VSO 2015/2016 Season Brochure

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2015/2016

WELCOME TO THE VSO’s

2015/2016

IT’S EASY TO ORDER YOUR SUBSCRIPTION PACKAGE• CHOOSE your Series Package (or Compose Your Own series — details on page 23)• ADD Specials and Festival concerts with your brand-new Subscriber Discount, and• CALL VSO CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 604.876.3434 or order your concerts online vancouversymphony.ca

SUBSCRIBING MAKES SENSE: Many VSO concerts throughout the season sell out, but subscribing now guarantees your seats for all of the concerts you want — and you get those concerts at up to 30% off the regular single ticket price.

Please see the centre of brochure for Subscriber Benefits and ordering details.

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Maestro Bramwell Tovey and your Vancouver Symphony Orchestra welcome you to the VSO’s 97th Season. The exciting new season gives audiences the very best live music experiences, whether it be listening to the great classical masterpieces, fun and funky Symphony Pops, or concerts for children and families.

Join Maestro Tovey and the extraordinary musicians of your Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, and create your own musical journey now. 2015/2016 is a rich season of outstanding concerts, including a guest appearance by legendary violinist Itzhak Perlman!

SEASON

A SERIES PACKAGE FOR EVERYONE SEASON GUEST ARTIST HIGHLIGHTS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4MASTERWORKS GOLD. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6MASTERWORKS DIAMOND . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8MUSICALLY SPEAKING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10CLASSICAL TRADITIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12VSO POPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14SYMPHONY SUNDAYS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16TEA & TRUMPETS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17SURREY NIGHTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18SYMPHONY AT THE ANNEX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19NORTH SHORE CLASSICS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19KIDS’ KONCERTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20TINY TOTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21VSO CHAMBER PLAYERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 COMPOSE YOUR OWN SERIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23SPRING FESTIVAL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24SPECIALS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26TELUS EDUCATION & COMMUNITY PROGRAMS. . . . . . . . . . . 34VSO ORCHESTRAL INSTITUTE AT WHISTLER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 BECOME A FRIEND OF THE VSO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35VSO SCHOOL OF MUSIC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

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VADIM GLUZMANSPECIALS p 30“Technical difficulties don’t seem to exist for him; he makes his violin sing…”

—MusicalCriticism.com

INGRID FLITERCLASSICAL TRADITIONS p 12“Fliter was born to play…with power and passion...” —Daily Telegraph

ISABELLE FAUSTMASTERWORKS GOLD p 6“Her sound has passion, grit and electricity but also a disarming warmth and sweetness…”

—New York Times

STEPHEN HOUGHMUSICALLY SPEAKING p 10“The most perfect piano playing conceivable.” —The Guardian

NICOLA BENEDETTICLASSICAL TRADITIONS p 12“It was thrilling to hear and watch Nicola Benedetti in a truly risk-taking performance that… fused the sinews of the violin and the nerve-system of the player." —The Times

AVAN YUSPECIALS p 31“Brilliance is…the byword for the performance of young Avan Yu…”

—Vancouver Sun

AUGUSTIN HADELICHMASTERWORKS DIAMOND p 8“Here is a young artist with no evident limitations.”

—The New Yorker

JOYCE YANGMASTERWORKS DIAMOND p 8“Her attention to detail and clarity is as impressive as her agility, balance and velocity.”

—Washington Post

SOME OF THE MANY GUEST STARS OF THE

2015/2016 SEASON

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ITZHAK PERLMANSPECIALS p 26“Perlman has occupied a place as one of the greatest violinists of his day, a player with a remarkable technique and a sweet, elegant tone.” —Gramophone

JAMES EHNESSPECIALS p 27“Effusively lyrical…hair-raisingly virtuosic.”

—The Guardian

CHAD HOOPESMASTERWORKS DIAMOND p 8“This young man has a sense of musical drama far beyond his years.”

—Arts Sarasota

ANGELA CHENGMUSICALLY SPEAKING p 10“…her playing was clean, crisp, and flawless…”

—Vancouver Sun

GILLES VONSATTELCLASSICAL TRADITIONS p 12“Vonsattel is a superb pianist… he produced a pure and singing tone…everything, always, was in balance.”

—New York Sun

LOUIS LORTIEMASTERWORKS GOLD p 6“…total spontaneity and mediated ripeness that only great pianists have.”

