VS
75
We’re just getting warmed up.
victoria symphony 15/16 1
75 YEARS
IN THE INAUGURAL SEASON and first concert at the Empress Hotel, musicians of the Naden Band joined forces with local musicians to form the Victoria Symphony. For the past 75 years, audiences have discovered the exhilaration of a shared musical experience and witnessed something uniquely beautiful unfold on stage as hundreds of musicians performed with passion and pride.
And this season, the journey continues. Join us in our celebration.
VS
75
We’re just getting warmed up. I’m thrilled to be presenting the Victoria Symphony’s 75th anniversary season! in our programming this year, we honour the stars and moments of the past, and capture and showcase what makes the Victoria Symphony special and unique today. We celebrate our past, present and future as we reach out to our community with incredible repertoire and special guests. We open the season by inviting the Naden Band of the Royal Canadian Navy to the stage as we look back to the early years of the Victoria Symphony when over half of its musicians were in military uniform, and continue to celebrate our relationships with stars like cellist Yo-Yo Ma, conductor Yannick Nézet-Séguin, violinist James Ehnes and pianist Angela Cheng. The Victoria Symphony will make its mark across Canada during our 75th Legacy Tour to Quebec City, Toronto, Ottawa and Vancouver in this special season, closing the tour at the Royal Theatre right here in Victoria. Another special event will see all five Beethoven Piano Concerti performed in one unforgettable weekend – Canadian treasure Angela Cheng will play the concerti in our Beethoven Festival. Join our celebration and be a part of one of the most inspiring seasons ever presented by the Victoria Symphony!
Tania Miller Music Director 75th anniversary season sponsor Fisgard Capital Corporation
SEASON {at a} GLANCE JULY Symphony in the Summer VS Presents at Centennial Square and other locations 29 | Symphony in the Summer
November continued… 15 | Classics
Haydn Cello Concerto 21 & 22 | signature
Ehnes & Mahler 5
A Night in the Garden
DECEMBER
AUGUST
7 | specials
2 | Symphony in the Summer
Yo-Yo Ma
Victoria Symphony Splash
11, 12 & 13 | VS pops
SEPTEMBER
18 & 20 | Specials
21 | Legacy
Victoria Symphony Opening Night with Special Guests Naden Band 25, 26 & 27 | VS Pops
A Sentimental Christmas Handel’s Messiah 19 | Specials
Christmas with Holly Cole
Last Night of the Proms
JANUARY
OCTOBER
A Viennese New Year’s
MARCH 4, 5 & 5 | vs pops
The King – A Tribute to Elvis 6 | Concerts for Kids
Superheroes to the Rescue! 13 | Classics
Cooper Plays Strauss 18 & 20 | signature
Beethoven Festival with Angela Cheng 21 | legacy
Beethoven Festival with Angela Cheng
APRIL 4 | legacy
75th Legacy Tour 17 | classics
1 | Specials
Mendelssohn Piano Concerto No. 2
3 & 4 | Signature
9 | Legacy
New Music Festival
18 | Classics
23 & 24 | signature
Cirque de la Symphonie
24 | Explorations
29, 30 & 30 | vs pops
Rachmaninoff 2 & Tchaikovsky 5 Bach’s Musical Offering Percussive Hits
NOVEMBER 2 | Legacy
Yannick Nézet-Séguin Returns Min Plays Chopin
A Night at the Oscars 31 | Concerts for Kids
29, 30 & May 1 | vs pops
MAY 7 & 8 | Signature
Beethoven 9
Roald Dahl’s Little Red Riding Hood
Orli Shaham Plays Mozart
FEBRUARY
6, 7 & 7 | VS pops
14 | Classics
Ballet Meets Broadway
Vivaldi’s Four Seasons
8 | Concerts for kids
29 | legacy
Beethoven Lives Upstairs
23 | explorations
Brahms Double
75th anniversary season sponsor
{sig RACHMANINOFF 2 & TCHAIKOVSKY 5 Saturday, October 3, 8 PM & Sunday, October 4, 2:30 PM David Danzmayr, conductor / Anna Fedorova, piano Richardson-Schulte The Sleeping Giant James Ehnes
Rachmaninoff Piano Concerto No. 2 Tchaikovsky Symphony No. 5
The most beautiful piano concerto of all time plus one of the greatest symphonies in the repertoire add up to one remarkable concert. Conductor David Danzmayr will make his Victoria debut leading Tchaikovsky’s most beloved symphony. Ukrainian pianist Anna Fedorova will also join the VS for the first time playing Rachmaninoff’s eternal Piano Concerto No. 2.
EHNES & MAHLER 5 Saturday, November 21, 8 PM & Sunday, November 22, 2:30 PM Tania Miller, conductor / James Ehnes, violin Lalo Symphonie Espagnole Mahler Symphony No. 5
Renowned violinist James Ehnes joins the orchestra to play Lalo’s thrilling and exotic Symphonie Espagnole. Called “the Jascha Heifetz of our day,” Canadian Ehnes has played with top orchestras on four continents in the past year, including the Royal Philharmonic, the Boston Symphony and the Melbourne Symphony. The concert concludes with Mahler’s best-known symphony – his Fifth, which has been described as a symphonic Mt. Everest – grand and exhilarating. This concert is made possible with a generous grant from the Egon Baumann Foundation.
Lorraine Min
nature} MIN PLAYS CHOPIN Saturday, January 23, 8 PM & Sunday, January 24, 2:30 PM Alexander Prior, conductor / Lorraine Min, piano / Greater Victoria Youth Orchestra
BEETHOVEN FESTIVAL WITH ANGELA CHENG *Friday, March 18, 8 PM & Sunday, March 20, 2:30 PM Tania Miller, conductor / Angela Cheng, piano
Stafylakis Brittle Fracture
FRIDAY, MARCH 18
Chopin Piano Concerto No. 1
Beethoven Coriolan Overture
Mussorgsky Pictures at an Exhibition
Piano Concerto No. 1
Victoria star Lorraine Min returns to play Chopin’s mellifluous Piano Concerto No. 1 in this concert lead by 23-year-old – and internationally acclaimed – conductor Alexander Prior. Musicians from the Greater Victoria Youth Orchestra will then join the VS onstage for Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition, a suite of virtuosic pieces that conjures images grand, delicate, humourous and of blazing glory.
