing about his homeland. Francisco Coll composed his Violin Concerto as a portrait of its charismatic soloist, the fabulous Patricia Kopatchinskaja.
Composers often look over their shoulders. To memorialize friends who had died in World War I, Ravel took refuge in the airy, graceful forms of the French Baroque. In Pulcinella, Stravinsky melded Classical poise with modern rhythms and harmonies. And in Carlo, Brett Dean elaborates on music of love, death and guilt by the notorious madrigalist (and murderer!), Carlo Gesualdo.
Thomas Dausgaard’s position is generously underwritten as the Harriet Overton Stimson Music Director. Francisco Coll's Violin Concerto is presented as part of the Seattle Symphony’s New Music WORKS initiative, supported in part by a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts.
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MARCH 11 & 12 FROM VIVALDI TO CORELLI
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2021 / 2022 season
I can̓ t wait to be back in Benaroya Hall engulfed in the swirling sounds of the Seattle Symphony! – Jessica,
Patricia Kopatchinskaja
subscriber
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 22, AT 8PM SATURDAY, OCTOBER 23, AT 8PM
From Bach to Rameau BAROQUE & WINE SERIES Jory Vinikour conductor & harpsichord Eduardo Rios violin Jeffrey Barker flute HANDEL Selections from Rodrigo RAMEAU Selections from Hippolyte et Aricie J.S. BACH Keyboard Concerto No. 1 J.S. BACH Brandenburg Concerto No. 5
Thomas Dausgaard
Acclaimed harpsichordist Jory Vinikour explores the masters of the Baroque era, beginning with selections from two masterpieces for the operatic stage. Then it’s on to J.S. Bach with two showy works for harpsichord and solo instruments — his first Keyboard Concerto and the irrepressible Fifth Brandenburg Concerto.
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MAY 20 & 21 FROM PURCELL TO BACH
Adeliia Faizullina
Jory Vinikour
nov TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 2, AT 7:30PM
Complete Beethoven Cello Sonatas CHAMBER SERIES
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 11, AT 7:30PM SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 13, AT 8PM
Dausgaard Conducts Brahms
Seattle Symphony musicians BEETHOVEN Cello Sonatas Nos. 1–5 Cellists of the Seattle Symphony perform the complete Beethoven cello sonata cycle — a delightful odyssey through his composing life. The Classical influence of Mozart and Haydn reverberates through the early sonatas. The third sonata marks a turning point, as cello and piano achieve musical equality and dialogue. The late sonatas defy tradition and launch us toward new horizons. Please note that this concert will take place in the S. Mark Taper Foundation Auditorium. Efe Baltacıgil’s position is generously underwritten as the Marks Family Foundation Principal Cello.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 4, AT 7:30PM SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 6, AT 8PM SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 7, AT 2PM
Thomas Dausgaard conductor Nicolas Hodges piano SIMON STEEN-ANDERSEN Piano Concerto (U.S. Premiere) BRAHMS Symphony No. 1 Brahms’ First Symphony was decades in the making. His loyal public waited years to hear it and were rewarded with a towering masterpiece of emotion — noble, tender and heroic, clothed in orchestral garments. Simon Steen-Andersen’s intriguing Piano Concerto with film explores the inexorable force of gravity in music. Thomas Dausgaard’s position is generously underwritten as the Harriet Overton Stimson Music Director. Simon Steen-Andersen’s Piano Concerto is presented as part of the Seattle Symphony’s New Music WORKS initiative, supported in part by a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts.
Ray Chen Plays Tchaikovsky Violin Concerto Michael Sanderling conductor Ray Chen violin TCHAIKOVSKY Violin Concerto SHOSTAKOVICH Symphony No. 11, “The Year 1905” Ray Chen makes his Seattle Symphony debut with Tchaikovsky’s enchanting Violin Concerto, one of the most beloved works for the violin. Shostakovich’s 11th Symphony marks the events of the brutally crushed 1905 Russian Revolution — protest and defiance against oppression rendered in thrilling music.
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2021 / 2022 season
Choose any 5 concerts that fit your schedule!
Hannah Lash
Ray Chen
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 12, AT 7PM
Music can take us to deep places inside, beyond the many words and numbers we hear … its resonance within us can be healing.
create your own
Brahms Untuxed UNTUXED SERIES
Thomas Dausgaard conductor BRAHMS Symphony No. 1
Brahms’ First Symphony was decades in the making. His loyal public waited years to hear it and were rewarded with a towering masterpiece of emotion. THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 18, AT 7:30PM SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 20, AT 8PM
Beach Gaelic Symphony Thomas Dausgaard conductor Hannah Lash harp Valerie Muzzolini harp
HANNAH LASH The Peril of Dreams (Seattle Symphony Commission & World Premiere) BEACH “Gaelic” Symphony
– Thomas Dausgaard,
Harriet Overton Stimson Music Director
Bursting with vitality and character, Amy Beach’s “Gaelic” Symphony is among the great American symphonies, full of lush harmonies and sweeping melodies. Music Director Thomas Dausgaard conducts this powerhouse program including a rare double harp concerto by American composer Hannah Lash.