—The London Times

BUGS BUNNYSPECIALS p 28“It was a magical night…”

—Los Angeles Times

SARAH CHANGMASTERWORKS GOLD p 6“Ms. Chang was a wonder. Her full, beautiful tone, unimpeachable intonation and restrained sincerity worked perfectly…”

—New York Times

GOLDCORP

MASTERWORKS GOLD

The VSO’s 97th Season opens with one of the world’s preeminent violinists, Miriam Fried, performing perhaps the greatest of works for violin, Beethoven’s extraordinary Violin Concerto. And in a special collaboration with the Vancouver Biennale, the VSO performs the world premiere of a new work by JUNO® Award-winning Canadian composer Vivian Fung.

Maestro Bramwell Tovey conducts a fascinating concert of wide-ranging repertoire. Brilliant American pianist Anne-Marie McDermott performs one of the most famous works in all of the repertoire for piano, Rachmaninoff’s beautiful Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini. Following the theme of piano variations, Ms. McDermott will also perform Dutch composer Poul Ruders’ take on Paganini's 24th Caprice for Solo Violin.

The VSO welcomes back to the Orpheum stage one of the most exciting violinists on the scene today, the incomparable Sarah Chang. Sarah plays Dvořák’s beautiful Violin Concerto, and renowned conductor Pietari Inkinen leads the orchestra in a performance of one of the most famous symphonies ever written, Tchaikovsky’s epic Symphony No. 4.

6 CONCERTS GOLD OR DIAMONDSERIES SUBSCRIPTIONMASTERWORKS 6 SENIORSECTION ADULT STUDENT DRESS $ 477 $ 477ONE 348 327TWO 264 249THREE 228 216FOUR 186 177FIVE 147 141SIX 135 129

MASTERWORKS GOLD RADIO SPONSOR

ALL 12 CONCERTSSERIES SUBSCRIPTIONMASTERWORKS 12 SENIORSECTION ADULT STUDENT DRESS $ 888 $ 888ONE 597 567TWO 477 453THREE 411 390FOUR 345 327FIVE 279 264SIX 249 237

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MEMBERS OF THE VSO ISABELLE FAUST LOUIS LORTIE

6 CONCERT SERIES 8PM SATURDAYS or MONDAYS ORPHEUM THEATRE

BONUS SAVINGS!Combine the Masterworks Gold and Diamond series packages to make a Masterworks 12 package

CHERNIAVSKY LAUREATE PIANIST The Cherniavsky Laureate position is supported annually by the Gudewill Family, in honour of Janey Gudewill, Peter Cherniavsky, Mrs. B.T. Rogers and the Cherniavsky Junior Club for the Performing Arts, a foundation that annually underwrites the cost of thousands of children attending concerts during class time for schools throughout the Province.

SEPTEMBER 26 or 28 Bramwell Tovey conductor Miriam Fried violin*BERLIOZ Le corsaireBEETHOVEN Violin Concerto in D Major *VIVIAN FUNG Biennale Snapshots (World Premiere Commission by the Vancouver Biennale) STRAUSS Der Rosenkavalier: Suite

OCTOBER 24 or 26 Bramwell Tovey conductor Anne-Marie McDermott piano* (Cherniavsky Laureate pianist)STRAVINSKY Pulcinella: Suite RACHMANINOFF Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini*POUL RUDERS Paganini Variations* (World Premiere)SIBELIUS Symphony No. 7 in C Major

DECEMBER 5 or 7 Pietari Inkinen conductor Sarah Chang violin*JORDAN PAL Burn DVORÁK Violin Concerto in A minor*TCHAIKOVSKY Symphony No. 4 in F minor

JANUARY 30 or FEBRUARY 1 Gordon Gerrard conductor Louis Lortie piano*BEETHOVEN Coriolan OvertureSAINT-SAËNS Piano Concerto No. 5 in F Major, Egyptian*SIBELIUS Symphony No. 2 in D Major

APRIL 30 or MAY 2 Kazuyoshi Akiyama conductor Isabelle Faust violin*MOZART Don Giovanni: OvertureBARTÓK Violin Concerto No. 2*DVORÁK Symphony No. 7 in D minor

JUNE 4 or 6 Bramwell Tovey conductorEDWARD GREGSON Dream Song (North American Premiere) MAHLER Symphony No. 6 in A minor, Tragic

ALL CONCERTS 8PM SATURDAYS or MONDAYS

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VSO Associate Conductor Gordon Gerrard leads a magnificent classical program that includes one of Beethoven’s most famous Overtures, a dramatic captivating symphony by Jean Sibelius, and one of the most beautiful and exotic piano concertos in the French repertoire, performed by one of Canada’s most famous and highly respected artistic leaders, wonderful pianist Louis Lortie.