SUNDAY, MARCH 20
Angela Cheng
Piano Concerto No. 3
Beethoven Symphony No. 1 Piano Concerto No. 2 Piano Concerto No. 4 MONDAY, MARCH 21 (LEGACY FIVE**) Beethoven Symphony No. 3 “Eroica” Piano Concerto No. 5 “Emperor”
*Please note this is a Friday performance.
Canadian Angela Cheng, who has been called “nothing short of magic...a pianist one could listen to for hours,” will perform the entire cycle of Beethoven’s piano concerti in one weekend. This all-Beethoven festival will also include the Classical-era Symphony No. 1, and the work that changed symphonies forever, the Symphony No. 3 “Eroica.” **Note the Monday concert is not included in the Signature Series. Subscribers can purchase the Beethoven Festival package to attend all three concerts.
1952
Beethoven’s Emperor Concerto has been played by the VS more than any other concerto – the March performance will be its 19th. The first was March 1952!
Signature continued page 6…
For more information, videos and photos, visit victoriasymphony.ca
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{signature} BEETHOVEN 9 Saturday, May 7, 8 PM & Sunday, May 8, 2:30 PM Tania Miller, conductor / Gary Karr, double bass / Leslie Ann Bradley soprano / Susan Platts, mezzo soprano / Richard Margison, tenor / Todd Thomas, baritone / Victoria Choral Society / Victoria Philharmonic Choir J. Miller World Premiere Bottesini Reverie and Tarantella Beethoven Symphony No. 9
Arguably the most famous symphony ever, Beethoven’s glorious Ninth will be the magnificent closing celebration of the VS’s 75th season. Bringing together artists with a long history in Victoria including two major choral groups, this concert salutes the greater Victoria arts community that has enabled the Victoria Symphony to flourish. As an added bonus, special guest world-famous double bassist Gary Karr joins the festivities to play Bottesini’s Reverie and Tarantella.
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All performances take place at the Royal Theatre. Pre concert talks are held in the west lobby of the Royal Theatre one hour before each Signature and Legacy Series concert.
“I consider being a musician a huge privilege and responsibility. We have a massive duty to do our best, first for the composer, then our colleagues and the audience. It requires constant work, self-criticism and development. Ultimately we are sculptures of sound. We together build huge structures of tone that exist but for the moment but last a lifetime. Our architectural creations leave no trace except in the hearts and minds of the listener. Music creates emotion. When we do our job correctly this emotion is brought to life quite magically. It is a surprise even to us!” —KEITH MACLEOD, PRINCIPAL CLARINET
For tickets, call 250.385.6515
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For more information, videos and photos, visit victoriasymphony.ca
{one night only} YO-YO MA Monday, December 7, 8 PM Royal Theatre Tania Miller, conductor / Yo-Yo Ma, cello Beethoven Symphony No. 7 Dvorˇák Cello Concerto
Superstar cellist Yo-Yo Ma joins the VS for one night only this December! The incomparable Mr. Ma will perform Dvořák’s spectacular and passionate Concerto for Cello. Maestra Tania Miller leads the orchestra in Beethoven’s majestic Symphony No. 7 to complete a perfect evening of music.
YO-YO MA
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{pops} LAST NIGHT OF THE PROMS
BALLET MEETS BROADWAY
A SENTIMENTAL CHRISTMAS
Friday, September 25, 8 PM, Saturday, September 26, 8 PM & Sunday, September 27, 2 PM
Friday, November 6, 8 PM, Saturday, November 7, 2 PM & Saturday, November 7, 8 PM
Friday, December 11, 8 PM, Saturday, December 12, 8 PM & Sunday, December 13, 2 PM
Brian Jackson, conductor
Giuseppe Pietraroia, conductor / Ballet Victoria
Tania Miller, conductor / Eleanor McCain, soprano / Victoria Choral Society
Beloved Brian Jackson returns as an important part of our legacy. Join Maestro Jackson as he conducts the ever-popular Last Night of the Proms, featuring light classical favourites and the best orchestral music from across the pond. Break out your Union Jacks and don’t miss this foot-stomping, flag-waving good time!
Broadway, Ballet, and the VS – oh my! Ballet Victoria joins the Victoria Symphony on the Pops stage for the first time in this exciting concert. From Chicago to A Chorus Line and Carousel to West Side Story, these talented dancers and musicians will transport you from the Royal Theatre straight to the big city lights of Broadway.
Celebrate the season with the Victoria Symphony’s traditional concert of Yuletide cheer featuring soprano Eleanor McCain. Maestra Tania Miller and the VS will be joined by the choristers from the Victoria Choral Society for a concert full of Christmas favorites, including the chance for the audience to join in with sing-a-long holiday carols.
A NIGHT AT THE OSCARS Friday, January 29, 8 PM, Saturday, January 30, 2 PM & Saturday, January 30, 8 PM Sean O’Loughlin, conductor
Conductor and Hollywood insider Sean O’Loughlin returns to the VS to bring you music from edge-of-your-seat thrillers, epic dramas, and Hollywood classics. You’ll hear music from Gladiator, The Dark Knight,Titanic, Gone with the Wind and more! Don your movie star best and come walk the red carpet with the VS in this tribute to the golden man!
1977
The Pops Series is the longest running VS series – it started in 1977!
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For more information, videos and photos, visit victoriasymphony.ca
THE KING – A TRIBUTE TO ELVIS
CIRQUE DE LA SYMPHONIE
Friday, March 4, 8 PM, Saturday, March 5, 2 PM & Saturday, March 5, 8 PM
Friday, April 29, 8 PM, Saturday, April 30, 8 PM & Sunday, May 1, 2 PM
Giuseppe Pietraroia, conductor
Giuseppe Pietraroia, conductor / Cirque de la Symphonie
Four veteran Broadway singers (and NOT Elvis impersonators) pay tribute to this pioneering musical icon. Join the VS as we play music made famous by one of the greatest musical performers of all time! With a record nine solo albums reaching the number one spot on music charts around the world, the music of Elvis comes to the symphony stage.
