Eugene Symphony in the Park 2013

Cuthbert Amphitheater

• Danail Rachev - Music Director and Conductor

Eugene Symphony in the Park returns this summer to the Cuthbert Amphitheater! Details will be released in late May

2013-14 Season

Hult Center

We are thrilled to present the Eugene Symphony's spectacular 2013-14 season. The music we've chosen for our 48th season has something for everyone - familiar favorites, amazing masterworks, and a few surprises that we think you'll love. As always, our featured soloists include some of the world's greatest talents, including several young stars on the rise. The best way to make sure you don't miss a moment of these performances is to become a subscriber. Plus, you'll receive a discount on tickets and many great benefits. Subscriptions are on sale now: Call the box office at 541-682-5000, go to the box office in person, or click the "Subscribe" button in the upper right-hand corner of our website, eugenesymphony.org. Our 2013-14 lineup is available by clicking the link under this photo on our home page, and you can also read about each concert, below:

BOLERO, September 26, 2013

Danail Rachev, conductor

Orion Weiss, piano

BIZET: Suite from Carmen

DE FALLA: Nights in the Gardens of Spain

DEBUSSY: Iberia

RAVEL: Bolero

To open the season, we evoke the sights and sounds of exotic Spain, beginning with popular - and also rarely heard - music from the most beloved opera of all time. DeFalla's Nights in the Gardens of Spain is a blistering piano concerto wrapped in a perfumed tone poem, played by American piano virtuoso Orion Weiss at the keyboard. Debussy's homage to his Iberian neighbors perfectly sets up Ravel's hypnotic and sensual Bolero.

GERSHWIN PIANO CONCERTO, October 17, 2013

Danail Rachev, conductor

Ian Parker, piano

ADAMS: Lollapalooza

GERSHWIN: Piano Concerto in F

RACHMANINOV: Symphonic Dances

Infused with urban energy and rhythmic drive, John Adams's Lollapalooza is all about the groove. Gershwin's jazzy and melodic Concerto, played by Canadian star Ian Parker, conjures up New York's art deco golden era. Written in America, Rachmaninov's last orchestral piece might just be his greatest - endlessly inventive and utterly compelling, the Symphonic Dances provide a summation of the life's work of a great composer.

SYMPHONIE FANTASTIQUE, November 14, 2013

Danail Rachev, conductor

Danielle Belen, violin

R. STRAUSS: Dance of the seven Veils from Salome

RAVEL: Tzigane

SAINT-SAENS: Introduction and Rondo Capriccioso

BERLIOZ: Symphonie fantastique

Passion and obsession pervade an evening of instrumental fireworks. Strauss's wildly colorful dance from his controversial opera Salome sets the tone for the evening, while Berlioz's Symphonie spins a vivid tale of an unrequited love gone terribly wrong. In between, violinist Danielle Belen launches feats of virtuosic wizardry in Ravel's Roma-inspired Tzigane and Saint-Saens's showpiece.

1812 OVERTURE, December 5, 2013

Eckart Preu, guest conductor     

Julie Albers, cello

TCHAIKOVSKY: Capriccio italien

TCHAIKOVSKY: Serenade for Strings

TCHAIKOVSKY: Variations on a Rococo Theme

TCHAIKOVSKY: 1812 Overture

Witness the many facets of Tchaikovsky's musical gifts - from the vibrant orchestral colors in Capriccio italien and the soulful string sound of Serenade, to the glittering variations he set for solo cello and orchestra. Long a staple of outdoor pops concerts, this is our chance to experience the full power and nuanced detail of the 1812 Overture.

MOZART & BRAHMS, January 16, 2014

Danail Rachev, conductor

Rachele Gilmore, soprano

BRITTEN: Four Sea Interludes from Peter Grimes

MOZART: Exsultate jubilate

MOZART: Aria of the Queen of the Night from The Magic Flute

BRAHMS: Symphony No. 3

This is an evening of contrasting sounds, styles, and textures. Brahm's warm and lyrical Symphony No. 3 balances against the cold remoteness of England's craggy North Sea coastline, as captured in the Sea Interludes from Britten's best-known opera. In between, stunning soprano Rachele Gilmore sings a set of Mozart's sublimely beautiful concert and opera arias.

RITE OF SPRING, February 20, 2014

Danail Rachev, conductor

Fumiaki Miura, violin

DEBUSSY: Prelude to The Afternoon of a Faun

PROKOFIEV: Violin Concerto No. 2

STRAVINSKY: The Rite of Spring

Legendary for the riot it caused at its Paris premiere a century ago, Stravinsky's greatest ballet score changed music forever, yet still sounds as though it was written yesterday. Debussy's lithe and lush Prelude was equally ground-breaking in its day, while Prokofiev's Concerto, wistful and brash by turns and featuring rising star violinist Fumiaki Miura, provides a bridge between French Impressionism and Russian fireworks.

