victoria symphony CHR ISTI A N K LU X EN / M USIC DIR ECTOR
2019
2020
I am thrilled to present our new season which illustrates the Victoria Symphony as a leading force in our community, as well as our ability to reach out across the world of great symphonic music. ¬ Beethoven 250 is our celebration of Beethoven’s 250th birthday. Playing all his symphonies in four consecutive weeks will be a tremendous event, representing the intimate bond that Beethoven’s music has created for us since the beginning of my tenure. ¬ Under the Northern Lights will focus on music from my home of Scandinavia, mirrored by masterpieces from outside the Nordic region. In the Masterworks Series, we proudly present our first overseas co-commission, introducing accordion phenomenon Bjarke Mogensen premiering a new concerto by legendary Danish composer Poul Ruders. We are visited by Swedish virtuoso Tobias Ringborg, acting as both violin soloist and conductor, in music by Grieg, Stenhammar and Dvořák. In our Explorations Series, Norway’s leading composer Rolf Wallin is featured with his breathtaking Manyworlds 3D, enhanced by three-dimensional video art by Boya Bøckman. And in our Classics Series, we present Finnish composer Magnus Lindberg’s exceptional Violin Concerto No. 1, which has already become a true “classic” within the repertoire. Our dynamic Pops Series will feature Ballet Victoria, the music of Frank Sinatra, Celtic music with violinist Maria Millar, and a stunning production with Cirque de la Symphonie. ¬ Alongside a phenomenal lineup of Canadian artists, we’ve managed to attract some new exciting names, including winner of the German Conducting Prize and Assistant Conductor of the Gustav Mahler Youth Orchestra, Leo McFall, as well as young American violinist Stefan Jackiw, who has already appeared with orchestras such as the New York Philharmonic and the Chicago Symphony. ¬ Through Naked Classics, presented by award-winning music education animateur Paul Rissmann, we continue our commitment to innovating concert forms and building new audiences. This is the concert to bring along someone you’d like to introduce to the great world of symphonic music! ¬ I am particularly looking forward to our grand season finale featuring Gustav Mahler’s mighty Symphony No. 3. It will be a monumental conclusion to a season packed with remarkable programming and extraordinary music. Join us on this amazing journey! CHR ISTI A N K LU XEN / MUSIC DIR ECTOR
dy na
welcome to the 2019/20
m ic
20 season!
3 Message from the CEO 4 Season at a Glance 6 Under the Northern Lights
stage
7 Beethoven Festival 8 Masterworks 16 VS Pops 20 Classics 24 Concerts for Kids 28 Holiday Concerts 30 Explorations 31 Symphony in the Summer 32 Musicians 34 Subscription Information 37 Education & Outreach 38 Subscription & Single Ticket Pricing 39 Seating Maps 40 Support Your Symphony 41 Sponsors
A ne w s e a s on b eg i n s
It is w ith gr e at e xcitement and anticipation that we present our 2019/2020 season as we enter into the third year of extraordinary performances under Christian’s creative and energetic artistic leadership. Our season is woven together through themes, an anniversary, and our continued commitment to Canadian and contemporary music that includes works from Scandinavia, a salute to Beethoven in celebration of his 250th birthday, as well as presentations by world class composers from this century. We are proud to offer imaginative and expanded programming
that will build on our legacy and introduce innovative ways of enhancing our listener’s symphonic music experience. Our commitment to community continues through our new Symphony Insights lunch series and our ever-popular Mozart and Martinis and Beer and Beethoven events. And of course, this is a monumental year as we celebrate the 30th anniversary of Victoria Symphony Splash – can you believe it? As well, we continue to enhance our Education and Outreach initiatives that provide a musical experience to over 18,000 students every year.
We look forward to presenting some of our Masterworks concerts in the Farquhar at UVic, the home to our increasingly popular Classics Series. This has been a wonderful venue for these concerts, and we are optimistic that our Masterworks performances will provide an intimate and exciting experience under Christian’s charismatic leadership. The evolution of your Victoria Symphony continues, and so we invite you to come take your seat and journey with us into the world of exceptional symphonic music making. Welcome!
K AT HRY N L AU R IN / CEO
July
September
November
December
24 | Symphony
in the Summer VS @ Christ Church Cathedral
23 | Masterworks
2, 3 | Pops
7 | Masterworks
27, 27 | Symphony
28, 29 | Pops
in the Summer
(Mon) Rachmaninoff & Brahms
Beer & Beethoven
A Fantasia of Dance
31 | Symphony
October
in the Summer VS @ Butchart Gardens
August 4 | Symphony
in the Summer Victoria Symphony Splash
Old Blue Eyes: The Music of Frank Sinatra 10 | Masterworks
(Sun) Sibelius Symphony No. 5
5, 6 | Masterworks
(Sat, Sun) Bellincampi Conducts Mendelssohn & Schumann 20 | Classics
17 | Classics
Tam Plays Lindberg 23 | Explorations
Manyworlds 3D
(Sat) Dvořák From the New World 8 | Concerts
for Kids The Snowman 14, 15 | Pops
Magic of the Holidays 20, 22 | Specials
Handel’s Messiah 21 | Specials
Canadian Brass
Haydn & Beethoven
2019/2020 Come ta ke y ou r seat
January
for Kids Wall to Wall Percussion
22, 23 | Masterworks
(Sun, Mon) Beethoven 250: Symphonies Nos. 1 & 9
25 | Explorations
23 | Classics
28, 29 | Pops
Min Plays Schumann
Music of the Emerald Isle
May
March
April
7 | Masterworks
(Sat) Beethoven 250: Symphonies Nos. 5 & 3
4 | Masterworks
Yoon Plays Lalo
Cirque Goes to the Theatre
2, 3 | Masterworks
(Sun, Mon) Naked Classics: Tchaikovsky’s Pathétique
12 | Classics
5 | Concerts
16, 17 | Masterworks
Beethoven 250: Symphonies Nos. 2, 4 & 7
for Kids Beethoven Lives Upstairs
8 | Explorations
15 | Classics
19 | Classics
Beethoven 250: Symphonies Nos. 6 & 8
Fortunata Sings Mozart
1 | Specials
A Viennese New Years 25, 26 | Pops
Shaken, Not Stirred: Music from James Bond & Other Spies
February
Kluxen Confronts Zappa
16 | Concerts
(Sat)
Other Echoes
4 | Masterworks
(Mon) Cheng Plays Beethoven 9, 10 | Pops
(Sat, Sun) Mahler Symphony No. 3 Under the Norther n Lights B e e t h ov e n F e s t i v a l
Under the
This se ason introduces the overarching theme of Under the Northern Lights; a collection of concerts that feature masterpieces from Scandinavian composers, mirrored by popular works from the classical repertoire, cutting edge new music as well as the first ever international co-commission between the Victoria Symphony and the Danish National Symphony Orchestra.