After three sold-out performances during their last Victoria visit, the talented and high flying performers from Cirque de la Symphonie return to the Royal to delight and amaze. Jugglers, aerialists, and the VS performing exciting orchestral favorites make this a performance not to be missed! Get your tickets early and prepare to be enthralled.
Cirque de la Symphonie: Alexander Fedortchev & Shana Lord
“It really is a joy to be able to share our gifts of music week in, week out, and we love to see familiar faces week in and week out too! Thanks for coming!” —CHRISTI MEYERS, ASSISTANT CONCERTMASTER
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All performances take place at the Royal Theatre.
Brian Jackson
{legacy} VICTORIA SYMPHONY OPENING NIGHT
ORLI SHAHAM PLAYS MOZART
with Special Guests Naden Band
Monday, November 2, 8 PM
Monday, September 21, 8 PM Tania Miller, conductor / Matthew Clark, guest conductor / Alexander Korsantia, piano / Naden Band Copland Fanfare for the Common Man Yannick Nézet-Séguin
Butterfield World Premiere Bach/Stokowski Toccata and Fugue in D minor Prokofiev Piano Concerto No. 3 Janácˇek Fanfare from Sinfonietta Barber Commando March Wagner Ride of the Valkries Gershwin Porgy and Bess: Symphonic Picture
Brian Yoon
The Naden Band will join the Victoria Symphony onstage for the first time ever in this celebratory concert opening our 75th anniversary season. Pianist Alexander Korsantia makes his Victoria debut playing Prokofiev’s exciting Piano Concerto No. 3.
Stilian Kirov, conductor / Orli Shaham, piano J. Miller Echoes of Autumn Mozart Piano Concerto No. 9 “Jeunehomme” Mendelssohn Symphony No. 3 “Scottish”
A consummate musician recognized for her grace, subtlety and vitality, Orli Shaham has established an impressive international reputation as one of today’s most gifted pianists. Called “a first-rate Mozartean” by the Chicago Tribune, she makes her debut with VS playing one of Mozart’s early masterpieces. Mendelssohn’s delightful “Scottish” Symphony concludes the program.
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All performances take place at the Royal Theatre. Pre concert talks are held in the west lobby of the Royal Theatre one hour before each Signature and Legacy Series concert. For tickets, call 250.385.6515
2016
First-ever major tour with concerts in Toronto, Quebec City, Ottawa and Vancouver.
YANNICK NÉZET-SÉGUIN RETURNS *Saturday, January 9, 8 PM Yannick Nézet-Séguin, conductor Tchaikovsky Romeo and Juliet Bruckner Symphony No. 4 “Romantic”
When Yannick Nézet-Séguin first came to conduct the Victoria Symphony in 2001, he was a recent university graduate beginning his professional career. Since then, Nézet-Séguin has become a world-renowned conductor and has gone on to conduct the Berlin Philharmonic, the Vienna Philharmonic, lead operas at the Metropolitan Opera, and been the Music Director of four orchestras in North America and Europe including one of the world’s greatest, the Philadelphia Orchestra. Nézet-Séguin returns to lead Bruckner’s magnificent Symphony No. 4 “Romantic.” *Please note this is a Saturday performance.
BRAHMS DOUBLE
BEETHOVEN FESTIVAL WITH ANGELA CHENG*
75TH LEGACY TOUR
Bernhard Gueller, conductor / Terence Tam, violin / Brian Yoon, cello
Monday, March 21, 8:00 PM
Tania Miller, conductor / Stewart Goodyear, piano
Staniland Voyageur
Beethoven Symphony No. 3 “Eroica”
Brahms Double Concerto for Violin and Cello
Beethoven Piano Concerto No. 5 “Emperor”
Schubert Symphony No. 9
Canadian Angela Cheng, who has been called “nothing short of magic...a pianist one could listen to for hours,” will perform the entire cycle of Beethoven’s piano concerti in three concerts. This allBeethoven festival will also include the Classical-era Symphony No. 1, and the work that changed symphonies forever, the Symphony No. 3 “Eroica.”
Monday, February 29, 8 PM
VS Concertmaster Terence Tam and Principal Cello Brian Yoon pair up to play the rarely heard and remarkable Brahms Double Concerto. Schubert’s Symphony No. 9 (“The Great”) will be led by VS Principal Guest Conductor Bernhard Gueller to conclude the concert.
Tania Miller, conductor / Angela Cheng, piano
*The other two Festival concerts are in the Signature Series and can be added on with the Beethoven Festival package.
Monday, April 4, 8 PM
Oesterle Entr’actes Grieg Piano Concerto Copland Appalachian Spring Stravinsky Firebird Suite
The VS’s cross-Canada 75th Legacy Tour ends at home with this tour-de-force concert. The first half of the concert features a premiere of a new work by composer Michael Oesterle, and Canadian pianist Stewart Goodyear, returning from his triumphant performance in last season’s Signature Series to play Grieg’s Piano Concerto. The second half features two works that show off the versatility and virtuosity of the Victoria Symphony: Copland’s Appalachian Spring and Stravinsky’s Firebird Suite.
For more information, videos and photos, visit victoriasymphony.ca
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BACH’S MUSICAL OFFERING Sunday, October 18, 2:30 PM Tania Miller, conductor / Terence Tam, violin / Christi Meyers, violin J.S. Bach Selections from “The Musical Offering” J.S. Bach Brandenburg Concerto No. 1 Vivaldi Violin Concerto Op. 8 No. 8 Vivaldi Concerto for Two Violins Op. 3 No. 8 Handel Concerto Grosso Op. 3 No. 1
Late in Bach’s life, King Frederick the Great of Prussia offered him a short, melodic theme to use in a composition. Bach took this “musical offering” and turned it into canons and fugues that make the original theme dance in amazing ways. Interspersed among the parts of “Offering” are one of Bach’s lively Brandenburg concertos and a Concerto Grosso of Handel. Christi Meyers will also play a Vivaldi Concerto and is joined by Terence Tam for Vivialdi’s Concerto for Two Violins.