Hannah Lash’s The Peril of Dreams is presented as part of the Seattle Symphony’s New Music WORKS initiative, supported in part by a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts.
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JANUARY 6 & 8 THE MUSIC OF JOHN ADAMS
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dec THURSDAY, DECEMBER 2, AT 7:30PM SATURDAY, DECEMBER 4, AT 8PM
Barber Symphony No. 1
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 10, AT 8PM SATURDAY, DECEMBER 11, AT 8PM SUNDAY, DECEMBER 12, AT 2PM
Holiday Pops |
POPS SERIES
Peter Oundjian conductor Hélène Grimaud piano Stephen Newby narrator
Stuart Chafetz conductor N’Kenge vocals
PRICE/arr. Oundjian Andante cantabile from String Quartet No. 2 RAVEL Piano Concerto in G JOEL THOMPSON New Work (Seattle Symphony Co-commission) BARBER Symphony No. 1
There’s no place like Benaroya Hall for the holidays! Join conductor Stuart Chafetz and Broadway star N’Kenge for this dazzling program full of holiday favorites, traditional carols and plenty of yuletide cheer. All of the heartwarming sounds of the season await you at this lighthearted and joyful concert.
Uniquely pioneering sound worlds of Florence Price and Samuel Barber frame a brand new work by Joel Thompson. Ravel looked to the fresh rhythms of jazz to create his Piano Concerto, a joyful showcase for stunning pianist Hélène Grimaud. Joel Thompson’s New Work is presented as part of the Seattle Symphony’s New Music WORKS initiative, supported in part by a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts.
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APRIL 15 & 16 COUNT BASIE ORCHESTRA
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 30, AT 7:30PM FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31, AT 9PM SUNDAY, JANUARY 2, AT 2PM
Viennese New Year SPECIAL PERFORMANCES Lee Mills conductor Nicholas Phan tenor We usher in 2022 in true Golden Age style, with music drawn from the glittering ballrooms of Vienna. Featuring a selection of waltzes, polkas and marches, including music by Mozart, Lehár and of course the waltz king, Johann Strauss, and his family. Lee Mills’ position is generously underwritten as the Douglas F. King Associate Conductor.
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2021 / 2022 season
N’Kenge
The joy I feel about all of us being back together in Benaroya Hall for a new season is indescribable. I can̓ t wait!
Stuart Chafetz
– Krishna Thiagarajan, Seattle Symphony President & CEO Leslie Jackson Chihuly Chair Hélène Grimaud
Create Your Own Series by August 28, 2021 and save!
Nicholas Phan
JAN THURSDAY, JANUARY 6, AT 7:30PM SATURDAY, JANUARY 8, AT 8PM
The Music of John Adams
TUESDAY, JANUARY 18, AT 7:30PM
An Evening with Itzhak Perlman SPECIAL PERFORMANCES
John Adams conductor Jeremy Denk piano Timothy McAllister saxophone JOHN ADAMS Short Ride in a Fast Machine JOHN ADAMS Must the Devil Have All the Good Tunes? JOHN ADAMS City Noir With the composer conducting, pianist Jeremy Denk tangles with John Adams’ Must the Devil Have All the Good Tunes?, a funky and diabolically tricky piano concerto. Partly inspired by films produced in Hollywood during the late forties, Adams’ City Noir moves between restless pockets of energy and surging, cinematic melodies. John Adams’ performances are generously underwritten by Benjamin and Kelly Martz.
THURSDAY, JANUARY 13, AT 7:30PM SATURDAY, JANUARY 15, AT 8PM SUNDAY, JANUARY 16, AT 2PM
Avi Avital The Four Seasons Avi Avital conductor & mandolin Nell Snaidas soprano VIVALDI The Four Seasons TRADITIONAL Venetian Gondolier Songs Avi Avital is leading a revival of the mandolin in classical music, fueled by his “deep musicality” and “eye-watering virtuosity” (The New York Times). Through a program celebrating the mandolin’s heyday in the 18th century, Avital takes us down the canals of Venice with traditional gondolier songs and into the court with a fresh interpretation of Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons.
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2021 / 2022 season
Itzhak Perlman violin Rohan De Silva piano “There is probably no more talented violinist in the world.” – The New York Times Undeniably the reigning virtuoso of the violin, Itzhak Perlman enjoys a superstar status rarely afforded a classical musician. Now go behind the music with him for a special multimedia evening of music and storytelling, with Perlman sharing anecdotes from his life and career and performing with his longtime collaborator, Rohan De Silva. FRIDAY, JANUARY 21, AT 8PM SATURDAY, JANUARY 22, AT 8PM SUNDAY, JANUARY 23, AT 2PM
Aretha: A Tribute |
POPS SERIES
Lucas Waldin conductor Capathia Jenkins vocals Ryan Shaw vocals Nichol Eskridge vocals Grace D. Ferrell vocals Phillip L. Ferrell II vocals Witness Mass Choir A tribute to the Queen of Soul, this program features Symphony favorite Capathia Jenkins and three-time Grammy Award nominee Ryan Shaw performing such iconic hits as “Respect,” “Think,” “A Natural Woman,” “Chain of Fools,” “Amazing Grace” and many others.