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Victoria Symphony 2019/2020 season
Northern Lights
Sibelius Symphony No. 5
Manyworlds 3D
Sunday, November 10, 2:30 pm
Saturday, November 23, 8:00 pm
Christian Kluxen, conductor
Bill Linwood, conductor
Tam Plays Lindberg
Dvořåk From the New World
Sunday, November 17, 2:30 pm
Saturday, December 7, 8:00 pm
Christian Kluxen, conductor
Tobias Ringborg, conductor
B e e t h ov e n Beethoven 250 Beethoven’s music has from the very beginning created a special bond between the Victoria Symphony and myself. The week I was announced as new Music Director, I stepped in for a concert of Beethoven’s 5th Symphony and Prometheus Overture. Through the week, there was a certain electricity in the hall. Since then, it feels like we are able to come back to this same
F e s t i va l
atmosphere, every time we play Beethoven. In other words, Beethoven has been a binding force for us. But his music is also a universal force. Every single one of his symphonies feels like they are both the beginning and the end; like all is new and as if every note is the last. This is how I believe that his music must be performed. Every note must be a new creation, show a way, comment on its surroundings and show us the bigger picture. But most of all, Beethoven is the purest example of human struggle and final triumph. Beethoven is humanity. Welcome to Beethoven!
Symphonies Nos. 5 & 3
Symphonies Nos. 2, 4 & 7
Saturday, March 7, 8:00 pm
Thursday, March 12, 8:00 pm
Christian Kluxen, conductor
Christian Kluxen, conductor
Beethoven, Symphony No. 5 Beethoven, Symphony No. 3
Beethoven, Symphony No. 2 Beethoven, Symphony No. 4 Beethoven, Symphony No. 7
Symphonies Nos. 6 & 8 Sunday, March 15, 2:30 pm
Christian Kluxen, conductor Beethoven, Symphony No. 6 Beethoven, Symphony No. 8
Symphonies Nos. 1 & 9 Sunday, March 22, 2:30 pm Monday, March 23, 8:00 pm
Christian Kluxen, conductor Alexandria Shiner, soprano Megan Latham, mezzo-soprano Andrew Haji, tenor Dashon Burton, bass Victoria Choral Society Beethoven, Symphony No. 1 Beethoven, Symphony No. 9 “Ode to Joy”
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m a st erw r k s T h e 2 0 19/ 2 0 s e a s o n i s g e n e r o u s l y u nder w ritten i n honou r of Da llas & Len Chapple.
CHRISTI ME YER S / A SSISTANT CONCERTMA STER
September 23
February 2, 3
April 4
Masterworks (Mon) Rachmaninoff & Brahms
Masterworks (Sun, Mon) Naked Classics: Tchaikovsky’s Pathétique
Masterworks (Sat) Yoon Plays Lalo
October 5, 6
March 7
May 4
Masterworks (Sat, Sun) Bellincampi Conducts Mendelssohn & Schumann
Masterworks (Sat) Beethoven 250: Symphonies Nos. 5 & 3
Masterworks (Mon) Cheng Plays Beethoven
March 22, 23
May 16, 17
November 10
Masterworks (Sun, Mon) Beethoven 250: Symphonies Nos. 1 & 9
Masterworks (Sat, Sun) Mahler Symphony No. 3
Masterworks (Sun) Sibelius Symphony No. 5 December 7
Masterworks (Sat) Dvořák From the New World
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Ma s te r w ork s S at u r d ay
Bellincampi Conducts Mendelssohn & Schumann Saturday, October 5, 8:00 pm
Under th e Nort h ern L ights
Dvořák From the New World
Giordano Bellincampi, conductor Stefan Jackiw, violin
Saturday, December 7, 8:00 pm
Weber, Overture to Der Freischütz Mendelssohn, Concerto for Violin Schumann, Symphony No. 2
Tobias Ringborg, conductor and violin
Hailed for playing that is “striking for its intelligence and sensitivity” (Boston Globe), American virtuoso Stefan Jackiw makes his VS debut performing Mendelssohn’s lyrical Concerto for Violin. Under the baton of internationally renowned conductor Giordano Bellincampi, the concert comes to a triumphant close with Schumann’s dramatic Symphony No. 2 in C major.
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Grieg, Symphonic Dances Stenhammar, Two Romances for Violin and Orchestra Svendsen, Romance Dvořák, Symphony No. 9 (From the New World)
Embracing the theme of home, Swedish virtuoso Tobias Ringborg plays and conducts music from Scandinavian composers including Stenhammar’s tender and passionate Two Romances and Grieg’s vibrant Symphonic Dances. This theme continues with Dvořák’s “New World” Symphony, a piece that both reflects his love for his Bohemian homeland and respect for the American spirit of working and living in New York City.