HAYDN'S THE CREATION, March 20, 2014

Danail Rachev, conductor

Eugene Symphony Chorus

Sharon Paul, chorus director

HAYDN: The Creation

Haydn's crowning masterpiece is also one of the greatest oratorios of all time. It depicts the six days of Biblical creation, from the first rays of primal light coming through the chaos and darkness, to the formation of the heavens and the earth's oceans, forests, and creatures, and then finally to Adam and Eve's entry into Eden. Join us for an evening of awe-inspiring and timeless musical genius.

SCHUMANN & MENDELSSOHN, April 17, 2014

Grant Llewellyn, guest conductor

Antonio Pompa-Baldi, piano

SIBELIUS: Finlandia

SCHUMANN: Piano Concerto

MENDELSSOHN: Symphony No. 3, "Scottish"

An ode to his beloved homeland, Sibelius's score symbolized Finland's struggle with Russian oppression and has become an unofficial national anthem as well as a concert hall favorite throughout the world. Schumann's deeply felt Concerto provides pianist Antonio Pompa-Baldi with an opportunity to shine musically and technically. Inspired by a trip to Scotland when he was just 20, Mendelssohn's Symphony suggests mist-shrouded castles and tartan-clad warriors.

BEETHOVEN SYMPHONY NO. 7, May 15, 2014

Danail Rachev, conductor

THEOFANIDIS: Rainbow Body

HINDEMITH: Mathis der Maler Symphony

BEETHOVEN: Symphony No. 7

Two German symphonies, written 125 years apart, share a love of life and art. Hindemith's adaptation of his opera lionizes a 16th-century painter whose elaborate altarpiece has inspired generations, while Beethoven's propulsive and jubilant score rejoices in dance rhythms. To begin, American composer Chris Theofanidis's Rainbow Body draws its creative impulse from 12th-century chant but fuses it with 21st-century orchestral texture to capture light and energy in sound.

SPECIAL CONCERT

LOVE + FATE: ROMEO & JULIET and PORGY & BESS, November 23, 2013

Danail Rachev, conductor

Oregon Shakespeare Festival

The hope and agony of lost love echoes through countless plays, songs, and stories throughout history. Experience two of the most famous and powerful of them in one incredible night.

Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet is brought to life by Prokofiev's ballet music wrapped around scenes from the play performed by members of the acclaimed Oregon Shakespeare Festival acting company. Then, hear Gershwin's Porgy and Bess, a touching tale of thwarted love in hardscrabble Catfish Row, featuring four extraordinary soloists and a chorus. You'll never forget this evening of triumph and tragedy of love.

SPECIAL CONCERT

PINK MARTINI, December 14, 2013

Co-founder Thomas Lauderdale once said, "Pink Martini is a rollicking around-the-world musical adventure... if the United Nations had a house band in 1962, hopefully we'd be that band." Oregon's favorite musical export turns their prodigious musical talents to the songs and sounds of the holidays, as heard on their runaway hit album Joy to the World. Join in the fun and get in the holiday spirit!

Marathon Piano Recital

Silva Hall, Hult Center

Pre-Concert Lecture

The Studio, Hult Center

• Garrick Ohlsson - Piano
• Danail Rachev - Conductor

Free Vocal Master Class

The Studio, Hult Center

• Christina Pier - Soprano
• Barbara rearick - Mezzo-Soprano
• Scott Sully - Tenor
• Paul Whelan - Baritone

Eugene Symphony guest artists Christina Pier (soprano), Barbara Rearick (mezzo-soprano), Scott Scully (tenor), and Paul Whelan (baritone) will conduct a free master class Wednesday, March 17 at 4:00 p.m. in The Studio of the Hult Center. Pier, Rearick, Scully, and Whelan, all vocal soloists appearing with the Eugene Symphony in a performance of Mozart’s Coronation Mass, will coach vocal ensembles from the University of Oregon who will each perform scenes from various operas, including Mozart’s The Magic Flute.

Exploring Beethoven: Pre-Concert Lecture & Performance

The Studio, Hult Center

• Rebecca Hunter - Eugene Symphony Violinist
• Nathalie Fortin - Piano

• Beethoven - Violin Sonata No. 9 in A Major, "Kreutzer"

Join us for a pre-concert lecture/performance with Eugene Symphony violinist, Rebecca Hunter. Ms. Hunter will lead a fascinating discussion on the life and music of Beethoven. This presentation will conclude in a performance of the first movement of Beethoven’s Kreutzer Sonata, which will also feature pianist Nathalie Fortin. Free and open to the public; no ticket required.