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Avi Avital
Itzhak Perlman
TUESDAY, JANUARY 25, AT 7:30PM
FRIDAY, JANUARY 28, AT 8PM
Jan Lisiecki in Recital
Tied Together
live music awaits
IN RECITAL SERIES
|
Jan Lisiecki piano
SERIES
Hub New Music string quartet Kojiro Umezaki shakuhachi
CHOPIN Études, Op. 10 CHOPIN Nocturnes
“Perhaps the most ‘complete’ pianist of his age.” – BBC Music Magazine THURSDAY, JANUARY 27, AT 7:30PM SATURDAY, JANUARY 29, AT 8PM
EO9066
Thomas Dausgaard conductor Kishi Bashi violin & vocals
Program to include: KAORU ISHIBASHI Improvisations on EO9066
Boston-based group Hub New Music collaborates with renowned Silkroad Ensemble shakuhachi artist Kojiro Umezaki in a program of new music by composers from the Asia/America New Music Institute. Hailed as “contemporary music trailblazers” (Boston Globe), Hub New Music champions adventurous and relevant programming — building dialogue between eastern and western musical traditions.
Tied Together is generously underwritten by The Cricket Foundation. Octave 9: Emerging Artists is supported by the Paul G. Allen Family Foundation.
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We mark the 80th anniversary of Executive Order 9066, which saw the incarceration of thousands of innocent Japanese Americans during the Second World War, indelibly changing their lives and our region — the effects of which are still felt today. Thomas Dausgaard is joined by Seattle-born composer/multi-instrumentalist Kishi Bashi in a heartrending exploration of their story. Thomas Dausgaard’s position is generously underwritten as the Harriet Overton Stimson Music Director.
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JANUARY 28 TIED TOGETHER
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feb THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 3, AT 7:30PM SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 5, AT 8PM
Dausgaard Sibelius Symphony No. 1
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 10, AT 7:30PM SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 12, AT 8PM SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 13, AT 4PM
Songs of the Earth
Thomas Dausgaard conductor Garrick Ohlsson piano
Thomas Dausgaard conductor Kelley O’Connor mezzo-soprano Russell Thomas tenor
ELLEN REID New Work (Seattle Symphony Commission & World Premiere) STENHAMMAR Piano Concerto No. 2 SIBELIUS Symphony No. 1
WALKER Lyric for Strings WALKER Folksongs for Orchestra MAHLER Das Lied von der Erde
Thomas Dausgaard begins a two-year Sibelius Cycle with the composer’s First Symphony. Sibelius wrote surely the greatest ‘First’ ever — packed with transcendent soundscapes. A new work by Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Ellen Reid responds to Sibelius, and Garrick Ohlsson performs a seldom-heard and delightful romantic concerto.
Thomas Dausgaard conducts music reflecting on the end of life. Mahler was inspired by Chinese poetry for his valedictory masterwork, Das Lied von der Erde. George Walker offers introverted and deeply personal reflections on four spiritual melodies in Folksongs for Orchestra. His Lyric for Strings, a touching tribute to the memory of his grandmother, is one of his bestloved works.
Thomas Dausgaard’s position is generously underwritten as the Harriet Overton Stimson Music Director. Ellen Reid’s New Work is presented as part of the Seattle Symphony’s New Music WORKS initiative, supported in part by a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts.
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 4, AT 7PM
Sibelius One Untuxed UNTUXED SERIES Thomas Dausgaard conductor ELLEN REID New Work (Seattle Symphony Commission & World Premiere) SIBELIUS Symphony No. 1 Thomas Dausgaard begins a two-year Sibelius Cycle with the composer’s First Symphony. Sibelius wrote surely the greatest ‘First’ ever — packed with transcendent soundscapes, towering inspiration and Nordic vigor.
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 18, AT 8PM SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 19, AT 8PM SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, AT 2PM
España! |
POPS SERIES
Jack Everly conductor Troupe Vertigo Incorporating artistic components from across different creative disciplines, Troupe Vertigo shows create stories woven together using highly stylized choreography, lighting and music to create scenes with imaginative visual landscapes. Don’t miss this concert featuring music by Bizet, Ponce and Albéniz as reimagined by the fantastical cirque performers Troupe Vertigo and the Seattle Symphony.