Internationally-renowned violinist Isabelle Faust performs Bartók’s scintillating Violin Concerto No. 2, on the extraordinary “Sleeping Beauty” Stradivarius violin, made in 1704. Beloved Conductor Laureate and former VSO Music Director Kazuyoshi Akiyama returns, conducting Dvořák’s Seventh Symphony and the overture to Mozart’s opera, Don Giovanni.

In the penultimate concert of the VSO’s new season, Maestro Bramwell Tovey conducts the North American premiere of Dream Song, a piece by British composer Edward Gregson, originally commissioned to appear in a concert alongside Mahler’s incredible Symphony No. 6. The essence of Mahler fills this work, making it a fitting companion to Mahler’s Sixth, one of the greatest symphonic masterpieces ever written.

MASTERWORKS GOLD SERIES SPONSOR

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SARAH CHANG

The core of the symphonic repertoire, featuring great guest artists and conductors, and classical treasures old and new.

PRE-CONCERT TALKS at 7:05pm in the Auditorium, FREE TO TICKETHOLDERS.

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SEASON FINALE CONCERT SPONSOR JUNE 11 & 13

AIR CANADA

MASTERWORKS DIAMOND

Called “an unquestioned master of the violin,” Tianwa Yang has established herself as a leading international performer and recording artist. She performs Paganini’s virtuosic and melodic Violin Concerto No. 2. This concert also features Beethoven’s “calm before the storm” Symphony No. 8, a beautiful Classical symphony that gave no hint of the tidal wave about to be unleashed in his next and most famous symphony.

Maestro Bramwell Tovey presents a performance of Fauré’s luminous and profoundly beautiful Requiem. Stravinsky’s deeply moving Symphony of Psalms and Haydn’s rich and aristocratic Military Symphony set the stage for Fauré’s choral masterpiece.

One of the most important and in-demand violinists in the world today, Augustin Hadelich makes his much-anticipated VSO return, performing maybe the most popular violin concerto ever written. Zemlinsky’s lavish, rarely-performed orchestral masterpiece The Mermaid is based on Hans Christian Andersen’s fairytale of the mermaid who sacrifices herself for an unrequited love, written by Zemlinsky after his rejection by Alma Schindler, in favour of her soon-to-be husband, the great composer Gustav Mahler.

BONUS SAVINGS!Combine the Masterworks Gold and Diamond series packages to make a Masterworks 12 package

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More of the core of the symphonic repertoire, featuring great guest artists and conductors, and classical treasures old and new.

PRE-CONCERT TALKS at 7:05pm in the Auditorium, FREE TO TICKETHOLDERS.

6 CONCERT SERIES 8PM SATURDAYS or MONDAYS ORPHEUM THEATRE

MASTERWORKS DIAMOND SERIES SPONSOR

CONCERT SPONSOR MAY 14

MEMBERS OF THE VSO

6 CONCERTS GOLD OR DIAMONDSERIES SUBSCRIPTIONMASTERWORKS 6 SENIORSECTION ADULT STUDENT DRESS $ 477 $ 477ONE 348 327TWO 264 249THREE 228 216FOUR 186 177FIVE 147 141SIX 135 129

ALL 12 CONCERTSSERIES SUBSCRIPTIONMASTERWORKS 12 SENIORSECTION ADULT STUDENT DRESS $ 888 $ 888ONE 597 567TWO 477 453THREE 411 390FOUR 345 327FIVE 279 264SIX 249 237

Distinguished and accomplished conductor Christopher Seaman leads the orchestra in a program featuring Beethoven’s majestic Emperor Piano Concerto performed by one of Russia’s most highly-decorated pianists, and Walton’s intense and powerful Symphony No. 1.

Virtuoso poet of the keyboard, Joyce Yang performs one of Mozart’s most important piano concertos, and one of his greatest works overall, a concerto that greatly influenced Beethoven and foreshadowed the Romantic era of composition to come. Moz-Art à la Haydn is a smart, cheeky styling of Mozart’s lost pantomime music of 1783 – the à la Haydn part is a nod to Haydn’s Farewell Symphony, so don’t be surprised when musicians start leaving the stage as the piece comes to an end!