Royal Fireworks Concert

Hult Center

• Danail Rachev - Conductor
• Garrick Ohlsson - Piano
• Sharon Paul - Director
• Eugene Symphony - Chorus

• Handel: Royal Fireworks Music 
• Mozart: Mass in C Major, Coronation 
• Beethoven: Piano Concerto No. 5, Emperor 

Music fit for a king! Legendary pianist Garrick Ohlsson performs Beethoven’s heroic and majestic Emperor concerto. The Eugene Symphony Chorus joins the orchestra for a powerful performance of Mozart’s regal Coronation Mass.

SYMPHONY LOSES PRINCIPAL TIMPANIST CHARLES DOWD

Eugene, Oregon

Wednesday afternoon, Charles Dowd, principal timpanist of the Eugene Symphony died of pancreatic cancer. He was 61 years old. Dowd held the principal timpanist position with the Eugene Symphony for 35 years. He recently retired from the University of Oregon School of Music and Dance where he was a Philip H. Knight professor of music and a faculty performing artist.

Read more...

Violin Master Class with Vadim Gluzman

The Studio, Hult Center

• Vadim Gluzman - Violin

FREE MASTER CLASS

Eugene Symphony guest artist, Vadim Gluzman, will conduct a free master class Tuesday, April 20 at 4:00 p.m. in The Studio of the Hult Center. Gluzman who is appearing with the Eugene Symphony in a performance of Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto, will coach coach three Eugene-area students who will each perform prepared solo pieces. Part of the Laura Avery Visiting Masters program.

Guild Concert Preview

The Studio, Hult Center

• Alasdair Neale - Guest Conductor
• Vadim Gluzman - Violin

FREE PRE-CONCERT LECTURE

Eugene Symphony guest conductor, Alasdair Neale and violinist Vadim Gluzman lead a lecture about the Symphony's April performance.

Tchaikovsky Violin Concerto

Silva Hall, Hult Center

• Alasdair Neale - Guest Conductor
• Vadim Gluzman - Soloist

• Prokofiev - Classical Symphony
• Stravinsky - Divertimento from "The Fairy Kiss"
• Glinka - Overture to Russlan and Ludmilla
• Tchaikovsky - Violin Concerto

A night of Russian masterworks begins with the Classical Symphony of Prokofiev. Performing on the Stradivarius to which the work was originally dedicated, Vadim Gluzman will blow audiences away with his blazing performance of Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto.

Play! A Video Game Symphony

Silva Hall, Hult Center

• Andy Brick - Guest Conductor
• Eugene Symphony Chorus - Sharon Paul - Director

This audio visual digital spectacular features scenes from some of the best-selling video games, combined with live music performed by the Eugene Symphony and the Eugene Symphony Chorus. Award-winning scores such as Halo and World of Warcraft, and outstanding motion graphics highlight some of the greatest gaming moments of our time makes this a perfect entertainment for all ages!

Watch Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uYvq2EbU-I0

Featuring the epic sounds of:
Halo
Super Mario Bros.
Battlefield
Legend of Zelda
Oblivion
World of Warcraft
And More

For information visit: http://www.play-symphony.com

Applebee's Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser

Applebee's Neighborhood Grill & Bar (Gateway)

Enjoy a Short Stack for a Tall Cause.

The Eugene Symphony Guild invites you to an all you can eat Pancake Breakfast in support of the Eugene Symphony. Join us Saturday, May 1 at 8 AM at the Applebee's in Springfield for a fun social breakfast. Tickets are $7. To purchase tickets contact Jo Schechter at 541-914-9434 or email Josuccess@comcast.net.

Guild Concert Preview

The Studio, Hult Center

• Danail Rachev - Music Director & Conductor

FREE PRE-CONCERT LECTURE

Eugene Symphony music director, Danail Rachev leads a discussion about the Symphony's May performance.

Orchestras Feeding America

The Hult Center

The Eugene Symphony and Eugene Symphony Guild will participate in Orchestras Feeding America, a national food drive by members of the League of American Orchestras in partnership with Feeding America. This is the second consecutive year that the Eugene Symphony and America’s orchestras have mobilized their musicians, staff, volunteers, and audiences to help alleviate hunger in communities across the country. 

Non-perishable food will be collected in the lobby of the Hult Center on Wednesday, May 19 between noon and 5 p.m. and Thursday, May 20 between noon and 5 p.m. and one hour prior to the Eugene Symphony’s performance.

