The Nashville Symphony Orchestra will perform under the baton of several remarkable guest conductors next season.
Helmuth Rilling, Krzysztof Penderecki , Sir Neville Marriner will all conduct the NSO in the newly unveiled season.
Well-known conductors, including Marriner, have come to Nashville before on tour with their own ensembles. It’s less common for them to come and conduct the host orchestra in a midsize city. But music director Giancarlo Guerrero says Nashville is becoming increasingly popular within the classical music community.
“Because of the reputation that’s been growing so quickly, not only for the hall but also the quality of the orchestra, nowadays its relatively easier for us to attract the top-quality names.”
Rilling is considered one of the world’s preeminent experts in the music of Johann Sebastian Bach. He’ll conduct that composer’s B-minor mass. Penderecki will direct his own “Resurrection” Piano Concerto, featuring the pianist for whom it was written, Barry Douglas. And Marriner will bring actor Christopher Plummer along to narrate William Walton’s “Henry V.”
The season begins in September with an all-Beethoven program. That concert will feature rising star Lang-Lang, the pianist who performed at the opening ceremony of the Beijing Olympics.
Listen to Guerrero describe asking Sir Neville Marriner to conduct the NSO:
And how he decided to pair a performance by violinist Hillary Hahn and the Saint-Saens Organ Concerto on a single concert:
The following is the complete NSO season, with the orchestra’s description of each concert:
SUNTRUST CLASSICAL SERIES
September 17, 18 & 19, 2009
RUSSIA’S GREATEST HITS
Nashville Symphony
Giancarlo Guerrero, conductor
Stephen Hough, piano
RIMSKY-KORSAKOV Russian Easter Overture, Op. 36
TCHAIKOVSKY Concerto for Piano No. 1 in B-flat minor, Op. 23
MUSSORGSKY/orch. Ravel Pictures at an Exhibition
Vividly brought to life by Ravel’s brilliant orchestration, Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition immortalizes the artwork of his friend, painter Victor Hartmann, in a series of imaginative musical sketches that concludes with the breathtaking “The Great Gate of Kiev.” Award-winning soloist Stephen Hough will display his impeccable musicianship in Tchaikovsky’s powerfully dramatic Piano Concerto No. 1, one of the most beloved works in the entire classical repertoire. This all-Russian program begins with Rimsky-Korsakov’s evocation of an Easter celebration in his native land.
October 1, 2 & 3, 2009
MOZART & SHOSTAKOVICH
Nashville Symphony
Giancarlo Guerrero, conductor
Alisa Weilerstein, cello
MOZART Symphony No. 35 in D major, K. 385 “Haffner”
ROBERTO SIERRA World Premiere*
SHOSTAKOVICH Concerto for Cello No. 2 in G major, Op. 126
RAVEL Rapsodie Espagnole
*Nashville Symphony commission as part of The Sphinx Organization commissioning consortium
Originally written for the celebrated cellist and conductor Mstislav Rostropovich, Shostakovich’s intensely introspective Concerto for Cello No. 2 will showcase the passionate playing of rising young talent Alisa Weilerstein. Ravel’s Rapsodie Espagnol evokes the romantic allure of Spain, while Puerto Rican composer Roberto Sierra, whose Fandangos for Orchestra was performed by the Nashville Symphony last year, has earned a sterling reputation for deftly weaving Latin motifs into memorably melodic compositions. Mozart’s Haffner Symphony showcases this composer’s signature combination of elegance and endless invention.
October 15, 16 & 17, 2009
CLASSICAL GUITAR, GERMAN GENIUS
Nashville Symphony
John Fiore, conductor
Sharon Isbin, guitar
WAGNER Tannhäuser: Overture & Venusberg Music, WWV70 (Paris version)
CHRISTOPHER ROUSE Concert de Gaudí
SCHUMANN Symphony No. 3 in E-flat major, Op. 97 “Rhenish”
Hailed as one of the leading classical guitarists of our time, Sharon Isbin joins the Nashville Symphony for a performance of Christopher Rouse’s Concert de Gaudí, which draws on the traditional flamenco music of Spain to evoke the dreamy creations of modern architect Antoni Gaudí. We also spotlight two of Germany’s greatest creative geniuses, starting with music from Wagner’s opera Tannhäuser, which harks back to a medieval legend. Inspired by composer Schumann’s move to the city of Düsseldorf at a high point during his career, the buoyant, energetic Rhenish Symphony takes listeners on a musical journey along Germany’s scenic Rhine River.