The VSO's 2015/2016 Season Finale concert features Shostakovich's heroic Symphony No. 5, written by the greatest of Soviet composers during the Stalinist purges of the 1930s. And brilliant young violinist Chad Hoopes performs Barber's lyrical and emotional Violin Concerto.

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JOYCE YANG

CHAD HOOPES

OCTOBER 3 or 5 Tianwa Yang violin*BACH/STOKOWSKI Passacaglia & Fugue in C minorPAGANINI Violin Concerto No. 2 in B minor*BEETHOVEN Symphony No. 8 in F Major

NOVEMBER 21 or 23 Bramwell Tovey conductor Nathalie Paulin soprano* David John Pike baritone* Phoenix Chamber Choir* UBC Chamber Choir* Graeme Langager chorus directorSTRAVINSKY Symphony of Psalms* HAYDN Symphony No. 100 in G Major, MilitaryFAURÉ Requiem*

JANUARY 16 or 18 John Storgårds conductor Augustin Hadelich violin*GLENN BUHR …this is the murmur of yearning TCHAIKOVSKY Violin Concerto in D Major*ZEMLINSKY The Mermaid Symphonic Fantasy after Hans Christian Andersen

MARCH 12 or 14 Christopher Seaman conductor Alexander Melnikov piano*BEETHOVEN Piano Concerto No. 5 in E-flat Major, Emperor*WALTON Symphony No. 1 in B-flat minor

MAY 14 or 16 Joshua Weilerstein conductor Joyce Yang piano*SCHNITTKE Moz-Art à la Haydn MOZART Piano Concerto No. 24 in C minor*VALENTYN SILVESTROV The Messenger BEETHOVEN Symphony No. 4 in B-flat Major

JUNE 11 or 13 Bramwell Tovey conductor Chad Hoopes violin*JOCELYN MORLOCK Disquiet BARBER Violin Concerto* SHOSTAKOVICH Symphony No. 5 in D minor

ALL CONCERTS 8PM SATURDAYS or MONDAYS

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MARDON GROUP INSURANCE

MUSICALLY SPEAKING

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BRAMWELL TOVEY WITH THE VSO

Learn more about famous and beloved classical music, as the conductor gives engaging commentary about the composers and their music from the podium.

CLASSICAL CONCERTS WITH A TWIST: VIDEO SCREENS on either side of the stage enhance the concert presentation with fascinating close-ups of the extraordinary musicians on stage.

5 CONCERT SERIES 8PM SATURDAYS ORPHEUM THEATRE

ANGELA CHENG JOHANNES MOSERSTEPHEN HOUGH

MUSICALLY SPEAKING SERIES SPONSOR

OCTOBER 17 Darrell Ang conductor Angela Cheng piano*ZHOU LONG Rhyme of Taigu BEETHOVEN Piano Concerto No. 1 in C Major*DEBUSSY Prélude à l’après midi d’un faune DEBUSSY La Mer

NOVEMBER 14 Bramwell Tovey conductor Stephen Hough piano*WAGNER Tristan und Isolde: Prelude, Act IIISCHUMANN Piano Concerto in A minor*BARTÓK Concerto for Orchestra

JANUARY 23 Otto Tausk conductor Simon Trpčeski piano*MOZART The Abduction from the Seraglio: OvertureMOZART Symphony No. 38 in D Major, Prague LISZT Piano Concerto No. 2 in A Major*SMETANA Ma Vlast: The Moldau, Sarka

MARCH 5 Rory Macdonald conductor Angelo Xiang Yu violin*KABALEVSKY Colas Breugnon: OverturePROKOFIEV Violin Concerto No. 2 in G minor*STRAVINSKY The Fairy’s Kiss: Divertimento PROKOFIEV The Love for Three Oranges: Symphonic Suite

MAY 28 Bramwell Tovey conductor Johannes Moser cello*TCHAIKOVSKY Eugene Onegin: Polonaise TCHAIKOVSKY Variations on a Rococo Theme* TCHAIKOVSKY Symphony No. 6 in B minor, Pathétique

ALL CONCERTS 8PM SATURDAYS

Great Canadian pianist Angela Cheng performs Beethoven’s bold, exciting First Piano Concerto, in a program condυcted by Asia’s preeminent yoυng condυctor, Darrell Ang. This lυsh, Romantic concert featυres two of French composer Claυde Debυssy’s impressionist masterpieces, Prelυde to the Afternoon of a Faυn, and the gorgeoυs La Mer.