Create Your Own Series by August 28, 2021 and save! 14
2021 / 2022 season
Troupe Vertigo
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 25, AT 8PM
HOCKET
We̓ re playing every week and it feels extraordinary ... we̓ re able to make music together again, and I feel very proud to be able to continue to perform.
create your own
#What2022SoundsLike |
SERIES
HOCKET piano duo Seattle Symphony musicians
Cutting edge piano duo HOCKET spent 2020 commissioning composers nationwide to write music about the pandemic experience. The result was the astounding #What2020SoundsLike. Now a celebratory 2-part program sees seven composers imagining #What2022SoundsLike — dedicated to a hopeful future emerging from the pandemic. This first concert takes place in Benaroya Hall's wildly innovative Octave 9: Raisbeck Music Center. The program continues on the other side of the building with a special add-on concert at 10pm, [untitled] 2022. Octave 9: Emerging Artists is supported by the Paul G. Allen Family Foundation.
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FEBRUARY 25 [UNTITLED] 2022
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 25, AT 10PM
– Noah Geller ,
David & Amy Fulton Concertmaster
[untitled] 2022 SPECIAL PERFORMANCES
Samuel & Althea Stroum Grand Lobby HOCKET piano duo Seattle Symphony musicians
Seattle Symphony musicians join cutting edge piano duo HOCKET in Benaroya Hall’s Samuel & Althea Stroum Grand Lobby for the second concert in this two-part program dedicated to a hopeful future emerging from the pandemic. [untitled] 2022 features hints of jazz with new works by “powerfully inventive” (LA Times) composer Hitomi Oba and Jazz- and popinfluenced composer Jonathan Richards. HOCKET soloists Sarah Gibson and Thomas Kotcheff add another unique twist with two original compositions inspired by #What2022SoundsLike.
seattlesymphony.org | 206.215.4747
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mar THURSDAY, MARCH 3, AT 7:30PM SATURDAY, MARCH 5, AT 8PM
THURSDAY, MARCH 17, AT 7:30PM SATURDAY, MARCH 19, AT 8PM
Rimsky-Korsakov Scheherazade
Tchaikovsky Symphony No. 5
Dalia Stasevska conductor Pierre-Laurent Aimard piano
Joshua Weilerstein conductor James Ehnes violin
ADOLPHUS HAILSTORK Epitaph for a Man Who Dreamed BARTÓK Piano Concerto No. 2 RIMSKY-KORSAKOV Scheherazade
STILL Poem for Orchestra KORNGOLD Violin Concerto TCHAIKOVSKY Symphony No. 5
Finnish conductor Dalia Stasevska makes her debut with the Seattle Symphony in a riveting program featuring Bartók’s Second Piano Concerto and Rimsky-Korsakov’s Scheherazade. The concert begins with Adolphus Hailstork’s piece Epitaph for a Man Who Dreamed, which commemorates the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. FRIDAY, MARCH 11, AT 8PM SATURDAY, MARCH 12, AT 8PM
From Vivaldi to Corelli BAROQUE & WINE SERIES Elisa Citterio conductor & violin Susan Gulkis Assadi viola SAMMARTINI Concerto grosso in A major J.S. BACH Viola Concerto VIVALDI Concerto in D minor, “Madrigalesco” J.S. BACH Concerto for Three Violins LOCATELLI Sinfonia funebre CORELLI Concerto grosso, Op. 6, No. 4 The string section takes the lead as Seattle Symphony PONCHO Principal Viola Susan Gulkis Assadi steps into the spotlight alongside guest violinist and conductor Elisa Citterio. Hear the virtuosic players of the Symphony in unmatched clarity and detail. Susan Gulkis Assadi’s position is generously underwritten as the PONCHO Principal Viola.
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2021 / 2022 season
Tchaikovsky’s Fifth Symphony triumphs over fate, a journey through troubles into joy and ecstasy — and some of the greatest melodies ever given to us. Korngold’s lush Violin Concerto prefigures the Hollywood sound with high romance and gorgeous melodies — played for us by the masterful James Ehnes. And to begin the program, William Grant Still’s Poem takes us from darkness into light. James Ehnes’ performances are generously underwritten by Patricia Tall-Takacs and Gary Takacs.
FRIDAY, MARCH 18, AT 8PM
Ragamala: A Journey into Hindustani Music |
SERIES
Kala Ramnath Indian violin Seattle Symphony musicians Seattle Symphony’s Composer in Residence Reena Esmail curates an unmissable evening with virtuoso Indian violinist Kala Ramnath. Ragamala means ‘garland of raags’, where melody and modes are strung together in intriguing combinations. Inspired improvisation blends with new composition, as featured artists are joined by members of the Seattle Symphony in the Octave 9 surrounds. Octave 9: Emerging Artists is supported by the Paul G. Allen Family Foundation.