November 5, 6 & 7, 2009
A MUSICAL SPACE ODYSSEY
Nashville Symphony
Giancarlo Guerrero, conductor
Yefim Bronfman, piano
MIGUEL DEL AGUILA World Premiere*
BARTÓK Concerto for Piano No. 2
GYÖRGI LIGETI Atmosphères
RICHARD STRAUSS Also Sprach Zarathustra, TrV 176, Op. 30
*Commissioned through the Magnum Opus project: Kathryn Gould, founding patron and commissioner, and Meet The Composer, project manager
We pay tribute to two unforgettable pieces of music featured in Stanley Kubrick’s 2001: A Space Odyssey. Györgi Ligeti’s Atmosphères is a gripping exploration of orchestral sonority, while Strauss’ Also Sprach Zarathustra is surely one of the best-known pieces in all of classical music, thanks to its memorable appearance in the opening sequence of Kubrick’s film. GRAMMY®-winning pianist Yefim Bronfman returns to perform Bartók’s Piano Concerto No. 2, a work noted for its fireworks at the keyboard and its brilliantly conceived orchestration. Hailed for his fresh, inventive compositions, Miguel del Aguila draws on the music of his Latin American heritage while honoring classical tradition and form.
November 19, 20 & 21, 2009
TANGO & RAVEL’S BOLERO
Nashville Symphony
Giancarlo Guerrero, conductor
Tianwa Yang, violin
Daniel Binelli, bandoneón
ASTOR PIAZZOLLA Buenos Aires: Tres Movimientos Sinfonicas, Op. 15
ASTOR PIAZZOLLA Concierto para Bandoneón “Aconcagua”
ASTOR PIAZZOLLA Las Cuatro Estaciones Porteñas [The Four Seasons of
Buenos Aires]
RAVEL Bolero
Laura Turner Concert Hall will crackle with the bracing, sensuous rhythms of tango music as brilliantly imagined by the composer Astor Piazzolla, who brought a new level of sophistication to Argentina’s most famous musical export. Piazzolla’s Aconcagua Concerto will feature Daniel Binelli, an internationally renowned master of the bandoneón, the accordion-like instrument that gives the tango its distinctive sound. The hypnotic rhythms and dynamic orchestration of Ravel’s always popular Bolero will close the evening with a rousing finish.
December 3, 4 & 5, 2009
RACHMANINOFF & STRAVINSKY
Nashville Symphony
Giancarlo Guerrero, conductor
Twyla Robinson, soprano
Bryan Griffin, tenor
Darren K. Stokes, bass-baritone
Nashville Symphony Chorus
George Mabry, chorus director
STRAVINSKY Symphony of Psalms
LOWELL LIEBERMANN New Work*
RACHMANINOFF The Bells, Op. 35
*Commissioned through the Magnum Opus project: Kathryn Gould, founding patron and commissioner, and Meet The Composer, project manager
Edgar Allan Poe’s resonant poem served as inspiration for Rachmaninoff’s choral symphony The Bells, which would prove to be one of the composer’s own favorite works. The iconoclastic modern Russian master Stravinsky looked to the Old Testament for his Symphony of Psalms, creating a wholly original work of liturgical music — notable for its unique scoring and its intensity of feeling. Both of these dynamic works will feature the stirring voices of the Nashville Symphony Chorus, joined by soloists Twyla Robinson, Bryan Griffin and Darren K. Stokes. One of America’s most frequently performed composers, Lowell Liebermann will unveil a new work that reveals his simultaneous embrace of tradition and innovation.
January 7, 8 & 9, 2010
‘THE’ ORGAN SYMPHONY
Nashville Symphony
Giancarlo Guerrero, conductor
Hilary Hahn, violin
MARTIN? The Frescoes of Piero della Francesca, H. 352
JENNIFER HIGDON Concerto for Violin
SAINT-SAËNS Symphony No. 3 in C minor, Op. 78 “Organ”
Since her emergence in the early 1990s as a prodigiously gifted young musician, GRAMMY®-winning violinist Hilary Hahn has matured into an assured, technically accomplished and emotionally compelling performer. She’s perfectly matched in a new piece by Jennifer Higdon, one of America’s most popular composers, who grew up in Tennessee and has since become widely known for her ingenious ideas and pleasing tonalities. One of the greatest orchestral works ever written for the organ, Saint-Saëns’ Organ Symphony will serve as a showcase for the Schermerhorn’s magnificent Martin Foundation Concert Organ.