Victoria Symphony 2019/2020 season
BRIAN YOON / PRINCIPAL CELLIST
B e e t h ov e n
F e s t i va l
Beethoven 250: Symphonies Nos. 5 & 3 Saturday, March 7, 8:00 pm
Christian Kluxen, conductor Beethoven, Symphony No. 5 Beethoven, Symphony No. 3
With the four most famous notes in musical history, our Beethoven 250 celebration launches with fate knocking on the door. In its exceptional vigour, Symphony No. 5 remains one of the most significant symphonies, only matched by the Eroica, pushing symphonic form to new heights. Two iconic masterpieces that changed music forever.
Yoon Plays Lalo
Mahler Symphony No. 3
Saturday, April 4, 8:00 pm
Saturday, May 16, 8:00 pm
Bernhard Gueller, conductor Brian Yoon, cello
Christian Kluxen, conductor Allyson McHardy, mezzo-soprano Women of the Victoria Choral Society Victoria Children’s Choir
de Falla, Three-Cornered Hat (Suite No. 1) Lalo, Concerto for Cello Franck, Symphony in D Minor
VS Principal cellist Brian Yoon joins the orchesta in Lalo’s evocative Concerto for Cello. From its dreamy interlude to the impassioned finale, Lalo sets the stage for one of the finest works of the French repertoire – César Franck’s Symphony in D minor under the leadership of guest conductor, Bernhard Gueller.
Mahler, Symphony No. 3
Under the baton of Maestro Kluxen, Mahler’s triumphant and glorious Symphony No. 3 concludes our 2019/20 season. Featuring mezzo-soprano Allyson McHardy, with the women of the Victoria Choral Society and the Victoria Children’s Choir, this work transcends the trivialities of mundane life. From the forcefully commanding opening to the expansive finale, Gustav Mahler’s Third Symphony proudly stands as one of the greatest humanistic pillars of our time. All performances take place at The Farquhar at UVic. For tickets, call 250.385.6515. Pre-concert talks are held in the Senate Chambers adjacent to the Auditorium at 7:00 pm before each Masterworks Saturday concert.
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Ma s te r w ork s Su nd ay
Bellincampi Conducts Mendelssohn & Schumann Sunday, October 6, 2:30 pm
Under th e Nort h ern L ights
Sibelius Symphony No. 5
Naked Classics: Tchaikovsky’s Pathétique Sunday, February 2, 2:30 pm
Giordano Bellincampi, conductor Stefan Jackiw, violin
Sunday, November 10, 2:30 pm
Christian Kluxen, conductor Paul Rissmann, animateur
Weber, Overture to Der Freischütz Mendelssohn, Concerto for Violin Schumann, Symphony No. 2
Christian Kluxen, conductor Bjarke Mogensen, accordion
Tchaikovsky, Symphony No. 6 “Pathétique”
Danish String Quartet, Nordic Suite Ruders, SOUND and SIMPLICITY, Seven Pillars of Music for Accordion and Orchestra Sibelius, Symphony No. 5
Naked Classics animateur Paul Rissmann returns to the VS to “undress” Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 6 “Pathétique.” Rissmann introduces this haunting score, unlocking its many secrets and making it accessible to the audience through imagery, musical excerpts with the orchestra live on stage and much more. Following the intermission, Maestro Kluxen leads us through a complete performance of the symphony.
Hailed for playing that is “striking for its intelligence and sensitivity” (Boston Globe), American virtuoso Stefan Jackiw makes his VS debut performing Mendelssohn’s lyrical Concerto for Violin. Under the baton of internationally renowned conductor Giordano Bellincampi, the concert comes to a triumphant close with Schumann’s dramatic Symphony No. 2 in C major.
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“Under the Northern Lights” launches with Sibelius’ monumental Symphony No. 5, depicting Nordic landscapes, from the most hidden inner parts of the human spirit to the broadest widths of nature. Accordion phenom Bjarke Mogensen joins Maestro Kluxen in the North American premiere of Danish composer Poul Ruders’ evocative and sultry score.
Victoria Symphony 2019/2020 season
B e e t h ov e n
F e s t i va l
Beethoven 250: Symphonies Nos. 1 & 9 Sunday, March 22, 2:30 pm
Christian Kluxen, conductor Alexandria Shiner, soprano Megan Latham, mezzo-soprano Andrew Haji, tenor Dashon Burton, bass Victoria Choral Society Beethoven, Symphony No. 1 Beethoven, Symphony No. 9 “Ode to Joy”
Beethoven 250 concludes by displaying his creation from its youthful dawn to climactic conclusion. His first symphony unfolded the beginning of a new era in music, building on the achievements of Haydn and Mozart. Symphony No. 9 remains an unquestioned masterpiece for the ages, perhaps the most famous of the entire classical repertoire, celebrating mankind’s potential through a message of praise, passion and glory.
Mahler Symphony No. 3 Sunday, May 17, 2:30 pm
Christian Kluxen, conductor Allyson McHardy, mezzo-soprano Women of the Victoria Choral Society Victoria Children’s Choir Mahler, Symphony No. 3
Under the baton of Maestro Kluxen, Mahler’s triumphant and glorious Symphony No. 3 concludes our 2019/20 season. Featuring mezzo-soprano Allyson McHardy, with the women of the Victoria Choral Society and the Victoria Children’s Choir, this work transcends the trivialities of mundane life. From the forcefully commanding opening to the expansive finale, Gustav Mahler’s Third Symphony proudly stands as one of the greatest humanistic pillars of our time. All performances take place at The Farquhar at UVic. For tickets, call 250.385.6515. Pre-concert talks are held in the Senate Chambers adjacent to the Auditorium at 1:30 pm before each Masterworks Sunday concert.