Lang Lang
Kala Ramnath
SUNDAY, MARCH 20, AT 4PM
TUESDAY, MARCH 22, AT 7:30PM
Celebrate Asia
Lang Lang in Recital
SPECIAL PERFORMANCES
SPECIAL PERFORMANCES
Kahchun Wong conductor Kala Ramnath Indian violin Ko-ichiro Yamamoto trombone
Lang Lang piano
TOSHIO HOSOKAWA Meditation TAN DUN Trombone Concerto (Seattle Symphony Co-commission & U.S. Premiere) REENA ESMAIL/KALA RAMNATH Violin Concerto (Seattle Symphony Commission & World Premiere) DEBUSSY La mer The 15th annual Celebrate Asia shines a spotlight on two intriguing new works. First, Tan Dun’s Trombone Concerto receives its U.S. premiere in the hands of Seattle Symphony Principal Trombone Ko-ichiro Yamamoto. Then, witness the world premiere of Composer in Residence Reena Esmail’s Violin Concerto — a work about the elements being rendered out of balance by humanity’s influence on the planet. Violin virtuoso Kala Ramnath gives the first performance of this thought-provoking work written especially for and with her. Reena Esmail as Composer in Residence is presented as part of the Seattle Symphony’s New Music WORKS initiative, supported in part by a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts.
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MARCH 18 RAGAMALA see opposite page
J.S. BACH Goldberg Variations The sensational Lang Lang returns to Benaroya Hall for a one-night-only solo recital performing J.S. Bach’s immortal Goldberg Variations. “His playing was so raptly beautiful that one was afraid to breathe for fear of missing anything.” – Chicago Tribune Lang Lang’s performance is generously underwritten by the Nakajima Family.
THURSDAY, MARCH 31, AT 7:30PM SATURDAY, APRIL 2, AT 8PM SUNDAY, APRIL 3, AT 2PM
Mahler Symphony No. 6 Thomas Dausgaard conductor Francesco Piemontesi piano R. STRAUSS Burleske MAHLER Symphony No. 6 Music Director Thomas Dausgaard conducts Mahler’s tragic Sixth Symphony. Driven, bitter and sweet by turns, the music is haunted by echoes of a military march stalking through the symphony. Brief moments of nostalgia suggest hope might win — but in the end, Mahler revealed, the mighty hammer-blows of fate fell the hero “like the stroke of an ax.” Thomas Dausgaard’s position is generously underwritten as the Harriet Overton Stimson Music Director.
Create Your Own Series today! Prices start at just $18 per concert. seattlesymphony.org | 206.215.4747
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apr FRIDAY, APRIL 1, AT 8PM
Yuja Wang in Recital
FRIDAY, APRIL 8, AT 7PM
Sibelius Two Untuxed
IN RECITAL SERIES
UNTUXED SERIES
Yuja Wang piano
Thomas Dausgaard conductor
“Yuja Wang was the brilliant pianist, projecting the solo part to a nicety and getting every note to glitter.” – Financial Times THURSDAY, APRIL 7, AT 7:30PM SATURDAY, APRIL 9, AT 8PM
Dausgaard Sibelius Symphony No. 2 Thomas Dausgaard conductor Isabelle Faust violin ANGÉLICA NEGRÓN New Work (Seattle Symphony Commission & World Premiere) SIBELIUS Violin Concerto (Original Version) SIBELIUS Symphony No. 2 From its icy, desolate opening to its robust, jubilant finale, Sibelius’ Violin Concerto glows. Isabelle Faust performs the seldom-heard original version of the piece — full of unexpected twists and turns. Thomas Dausgaard expertly shapes the arching melodies and majestic lines of Sibelius’ Second Symphony. Thomas Dausgaard’s position is generously underwritten as the Harriet Overton Stimson Music Director. Angélica Negrón’s New Work is presented as part of the Seattle Symphony’s New Music WORKS initiative, supported in part by a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts.
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APRIL 10 EVOLUTION OF VOICES
ANGÉLICA NEGRÓN New Work (Seattle Symphony Commission & World Premiere) SIBELIUS Symphony No. 2 Music Director Thomas Dausgaard expertly shapes the Second Symphony’s arching melodies and majestic lines alongside a bold work by composer Angélica Negrón. Angélica Negrón’s New Work is presented as part of the Seattle Symphony’s New Music WORKS initiative, supported in part by a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts.
SUNDAY, APRIL 10, AT 6PM
Evolution of Voices |
SERIES
Eric Jacobs clarinet Seattle Symphony musicians For Seattle Symphony Clarinet Eric Jacobs, this past year has made him think about how musicians use their voices, about our space in our communities, and about how these things will evolve. The intersection between singing and clarinet is a perfect way to explore this evolution. Together with the Seattle Symphony, Jacobs has commissioned Angélica Negrón and Peter Shin to compose for singing clarinetist and electronics in order to explore our stories and how they are told. Octave 9: Emerging Artists is supported by the Paul G. Allen Family Foundation.
TUESDAY, APRIL 12, AT 7:30PM
Nobuyuki Tsujii in Recital IN RECITAL SERIES
Create your own series today!