January 21, 22 & 23, 2010
PENDERECKI COMES TO NASHVILLE
Nashville Symphony
Krzysztof Penderecki, conductor
Barry Douglas, piano
Roger Wiesmeyer, English horn
PENDERECKI Adagietto from Paradise Lost for English Horn and String Orchestra
SHOSTAKOVICH Symphony No. 6 in B minor, Op. 54
PENDERECKI Concerto for Piano “Resurrection”
One of the most innovative figures in classical music today, Polish composer and conductor Krzysztof Penderecki is world-renowned for his boldly resonant music, which is rich with layers of rhythm and texture. He makes his first-ever visit to Nashville to lead a specially chosen program that includes his own Concerto for Piano. With a remarkable scope that recalls the symphonies of Mahler, but rendered in Penderecki’s singular voice, the work will feature the gifted pianist Barry Douglas. In Shostakovich’s alternatively contemplative and lively Symphony No. 6, the Russian composer sought to convey “the moods of spring, joy, youth.”
February 25, 26 & 27, 2010
SIR NEVILLE MARRINER & CHRISTOPHER PLUMMER
Nashville Symphony
Sir Neville Marriner, conductor
Christopher Plummer, narrator
Nashville Symphony Chorus
George Mabry, chorus director
Blair Children’s Chorus
Hazel Somerville, director
VAUGHAN WILLIAMS Symphony No. 2 in G major “A London Symphony”
WILLIAM WALTON Henry V: A Shakespeare Scenario
Actor Christopher Plummer and Sir Neville Marriner, founder of the peerless Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, join the Nashville Symphony for a program that honors two of Great Britain’s most celebrated composers. A veteran Shakespearean performer, Plummer will narrate William Walton’s Henry V: A Shakespeare Scenario, adapted from the composer’s Oscar-nominated film score. Written on the eve of World War I, Vaughan Williams’ A London Symphony captures the energetic spirit of this bustling British city.
March 4, 5 & 6, 2010
BACH’S MASTERPIECE
Nashville Symphony
Helmuth Rilling, conductor
Nashville Symphony Chorus
George Mabry, chorus director
Soloists to be announced
J.S. BACH Mass in B minor, BWV 232
A towering achievement that took more than 25 years to complete, Johann Sebastian Bach’s Mass in B minor is remarkable for its musical breadth and for its overarching sense of unity. The work serves as a deeply moving expression of the composer’s spirituality while also offering an encyclopedic display of his genius. And no conductor is better equipped to lead a performance than Helmuth Rilling, artistic director of the Oregon Bach Festival and a keenly sensitive interpreter of Bach’s music.
March 18, 19 & 20, 2010
BRAHMS & ‘BIG SUR’
Nashville Symphony
Carlos Kalmar, conductor
Tracy Silverman, electric violin
BRAHMS Symphony No. 3 in F major, Op. 90
JOHN ADAMS The Dharma at Big Sur for Electric Violin and Orchestra
GINASTERA Estancia: Four Dances, Op. 8a
Conductor Carlos Kalmar conducts a wonderfully varied program that begins with Brahms’ profoundly expressive Symphony No. 3. One of the composer’s greatest successes, the work mixes moments of heroism with more subdued, reflective passages. A piece of transcendent beauty, John Adams’ The Dharma at Big Sur will serve as a platform for the dazzling talents of Nashville-based electric violinist Tracy Silverman. With their folk melodies and vigorous rhythms, the Four Dances from Ginastera’s ballet Estancia evoke visions of South American cowboys riding through Argentina’s expansive prairies.
April 1, 2 & 3, 2010
THIBAUDET RETURNS
Nashville Symphony
Giancarlo Guerrero, conductor
Jean-Yves Thibaudet, piano
AARON JAY KERNIS Newly Drawn Sky
RICHARD STRAUSS Burleske, TrV 145
RESPIGHI Fontane di Roma [The Fountains of Rome]
BARBER Symphony No. 1 in One Movement, Op. 9
Pianist Jean-Yves Thibaudet, a Nashville favorite, returns to Schermerhorn Symphony Center to perform Richard Strauss’ Burleske, which promises to be a sparkling showpiece for this captivating performer. Written early in the composer’s career, the work alternates between moments of seriousness and playfulness, offering vivid glimpses of Strauss’ emergent genius. The year 2010 marks the centennial of the birth of Samuel Barber, one of the most distinctive voices in 20th century American music. His Symphony in One Movement is richly dramatic, rippling with his distinctly lyrical, expressive style. Respighi’s popular symphonic poem Fontane di Roma evokes the majestic fountains of Italy’s grandest city at different times of the day.