Maestro Bramwell Tovey condυcts sensational British pianist Stephen Hoυgh, in a performance of Schυmann’s brilliant and melodic Classical masterpiece, the Piano Concerto in A minor. Roυnding oυt the program is Wagner’s beaυtifυl Prelυde to Act III of Tristan υnd Isolde, and Bartók’s fantastic Concerto for Orchestra.

Celebrating all things Bohemian, this concert featυres one of Mozart’s wildest opera overtυres, and his famoυs, brilliant Pragυe Symphony. Yoυ will also hear Liszt’s poetic and beaυtifυl Piano Concerto No. 2, and two movements from Smetana’s endυring masterpiece, the set of symphonic poems known as Ma Vlast (My Homeland).

A program of great Rυssian classics is condυcted by accomplished yoυng Scottish condυctor Rory Macdonald. Menυhin Competition-winner Angelo Xiang Yυ is one of classical mυsic’s fastest-rising stars, and he performs Prokofiev’s gracefυl Violin Concerto No. 2.

Maestro Bramwell Tovey condυcts an all-Tchaikovsky program, featυring the remarkable, powerfυl and emotional Pathétiqυe Symphony, an ode to the power of fate, with its beaυtifυl, spine-tingling ending that fades away into a sυblime nothingness. Brilliant cellist Johannes Moser performs the Rococo Variations for cello and orchestra, and the concert begins with the Polonaise from Tchaikovsky’s opera, Eυgene Onegin.

5 CONCERTSERIES SUBSCRIPTIONMUSICALLY SPEAKING SENIORSECTION ADULT STUDENT DRESS $ 274 $ 274ONE 195 185TWO 169 160THREE 150 142FOUR 135 128FIVE 125 119SIX 105 99

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MUSICALLY SPEAKING VIDEO SCREEN SPONSOR

MARCH 5 CONCERT SPONSOR

MUSICALLY SPEAKING RADIO SPONSOR

In a concert dedicated to the 400th anniversary of the death of William Shakespeare, VSO Conductor Laureate Kazuyoshi Akiyama presents the overture to Mendelssohn’s famous incidental music for the Bard’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, as well as a snippet of William Walton’s dreamy, beautiful music for Henry V. A pianist of extraordinary versatility and range, Gilles Vonsattel performs Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 9, called “perhaps the first unequivocal masterpiece of the Classical period.”

Outstanding VSO Concertmaster Dale Barltrop leads from the violin, in a concert that features one of the most exciting violinists on the concert scene today, Nicola Benedetti. Ms. Benedetti is an artist of astonishing depth and musicality, and constantly dazzles critics and audiences alike wherever she performs. You will hear Mozart’s most famous violin concerto, and Shostakovich’s Chamber Symphony, Rudolf Barshai’s arrangement of the composer’s String Quartet No. 3.

Franz Schubert was one of the greatest writers of melody, second perhaps only to Mozart. His Ninth Symphony is a majestic symphonic statement, and a sad reminder that this great composer died at only thirty-one years of age. Exciting young conductor Alexandre Bloch presides over a concert that also features great pianist Ingrid Fliter performing Haydn’s most popular work for keyboard and orchestra.

Maestro Tovey conducts a magnificent concert that explores a world of exhilarating soundscapes. French composer Darius Milhaud’s The Creation of the World is rich, exotic music written for a ballet based on African folk mythology. The Third Symphony of American composer Philip Glass is a fascinating piece of sonic architecture for string orchestra, and Stravinsky’s Dumbarton Oaks is a beautiful neo-classical Chamber concerto.

4 CONCERTSERIES SUBSCRIPTIONCLASSICAL TRADITIONS SENIORSECTION ADULT STUDENT A $ 197 $ 187B 170 162C 128 122

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DALE BARLTROP

BRAMWELL TOVEY

CHAN CENTRE FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS

CLASSICAL TRADITIONSAT THE CHAN CENTRE4 CONCERT SERIES 8PM FRIDAYS or SATURDAYS CHAN CENTRE FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS AT UBC

THE PRESENTATION OF THIS SERIES IS MADE POSSIBLE, IN PART, THROUGH THE GENEROUS

ASSISTANCE OF THE CHAN ENDOWMENT FUND AT THE UNIVERSITY OF BRITISH COLUMBIA.