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{classics} HAYDN CELLO CONCERTO
VIVALDI FOUR SEASONS
Sunday, November 15, 2:30 PM
Sunday, February 14, 2:30 PM
Jayce Ogren, conductor / Desmond Hoebig, cello
Giuseppe Pietraroia, conductor / Monica Huggett, violin and leader
Stravinsky Dumbarton Oaks
Mozart Wind Serenade No. 12 in C minor
Haydn Cello Concerto in C
Grieg Holberg Suite
Mozart Symphony No. 40
Vivaldi Four Seasons
Cellist Desmond Hoebig returns to Victoria to play Haydn’s virtuoso Cello Concerto in C, which will have you dancing in delight. Debut conductor Jayce Ogren leads one of Mozart’s greatest masterpieces, the poignant and romantic Symphony No. 40 in G minor, to conclude the program.
Among the most popular pieces in the classical music repertoire, Vivaldi’s Four Seasons includes concertos that resemble their respective seasons: summer evokes a powerful thunderstorm, and winter is peppered with icy rain. Monica Huggett leads the VS through the seasons. Grieg’s beautiful Holberg Suite and Mozart’s delightful Wind Serenade No. 12 round out the program.
“The connection between the music, the audience and the musicians is electric and palpable – such a joy!” —KENJI FUSE, PRINCIPAL VIOLA
1986
Although the VS has played many individual “seasons” over the years, Vivaldi’s entire “Four Seasons” has only been performed by the VS six times including its debut in 1986.
For more information, videos and photos, visit victoriasymphony.ca
COOPER PLAYS STRAUSS Sunday, March 13, 2:30 PM
MENDELSSOHN PIANO CONCERTO NO. 2 Sunday, April 17, 2:30 PM
Marco Parisotto, conductor / David Cooper, horn
Christian Kluxen, conductor / Dmitri Levkovich, piano
Schubert Symphony No. 8 “Unfinished”
Wagner Siegfried Idyll
Strauss Horn Concerto No. 1
Mendelssohn Piano Concerto No. 1
Mozart Overture to The Magic Flute
Brahms Symphony No. 2
Haydn Symphony No. 88
Beloved former Principal Horn David Cooper returns to delight audiences with Strauss’ Horn Concerto. The romantic and classical pairing of Schubert’s beautiful Symphony No. 8 “Unfinished” and Haydn’s popular Symphony No. 88 complete this concert of quintessential classical music.
Terence Tam
Canadian pianist Dmitri Levkovich, of whom the Cleveland Plain Dealer said “he takes music-making into another realm,” makes his VS debut playing Mendelssohn’s romantic piano concerto. Wagner’s Siegfried Idyll – written as a birthday present to his wife – and the cheerful and melodic Symphony No. 2 of Brahms are also on the program.
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All performances take place at UVic Centre Farquhar Auditorium.
Christi Meyers
{concerts for kids} BEETHOVEN LIVES UPSTAIRS
ROALD DAHL’S LITTLE RED RIDING HOOD
SUPERHEROES TO THE RESCUE!
Sunday, November 8, 2:30 PM
Sunday, January 31, 2:30 PM
Sunday, March 6, 2:30 PM
Maestro Joey Pietraroia, conductor / Classical Kids
Maestro Joey Pietraroia, conductor / Dandi Productions
Maestro Joey Pietraroia, conductor
Life gets a little noisy and a whole lot more interesting for young Christopher after a crabby, eccentric old man named Beethoven moves in upstairs. Young listeners will be touched by history, drama, music and fun as they come to understand the genius of Beethoven and the beauty of his music. Don’t miss this famous tale told by the one and only Classical Kids!
Take a symphonic walk through Roald Dahl’s magical, thrilling and hilarious forest. The familiar cast of characters are here: there’s a wolf, a grandma and a little girl in a red cape. But Dahl, author of such children’s classics as Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and James and the Giant Peach, has twisted things around and spiced things up. Dahl’s feisty Little Red can certainly take care of a dim-witted wolf with the help of our fearless orchestra!
The Mighty Maestro thinks all he needs to be a SUPERHERO is a red cape, but not even the orchestra agrees with him! Enter Mr. Invisible to save the day and teach the Mighty Maestro what it really takes to be SUPER. Come dressed as your favourite hero for this fun concert that will include SUPER music like the theme from Superman, Chariots of Fire and more.
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Don’t forget to come early for the Victoria Symphony Instrument Petting Zoo and other activities that begin at 1:30 in the lobby. All performances take place in the Royal Theatre.
1988
Although the first VS family concert was 1977, the Concerts for Kids Series started in 1988. Highlights include fairy tales like Red Riding Hood and Jack and the Beanstalk as well as fun music like Heebie Jeebies (1988) and Bach to the Future (1996).
“Nothing compares to the experience of live performance. The energy put forth by the orchestra absorbed and the returned by the audience to the orchestra is a magical experience that cannot be replicated.” —MAESTRO JOEY
For more information, videos and photos, visit victoriasymphony.ca
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HISTORY {of the} VICTORIA SYMPHONY FIRSTS l
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First Concert: April 12, 1939 / Empress Ballroom / Alfred Prescott, conductor. The repertoire included Beethoven Symphony No. 5. First Concert as the Victoria Symphony Society: May 18, 1942 / Empress Ballroom, Melvin Knudsen, conductor. The repertoire included Mozart’s Symphony No. 40.
MUSIC DIRECTORS:
VICTORIA SYMPHONY SPLASH
ON LOCATION
Victoria Symphony Splash was originally developed as a celebration of the Symphony’s 50th Anniversary. Created by Board President Murray Glazier, General Manager C. Stephen Smith and Music Director Peter McCoppin, this musical event has grown to become one of the largest symphony events in North America. In 1994, Splash welcomed its first Splash Young Soloist. Notable young soloists over the past 25 years include:
Although most VS concerts take place at the Royal Theatre, UVic Centre Farquhar Auditorium or Alix Goolden Hall, the VS has played at a number of different venues in Victoria and across the province, including:
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Melvin Knudsen (1941–1948) Hans Gruber (1948–1964) Otto Werner Mueller (1964–1967) Lazlo Gati (1967–1978) Paul Freeman (1979–1989)
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Peter McCoppin (1989–1999) Kees Bakels (1999–2001) Tania Miller (2003–
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Maestra Miller is the first Canadian woman to hold the position of Music Director of a major Canadian Orchestra.