April 29, 30 & May 1, 2010
CHOPIN & MAHLER
Nashville Symphony
Giancarlo Guerrero, conductor
Ingrid Fliter, piano
CHOPIN Concerto for Piano No. 2 in F minor, Op. 21
MAHLER Symphony No. 5 in C-sharp minor
Lawrence S. Levine Memorial Concert
Award-winning soloist Ingrid Fliter will animate Chopin’s Concerto for Piano No. 2 with a combination of impeccable technique and elegant sensitivity. Actually composed as the first of Chopin’s piano concertos, the piece allows listeners to hear the composer’s budding genius as he began to transform writing for the piano. Mahler’s Symphony No. 5 represents a dramatic turning point in the Austrian composer’s career, with the rich tapestry of orchestral colors giving expression to moods of despondency, anger, yearning and, finally, utter joyousness. The unsurpassed slow movement, one of Mahler’s most profound utterances, was showcased to unforgettable effect in Luchino Visconti’s 1971 film Death in Venice.
May 20, 21 & 22, 2010
BLUEBEARD’S CASTLE
Nashville Symphony*
Giancarlo Guerrero, conductor
Jennifer Larmore, mezzo-soprano
Peter Fried, bass-baritone/narrator
John Hoomes, stage director
BEETHOVEN Symphony No. 1 in C major, Op. 21
BARTÓK Bluebeard’s Castle
*Collaborative production with Cheekwood Museum of Art featuring glass sculptures by Dale Chihuly.
Bartók’s early masterpiece Bluebeard’s Castle recounts the classic fairy tale about a bloodthirsty nobleman and his castle of horrors. As his young bride walks through the doors of the castle, Bartók’s music builds in dramatic intensity, leading to a chilling conclusion. This unique collaborative partnership with Cheekwood Museum of Art and Nashville Opera director John Hoomes will feature stunning glass sculptures by Dale Chihuly, which represent each of the doors in Bluebeard’s castle. In his Symphony No. 1, Beethoven embarked on what would soon be a string of monumental works destined to change the course of classical music.
BANK OF AMERICA POPS SERIES
September 24, 25 & 26, 2009
GLEN CAMPBELL & JIMMY WEBB
Nashville Symphony
Albert-George Schram, conductor
Together, they’re responsible for some of the most enduring songs in the history of popular music: “Wichita Lineman.” “By the Time I Get to Phoenix.” “Galveston.” Jimmy Webb wrote them, and Glen Campbell’s soaring voice brought them to life. This team of hit-makers reunites for what is sure to be an amazing night of music as they survey their unforgettable careers.
October 29, 30 & 31, 2009
HAWAII — 50 AT 50
Nashville Symphony
Matt Catingub, conductor
America’s 50th state celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2009, and this colorful stage extravaganza will honor the occasion with a sweeping survey of Hawaii’s rich cultural heritage — everything from Don Ho to Hawaii Five-0 to the distinctive sounds of ukulele and slack-key guitar. Some of Hawaii’s finest musicians will be on hand for this special evening, which will also include traditional hula dancing and a moving tribute to Pearl Harbor. It’ll be like taking an island vacation without leaving home.
November 12, 13 & 14, 2009
SOLDIERS’ CHORUS OF THE U.S. ARMY FIELD BAND
Nashville Symphony
Albert-George Schram, conductor
For more than half a century, the Soldiers’ Chorus has traveled the world, serving as musical ambassadors for the U.S. Army. With their diverse backgrounds, the 29 members can sing a wide range of music with gusto, and their show promises an inspiring mix of Broadway, opera, classic American songs and choral music.
January 14, 15 & 16, 2010
PRESERVATION HALL JAZZ BAND
Nashville Symphony
Albert-George Schram, conductor
Since its founding in 1963, the Preservation Hall Jazz Band has been devoted to keeping New Orleans jazz alive and kicking. The group has traveled the world celebrating the music of Buddy Bolden, Jelly Roll Morton, Louis Armstrong and other pioneers whose innovations gave birth to this distinctly American art form. In the hands of these accomplished musicians, New Orleans jazz sounds as fresh, vibrant and original as it did nearly a century ago.