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2021 / 2022 season
Nobuyuki Tsujii piano “It was one of those rare performances where player and music seem one — a definition of virtuosity.” – The Observer
Yuja Wang
Count Basie Orchestra
FRIDAY, APRIL 15, AT 8PM SATURDAY, APRIL 16, AT 2 & 8PM
Count Basie Orchestra |
POPS SERIES
Scotty Barnhart director Carmen Bradford vocals Count Basie Orchestra The Count Basie Orchestra, today directed by Scotty Barnhart, has won every respected jazz poll in the world at least once, along with 18 Grammy Awards. They have performed for kings, queens and other royalty, appeared in several movies and television shows, and have played major concert halls across the globe. Now, they bring their considerable jazz chops to the Benaroya Hall stage. TUESDAY, APRIL 19, AT 7:30PM
Beethoven & Shostakovich
THURSDAY, APRIL 21, AT 7:30PM SATURDAY, APRIL 23, AT 8PM SUNDAY, APRIL 24, AT 2PM
The Miraculous Mandarin Roderick Cox conductor Noah Geller violin DAWSON Negro Folk Symphony GLAZUNOV Violin Concerto BARTÓK The Miraculous Mandarin Suite Roderick Cox, a conductor who is “paving the way” (NBC News), returns to the Benaroya Hall stage. Cox opens the program championing William Dawson’s seldom heard Negro Folk Symphony (1934). He’s then joined onstage by Concertmaster Noah Geller for Glazunov’s Violin Concerto and Bartók’s lurid Miraculous Mandarin. Noah Geller’s position is generously underwritten as the David & Amy Fulton Concertmaster.
CHAMBER SERIES
THURSDAY, APRIL 28, AT 7:30PM SATURDAY, APRIL 30, AT 8PM
Seattle Symphony musicians
Stravinsky & Brahms
BEETHOVEN String Quartet No. 11, “Serioso” MARTINŮ La revue de cuisine Suite BEETHOVEN Horn Sextet SHOSTAKOVICH String Quartet No. 9 While composing his Ninth String Quartet, Shostakovich discarded a whimsical early version based on childhood themes and opted for a more assertive musical narrative. Beethoven’s String Quartet No. 11, subtitled “Serioso,” foreshadows some of Shostakovich’s trademarks, including dramatic, unexpected harmonic shifts and experimental structures.
Nathalie Stutzmann conductor Julia Bullock soprano Seattle Symphony Chorale STRAVINSKY Funeral Song BRAHMS German Requiem Nathalie Stutzmann conducts the Seattle Symphony and Chorale in Brahms’ German Requiem, one of the great Romantic choral works of the 19th century. Instead of setting the traditional mass for the dead, Brahms’ selected texts from the Lutheran Bible create a unique and beautiful offering of hope and comfort.
seattlesymphony.org | 206.215.4747
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may TUESDAY, MAY 3, AT 7:30PM
Wynton Marsalis: A Fiddler’s Tale Suite CHAMBER SERIES Seattle Symphony musicians ARENSKY String Quartet No. 2 KENJI BUNCH String Circle WYNTON MARSALIS A Fiddler’s Tale Suite Musicians of the Seattle Symphony perform the music of Wynton Marsalis’ A Fiddler’s Tale, a jazz-infused take on the dangers of making a deal with the devil. Paying homage to the Russian and American inspirations of A Fiddler’s Tale, the program begins with Anton Arensky’s lush string quartet and an upbeat medley of American music styles from bluegrass to funk by Portland-based composer Kenji Bunch. FRIDAY, MAY 6, AT 8PM SATURDAY, MAY 7, AT 8PM SUNDAY, MAY 8, AT 2PM
The Vinyl Years: A Classic Rock Songbook |
POPS SERIES
Michael Krajewski conductor Shem von Schroeck vocals & guitar Micah Wilshire vocals & guitar Lori Zabka vocals & guitar Classic rock’s biggest hits come alive in this symphonic tribute featuring popular anthems by The Doobie Brothers, Fleetwood Mac, Styx, Billy Joel and more. The distinct voices of Lori Zabka, Shem von Schroeck and Micah Wilshire shine in these full symphonic takes on many of your classic rock favorites.
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2021 / 2022 season
WEDNESDAY, MAY 18, AT 7:30PM
‘Bells’: Piano & Electronics |
SERIES
Anthony Romaniuk piano Scott Worthington electronics In 2020, Anthony Romaniuk’s album, Bells, was released to universal acclaim — a showcase of contrasting musical genres which few performing artists could achieve. Romaniuk brings repertoire from Bells to the creative possibilities of Octave 9, while LA-based composer Scott Worthington adds electronic soundscapes to repertoire by Purcell, Glass, Ligeti, Beethoven and more. Octave 9: Emerging Artists is supported by the Paul G. Allen Family Foundation.
Few things make me happier than listening to a Seattle Symphony concert at Benaroya Hall.