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Ma s te r w ork s Mond ay Sponsored by Butler Brothers
Ma ster work s Mond ay subscribers will receive a voucher for one additional regular season concert of their choosing.
Rachmaninoff & Brahms Monday, September 23, 8:00 pm
Naked Classics: Tchaikovsky’s Pathétique Monday, February 3, 8:00 pm
Christian Kluxen, conductor Georgy Tchaidze, piano Rachmaninoff, Piano Concerto No. 3 Brahms, Symphony No. 1
Honens Piano Competition winner Georgy Tchaidze makes his eagerly anticipated debut with the VS performing Rachmaninoff’s thrilling Piano Concerto No. 3; one of the most technically and musically challenging of the repertoire. Under the baton of Maestro Kluxen, the VS propels the 19/20 season into place with Brahms’ majestic Symphony No. 1.
Christian Kluxen, conductor Paul Rissmann, animateur
Victoria Symphony 2019/2020 season
F e s t i va l
Beethoven 250: Symphonies Nos. 1 & 9 Monday, March 23, 8:00 pm
Tchaikovsky, Symphony No. 6 “Pathétique”
Naked Classics animateur Paul Rissmann returns to the VS to “undress” Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 6 “Pathétique.” Rissmann introduces this haunting score, unlocking its many secrets and making it accessible to the audience through imagery, musical excerpts with the orchestra live on stage and much more. Following the intermission, Maestro Kluxen leads us through a complete performance of the symphony.
All performances take place at the Royal Theatre. For tickets, call 250.385.6515. Pre-concert talks are held in the west lobby of the Royal Theatre at 7 pm before each Masterworks Monday concert.
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B e e t h ov e n
Christian Kluxen, conductor Alexandria Shiner, soprano Megan Latham, mezzo-soprano Andrew Haji, tenor Dashon Burton, bass Victoria Choral Society Beethoven, Symphony No. 1 Beethoven, Symphony No. 9 “Ode to Joy”
Beethoven 250 concludes by displaying his creation from its youthful dawn to climactic conclusion. His first symphony unfolded the beginning of a new era in music, building on the achievements of Haydn and Mozart. Symphony No. 9 remains an unquestioned masterpiece for the ages, perhaps the most famous of the entire classical repertoire, celebrating mankind’s potential through a message of praise, passion and glory.
Cheng Plays Beethoven Monday, May 4, 8:00 pm
Leo McFall, conductor Angela Cheng, piano Kulesha, Northern Lights Overture Beethoven, Piano Concerto No. 2 Schubert, Symphony No. 1
An audience favourite, Angela Cheng, is a renowned interpreter of Beethoven’s music and is consistently praised for her brilliant technique, tonal beauty and superb musicianship. Conductor Leo McFall, acclaimed for his profound musicality, makes his Canadian debut with Schubert’s delicately youthful and imaginative Symphony No. 1.
PAUL BEAUCHESNE / PRINCIPAL TUBA
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pops
Po ps Ser ies i s gen ero u s ly u n d er w r it ten b y Jo h n & M a r v ie McEo w n SEAN O’LOUGHLIN / PRINCIPAL POPS CONDUCTOR
Sponsored by Clea r Ski n Victoria
P op s
Old Blue Eyes: Music of Frank Sinatra
Generously underw ritten
Saturday, November 2, 8:00 pm Sunday, November 3, 2:00 pm
by Joh n & Ma r v ie McEow n
Giuseppe Pietraroia, conductor Tony DeSare, entertainer
Described by the New York Times as “two parts young Sinatra to one part Billy Joel”, Tony DeSare joins the VS to sing hits from legendary Old Blue Eyes himself, Frank Sinatra. My Funny Valentine, Come Fly With Me and My Way are just a few of Sinatra’s hits this sultry crooner and his grooving band will perform.
A Fantasia of Dance
Magic of the Holidays
Saturday, September 28, 8:00 pm Sunday, September 29, 2:00 pm
Saturday, December 14, 8:00 pm Sunday, December 15, 2:00 pm
Sean O’Loughlin, conductor Ballet Victoria, (Paul Destrooper, Artistic Director)
Giuseppe Pietraroia, conductor Betty Waynne Allison, soprano Vox Humana Chamber Choir
Talented dancers of Ballet Victoria join Maestro Sean O’Loughlin and the VS to delight audiences with an eclectic fusion of music and dance including favourites from Fantasia, Rodeo, Romeo & Juliet, Appalachian Spring and more!
Kick off your festive season with some holiday cheer! Soprano Betty Waynne Allison and Vox Humana Chamber Choir lend their talented voices to perform both holly jolly and sentimental songs including O’Holy Night, The Nutcracker Suite, Music from Harry Potter and more. Join Associate Conductor Maestro Pietraroia and the VS for a concert of holiday magic!
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Victoria Symphony 2019/2020 season
Shaken, Not Stirred: Music from James Bond and Other Spies Saturday, January 25, 8:00 pm Sunday, January 26, 2:00 pm
Sean O’Loughlin, conductor David Curry, tenor
Just as synonymous with James Bond as the smoking gun, Aston Martin and shaken, not stirred martini is the stunning Bond music. From Russia with Love, Skyfall, Goldfinger, and Thunderball are just a few of the classics that you’ll here in this spy-themed performance with tenor David Curry and Maestro Sean O’Loughin. Other notorious spy anthems from Mission Impossible and The Pink Panther are also on the program.
Cirque Goes to the Theatre Saturday, May 9, 8:00 pm Sunday, May 10, 2:00 pm
Sean O’Loughlin, conductor Cirque de la Symphonie
Back by popular demand the talented and high-flying acrobats, jugglers and artists from Cirque de la Symphonie return to delight and amaze with another jawdropping performance set to both classical and movie music including music from Chicago, The Greatest Showman and more.