The food will be donated to FOOD For Lane County.
Most needed items are:
• low-sugar jams and jellies
• tomatoes
• corn meal
• brown rice
• beans (pinto, navy, kidney and refried)
• tuna, chicken and salmon
• dried fruit
• low-sugar canned fruit
• unsweetened apple sauce
• low-sodium broth
• olive oil
• chili
• stew
• spaghetti sauce with meat
• spaghetti noodles
• corned beef

Eugene Symphony Joins Orchestras Feeding America

The Hult Center

The Eugene Symphony and Eugene Symphony Guild will participate in Orchestras Feeding America, a national food drive by members of the League of American Orchestras in partnership with Feeding America. This is the second consecutive year that the Eugene Symphony and America’s orchestras have mobilized their musicians, staff, volunteers, and audiences to help alleviate hunger in communities across the country. 

Non-perishable food will be collected in the lobby of the Hult Center on Wednesday, May 19 between noon and 5 p.m. and Thursday, May 20 between noon and 5 p.m. and one hour prior to the Eugene Symphony’s performance.

The food will be donated to FOOD For Lane County.
Most needed items are:
• low-sugar jams and jellies
• tomatoes
• corn meal
• brown rice
• beans (pinto, navy, kidney and refried)
• tuna, chicken and salmon
• dried fruit
• low-sugar canned fruit
• unsweetened apple sauce
• low-sodium broth
• olive oil
• chili
• stew
• spaghetti sauce with meat
• spaghetti noodles
• corned beef

Mahler Titan

Silva Hall, Hult Center

• Danail Rachev - Conductor

• Delius - The Walk to the Paradise Garden
• Wagner - Sigfried Idyll
• Mahler - Symphony No. 1, Titan

Rachev's inaugural season concludes with an orchestral showcase of Wagner's Sigfried Idyll and Mahler's awe-inspiring Symphony No. 1, Titan.

Eugene Symphony Balances FY10 Operating Budget

Eugene, OR

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

KEEPING A CLOSE EYE ON EXPENSES HELPS EUGENE SYMPHONY BALANCE FY10 OPERATING BUDGET

EUGENE— A close eye on expenses, cost-cutting measures, wage freezes and a $50,000 economic stimulus grant, helped the Eugene Symphony finish the 2009-10 season with a balanced budget for the 18th consecutive year. “Throughout the season, staff carefully monitored expenses squeezing as much as we possibly could out of every dollar,” said Paul Winberg, Eugene Symphony executive director. “We managed to cut nearly $50,000 from a budget that was already lean and conservative to begin with.”

Last spring, the board adopted a $2.1 million operating budget that was $229,000 less than the previous fiscal year. Nearly $150,000 of that reduction was from one-time expenses related to the orchestra’s music director search that included three free performances featuring the search committee’s final candidates. The remainder included wage freezes for administrative staff, a reduced number of services for musicians, and the suspension of the orchestra’s popular Distinguished Guest Artist Initiative that previously brought Yo-Yo Ma, Renee Fleming and other major classical music superstars to Eugene.

“We knew it would be an especially challenging year when subscription sales fell short of our goal by $67,000,” said Winberg. “In addition, long time sponsors including the Register Guard, Siuslaw Bank, Pacific Women’s Center and others made the difficult decision not to support the symphony this year citing the economic downturn. That loss in sponsorship dollars totaled $47,500 over the previous year.”

The symphony board has adopted a stringent budget monitoring process. Revenues and expenses are monitored and recalculated on a quarterly basis with adjustments reviewed and adopted by the finance committee and then the full board. “The process has served us well,” said Hank Storr, treasurer of the symphony board. “Even in the best of times nonprofit arts groups work hard to maintain a strong financial position. It’s even more difficult when we experience periods of economic volatility. Having strong financial oversight is critical.”

Also this year, the Eugene Symphony was one of only three Oregon based arts organizations to receive a $50,000 economic stimulus grant administered by the National Endowment for the Arts. Recipient organizations were those that met stringent criteria based on financial capacity and the ability to carry out the objectives of the stimulus funds including the preservation of jobs in the nonprofit arts sector.

“As the Eugene Symphony board looks to the 2010-11 season, there will be a host of new challenges to consider,” said Mary Ann Hanson, board president. “At the same time, we continue to do our best to ensure that we always produce the best performances possible and enrich our community through the power of music.”