4 CONCERTSERIES SUBSCRIPTIONCLASSICAL TRADITIONS SENIORSECTION ADULT STUDENT A $ 197 $ 187B 170 162C 128 122

GILLES VONSATTEL

INGRID FLITER

An eclectic mix of classics that you love, and some that you will fall in love with for the first time - all in the acoustic perfection of the Chan Centre for the Performing Arts.

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OCTOBER 9 or 10 Alexandre Bloch conductor Ingrid Fliter piano*MESSIAEN Les offrandes oubliées HAYDN Concerto in D Major* SCHUBERT Symphony No. 9 in C Major, The Great

FEBRUARY 19 or 20 Bramwell Tovey conductorMILHAUD The Creation of the World BRITTEN Variations on a Theme of Frank Bridge, Op. 10 STRAVINSKY Concerto in E-flat, Dumbarton Oaks PHILIP GLASS Symphony No. 3

ALL CONCERTS 8PM FRIDAYS or SATURDAYS

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APRIL 22 or 23 Kazuyoshi Akiyama conductor Gilles Vonsattel piano*MENDELSSOHN A Midsummer Night’s Dream: Overture WALTON Henry V: Touch Her Soft Lips and Part MOZART Piano Concerto No. 9, Jeunehomme* SCHUMANN Symphony No. 2 in C Major

MAY 20 or 21 Dale Barltrop leader/violin Nicola Benedetti violin*BARTÓK Rumanian Folk Dances MOZART Violin Concerto No. 5 in A Major, Turkish*SHOSTAKOVICH ARR. BARSHAI Chamber Symphony (arrangement of String Quartet No. 3)

NICOLA BENEDETTI

PATRICIO TOUCEDA AND EVA LUCEROJOHN MORRIS RUSSELL

CHRIS HADFIELD

STEVEN REINEKE

The new season’s VSO Pops series gets off to a thrilling start, with a concert guaranteed to send chills up your spine. You’ll hear spine-tingling music such as Mussorgsky’s Night on Bald Mountain, Saint-Saëns’s Danse macabre, selections from Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Phantom of the Opera, Grieg’s classic In the Hall of the Mountain King, a suite of music from Harry Potter, and much more. Come in costume for a chilling and thrilling Halloween with the VSO Pops!

His name is Bond. James Bond. And he has provided not only some of film’s most exciting moments in his fifty-year screen history, but some of the most exciting music, too. Celebrate Fifty Years of James Bond with a reprise of one of the VSO’s most successful Pops concerts ever. Just in time for the release of 007’s twenty-fourth movie, SPECTRE, you will hear the most memorable songs and music from Dr. No through Goldfinger, Live and Let Die, From Russia With Love, For Your Eyes Only and all the way up to the Oscar-winning Skyfall.

Stroll down memory lane with conductor Steven Reineke takes you on a laugh-filled and nostalgic tour of some of the most iconic of all TV themes, including shows like Downton Abbey, Mad Men, Game of Thrones, Masterpiece Theatre, Monty Python’s Flying Circus, the Judy Garland Show, and more. Celebrate some of the extraordinary music from these unforgettable television shows, As Heard on TV!

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LONDON DRUGS

VSO POPS

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Symphony Pops lets the orchestra really swing, with a fun mix of concerts ranging from Broadway to Tango to the music of James Bond!

6 CONCERT SERIES 8PM FRIDAYS or SATURDAYS ORPHEUM THEATRE

FEBRUARY 5 CONCERT SPONSOR

APRIL 1 CONCERT SPONSOR

MAY 6 CONCERT SPONSOR

APRIL 2 CONCERT SPONSOR

NOVEMBER 27 CONCERT SPONSOR

JANUARY 9 CONCERT SPONSOR

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6 6 CONCERTSERIES SUBSCRIPTIONVSO POPS SENIORSECTION ADULT STUDENT DRESS $ 477 $ 477ONE 348 327TWO 264 249THREE 228 216FOUR 186 177FIVE 147 141SIX 135 129

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OCTOBER 30 or 31 A HALLOWEEN SPECTACULARJohn Morris Russell conductor

NOVEMBER 27 or 28 FIFTY YEARS OF BOND…JAMES BONDJohn Morris Russell conductor Capathia Jenkins vocalist Jeremy Kushnier vocalist

JANUARY 8 or 9 AS HEARD ON TVSteven Reineke conductor Christina Bianco vocalist

FEBRUARY 5 or 6 THE SOUL OF THE TANGOJeff Tyzik conductor Tango Caliente: Malena Dayen vocalistHector Del Curto bandoneon Patricio Touceda dancer Eva Lucero dancer Mario Consiglieri dancer Anabella Diaz-Hojman dancer