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Nikki and Timothy Chooi, violin (2001 and 2007 respectively). Both young men were featured at the Royal Theater in The Chooi Brothers Play Bach in March, 2013. Josh Lovell, voice (2009). The local tenor sang in Handel’s Messiah, 2014. Erik Lin, piano (2014). The youngest soloist took the Splash stage at 9 years old. Who knows what his future holds!
1939
The first concert of a group of professional musicians which would later become the VS included Grieg’s Piano Concerto and Beethoven’s Fifth symphony.
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Bay Street Armoury, Christ Church Cathedral, Hatley Castle at Royal Roads University, Empress Hotel, Bay Centre (formerly Eaton’s Centre), Juan de Fuca Velodrome, Butchart Gardens, Windsor Park, Beacon Hill Park, Government House Campbell River, Courtenay, Qualicum Beach, Duncan, Port Alberni, Sooke, Sidney, Nanaimo, Salt Spring Island, Pender Island Powell River, Prince George, Vancouver
REPERTOIRE l
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Handel’s Messiah: First played in 1949 and played over 40 times including every December since 1982! Most commonly played piece: Beethoven Symphony No. 5. Most commonly played composer: Mozart. Music from his repertoire has been played at over 575 VS concerts and events!
75 TH ANNIVERSARY
{A Season of Celebration} Music Director Tania Miller and the Victoria Symphony have designed this season as a celebration of the rich canon of classical music, the vibrant community of Victoria, and the profound connection the orchestra has with you, the audience. We’re bringing back audience favourites, engaging the youth in our community, and partnering with other arts organizations to create extraordinary live music!
HERE ARE SOME OF THE HIGHLIGHTS OF OUR 75TH: l
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Victoria Symphony Opening Night with special guests Naden Band on September 21 celebrates the Orchestra’s shared roots with Naden Band. In the early 1940s 23 of 45 members of the Victoria Symphony were also members of Naden Band. Together again after 75 years! Last Night of the Proms in September welcomes the return of beloved former Principal Pops Conductor Brian Jackson, who continues to wow audiences with his charm and love of music. Ehnes & Mahler 5 in November marks the second time the VS will play Mahler’s enormous Symphony No. 5. International superstar cellist Yo-Yo Ma joins the VS for a once-in-a-lifetime performance.
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Yannick Nézet-Séguin’s returns to conduct in Victoria. Principal Guest Conductor in the early 2000’s, Nézet-Séguin’s career has taken him across Europe and conducting the Metropolitan Opera in New York. He is currently the Music Director of the Philadelphia Orchestra and Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra. Continuing to celebrate community, musicians of the Greater Victoria Youth Orchestra take the stage with the VS and renowned pianist and local favourite Lorraine Min in January. The acclaimed Angela Cheng takes on all five Beethoven Piano Concertos over three days in March. This Beethoven Festival will showcase her amazing talent as well as celebrate the genius of Beethoven.
2016
Stewart Goodyear has performed with the VS six times, and this season will double that number with the six tour performances on our 75th Legacy Tour.
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Early April sees the triumphant return of your orchestra from their 75th Anniversary Legacy Tour through Quebec City, Toronto, Ottawa and Vancouver. The 75th season culminates in one of the most recognized pieces of classical music: Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony. VS is joined by two favourite collaborators, the Victoria Choral Society and the Victoria Philharmonic Choir, to celebrate the joy of live music! 17
{explorations} PERCUSSIVE HITS
NEW MUSIC FESTIVAL
Saturday, October 24, 8 PM / Alix Goolden Hall
Saturday, April 23, 8 PM / Alix Goolden Hall
Bernhard Gueller, conductor / Corey Rae, percussion / Ed Hanley, tabla
Tania Miller, conductor / Terence Tam, violin / Victoria Lindsay, violin
Pärt Fratres Frehner World Premiere Haydn Symphony No. 103 “Military” Dharmoo Ninaivanjani Wijeratne Concerto for Tabla and Orchestra
Ed Hanley
“Explore the wonderful possibilities of live music, full of passion and excitement. It’s a chance to escape and enter a dreamland!” —JARED MILLER, COMPOSER IN RESIDENCE
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The VS will explore music that puts a focus on percussion instruments. From Haydn’s “Military” symphony to a Concerto for Tabla and Orchestra by Wijeratne, this concert amazes with its percussive beats. Renowned tabla player Ed Hanley and the VS’s own Principal Percussion Corey Rae will take centre stage in this zany concert.
Astapov Ictus Solis Mayo Knot Dean Carlo Lizee Behind the Sound of Music Schnittke Concerto Grosso No. 1
Reflecting on of social media – memes, hashtags and more, VS presents the new music festival. Composers often borrow phrases from other compositions, recordings and films as memes for new works. This festival features such pieces where a composer quotes another’s work to develop the idea in an interesting way. Including throwbacks to Bach’s famous concertos and the musical The Sound of Music, this festival puts a new spin on favorites from many genres. Other concerts in the festival will include Vox Humana, a special recital with Colin Tilney and UVic’s Sonic Lab.
For more information, videos and photos, visit victoriasymphony.ca
{symphony in the summer} For the seventh year in a row, the Victoria Symphony presents a series of outdoor concerts including a performance at beautiful Butchart Gardens. The series culminates with the spectacular 26th annual Victoria Symphony Splash.
A NIGHT IN THE GARDEN Wednesday, July 29, 8 PM / Butchart Gardens
VICTORIA SYMPHONY PRESENTS AT CENTENNIAL SQUARE
Tania Miller, conductor
July
Enjoy the VS’s one-nightonly appearance at Butchart Gardens this summer. What could be better than gorgeous orchestral music surrounded by natural beauty?
Members of the Victoria Symphony take the Centennial Square stage. Don’t miss this diverse free series of lunchtime concerts.
VICTORIA SYMPHONY SPLASH Sunday, August 2, 1 PM to 10 PM / Inner Harbour, Victoria Tania Miller, conductor
Enjoy the marquee event of the summer! Join over 40,000 people in Victoria’s Inner Harbour to experience the VS perform on a floating barge. Entertainment begins at 1:00 in the Family Zone and spreads to the picturesque Legislature grounds before culminating on the barge at 7:30 pm with Maestra Miller and the Victoria Symphony. The concert concludes with the beloved grand finale performance of Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture with fireworks!