Eugene Symphony in the Park

The Cuthbert Amphitheater

• Danail Rachev - Conductor
• Angela Niederloh - Mezzo-Soprano

• Rossini - Selections from The Barber of Seville
• Saint-Saens - Introduction & Rondo Capriccioso
• Williams - Raiders March from Indiana Jones
• Copland - Hoedown
• Tchaikovsky - 1812 Overture
• Bizet - Selections from Carmen

JUST ANNOUNCED

A limited number of additional free tickets have been re-released for the July 17, Eugene Symphony in the Park concert. Tickets are available online through 3:00 p.m. Tuesday, July 13 at www.eugenesymphony.org. A processing fee of $3 per ticket will be applied to online orders.

After Tuesday afternoon, tickets will only be available by visiting the Hult Center box office. Box office hours are Tuesday through Friday noon to 5:00 p.m. and Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m

The Eugene Symphony Association in partnership with Kesey Enterprises Inc., Double Tee Concerts and the City of Eugene is pleased to announce its annual FREE outdoor summer concert, Eugene Symphony in the Park at the Cuthbert Amphitheater located in Eugene’s Alton Baker Park.

 This free concert is being presented with the generous support of Springfield Creamery.

About Cuthbert Amphitheater

A beautiful concert venue with a capacity of more than 4,500, The Cuthbert Amphitheater offers everyone an opportunity to enjoy live music outdoors during spectacular Oregon summers. Located in Eugene, Oregon at the edge of Alton Baker Park near the University of Oregon's Autzen Stadium, The Cuthbert features superb sound, beer gardens, food booths and an environment perfect for enjoying superb music performed live by the best touring bands in the country. For venue restrictions visit thecuthbert.com

Food Vendors at The Cuthbert

The Cuthbert features a variety of food vendors at each performance. Saturday crowds will have their choice of food from:
Carte De Frisco
Bates Steakhouse
Sara's Tamales
Tom's Tea House
and Ben & Jerry's.

There will also be beer and wine for purchase, valid ID required.

Yuletide Celebration Open Casting Call Day One

The Studio, Hult Center

EUGENE SYMPHONY TO HOLD OPEN CASTING CALL FOR CHAMBERS FAMILY FOUNDATION YULETIDE CELEBRATION

The Eugene Symphony invites performers of all ages to audition for this year’s production of the Chambers Family Foundation Yuletide Celebration with the Eugene Symphony on Saturday, September 11 beginning at 10:00 a.m. and Sunday, September 12 beginning at 1:00 p.m. in The Studio of the Hult Center. No appointment is necessary to participate in the casting call.

Performers of all ages are needed for several roles in this year’s production. Those chosen to participate will have the exciting opportunity to perform holiday favorites including A Christmas Carol with Eugene Symphony on stage of the Hult Center for the Performing Arts. Available roles include Tiny Tim, members of the Cratchit family, including Bob Cratchit, Fezziwig, and many more.

For the casting call:
• CHILDREN, aged 7-17, are asked to sing their favorite song and to bring a photo and résumé, if available.
• ADULTS, aged 18 and up, are asked to bring two songs, including one ballad and one up-tempo song. Adults are asked to bring a recent headshot and résumé. A pianist will be provided.

For more information, please contact Eugene Symphony Operations and Education Director Chris Collins at 541-687-9487 ext. 102.

Coburg Antique Fair

Coburg, Oregon

Support the Eugene Symphony Guild!  Donate treasures and come shopping at the Coburg Antique Fair.  Click Coburg Antique Fair below the calendar at right for the Guild's flyer.

Yuletide Celebration Open Casting Call Day Two

The Studio, Hult Center

EUGENE SYMPHONY TO HOLD OPEN CASTING CALL FOR CHAMBERS FAMILY FOUNDATION YULETIDE CELEBRATION

The Eugene Symphony invites performers of all ages to audition for this year’s production of the Chambers Family Foundation Yuletide Celebration with the Eugene Symphony on Saturday, September 11 beginning at 10:00 a.m. and Sunday, September 12 beginning at 1:00 p.m. in The Studio of the Hult Center. No appointment is necessary to participate in the casting call.

Performers of all ages are needed for several roles in this year’s production. Those chosen to participate will have the exciting opportunity to perform holiday favorites including A Christmas Carol with Eugene Symphony on stage of the Hult Center for the Performing Arts. Available roles include Tiny Tim, members of the Cratchit family, including Bob Cratchit, Fezziwig, and many more.

For the casting call:
• CHILDREN, aged 7-17, are asked to sing their favorite song and to bring a photo and résumé, if available.
• ADULTS, aged 18 and up, are asked to bring two songs, including one ballad and one up-tempo song. Adults are asked to bring a recent headshot and résumé. A pianist will be provided.