Music of the Emerald Isles Saturday, March 28, 8:00 pm Sunday, March 29, 2:00 pm
Sean O’Loughlin, conductor Maria Millar, violin/fiddle
Julliard trained and Riverdance alumni Maria Millar joins the VS for a tour through the Emerald Isles with all things Irish. Ramble through misty moors and ancient castles of Ireland with footstomping cèilidhs of your favourite Celtic tunes including O’Danny Boy, Irish Reels, Scotland the Brave and more. vic toriasy mphony.ca
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cl a ssics CHRISTIAN KLUXEN / MUSIC DIRECTOR
C l a s s ic s
Haydn & Beethoven Sunday, October 20, 2:30 pm
Giuseppe Pietraroia, conductor Eric Lu, piano Gluck, Dance of the Furies & Chaconne from Orphée et Euridice Beethoven, Piano Concerto No. 4 Haydn, Symphony No. 101 “The Clock”
Fresh from winning the top prize at Leeds International Piano Competition, ChineseAmerican Eric Lu debuts with the Victoria Symphony in Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 4. Described as a veritable poet of the keyboard, Eric Lu has become one of the most sought after pianists of his generation. Victoria’s Giuseppe Pietraroia leads the orchestra in one of the most popular of Haydn’s late symphonies – “The Clock”.
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Under th e Nort h ern L ights
Tam Plays Lindberg Sunday, November 17, 2:30 pm
Christian Kluxen, conductor Terence Tam, violin Larsson, Pastoral Suite Lindberg, Violin Concerto No. 1 Mozart, Symphony No. 40
In what promises to be a highlight of this season, VS concertmaster Terence Tam takes the stage to deliver his account of a contemporary classic: Finnish Magnus Lindberg’s thrilling and mosaic violin concerto. This is mirrored by the ingenious depth of one of Mozart’s very last symphonies, alongside Swedish composer Lars-Erik Larsson’s charming and light-hearted Pastoral Suite.
Victoria Symphony 2019/2020 season
Min Plays Schumann Sunday, February 23, 2:30 pm
Jean-Claude Picard, conductor Lorraine Min, piano Haydn, L’isola Disabitata Schumann, Piano Concerto in A minor Bizet, Symphony in C
Victoria’s Lorraine Min returns to perform Schumann’s romantic Piano Concerto in A minor. In an intriguing dialogue between piano and orchestra, this concerto moves from fantasy to sweetness to a vivid finale. Praised for his vibrant style, Canadian conductor Jean-Claude Picard returns to Victoria, leading the orchestra in Bizet’s youthful masterpiece, Symphony in C.
B e e t h ov e n
F e s t i va l
Beethoven 250: Symphonies Nos. 2, 4 & 7
Beethoven 250: Symphonies Nos. 6 & 8
Thursday, March 12, 8:00 pm
Sunday, March 15, 2:30 pm
Christian Kluxen, conductor
Christian Kluxen, conductor
Beethoven, Symphony No. 2 Beethoven, Symphony No. 4 Beethoven, Symphony No. 7
Beethoven, Symphony No. 6 Beethoven, Symphony No. 8
The second concert in the Beethoven 250 celebration, presents no less than three symphonies in one night! From classic “Beethovian energy” in Symphony No. 2 to the witty Symphony No. 4, concluding with the incomparable pinnacle of dance: Symphony No. 7. A true Beethoven blast – not to be missed!
The celebration of Beethoven’s 250th birthday continues with his forceful and innovative exploration of nature in the Pastoral Symphony, leading into the buoyantly animated Symphony No. 8. A supreme tour-de-force concert, celebrating Beethoven’s unparalleled musical imagination.
Fortunata Sings Mozart Sunday, April 19, 2:30 pm
Stili an K irov, conductor Aviva Fortunata, soprano
Mozart, Marriage of Figaro: Overture; Porgi, amor; Dove sono Mozart, Così Fan Tutte: Overture; Come scoglio Mozart, Don Giovanni: Overture; Non mi dir Mozart, Idomeneo: D’oreste d’ajace Mozart, Symphony No. 36 “Linz”
Italian-Canadian soprano Aviva Fortunata beautifully masters arias from Mozart’s most famous opera: Don Giovanni, Marriage of Figaro, Così Fan Tutte and more. Full of mystery and joy, these arias are enchanting and bewitching. The concert concludes with Mozart’s vivacious and vigorous Symphony No. 36 “Linz”. The VS is pleased to welcome Maestro Kirov back to Victoria to celebrate the music of Mozart.
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concerts
GIUSEP P E PIE TR AROIA / A SSOCIATE CONDUC TOR
for k i ds
Conc e r t s for K id s
The Snowman
Wall to Wall Percussion
Beethoven Lives Upstairs
Sunday, December 8, 2:30 pm
Sunday, February 16, 2:30 pm
Sunday, April 5, 2:30 pm
Maestro Joey, conductor
Maestro Joey, conductor Vern Griffiths, solo percussion
Maestro Joey, conductor Classical Kids
Percussion superstar Vern Griffiths, returns to Victoria with Wall to Wall Percussion. Featuring all the musicianship, zaniness and creativity that go into being a percussionist, the show takes place “at Vern’s house”, and the stage will be full from “wall to wall” with instruments, a kitchen, an instrument-making workshop, living room, and more. With plenty of audience participation, there’s fun for everyone!
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 take told by the one and only Classical Kids.
The film versions of a beloved story by Raymond Briggs, The Snowman is screened with live musical accompaniment by the Victoria Symphony. Experience the magic of remarkable friendships with James and his snowman as they set off in wonderful adventures.
All performances take place at the Farquhar at UVic. For tickets call 250.385.6515. Don’t forget to come early for the VS Instrument Petting Zoo and other activities in the lobby beginning at 1:30 pm.