February 18, 19 & 20, 2010
JOHN MCDERMOTT WITH CHERISH THE LADIES
Nashville Symphony
Giancarlo Guerrero, conductor
World-renowned for his rendition of “Danny Boy,” John McDermott is steeped in the Celtic tradition, but he sings with a contemporary flair that stirs the emotions. His voice, at once dazzling and endearing, will conjure tales of love and loss. The six women of Cherish the Ladies have earned a stellar reputation for their energetic, good-humored stage shows, which bring Irish folk music to life with virtuosic playing, gorgeous vocals and exhilarating step-dancing.
March 11, 12 & 13, 2010
THAT’S AMORE!
Nashville Symphony
Albert-George Schram, conductor
Frank Portone, vocalist
This dynamic evening of entertainment will celebrate all things Italian with a program that includes the immortal arias of Giussepe Verdi and such classic songs as “O Sole Mio.” Versatile musician Frank Portone will pay homage to tenor Luciano Pavarotti, and of course we’ll take an opportunity to remember Ol’ Blue Eyes and Dean Martin, too. From start to finish, it’ll be a night overflowing with drama, emotion and sweet, tuneful melodies.
April 15, 16 & 17, 2010
CHERRYHOLMES
Nashville Symphony
Albert-George Schram, conductor
The GRAMMY®-nominated band Cherryholmes has energized traditional bluegrass music with dynamic musicianship and entertaining stage shows. Rising stars in American roots music, they’re versatile and talented enough to sound at home at a bluegrass festival or onstage with a full orchestra. With their distinctive family chemistry, they can be counted on to deliver a lively concert, whether they’re showing off their own compositions, letting loose with a country yodel or laying down some old-time banjo picking.
May 6, 7 & 8, 2010
CHRISTOPHER CROSS
Nashville Symphony
Albert-George Schram, conductor
Christopher Cross virtually defined adult contemporary radio in the 1980s with such massive hits as “Sailing” and “Arthur’s Theme (Best That You Can Do),” tunes that still echo in the popular consciousness today. In the years since, Cross’ talent has only deepened and matured, building on his impressive legacy of heartfelt, finely crafted songs.
ADAMS AND REESE JAZZ SERIES
October 9, 2009
AL JARREAU
Nashville Symphony
Matt Catingub, conductor
With his stunning, supple voice, Al Jarreau is the rare performer to earn GRAMMY® awards in jazz, R&B and pop. That versatility has kept his swinging style fresh throughout a phenomenally successful career that includes such irresistibly catchy songs as the radio hit “Mornin’ ” and the theme to the TV show Moonlighting.
January 29, 2010
BRANFORD MARSALIS
Concert presented without orchestra
Known for his innovative spirit and broad musical scope, saxophonist Branford Marsalis is part of jazz’s most celebrated family. Having appeared as a guest artist with the Nashville Symphony three years ago, he returns this time around to deliver a concert of straight-ahead jazz inspired by the classic tradition of such heroes as Art Blakey and Sonny Rollins.
April 9, 2010
GUEST ARTIST & PROGRAM TO BE ANNOUNCED
THE ANN & MONROE CARELL FAMILY TRUST PIED PIPER SERIES
October 31, 2009
HALLOWEEN ON THE HIGH SEAS
Kelly Corcoran, conductor
Students from the School of Nashville Ballet
Set sail for a seafaring adventure this Halloween as the orchestra encounters pirates, stormy weather and hungry sharks lurking beneath the ocean waves. Your soundtrack will be music from Pirates of the Caribbean and other nautical favorites. Student dancers from the School of Nashville Ballet will climb aboard to help navigate the treacherous waters until at last the conductor shouts, “Land ho!”
December 19, 2009
HAPPY HOLIDAYS/WINTER WONDERLAND
Kelly Corcoran, conductor
Every year people look forward to the holiday season, with its many and diverse traditions. At our December family concert, we’ll celebrate with a lively mix of treasured favorites, including music from The Polar Express and The Night Before Christmas, along with storytelling and a few surprises. Come share in the goodwill of the season, and join in a high-spirited sing-along, which is sure to put a warm, cozy glow on a cold winter’s day.