Isabelle Faust
– Christine,
lifelong music lover
FRIDAY, MAY 20, AT 8PM SATURDAY, MAY 21, AT 8PM
From Purcell to Bach BAROQUE & WINE SERIES Anthony Romaniuk conductor, harpsichord & organ MUFFAT Sonata No. 1, Armonico tributo PURCELL/arr. ROMANIUK An Imaginary Suite HANDEL Organ Concerto in F major J.S. BACH Sinfonia from Cantata No. 106 J.S. BACH Harpsichord Concerto No. 6
Roderick Cox
Handel’s inventive concerto unites the liturgical sounds of the organ with the elegance of a string orchestra. Muffat’s harmonic tribute to Italy blends German precision and French elegance to establish a new tradition of ensemble writing. Bach rearranges one of his famed Brandenburg Concertos for the harpsichord. It’s a tour de force for keyboard instruments, all in the capable hands of Anthony Romaniuk.
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MAY 18 ‘BELLS’ see opposite page
Anthony Romaniuk
Create Your Own Series by August 28, 2021 and save! Seattle Symphony musicians in Octave 9
JUN THURSDAY, JUNE 2, AT 7:30PM FRIDAY, JUNE 3, AT 8PM
Morlot Conducts Messiaen Ludovic Morlot conductor Steven Osborne piano Deborah O’Grady video artist MESSIAEN Des canyons aux étoiles… (“From the Canyons to the Stars…”) Messiaen’s Des canyons aux étoiles… (“From the Canyons to the Stars...”) takes inspiration from the rock spires, birdsong and night sky of Utah’s national parks. Experience Messiaen’s starry-eyed journey through nature and the divine with luminous videography designed by artist Deborah O’Grady, creating a spectacular and interactive landscape across the concert stage.
THURSDAY, JUNE 16, AT 7:30PM SATURDAY, JUNE 18, AT 8PM SUNDAY, JUNE 19, AT 4PM
Verdi Requiem Thomas Dausgaard conductor Dinara Alieva soprano Ruxandra Donose mezzo-soprano Bruce Sledge tenor Dashon Burton bass-baritone Seattle Symphony Chorale BERIO Requies PUCCINI I crisantemi ("Chrysanthemums") VERDI Requiem
Please note that the previously scheduled Saturday performance for this concert has moved to Friday, June 3, at 8pm.
Alternating between sublime lyricism and dramatic power, Giuseppe Verdi’s Requiem offers the thrill and drama of a grand opera, from muted sorrow in the opening movement to the sheer terror of the work’s infamous Dies irae. Music Director Thomas Dausgaard has gathered an extraordinary cast of soloists to join the Seattle Symphony and Chorale for this monumental work.
Ludovic Morlot’s position is generously underwritten as the Judith Fong Conductor Emeritus.
Thomas Dausgaard’s position is generously underwritten as the Harriet Overton Stimson Music Director.
THURSDAY, JUNE 9, AT 7:30PM SATURDAY, JUNE 11, AT 8PM SUNDAY, JUNE 12, AT 2PM
Wayne Marshall Plays & Conducts Gershwin Wayne Marshall conductor & piano GERSHWIN Concerto in F GERSHWIN Second Rhapsody GERSHWIN An American in Paris Nothing encapsulates the high-class fashions and devil-may-care attitudes of the Jazz Age like George Gershwin’s music. Conducting these showpieces from the piano, Wayne Marshall leads the orchestra through Gershwin’s jazz-filled 1920s Paris.
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2021 / 2022 season
No matter how busy life gets — and my life gets crazy busy — I always make time for beautiful performances of amazing music with the Symphony.
Thorgy Thor
– Arlene, donor
FRIDAY, JUNE 24, AT 8PM SATURDAY, JUNE 25, AT 2 & 8PM
Pride Pops |
POPS SERIES
Lee Mills conductor Thorgy Thor host & violin Alexa Jarvis vocals Seattle Men’s Chorus
Wayne Marshall
The vibrant voices of the Seattle Men’s Chorus join the Seattle Symphony for this special Pride weekend concert event with conductor Lee Mills at the podium. Plus, sensational NYC-based drag performance artist Thorgy Thor (RuPaul’s Drag Race, Dragnificent) leads the celebration as our fabulous host. Pride outfits encouraged! Lee Mills’ position is generously underwritten as the Douglas F. King Associate Conductor.
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FEBRUARY 18–20 ESPAÑA!
Deborah O'Grady videography
Create Your Own Series today! Prices start at just $18 per concert. Ludovic Morlot
KEEP THE MUSIC PLAYING
“Everything that̓ s happening is really putting life in perspective. I want to support the things I truly love.” – Neil,
first-time donor
Support Your Symphony
When the coronavirus pandemic shut our doors, support from music lovers like you sustained the orchestra and allowed us to continue sharing concerts online, reaching hundreds of thousands of viewers. Now, with a bright outlook for the future, we are thrilled to plan for the return of live performances. Please help the orchestra continue to share inspiration, joy, and the connection that music creates by including a donation with your subscription. As we prepare for your safe return to Benaroya Hall, your support right now is so important. Even in the best of times, ticket sales cover only half the costs to put on a full season of inspiring concerts. The orchestra can’t wait to welcome you back to experience the music in person. We need your help to ensure the music plays on in the new season — and for many years to come! When you join as a Seattle Symphony donor, you’ll be eligible for insider access that brings you closer to the music.