For more information, please contact Eugene Symphony Operations and Education Director Chris Collins at 541-687-9487 ext. 102.

Violin Master Class with Jennifer Frautschi

The Studio, Hult Center

• Jennifer Frautschi - Violin

FREE MASTER CLASS

Eugene Symphony guest artist, Jennifer Frautschi, will conduct a free master class Tuesday, September 21 at 4:00 p.m. in The Studio of the Hult Center. Frautschi, who is appearing with the Eugene Symphony in a performance of Lalo's Symphonie Espagnole, will coach coach three Eugene-area students who will each perform prepared solo pieces. Part of the Laura Avery Visiting Masters program.

Free Pre-Concert Lecture with James Paul and violinist Jennifer Frautschi

The Studio, Hult Center

• Eugene Symphony Guild - Presenter
• James Paul - Conductor
• Jennifer Frautschi - Violin

FREE PRE-CONCERT LECTURE

Eugene Symphony conductor James Paul and violinist Jennifer Frautschi lead a discussion about the symphony's September Pictures at an Exhibition performance.  Come join us for an hour of historical insights and musical examples of pieces on September's performance.  Presented by the Eugene Symphony Guild.

Eugene Symphony Chorus Auditions

The Studio, Hult Center

EUGENE SYMPHONY CHORUS AUDITIONS

The Eugene Symphony is pleased to announce auditions for the Eugene Symphony Chorus. Those chosen for a position in the chorus will perform on a rare all-Beethoven choral program on December 2, 2010 with the Eugene Symphony.

Auditions will be held September 22, 2010 beginning at 6:30 p.m. in The Studio, which is located on the lower level of the Hult Center for the Performing Arts. Participants are expected to prepare a short song or aria, those auditioning may also be asked to vocalize and/or sight read. Participants should bring the accompaniment score to their selected short song or aria with them to the audition; an accompanist will be provided.

Résumés highlighting performance experience must be submitted to Eugene Symphony Operations and Education Director Chris Collins no later than September 17, 2010. Auditions are by appointment only.

Please send resumes via e-mail to: chris.collins@eugenesymphony.org

Pictures at an Exhibition

Silva Hall, Hult Center

• James Paul - Conductor
• Jennfer Frautschi - Violin

• Bernstein - Three Dance Episodes from "On The Town"
• Lalo - Symphonie Espagnole
• Mussorgsky/Ravel - Pictures at an Exhibition

Peter and the Wolf Educational Elementary School Concert 1 of 3

Silva Concert Hall, Hult Center

• Danail Rachev - Conductor

• Weber - Invitation to the Dance
• Prokofiev - Peter and the Wolf

Peter and the Wolf

The Eugene Symphony’s 2010-2011 Elementary School Youth Concerts will feature a performance of Sergei Prokofiev’s beloved Peter and the Wolf. Peter and the Wolf is the story of a young boy who ventures out into the meadow, against his grandfather’s orders, to catch a wolf. The wolf is also being chased by the village’s best hunters. With the help of his animal friends, Peter catches the wolf using only a rope lasso. The brave Peter, accompanied by the hunters and his animal friends, becomes the hero of his village. This concert will introduce students to the concept of a leitmotif, which is a recurring musical theme, associated with a particular person, place, or idea. In Peter and the Wolf, particular instruments represent the various characters in the story. Most notably, the string section represents Peter, the french horn section represents the wolf, and the oboe represents the duck. Through this piece, students will learn about characteristics of the different instruments of the orchestra. The concert will feature instrument demonstrations before the performance of Peter and the Wolf in order to introduce students to the various instruments of the orchestra. This concert will be narrated by William Hulings.

This concert is open to K-6 students and teachers.  For registration information, please call 541-687-9487 ext. 114.

Piano Master Class with Jon Kimura Parker

The Studio, Hult Center

• Jon Kimura Parker - Piano

FREE MASTER CLASS

Eugene Symphony guest artist, Jon Kimura Parker, will conduct a free master class Tuesday, October 19 at 4:00 p.m. in The Studio of the Hult Center. Parker, who is appearing with the Eugene Symphony in a performance of Tchaikovsky's Piano Concerto No. 1, will coach coach three Eugene-area students who will each perform prepared solo pieces. Part of the Laura Avery Visiting Masters program.