February 20, 2010
PETER AND THE WOLF
Giancarlo Guerrero, conductor
Is there any better way to introduce children to the sounds of an orchestra than Peter and the Wolf? Russian composer Sergei Prokofiev used the various instruments of the orchestra to represent the characters in this tale of a boy who outsmarts a hungry wolf. Under the direction of our charismatic Music Director Giancarlo Guerrero, the Nashville Symphony will conjure visions of a flighty bird, a plaintive duck, a nimble cat and, of course, the sharp-fanged wolf.
April 17, 2010
SCHEHERAZADE
Kelly Corcoran, conductor
Enchantment Theatre Company
Relive the fantastic stories of The Thousand and One Nights, including “Aladdin’s Magic Lamp” and “Sinbad the Sailor,” as the orchestra performs Rimsky-Korsakov’s imaginative music. The Enchantment Theatre Company will use masks, puppets, magic and movement to evoke far-off lands and to underscore the powerful themes of love and adventure found at the heart of these timeless Arabian tales.
OPENERS/SPECIALS
September 11, 2009
ALL-BEETHOVEN OPENING GALA with LANG LANG
Nashville Symphony
Giancarlo Guerrero, conductor
Lang Lang, piano
BEETHOVEN Leonore Overture No. 3, Op. 72b
BEETHOVEN Piano Concerto No. 3 in C minor, Op. 37
BEETHOVEN Symphony No. 3 in E-flat major, Op. 55 “Eroica”
Beethoven’s genius shines through brilliantly in a trio of works that all include the number 3. Celebrated young pianist Lang Lang is a superstar in his native China, where he made an unforgettable appearance last summer at the Beijing Olympics. He’ll light up the stage of Laura Turner Concert Hall with his dramatic stage persona and passionate performance style, which have rocketed him to worldwide acclaim. The evening closes with the powerful Symphony No. 3 “Eroica,” a major turning point in the composer’s towering oeuvre.
September 12, 2009
CLASSIC AMERICANA
Nashville Symphony
Albert-George Schram, conductor
The Nashville Symphony teams up with the Americana Music Association to present a one-of-a-kind concert exploring the common ground shared by classical music and American roots music. We’ll celebrate the rich weave of our country’s musical traditions with a stellar cast of hometown heroes and hit-makers, so stay tuned to find out more about our lineup of very special guest artists — and get ready for what promises to be an evening unlike any other at the Schermerhorn!
December 10, 2009
HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS
Nashville Symphony
Albert-George Schram, conductor
Join Resident Conductor Albert-George Schram and the Nashville Symphony as we celebrate the holidays with a family-friendly concert featuring carols and other seasonal favorites.
December 17, 18 & 19, 2009
HANDEL’S ‘MESSIAH’
Nashville Symphony
Nashville Symphony Chorus
George Mabry, conductor & chorus director
No holiday season would be complete without Messiah, and there may be no better place to experience Handel’s beloved oratorio than the wonderfully resonant Laura Turner Concert Hall. Every year Nashvillians eagerly anticipate this Baroque-era masterpiece, which serves as a splendid showcase for the inspiring voices of the Nashville Symphony Chorus, led by Chorus Director George Mabry.
February 3, 2010
BALLET FOLKLORICO DE MEXICO
A treasure in their native land for more than 50 years, this internationally famed ensemble blends music, choreography and colorful costumes in spectacular stage shows that bring alive Mexico’s brilliant array of cultural traditions. Take a journey through the ages as dancers trace the evolution of Mexico’s rich history and capture the essence of this country’s breathtaking beauty.
February 13 & 14, 2010
VALENTINE’S SPECIAL with JIM BRICKMAN
Nashville Symphony
Albert-George Schram, conductor
Jim Brickman, piano
Celebrate the most romantic day of the year with Jim Brickman, beloved for his warmly expressive piano playing on such moving hits as “Valentine,” “The Gift” and “Love of My Life.” Wrapped in the warm embrace of Laura Turner Concert Hall’s rich acoustics, this charming artist’s music will sound more gorgeous than ever.
May 3, 2010
VOICES OF SPRING
Nashville Symphony Chorus
George Mabry, conductor & chorus director
The Nashville Symphony Chorus will lift their voices in song for this special concert of choral music led by Chorus Director George Mabry.