Behind the Music To enrich your concert experience, Music Director Tania Miller and the Victoria Symphony presents Behind the Music. This series of open rehearsals, pre and post-concert ‘Tania Talks’ and other exciting events is designed to give you behindthe-scenes information about how the orchestra rehearses, how Maestra Miller prepares for concerts, background about works being performed and what to listen for during concerts. For the 75th anniversary season, Behind the Music continues with a special look at preparations for the the Beethoven Festival, stories from the 75th Legacy Tour, open rehearsals, conversations with guest artists and special ‘Tania Talks.’ Pre-concert talks for Signature and Legacy concerts begin one hour before the performance. Look for more information on upcoming events at victoriasymphony.ca/ behindthemusic.
Victoria Symphony Splash 19
{holiday concerts} A SENTIMENTAL CHRISTMAS
HANDEL’S MESSIAH
Friday, December 11, 8 PM, Saturday, December 12, 8 PM & Sunday, December 13, 2 PM Royal Theatre Tania Miller, conductor / Eleanor McCain, soprano / Victoria Choral Society
Celebrate the season with the Victoria Symphony’s traditional concert of Yuletide cheer featuring soprano Eleanor McCain. Maestra Tania Miller and the VS will be joined by the choristers from the Victoria Choral Society for a concert full of Christmas favorites, including the chance for the audience to join in with sing-a-long holiday carols.
Friday, December 18, 8 PM Sunday, December 20, 2:30 PM UVic Centre Farquhar Auditorium Robert Franz, conductor / Lucia Cesarone, soprano / Susan Platts, mezzo soprano / Zach Finkelstein, tenor / Justin Welsh, bass / Vox Humana and Friends
Guest conductor Robert Franz leads the Victoria Symphony for the annual presentation of Handel’s Messiah, one of the greatest choral works ever written. Join us in the “Hallelujah” chorus during this traditional favorite.
1934
Victoria musicians, who later formed the VS, played Handel’s Messiah for the Victoria Choral Union in 1934.
CHRISTMAS WITH HOLLY COLE Saturday, December 19, 8 PM Royal Theatre Giuseppe Pietraroia, conductor / Holly Cole
Deck your holiday season with the sounds of Holly! Juno-winning Canadian singer/songwriter Holly Cole returns to the VS delight audiences with her versatile and distinctive voice. Mixing jazz, pop and your favourite holiday music, her unique interpretations and original music are applauded as being highly musical, intensely innovative, and refreshingly witty.
A VIENNESE NEW YEAR’S Friday, January 1, 2:30 PM Royal Theatre Brian Jackson, conductor / Suzanne Higden, soprano / Benjamin Butterfield, tenor / Ballet Victoria
Beloved conductor Brian Jackson returns to lead our seventh annual New Year’s Day tradition, featuring dancers from Ballet Victoria and two delightful vocalists. Start your New Year with the VS and the beautiful music, dance, and songs of Vienna.
“There are few things as thrilling as live symphonic music. The collective skills of dozens of musicians, representing thousands of hours of work and devotion to craft, all merge at a single point.” —BOB FRASER, BASS TROMBONE
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For more information, videos and photos, visit victoriasymphony.ca
Tania Miller
music director
Giuseppe Pietraroia
conductor in residence
Bernhard Gueller
principal guest conductor
Jared Miller
composer in residence
ORCHESTRA Music Director Tania Miller Principal Guest Conductor Bernhard Gueller Conductor in Residence Giuseppe Pietraroia Composer in Residence Jared Miller Violins Terence Tam, concertmaster Christi Meyers, assistant concertmaster Victoria Lindsay, principal second Cory Balzer* M端ge B端y端k巽elen-Badel Courtney Cameron Michele Kwon Emily Salmon Christopher Taber Julian Vitek Violas Kenji Fuse, principal Stacey Boal Kay Cochran Mieka Michaux Christine Prince Celli Brian Yoon, principal Martin Bonham Joyce Ellwood Perry Foster
Basses Mary Rannie, principal Darren Buhr Alex Olson Flutes Richard Volet, principal Sally Harvey Piccolo Sally Harvey Oboes Michael Byrne, principal Russell Bajer english horn Russell Bajer Clarinets Keith MacLeod, principal Jennifer Christensen Bassoons Jennifer Gunter, principal Anne Marie Power Horns Alana Despins, principal Michael Oswald Janet Parker Dan Moses
Trombones Brad Howland, principal Marcus Hissen Bass Trombone Robert Fraser Tuba Paul Beauchesne, principal Timpani William Linwood, principal Percussion Corey Rae, principal Harp Annabelle Stanley, principal Orchestra Manager Peter Burris Stage Manager Eric Gallipo Librarian Ronald Comber Russell Bajer, assistant *Alphabetical listing of players who participate in a system of rotating seating within the section.
Trumpets Ryan Cole, principal David Michaux
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COMPOSE YOUR OWN SERIES Want to subscribe but one of our series doesn’t quite fit? The Compose Your Own Series (CYOS) gives you the flexibility to choose specific concerts you want from our six great series: Signature, Pops, Legacy, Classics, Kids and Explorations. Here are some ideas to get you started!
CYOS 6
CYOS 10
CYOS 10
(Six concerts, one ticket for each)
(Five concerts, two tickets for each)
(Five concerts, two tickets for each)
The Music Director’s Series
Nothing but the Hits
vsVERSUS
Fall under the spell of Music Director Tania Miller in this 6-pack made up entirely of concerts she will lead. Maestra Miller has chosen favourite pieces and works that are historically significant to the Victoria Symphony for each of her concerts next year. Hear the versatility of the orchestra under the baton of Tania Miller in this series that features Beethoven’s wonderful Piano Concerto No. 3, Mahler’s enormous Symphony No. 5, and a traditional Christmas concert.
Split a CYOS 10-pack with your spouse, your BFF, or even a grandchild! Whether you’re a longtime classical music fan or completely new to the symphony, these concerts are sure to impress. From Beethoven’s immortal Ninth symphony to Rachmaninoff’s phenomenal Piano Concerto No. 2, each major work in these concerts holds a very important place for classical music. Come and revel in the Victoria Symphony playing the “hits.”