Peter and the Wolf Educational Elementary School Concert 3 of 3

Silva Concert Hall, Hult Center

• Danail Rachev - Conductor

• Weber - Invitation to the Dance
• Prokofiev - Peter and the Wolf

Peter and the Wolf

The Eugene Symphony’s 2010-2011 Elementary School Youth Concerts will feature a performance of Sergei Prokofiev’s beloved Peter and the Wolf. Peter and the Wolf is the story of a young boy who ventures out into the meadow, against his grandfather’s orders, to catch a wolf. The wolf is also being chased by the village’s best hunters. With the help of his animal friends, Peter catches the wolf using only a rope lasso. The brave Peter, accompanied by the hunters and his animal friends, becomes the hero of his village. This concert will introduce students to the concept of a leitmotif, which is a recurring musical theme, associated with a particular person, place, or idea. In Peter and the Wolf, particular instruments represent the various characters in the story. Most notably, the string section represents Peter, the french horn section represents the wolf, and the oboe represents the duck. Through this piece, students will learn about characteristics of the different instruments of the orchestra. The concert will feature instrument demonstrations before the performance of Peter and the Wolf in order to introduce students to the various instruments of the orchestra. This concert will be narrated by William Hulings.

This concert is open to K-6 students and teachers.  For registration information, please call 541-687-9487 ext. 114.

FREE Pre-Concert Lecture with Danail Rachev and Jon Kimura Parker

The Studio, Hult Center

• Danail Rachev - conductor
• Jon Kimura Parker - piano

FREE PRE-CONCERT LECTURE

Eugene Symphony Music Director and Conductor Danail Rachev and pianist Jon Kimura Parker lead a discussion about the symphony's October Tchaikovsky Piano Concerto performance. Come join us for an hour of historical insights and musical examples of pieces on October's performance.

Presented by The Eugene Symphony Guild.

Tchaikovsky's Piano Concerto

Silva Hall, Hult Center

• Danail Rachev - Conductor
• Jon Kimura Parker - Piano

• Borodin - In the Steppes of Central Asia
• Tchaikovsky - Piano Concerto No. 1
• Stravinsky - Petrushka

Pianist Jon Kimura Parker joins the Eugene Symphony in a performance of Tchaikovsky’s dazzling Piano Concerto— the perfect marriage of dramatic bravura and tender romanticism. This concert concludes with the telling of a musical story—a magical puppet who comes to life— in Stravinsky’s imaginative Petrushka.

Violin Master Class with Colin Jacobsen

The Studio, Hult Center

• Colin Jacobsen - Violin

FREE MASTER CLASS

Eugene Symphony guest artist, Colin Jacobsen, will conduct a free master class Monday, November 15 at 4:00 p.m. in The Studio of the Hult Center. Jacobsen, who is appearing with the Eugene Symphony in a performance of Bernstein's Serenade, will coach coach three Eugene-area students who will each perform prepared solo pieces. Part of the Laura Avery Visiting Masters program.

Open Reading of Mahler Symphony No. 9 with Marin Alsop

Silva Concert Hall, Hult Center

• Marin Alsop - Conductor

Open Reading of Mahler Symphony No. 9 with Marin Alsop

Eugene Symphony conductor laureate Marin Alsop will lead an open rehearsal of Mahler Symphony No. 9 on Tuesday, November 16 beginning at 3:30 p.m.  in Silva Concert Hall at the Hult Center for the performing arts. This special event will feature a side-by-side reading of Mahler's last-completed symphony with the University of Oregon's Symphony Orchestra. 

This event is free and open to the public; however ticket vouchers are required. As a benefit to friends of the symphony, priority passes will be mailed to donors and subscribers by November 10. Members of the general public who are interested in attending may pick up passes at the Eugene Symphony offices beginning on November 5. The Eugene Symphony offices are located at 115 West 8th Avenue in downtown Eugene. Limited quantities are available.

Made possible through generous funding from: Nils & Jewel Hult Endowment – Arts Foundation of Western Oregon Fund of the Oregon Community Foundation
And Boekelheide Grant

Free Pre-Concert Lecture with Marin Alsop and violinist Colin Jacobsen

The Studio, Hult Center

• Eugene Symphony Guild - Presenter
• Marin Alsop - Conductor
• Colin Jacobsen - Violin

FREE PRE-CONCERT LECTURE

Eugene Symphony Conductor Laureate Marin Alsop and violinist Colin Jacobsen lead a discussion about the symphony's November Marin Alsop Returns performance.  Come join us for an hour of historical insights and musical examples of pieces on November's performance.  Presented by the Eugene Symphony Guild.

Marin Alsop Returns

Silva Hall, Hult Center

• Marin Alsop - Conductor Laureate
• Colin Jacobsen - Violin

• Tchaikovsky - Romeo and Juliet Overture-Fantasy
• Bernstein - Serenade
• Brahms - Symphony No. 2

Welcome renowned conductor Marin Alsop as she returns to Silva stage. This program explores the themes of love from the tragedy in Tchaikovsky’s Romeo and Juliet to love’s true nature in Bernstein’s Serenade, inspired by Plato’s “Symposium.” Alsop will shine conducting Brahms’s romantic Second Symphony.