May 15, 2010
LOS ANGELES PHILHARMONIC with GUSTAVO DUDAMEL
One of the world’s leading orchestras pays a visit to Schermerhorn Symphony Center, led by gifted, energetic young Music Director Gustavo Dudamel. The musicians will bring their singular chemistry to bear on two major works: Leonard Bernstein’s Symphony No. 2 “The Age of Anxiety,” featuring pianist Jean-Yves Thibaudet, and Tchaikovsky’s riveting Symphony No. 6 in B minor, Op. 74 “Pathétique.”
SUMMER FESTIVAL
June 5 & 6, 2009
SCHUMANN’S PIANO CONCERTO
Nashville Symphony
Giancarlo Guerrero
Orli Shaham, piano
CHRISTOPHER ROUSE Rapture
SCHUMANN Concerto for Piano in A minor
RIMSKY-KORSAKOV Scheherazade
A work of remarkable expressiveness, Schumann’s lone Piano Concerto will serve as a showcase for the dazzling skills of pianist Orli Shaham, who returns to the Schermerhorn after a stellar recital here two years ago. Named for the heroine of the classic story collection The Thousand and One Nights, Rimsky-Korsakov’s Scheherazade evokes rich, fanciful tales of love, travel and adventure, “presenting a kaleidoscope of images and designs,” as the composer once wrote. American composer Rouse’s Rapture opens the concert with a mood of gradually accelerating ecstasy.
June 19 & 20, 2009
BRAHMS’ SECOND
Nashville Symphony
Leonard Slatkin, conductor
Karen Gomyo, violin
JOAN TOWER Made in America
MAX BRUCH Concerto for Violin No. 1 in G minor, Op. 26
BRAHMS Symphony No. 2 in D major, Op. 73
Leonard Slatkin returns to lead performances of Brahms’ gently evocative Symphony No. 2. With its waltzing rhythms and pastoral, sunny mood, it’s the perfect summer soundtrack. A popular favorite, Bruch’s expressive Violin Concerto will feature rising talent Karen Gomyo. We’ll also revisit Joan Tower’s Made in America, a stirring work that earned three GRAMMY® Awards in 2008, including an award for Best Orchestral Performance by the Nashville Symphony.
June 26 & 27, 2009
BEETHOVEN’S FIFTH
Nashville Symphony
Danail Rachev, conductor
Zuill Bailey, cello
BARBER Adagio for Strings
DVORAK Concerto for Cello in B minor, Op. 104
BEETHOVEN Symphony No. 5 in C minor, Op. 67
Newly appointed as Music Director of the Eugene Symphony, Danail Rachev leads a performance of Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony, surely the most celebrated work in all of classical music. From the forceful opening notes to the exultant closing, the piece takes listeners on a dramatic journey from darkness to light. Charismatic cellist Zuill Bailey will bring his singular talent to bear on Dvo?ák’s Cello Concerto, another work beloved for its expansiveness and depth of emotion.
COMMUNITY CONCERTS
Summer 2008
REGIONS COMMUNITY CONCERTS
As the days get longer and the weather turns warm, the Nashville Symphony is ready to step out of the concert hall and enjoy the outdoors. We’re offering free admission to most of the events in our summer parks concert series, thanks to the generous assistance of Regions. Whether you live in the bustling heart of the city or in an outlying community, we’ll be paying you a visit with an inviting program of well-known classics that listeners of all ages and tastes are sure to love. So pack a picnic dinner, bring the whole family and celebrate summertime with an evening of great music. Check our website this spring for a complete schedule of events.
October 10, 2009
REGIONS FREE DAY OF MUSIC
Three years ago, as part of our inaugural season at the Schermerhorn, we launched Regions FREE Day of Music because we wanted to give everyone an opportunity to experience our beautiful building. The response was so phenomenal that we’ve made it an annual tradition. Beginning at 10 a.m. and running well into the night, this celebration will feature more than two dozen performances by a diverse array of local ensembles, all completely free of charge. It’s a valuable opportunity to make great music accessible to Nashvillians from all walks of life — a powerful idea that’s at the very heart of the Nashville Symphony’s mission.
January 17, 2010
LET FREEDOM SING!
A Musical Tribute to Martin Luther King Jr.
The Celebration Chorus and Celebration Youth Chorus join the Nashville Symphony for our yearly concert honoring the life and work of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. Throughout history, music has delivered humankind through some of its greatest struggles, and this concert will serve as a stirring reminder of King’s enduring message, with a program that brings together classical music, soulful spirituals and timeless American songs. Check our website in the fall for more information.
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