Can’t decide between the Pops and the rest? This package designed for two brings the best Pops and Signature concerts head-to-head to make one amazing series. Starting with a pair of the greatest symphonic works ever written and ending with the gravity-defying acrobatics of Cirque de la Symphonie, this special CYOS package will show you the best variety the VS has to offer.
Monday, September 21: VS Opening Night with Naden Band
Saturday, October 3: Rachmaninoff 2 and Tchaikovsky 5
Saturday, December 12: A Sentimental Christmas
Saturday, November 21: Ehnes and Mahler 5
Sunday, February 14: Vivaldi’s Four Seasons
Friday, December 11: A Sentimental Christmas
Monday, March 21: Beethoven Festival Concert III
Friday, March 18: Beethoven Festival Concert I
Monday, April 4: 75th Legacy Tour
Monday, April 4: 75th Legacy Tour
Saturday, May 7: Beethoven 9
Saturday, October 3: Rachmaninoff 2 and Tchaikovsky 5
Saturday, January 30: A Night at the Oscars Friday, March 18: Beethoven Festival Concert I Saturday, April 30: Cirque de la Symphonie
Saturday, May 7: Beethoven 9
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SUBSCRIBE NOW SUBSCRIBE TODAY – SAVE UP TO 44% OFF SINGLE TICKETS
SUBSCRIBING IS AS EASY AS FOUR SIMPLE STEPS:
Music can sweep us away to a different time and place, evoking a powerful emotional response that feeds the soul. This season, we’ve created concerts to inspire, entertain, excite and delight your soul.
Step One:
We invite you to join us for our 75th anniversary season and celebrate the joy of extraordinary live music.
THE BEST PRICES Subscriptions save you up to 44% off single ticket prices. Save $8 per ticket for additional concerts* (excludes student and child tickets). *Some restrictions apply
THE BEST SEATS Feel at home with the ability to have the same seats year after year. You receive priority seating and upgrades over single ticket buyers.
Choose one or more of our five diverse series programmed to complement each other, or Compose Your Own Series by choosing six or ten of your favourites from a selection of over 30 concerts. Keep the tickets for yourself or share with friends.
Step Two: Choose where you want to sit for your subscription or your price zone for your Compose Your Own Series.
Step Three: Contact us to purchase your subscription:
You can purchase tickets to all concerts – including special concerts – before they go on sale to the public.
Via phone: 250.385.6515
THE BEST BENEFITS
In Person or via Mail: Suite 610 620 View Street Victoria BC V8W 1J6
Exchange tickets with no fees during August!
Via Email: boxoffice@victoriasymphony.ca
Receive special offers available only to subscribers including discounts at local restaurants!
Step Four: Enjoy your subscriber benefits!
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THE BEST SELECTION
Receive advanced notification for special concerts.
SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION COMPOSE YOUR OWN SERIES SUBSCRIPTION Choose six or ten performances from the Signature, VS Pops, Legacy, Classics and Explorations concerts for a subscription that suits your schedule and your personal preferences. For additional flexibility, you can either preselect your concerts or receive vouchers and redeem them throughout the season. This subscription also entitles you to all of our subscriber benefits including further discounts on any additional concert purchases and “beat the box office� on our specials. Sample the best that the Victoria Symphony has to offer with a CYOS subscription.
MASTERS SUBSCRIPTION The Masters subscription package is a combination of the Signature and Legacy Series for a total of eleven concerts. By combining the two series into one subscription, you save 30% over single ticket prices!
GROUP DISCOUNT
VS SOUNDCHECK If you are between the ages of 15 and 35, vsSOUNDCHECK can connect you to classical, pop, jazz and other Victoria Symphony performances for just $13 a ticket. Visit victoriasymphony.ca/ vssoundcheck to sign up.
Ticket Policy All tickets are non-refundable but may be exchanged up to 24 hours before the concert. Subscription packages are fully refundable up to the first concert of the series. The policies of the Victoria Symphony, the Royal Theatre and the University of Victoria state that every person must have a ticket in order to be admitted to a performance. Children five years and older are welcome at all regular Victoria Symphony concerts. There are no age restrictions at Concerts for Kids, but all patrons, regardless of age, must have a ticket. Babes-in-arms at Concerts for Kids will be issued a complimentary seat next to their parent or guardian.
Conditions of Sale Subscription series are purchased and issued subject to the policies, rules and regulations of the Victoria Symphony. All remittances will be deposited immediately upon receipt, without guaranteeing acceptance of order as requested. No refunds will be made and no credit vouchers issued except in the case of cancellation of a performance. Please note that all Royal Theatre concert ticket prices include an $8.00 service charge per ticket and all University of Victoria concert ticket prices include a $3.50 service charge per ticket. Prices and dates listed in this brochure were correct at the time of printing. Every effort is made to ensure accuracy although errors may occur. Programs, artists/conductors, prices, location and dates are subject to change without notice. Exchange fees for tickets purchased as part of a package are $2.00 per ticket. Single tickets are exchangeable with a $5.00 exchange fee per ticket.
Groups of 10 or more save up to 20% off regular priced tickets. Call 250.385.6515 or email boxoffice@ victoriasymphony.ca. 27
EDUCATION {and} OUTREACH The Victoria Symphony believes that music is an integral part of a well-rounded education and is vital to the emotional and intellectual development of youth. The Victoria Symphony offers a variety of innovative, entertaining, educational and widely accessible programs.
SCHOOL PROGRAMS Education and Outreach Concerts The Victoria Symphony’s Education and Outreach concerts are designed for students in grades K-7 in Victoria, Saanich, Gulf Islands and Cowichan school districts as well as independent and home schools. These concerts provide fun, accessible, and engaging experiences while exposing over 7,000 students annually to the wonders of live classical music. Musicians in Schools and Master Class Sessions Musicians of the orchestra bring innovative, inspiring and entertaining performances and workshops to school gyms and classrooms. These programs allow students to connect more directly with the musicians as well as provide a forum for open dialogue and eager questions. Open Rehearsals for Middle and High Schools Listen, learn and enjoy the music, magic and mechanics that go into rehearsing for a performance. 28
Scheduled throughout the VS season, these free open rehearsals are available for middle and high school students and their teachers. Symphony Story Time The Victoria Symphony brings a pair of VS musicians and their puppet friend, Cathy Cadence, into local preschools. Children aged two to five will be treated to a musical performance that matches music to words and feelings.