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Victoria Symphony 2019/2020 season
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Hol id ay Conc e r t s
Magic of the Holidays
Handel’s Messiah
Canadian Brass
Saturday, December 14, 8:00 pm Sunday, December 15, 2:00 pm Royal Theatre
Friday, December 20, 8:00 pm & Sunday, December 22, 2:30 pm The Farquhar at UVic
Saturday, December 21, 8:00 pm The Farquhar at UVic
Giuseppe Pietraroia, conductor Betty Waynne Allison, soprano Vox Humana Chamber Choir
Giuseppe Pietraroia, conductor Lara Ciekiewicz, soprano Andrea Hill, alto Josh Lovell, tenor Brett Polegato, baritone Victoria Choral Society
Kick off your festive season with some holiday cheer at the annual VS Christmas Pops! Soprano Betty Waynne Allison and Vox Humana Chamber Choir lend their talented voices to perform both holly jolly and sentimental songs celebrating the Christmas season. Join Associate Conductor Maestro Pietraroia and the VS for a concert of holiday magic!
Giuseppe Pietraroia leads talented soloists, the Victoria Symphony and the Victoria Choral Society in Handel’s sublime Messiah. With the Hallelujah Chorus as its centerpiece, Handel’s oratorio Messiah is probably the most famous piece of classical music in the world.
“The world’s most famous brass group” joins the Victoria Symphony for an evening of entertainment, spontaneity, virtuosity and most of all fun with holiday music, classical flare and a few surprises. The Grammy and Juno award winning group has sold over 2 million CDs worldwide and has played Carnegie Hall, the Tonight Show and been featured with the Boston Pops!
A Viennese New Years Wednesday, January 1, 2:30 pm The Farquhar at UVic
Giuseppe Pietraroia, conductor Soprano Adam Luther, Tenor Ballet Victoria
Start the New Year off right with lively and nostalgic music of the family of Johann Strauss and his contemporaries. Talented singers join dancers from Ballet Victoria for this afternoon of music, dance and song.
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E x plor at ion s
Under th e Nort h ern L ights
Manyworlds 3D Saturday, November 23, 8:00 pm
Bill Linwood, conductor Mayo, Stranger Elated Goddard, Thirst (World Premiere) Butler, Under Bleak Skies Wallin, Manyworlds 3D
Dive into the multi-dimensional world of Norway’s foremost composer Rolf Wallin and Boya Bøckman with the mind-blowing 3D graphics. This event features the world premiere of VS’s composer-in-residence Marcus Goddard’s Thirst. Commissioned with the support of the Hugh Davidson Fund, Goddard explores the challenges facing our Indigenous people, in a tour-de-force multimedia presentation.
Kluxen Confronts Zappa
Other Echoes
Saturday, February 8, 8:00 pm
Saturday, April 25, 8:00 pm
Christian Kluxen, conductor
Bill Linwood, conductor
Varèse, Intégrales Zappa, The Dog Breath Variations: Uncle Meat / Dog Meat Lizée, 8-bit Urbex Zappa, Be-Bop Tango Varèse, Déserts (with live video)
de Castro-Robinson (NZ), Other echoes Llugdar, (ARG/CDN) El canto del viento Palmer (NZ/CDN) Swerve Höstman (CDN), Snow Variations Holmes (NZ), Aquae Sulis
The iconic rocker Frank Zappa has written some of the most engaging and challenging repertoire of the twentieth century. With works like The Dog Breath Variations: Uncle Meat / Dog Meat, preconceptions of classical music are left at the door in this one-of-a-kind event. Maestro Kluxen leads the orchestra in this eclectic concert also featuring Zappa’s idol, Edgard Varèse and the always surprising music of Canada’s Nicole Lizée.
This concert is presented with the support of the Hugh Davidson Fund through the Victoria Foundation.
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Victoria Symphony 2019/2020 season
Other Echoes takes us on a journey to the southern hemisphere, welcoming music from New Zealand and Argentina. From the evocative music of Canadian/ Argentinian composer Analia Llugdar to the mystical landscapes of New Zealand’s Eve de Castro-Robinson and Leoni Holmes, to Canada’s own Anna Höstman and Juliet Palmer, this concert is sure to delight and amaze. All performances take place at the Dave Dunnet Community Theatre. For tickets, call 250.385.6515.
Sy m phony i n t he Su m me r Fe s t i v a l
Enjoy the Victoria Symphony’s annual series of summer concerts including performances at some of the city’s most beautiful venues.
VS at Centennial Square
Victoria Symphony Splash
July 30 – Aug 1 Centennial Square
Sunday, August 4, 1:00 pm to 10:00 pm Inner Harbour, Victoria
VS @ Butchart Gardens
Small ensembles comprised of Victoria Symphony musicians take the stage to share a variety of musical styles in this series of free lunchtime concerts.
Christian Kluxen, conductor
July 24, 8:00 pm Butchart Gardens
Grab your sweetheart and settle in amongst the roses for a romantic evening under the stars with the Victoria Symphony. Tickets are available through Butchart Gardens.
Beer & Beethoven on the Barge July 28, 4:00 pm & 6:30 pm Ogden Point Barge
Back by popular demand, we’ve added another concert! Enjoy a cold beer (or wine or cider) at beautiful Ogden Point and enjoy the music of Beethoven (and a few others) in the sunshine. What a wonderful way to spend the afternoon or evening!
VS @ Christ Church Cathedral July 31, 7:30 pm Christ Church Cathedral
The Victoria Symphony returns to Christ Church Cathedral for another summer of breathtaking acoustics and majestic surroundings. Enjoy orchestral favourites in a venue unlike any other!