APRIL 1 or 2 ROCKET MAN WITH CHRIS HADFIELDJohn Morris Russell conductor Chris Hadfield guitar/vocalsUBC Opera Ensemble

MAY 6 or 7 BROADWAY ROCKSSteven Reineke conductorLaKisha Jones vocalist Christiane Noll vocalist Rob Evan vocalist UBC Opera Ensemble

ALL CONCERTS 8PM FRIDAYS or SATURDAYS

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VSO POPSSERIES SPONSOR

VSO POPS RADIO SPONSOR

The Tango. One of the most passionate and emotional of all dances, with music to match. The VSO and Tango Caliente – extraordinary dancers from Let’s Dance – invite you to a sizzling Symphony Pops program that is muy caliente! You’ll be mesmerized by lush arrangements of some of the best Tango and Latin American music, including Astor Piazzolla, while these incredible dancers light up the stage with their sultry stylings.

Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield became an international celebrity for his fascinating musical broadcasts from Earth’s orbit. Having heard and seen this talented musician, author, scientist and communicator on TV and YouTube (and from space!), see him live with the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra in an out-of-this-world Symphony Pops concert that includes music from Holst’s Planets, Also Sprach Zarathrustra, scores from Star Wars and Star Trek, selections from Dvořák’s New World Symphony, Elton John’s Rocket Man, and more!

Feel the energy and thrills of the Great White Way on the Orpheum stage, as the VSO, conductor Steven Reineke, and three of Broadway’s brightest stars lead you on a rockin’ Broadway revue. You’ll hear music from Dreamgirls, Phantom of the Opera, Hairspray, Chess, Mamma Mia, The Lion King, Jersey Boys, and more Broadway favourites!

ROGERS GROUP FINANCIAL

SYMPHONY SUNDAYS

5 CONCERTSERIES SUBSCRIPTIONSYMPHONY SUNDAYS SENIORSECTION ADULT STUDENT DRESS $ 274 $ 274ONE 195 185TWO 169 160THREE 150 142FOUR 135 128FIVE 125 119SIX 105 99

SYMPHONY SUNDAYS SERIES SPONSOR

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BRAMWELL TOVEY WITH THE VSO

ISABELLE FAUST LOUIS LORTIE

5 CONCERT SERIES 2PM SUNDAYS ORPHEUM THEATRE

OCTOBER 4 Tianwa Yang violin*BACH/STOKOWSKI Passacaglia & Fugue in C minorPAGANINI Violin Concerto No. 2 in B minor*BEETHOVEN Symphony No. 8 in F MajorPlease refer to page 8 for description.

NOVEMBER 15 Bramwell Tovey conductor Stephen Hough piano*WAGNER Tristan und Isolde: Prelude, Act IIISCHUMANN Piano Concerto in A minor *BARTÓK Concerto for OrchestraPlease refer to page 11 for description.

JANUARY 31 Gordon Gerrard conductor Louis Lortie piano*BEETHOVEN Coriolan OvertureSAINT-SAËNS Piano Concerto No. 5 in F Major, Egyptian*SIBELIUS Symphony No. 2 in D MajorPlease refer to page 7 for description.

MAY 1 Kazuyoshi Akiyama conductor Isabelle Faust violin*MOZART Don Giovanni: OvertureBARTÓK Violin Concerto No. 2*DVORÁK Symphony No. 7 in D minorPlease refer to page 7 for description.

JUNE 12 Bramwell Tovey conductor Chad Hoopes violin*JOCELYN MORLOCK Disquiet BARBER Violin Concerto* SHOSTAKOVICH Symphony No. 5 in D minorPlease refer to page 9 for description.

ALL CONCERTS 2PM SUNDAYS

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The very best in classical concerts and guest artists, presented in a matinee series at the beautiful Orpheum.


TEA & TRUMPETS

Your Vancouver Symphony Orchestra and series host Christopher Gaze present the always sold-out Tea & Trumpets classical matinees, featuring beloved classics and entertaining stories and narration from Vancouver's very own Bard himself.

6 CONCERT SERIES 2PM THURSDAYS ORPHEUM THEATRE

OCTOBER 29 IN AN ENGLISH COUNTRY GARDENBramwell Tovey conductorJoin Maestro Bramwell Tovey on a stroll through an English country garden, with beautiful music by Elgar, Delius, Walton, and Coates.