COMMUNITY PROGRAMS Instrument Petting Zoo This popular hands-on activity gives children the opportunity to try a variety of instruments with guidance from experienced vsYOUTH volunteers. From violins to trumpets, the Instrument Petting Zoo is sure to give your child a memorable experience – and perhaps spark a new interest in music!
vsNEW Young Composer Workshops This innovative six-month program gives young composers the opportunity to create new and exciting music. Working with Victoria Symphony Composer in Residence and a dedicated ensemble of Victoria Symphony musicians, vsNEW students are given the opportunity to develop their creative skills and hear their music come to life. vsYOUTH Volunteers Do you love music? Do you love working with kids? Combine the two to join vsYOUTH. These dedicated young volunteers run Instrument Petting Zoos and help out at Victoria Symphony concerts. vsSOUNDCHECK If you are between the ages of 15 and 35, then vsSOUNDCHECK can connect you to classical, pop, jazz and other Victoria Symphony performances for just $13 a ticket. Visit victoriasymphony.ca to sign up.
For more information on all these programs, please call 250.412.1977.
SERIES PRICING CONCERT SERIES SECTION ADULT SENIOR
Masters Signature/Legacy combined
522.50
506
A
401.50
385
B
324.50
308
C
247.50
231
Loge
390
6 concerts in this series
Compose Your Own Series (cyos)
A1
324
318
A
252
246
126
B
204
198
102
C
156
150
84
Loge
325
A1
270
265
A
210
205
105
Signature 5 concerts in this series
250.385.6515
632.50
A1
11 concerts
Legacy
SUBSCRIBE TODAY
Loge
STUDENT / CHILD
B
170
165
85
C
130
125
70
Loge
342
A1
294
288
A
240
234
126
B
198
192
96
C
150
144
78
6 concerts in this series
Classics
A
210
205
105
5 concerts in this series
B
170
165
85
C
130
125
70
Concerts for Kids
A
54
36
3 concerts in this series
B
39
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Prices include tax and venue service charges.
save up to 44% over single ticket prices. 30
A B C
270 210 168
cyos 10
Pops
cyos 6
A B C
450 350 280
SINGLE TICKET PRICING
Concert Series Price Range
Signature, VS Pops, Legacy
30 – 80
Classics
35 – 55
Concerts for Kids
15 – 20
Explorations
15 – 20
Handel’s Messiah
30 – 50
Christmas with Holly Cole
40 – 90
A Viennese New Year’s
45 – 90
Beethoven Festival
66 – 174
Yo-Yo Ma
45 – 250
MAIN FLOOR STAGE
BALCONY BOX
BOX
LEFT
RIGHT
All prices include tax and venue service charges.
For tickets call 250.385.6515 or visit victoriasymphony.ca ENTRANCE
the royal theatre MAIN FLOOR STAGE
UVIC centre farquhar auditorium MAIN FLOOR
BALCONY BOX
BALCONY
BOX STAGE
LEFT
STAGE
RIGHT
ENTRANCE
MAIN FLOOR
BALCONY
Seating charts may vary.
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SUPPORT YOUR SYMPHONY The 2015/16 season marks our 75th Anniversary of concert performance in Victoria, thanks to a legacy of community support for classical music. THANK YOU! We take great pride in our outstanding orchestra with a dynamic Music Director and talented musicians who create inspiring musical experiences in our community. Your support drives us to continue building on past achievements and strengthening the youth education programs that enrich us all. How can you support your symphony?
ATTEND A CONCERT! Your ticket purchases and presence are essential to every concert. Ticket sales cover 40% of our costs.
MAKE A NEW DONATION Please consider a 75th Anniversary special gift. Make a pledge or gift to the Victoria Symphony and know your generosity will make a difference. Consider adding a one-time “plus 75” to your gift for our 75th Anniversary campaign. All gifts will receive a tax receipt. Gifts of stock are extremely tax-efficient. Victoria Symphony Society Charitable Registration #119285286RR0001. Join the Musician’s Circle with a donation of $100 – $999 and receive name recognition in the concert program, gift dedication in honour of someone you care about and invitations to special events to meet our musicians, guest artists and new friends.
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Join the Conductor’s Circle with a donation of $1,000 or more and receive invitations to unique music enrichment events, open rehearsals and the Conductor’s Circle Lounge at Signature and Legacy concerts. Underwrite a guest artist’s performance ($2,500 – $2,750), or a concert ($5,000 – $7,500), or a musician or section for the season ($10,750 – $27,500).
BECOME A BUSINESS SPONSOR
Join the Tribute Circle by naming the Victoria Symphony Foundation as a beneficiary in your will or other planned gift, such as life insurance. Current gifts or future estate bequests to the Victoria Symphony Foundation may receive up to 100% in matching funds, which could double the benefit of your generosity for future generations of music-lovers. Victoria Symphony Foundation Charitable Registration #119285278RR0001
We offer interesting volunteer opportunities. Please call 250.412.1977 or email sandy@victoriasymphony.ca to volunteer.
Please call 250.412.1982 or email dana@victoriasymphony.ca for help with your donation choice.
The Victoria Symphony can design a sponsorship that meets your business goals for community impact by sponsoring concerts, youth education programs, Victoria Symphony Splash and more. Please call 250.412.1980 or email lorraine@victoriasymphony.ca.
BECOME A VOLUNTEER
TICKETS By Phone: 250.385.6515 Monday to Friday 9 am to 4 pm Online: victoriasymphony.ca By Mail: Victoria Symphony Box Office, Suite 610, 620 View Street, Victoria, BC V8W 1J6 In person: You are welcome to visit our office at 620 View Street, Suite 610, Monday to Friday, 9 am to 4 pm.
75th anniversary season sponsor
platinum sponsors
GOld sponsors
season media sponsors
Government Funders
about the illustrator Julie McLaughlin is a Vancouver-based freelance illustrator. She graduated with a Bachelor of Design from the Alberta College of Art & Design in 2006, and has since drawn pictures for a variety of editorial, advertising, and publishing clients around the world. More work can be seen at www.whatwouldjuliedraw.com. Design: Lime Design Inc.
V I C T O R I A S Y M P H O N Y. C A
We’re just getting warmed up.