Victoria’s iconic symphonic summer event returns for its 30th year. Join over 40,000 people in Victoria’s Inner Harbour to hear the VS perform from a floating barge. The day begins with the Family Zone at 1pm and carries on throughout the Inner Harbour with food, dancing, and more before an exciting array of performers take to the barge. Featuring orchestral favorites and popular classics, the concert ends with a bang in the beloved grand finale of Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture complete with fireworks! Donations gratefully accepted.
The program for this concert will be announced in late spring.
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v ic tor i a s y m phon y
Mu s ic i a n s Chr istian Klu x en, Music Director
Sean O’Loughlin, Principal Pops Conductor
Giuseppe Pietr aroia, Associate Conductor
Violins
Basses
Clarinets
Tuba
Terence Tam, Concertmaster Christi Meyers, Assistant Concertmaster Tori Gould, Principal 2nd Violin Cory Balzer** Müge Büyükçelen-Badel Courtney Cameron Michele Kwon Phillip Manning Emily Salmon Christopher Taber Julian Vitek
Mary Rannie, Principal Darren Buhr Alex Olson
Keith MacLeod, Principal Jennifer Christensen
Paul Beauchesne, Principal
Violas Kenji Fuse, Principal Stacey Boal Kay Cochran Mieka Michaux Christine Prince Celli Brian Yoon, Principal Joyce Ellwood Perry Foster TBA
Flutes
Bass Clarinet Jennifer Christensen
Richard Volet, Principal Stephanie Bell
Bassoons
Piccolo
Jennifer Gunter, Principal Anne Marie Power
Stephanie Bell Oboes Michael Byrne, Principal Russell Bajer English Horn Russell Bajer
Horns
Timpani William Linwood, Principal Percussion Corey Rae, Principal Harp Annabelle Stanley, Principal
Alana Despins, Principal Michael Oswald Janet Parker Dan Moses
Orchestra Manager
Trumpets
Eric Gallipo
Ryan Cole, Principal David Michaux
Librarians
Trombones Brad Howland, Principal Marcus Hissen Bass Trombone
Peter Burris Operations Manager
Christopher Reiche-Boucher Russell Bajer, assistant ** Begins the alphabetical listing of players who participate in a system of rotated seating within the section.
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Su b s c r ipt ion I n for m at ion
Subscribe Today – Save up to 44% off Single Tickets
Subscribing is as easy as four simple steps: Step One: Choose one or more of our five series, or Compose Your Own Season 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 your seats for your subscription or your price zone for your Compose Your Own Season.
Step Three: Contact us to purchase your subscription: Via phone: 250.385.6515 In Person or via Mail: Suite 610 620 View Street Victoria BC V8W 1J6 Via Email: boxoffice@victoriasymphony.ca
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Step Four: Enjoy the subscriber benefits below!
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. The Best Selection
You can purchase tickets to all concerts – including special concerts – before they go on sale to the public.
Victoria Symphony 2019/2020 season
The Best Benefits & Exclusive Offers
vsSOUNDCHECK
Exchange tickets with no fees up to 7 days prior to the concert! Within 7 days, a $2.00 fee applies.
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 $15 a ticket. Visit ictoriasymphony.ca/ vssoundcheck to sign up.
Receive advanced notification for special concerts. Receive special offers available only to subscribers including discounts at local restaurants! Compose Your Own Series Subscription
Choose six or ten performances from the Masterworks, VS Pops, 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.
Ticket Policy Visit victoriasymphony.ca for complete details. 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 VS, the Royal Theatre and the Farquhar at UVic state that every person must have a ticket in order to be admitted to a performance.
Conditions of Sale Subscription series are purchased and issued subject to the policies, rules and regulations of the VS. 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 Farquhar at UVic 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 free of charge until 7 days prior to a concert. With 7 days, a $2.00 per ticket fee applies. Single tickets are exchangeable with a $5.00 exchange fee per ticket.
Group Discount
Groups of 10 or more save up to 20% off regular priced tickets. Call 250 385 6515 or email boxoffice@victoriasymphony.ca. vic toriasy mphony.ca
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E d uc at ion & O u t r e ac h
Community Programs
Education & Outreach is sponsored by
This hands-on activity gives children the opportunity to try instruments with guidance from experience vsYOUTH. From violins to trumpets, the Instrument Petting Zoo is sure to give your child a memorable experience – and spark a new interest in music.
Be verle y Unger a nd Coa st Capita l I n su ra nce
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 concerts are designed for students in grades K-7 in Victoria, Saanich, Sooke, Gulf Islands, and Cowichan school districts as well as independent and home schools. These concerts provide fun, accessible, and engaging experiences while exposing over 10,000 students to the wonder of live orchestral music.
Musicians in Schools and Master Class Sessions
Musicians of the orchestra bring innovative and entertaining performances and workshops to school gyms and classrooms. These programs allow students to connect with the musicians as well as provide a forum for open dialogue and questions. Open Rehearsals for Middle and High Schools
Listen, learn, and enjoy the music, magic, and mechanics that go into rehearsing for a performance. Scheduled throughout the VS season, these free open rehearsals are available for middle and high school students and teachers to attend. Symphony Story Time
The VS brings a pair of 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.
Instrument Petting Zoo
Hugh Davidson Composer Readings
vsSOUNDCHECK
If you are between the ages of 15 and 35, the vsSOUNDCHECK can connect you to classical, pop, jazz and other Victoria Symphony performances for just $15 a ticket. Visit victoriasymphony.ca/ vssoundcheck to sign up. For more information on these programs, please call 250.412.1977 or visit victoriasymphony.ca/ community/educationoutreach
This program provides the opportunity for composers writing new music for orchestra to have their pieces rehearsed by the VS and receive feedback. vsNEW Young Composer Workshops
This program gives young composers the opportunity to create new music. Working with the VS Composer in Residence and a dedicated ensemble of VS musicians, vsNEW students are given the opportunity to develop their creative skills and hear their music come to life. Adopt a School Program
Committed to supporting music in schools, the VS is thrilled to provide five schools in Greater Victoria with a variety of inspiring educational and entertaining performances at no cost. This program is made possible by a generous donation from Beverley Unger.