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2021 / 2022 season
Exclusive perks and unique experiences begin with your gift of $120 or just $10 per month. You’ll enjoy season-long access to streaming performances online via Seattle Symphony Live from the comfort of home. At the concert hall, you can join the orchestra for Open Rehearsals and savor complimentary coffee and tea during intermission plus so much more! Visit us online at seattlesymphony.org/friends to explore the many benefits we offer to enhance your Symphony experience — at home and at Benaroya Hall.
Please include a donation with your subscription — your generosity sustains the music you love! Questions? Contact Donor Relations —
we’d love to hear from you!
friends@seattlesymphony.org 206.215.4832 seattlesymphony.org/friends
A Safe Return to Live Music at Benaroya Hall We’re excited to be together again at Benaroya Hall this fall. Comprehensive safety measures will be in place to ensure your safety and comfort, and we will continue to update protocols as needed. Our top priority remains the health and safety of our patrons, staff and musicians.
Mara Gearman, Assistant Principal Viola
Savings on the Best Seats • Save over single ticket prices. • Save on merchandise and recordings at Symphonica, The Symphony Store.
Priority Status • Priority presale opportunities for added concerts and special events. • Access to the best remaining seats for you and your friends during Subscriber Advantage Week. • FREE one-time seating upgrade coupon.
Ultimate Ticket Flexibility
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Controlled Air Filtration Visit our website for the most up-to-date information on our reopening & safety plans: seattlesymphony.org/planyourvisit
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SUBSCRIBE R
UNDERS TIE
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Masterworks
Untuxed
Baroque & Wine
In Recital
Viennese New Year
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Celebrate Asia
Orchestra F
$24
$18
$24
$24
$29
$55
$147
$51
Orchestra E
$38
$28
$34
$38
$46
$70
$87
$34
Third Tier Box Orchestra D
$37
$28
$34
$37
$46
$70
$87 $147
$34 $42
Orchestra C
$59
$31
$45
$59
$70
$85
$102
$51
Third Tier
$56
$31
$45
$56
$70
$85
$87
$34
Second Tier Second Tier Box
$56
$31
$45
$56
$70
$85
$122
$51
Founders Tier Orchestra B
$71
$41
$66
$71
$92
$122
$132 $142
$64
Orchestra A
$99
$50
$72
$99
$103
$140
$147
$82
Founders Tier Box
$125
$59
$77
$125
$130
$150
$172
$95
PARKING Benaroya Hall
$17
$17
$17
$17
$17
$17
$17
$17
EXAMPLE: 5 CONCERTS @ $24 EACH = $120 SUBSCRIPTION PRICE 26
2021 / 2022 season
Online seattlesymphony.org/cyo Phone 206.215.4747 or 1.866.933.4747 (toll-free) Mail Seattle Symphony Tickets, PO Box 2108, Seattle, WA 98111-2108
Three Easy Ways to Subscribe
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Pops Orchestra D
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Third Tier Box
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Orchestra C
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Third Tier
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Second Tier Second Tier Box
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Orchestra B
$55
Founders Tier
$76
Orchestra A
$76
Founders Tier Box
$91
PARKING Benaroya Hall
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Chamber, Octave 9, [untitled] Chamber
Octave 9
[untitled]
All Seats
$35
$15
$16
Parking
$17
$17
$17
Venue
Illsley Ball Nordstrom Recital Hall
Octave 9: Samuel & Raisbeck Althea Stroum Music Center Grand Lobby
Mix and match any 5 concerts — any series, any section, any date. The choice is yours!
All performances will take place in the S. Mark Taper Foundation Auditorium unless otherwise noted. CYO prices are guaranteed through August 28, 2021. The Seattle Symphony is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Tax ID# 91-0667412. The Symphony is registered with Washington State’s Charities Program as required by law. Additional information is available by calling 800.332.4483 or visiting www.sos.wa.gov/charities. * Ticket prices include a $5 facility fee per ticket for the preservation of Benaroya Hall. A $10 handling fee will be applied to all orders. Facility fee waived for children’s concerts. All programs, artists and prices are subject to change without notice. All prices are in U.S. dollars. All orders and seating subject to availability. All payments are processed upon receipt of order; this is not a guarantee of seating, but of your placement in the queue for the seats you’ve requested. You will be contacted by phone with any seating questions. No refunds will be made after your series has begun. Group subscriptions are available by calling 206.215.4747. Children 5 years of age and older are welcome at all performances with a purchased ticket. Photo Credits: Pages 2 & 7 — Karya Schanilec; Pages 4, 21, 25 — James Holt
seattlesymphony.org | 206.215.4747
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seattlesymphony.org PO Box 21906 Seattle, WA 98111-3906
... the music is waiting for you,
“[Seattle Symphony̓ s performance] felt symbolic: a declaration that connection and solidarity and collective beauty would continue ...”
music awaits
– The New York Times Magazine
Create Your Own Series by August 28, 2021 and save!