Eugene Symphony Renews Danail Rachev's Contract

Eugene, OR

The Eugene Symphony Board of Directors is delighted to announce Danail Rachev will continue to serve as the orchestra’s music director and conductor through the 2016-17 season. Following three seasons of outstanding artistic leadership and the enthusiastic support of the community and orchestra, the symphony and Rachev agreed to a four-year contract extension. “We are so fortunate to have a conductor of his caliber,” said Board President Mary Ann Hanson. “Danail’s leadership has resulted in remarkable artistic growth for the symphony. His commitment to this orchestra and our mission is unwavering and the board, staff, musicians and community enthusiastically endorse the extension of his contract.”

Under Maestro Rachev’s leadership, and in accordance with the symphony’s long range plan, the Eugene Symphony has seen extraordinary artistic growth and has made plans for an unprecedented expansion of our education and community engagement programs, including the launch of the ambitious Counterpoint initiative, the establishment of an annual Eugene Symphony in the Park performance, the expansion of the symphony's family programming, and the hiring of a full-time education director.

Since becoming music director of the Eugene Symphony, Maestro Rachev’s career has flourished both nationally and internationally, marked by repeat engagements with the United Kingdom’s Philharmonia Orchestra, London Philharmonic, the Scottish Chamber Orchestra and Baltimore Symphony as well as debuts with Japan’s Yomiuri Nippon Symphony Orchestra, The Royal Scottish National Orchestra, New Zealand’s Auckland Philharmonia, SWR Stuttgart Radio Symphony, Orquesta Nacional do Porto, Orquesta Sinfónica del Principado de Asturias, and the symphonies of Nashville, Alabama, Grand Rapids, Richmond, and Spokane.

“I’m extremely happy to work with such great musicians and I look forward to our continued collaboration,” Rachev said. “We have built a partnership that provides an important foundation for us to achieve our mission. I thank the board for their confidence in me. My family and I love Eugene, and I look forward to many more years of music-making here.”

Free Viola Master Class with Holland Phillips

The Studio, Hult Center for the Performing Arts

• Holland Phillips - viola

Eugene Symphony principal violist, Holland Phillips, will conduct a free master class Tuesday, May 14, at 4:00 pm in The Studio of the Hult Center for the Performing Arts. Phillips is appearing with the Eugene Symphony in a performance of Berlioz's Harold in Italy and will coach three performers who will each perform prepared solo pieces. Part of the Laura Avery Visiting Masters program.

Play it Again! Adult Chamber Ensembles

Soreng Theater, Hult Center for the Performing Arts

The Eugene Symphony proudly presents our Winter 2013 Play it Again! Adult Chamber Ensembles in a free performance on Tuesday, May 14 at 6:30 pm in the Soreng Theater of the Hult Center for the Performing Arts. Reception to follow.

Free Pre-Concert Lecture with Danail Rachev and Holland Phillips

The Studio, Hult Center for the Performing Arts

• Danail Rachev - Music Director
• Holland Phillips - Principal Viola

Eugene Symphony Music Director Danail Rachev and principal violist Holland Phillips lead a discussion about the symphony's premiere performance of Berlioz's Harold in Italy. Come join us for an hour of historical insights and musical examples of pieces on May's performance. Presented by the Eugene Symphony Guild.

Dvorak's Cypresses String Quartet

The Studio, Hult Center for the Performing Arts

• Scott Freck - Executive Director
• Lisa McWhorter - Assistant Concertmaster
• Matt Fuller - Principal Second Violin
• Lauren Elledge - Viola
• Anne Ridlington - Principal Cello

Join Eugene Symphony musicians for a performance of selections from Dvorák's Cypresses for String Quartet. Corresponding poems to be read by Eugene Symphony Executive Director, Scott Freck.

Lisa McWhorter, Assistant Concertmaster; Matt Fuller, Principal Second Violin; Lauren Elledge,Viola; Anne Ridlington, Principal Cello.

Dvorak Symphony No. 8

Silva Concert Hall, Hult Center

• Danail Rachev - Conductor
• Holland Phillips - Viola

• Berlioz - Harold in Italy
• Dvorak - Symphony No. 8

Carmina Burana Airing on KWAX 91.1FM

91.1FM KWAX

The Eugene Symphony's performance of Carmina Burana airs on May 18, 2013, at 3 PM.