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P r ic i n g Series Subscriptions Concert Series Section Adult Senior
Student / Child
Concert Series Section Adult Senior
Masterworks Loge/A 555 545
Pops
Saturday /
Saturday
A1/A 505 485
Student / Child
Loge 384 A1 336 330
Monday
A 440 420
Matinee
A 282 276 156
10 concerts
B 360 340
6 concerts
B 240 234 132
C 280 260
C 192 186 108
Masterworks Loge/A 421 411
Classics
A 294 288 162
Sunday /
6 concerts
B 246 240 138
C 198 192 120
Concert Series
Price Range
Concerts for Kids
A 54 36
Masterworks (Sat/Sun)
35 – 58
Masterworks (Mon)
35 – 88
3 concerts
Pops
33 – 85
6 10 Section concerts concerts
Classics
35 – 58
Concerts for Kids
15 – 25
Explorations
20 – 25
Handel’s Messiah
35 – 55
Canadian Brass
45 – 65
A Viennese New Years
50 – 70
A1/A 391 375
Monday
A 352 336
8 concerts
B 288 272
C 224 208
Masterworks
A 245 240 135
Saturday or
B 205 200 115
Sunday
C 165 160 100
5 concerts
Masterworks Loge 360 Monday
A1 310 300
4 concerts
A 245 240 135
plus voucher
B 205 200 115
C 165 160 100
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Victoria Symphony 2019/2020 season
Compose Your Own Season (CYOS)
B 39 24
A 294 480 B 246 400 C 198 320
Single Ticket Pricing
LEFT
RIGHT
S e at i n g ENTRANCE
The Royal Theatre
MAIN FLOOR STAGE
The Farquhar at UVic
MAIN FLOOR
BALCONY BOX
BALCONY
BOX STAGE
LEFT
STAGE
RIGHT
ENTRANCE
Seating charts may vary.
MAIN FLOOR
STAGE
BALCONY
STAGE
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Su pp or t i n g You r Sy m phony T h a n k y ou to Od lu m Bro w n for spon sor i n g ou r Conduc tor ’s Ci rc le
“Your support for live orchestral music is vital in continuing to build a vibrant arts and culture community in this region. It is with great pride and excitement that I invite you to continue your journey with our charismatic Christian Kluxen and the exceptional musicians of your Victoria Symphony.” — K athry n L aur in, Chief E x ecuti v e Officer
please join us in supporting the symphony: Attend a concert
Your ticket purchases and attendance are essential to every concert. Ticket sales cover only 24% of our costs. Become a donor
Make a gift or pledge to the Victoria Symphony and know you are making a difference! All gifts receive a tax receipt. Gifts of stocks can provide you with great tax advantages. Victoria Symphony Society charitable registration #11928 5286 RR 0001. Join the Conductor’s Circle with a gift of $1,000+ and meet new friends while receiving name recognition in the concert
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program, invitations to unique music enrichment events, concierge service and open rehearsals. Dedicate your gift dedication in honour of someone you care about, and enjoy the Conductor’s Circle lounges at Masterworks concerts and the opportunity to meet our musicians and conductors. Underwrite a guest artist’s performance ($2,500), or a concert ($5,000), or a musician for the season ($10,000 – $25,000) and receive special recognition and unique VIP benefits. Join the Musician’s Circle with a gift 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, guests and new friends.
Victoria Symphony 2019/2020 season
Join the Tribute Circle and Keep the Music Playing. You can name the Victoria Symphony or the Foundation for the Victoria Symphony as a beneficiary in your will or other planned gifts, such as life insurance, and be honoured in the concert program. Current gifts or future estate bequests can be invested in the Foundation for the Victoria Symphony and may receive up to 100% in matching funds, which could double the gift and would benefit the Symphony in perpetuity. Please call 250.412.1982 or email donorservices@victoriasymphony.ca for information regarding your gift choice. Become a Business Sponsor
The Victoria Symphony is proud to work with businesses that sponsor us and support the arts here in Victoria. Sponsorship can include opportunities to sponsor a concert, a concert series, an education program, Splash, donor membership groups and more! Please call Tina Thompson at 250.412.1976 or email tina@victoriasymphony.ca.
Become a Volunteer
We offer a variety of interesting volunteer opportunities. Please call 250.412.1977 or email boxoffice@victoriasymphony.ca. Contact us
By Phone: 250.385.6515 Monday to Friday 9 am to 4 pm Online: victoriasymphony.ca By Mail or in Person: Victoria Symphony 620 View Street, Suite 610 Victoria, BC V8W 1J6 Monday to Friday 9 am to 4 pm
PL ATINUM SPONSORS
GOLD SPONSORS
MEDIA SPONSORS
Design: Lime Design Inc. Photography: Kevin Light Photography
GOVERNMENT FUNDERS
A b o u t t h e i l l u s t r a t o r : S u a n a L e a h Ve r e l s t i s a n a r t i s t / i l l u s t r a t o r l i v i n g a n d w o r k i n g i n Q uebec’s beaut i f u l L au rent i a n h i l l s. She h a s created aw a rd-w i n n i ng ch i ld ren’s book s a nd i l lust rations for cl ients i n Nor th A merica a nd Eu rope. Sua na is i nspi red by the consta nt cha nge of her natu ral su rrou ndings, [a rt]h istor y a nd fou nd a nd recycled objects. Fo r m o r e i n fo r m at i o n , ple a s e v i s it h e r w eb s ite: at w w w. s u a n av e r e l s t.c o m
Christian Kluxen, Music Director