NOVEMBER 26 CLASSICS AT THE MOVIESGordon Gerrard conductorAlan Liu guitarGreat classics appear not only in concert halls throughout the world, but in many movie soundtracks, too. In this concert, you will hear popular works featured in movie soundtracks, works by Beethoven, Mozart, Tchaikovsky, Wagner, and Johann Strauss II.

JANUARY 7 MYTHS AND LEGENDSGordon Gerrard conductor Kurt Chen violinSome of the greatest classical music ever written was inspired by myths and legends from around the world. In this magical concert, you will hear Beethoven’s Creatures of Prometheus Overture, Saint-Saëns Danse Bacchanale from Samson and Delilah, the Prelude to Act I of Wagner’s Lohengrin, and more.

FEBRUARY 4 AN EVENING IN ROMAGordon Gerrard conductorSheila Christie sopranoFrederick Robert tenorRome, the Eternal City! Celebrate the wonders of Rome with music by Berlioz, Rossini, Mendelssohn, Puccini, Verdi, and Respighi.

MARCH 31 CZECH MASTERSGordon Gerrard conductor Jennie Press violinLate-19th century Bohemian/Czech composers wrote some of the most important music that came out of Europe at that time. Leading the way were pioneers such as Dvořák, Smetana and Janáček, and you will hear some of their most beautiful and famous works.

MAY 5 CLASSICS OF DANCEGordon Gerrard conductor Goh BalletThe world of dance has inspired many famous classical masterworks, and this concert presents some of the best, including works by Brahms, Borodin, Tchaikovsky, and more.

ALL CONCERTS 2PM THURSDAYS

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COMPLIMENTARY TEA & COOKIESwill be served in the lobby beginning one hour before each concert. Tea provided compliments of Tetley Tea.

6 CONCERTSERIES SUBSCRIPTIONTEA & TRUMPETS SENIORSECTION ADULT STUDENT ALL $ 171 $ 147

GOH BALLET

GORDON GERRARD CHRISTOPHER GAZE

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SURREY NIGHTS

5 CONCERTSERIES SUBSCRIPTIONSURREY NIGHTS SENIORSECTION ADULT STUDENT ALL $ 176 $ 158

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STEPHEN HOUGH

GILLES VONSATTEL

JOYCE YANG

SIMON TRPČESKI

5 CONCERT SERIES 8PM MONDAYS (except May 15) BELL PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE, SURREY

NOVEMBER 16 Bramwell Tovey conductor Stephen Hough piano*WAGNER Tristan und Isolde: Prelude, Act IIISCHUMANN Piano Concerto in A minor*BARTÓK Concerto for OrchestraPlease refer to page 11 for description.

JANUARY 25 Otto Tausk conductor Simon Trpčeski piano*MOZART The Abduction from the Seraglio: OvertureMOZART Symphony No. 38 in D Major, Prague LISZT Piano Concerto No. 2 in A Major*SMETANA Ma Vlast: The Moldau, SarkaPlease refer to page 11 for description.

FEBRUARY 22 Bramwell Tovey conductorMILHAUD The Creation of the World BRITTEN Variations on a Theme of Frank BridgeSTRAVINSKY Concerto in E-flat, Dumbarton Oaks PHILIP GLASS Symphony No. 3 Please refer to page 12 for description.

APRIL 25 Kazuyoshi Akiyama conductor Gilles Vonsattel piano*MENDELSSOHN A Midsummer Night’s Dream: Overture WALTON Henry V: Touch Her Soft Lips and Part MOZART Piano Concerto No. 9, Jeunehomme SCHUMANN Symphony No. 2 in C MajorPlease refer to page 12 for description.

MAY 15**NOTE: Concert takes place on SundayJoshua Weilerstein conductor Joyce Yang piano*SCHNITTKE Moz-Art à la Haydn MOZART Piano Concerto No. 24 in C minor*VALENTYN SILVESTROV The Messenger BEETHOVEN Symphony No. 4 in B-flat MajorPlease refer to page 9 for description.

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5THE VSO’S SURREY NIGHTS SERIES HAS BEEN ENDOWED BY A GENEROUS GIFT FROM WERNER AND HELGA HÖING.

FEBRUARY 21 SOMETHING OLD, SOMETHING NEWBramwell Tovey conductorSIR HARRISON BIRTWISTLE Silbury AirJOCELYN MORLOCK Zart JOHN ORFE Dowland Remix (Flow My Tears) PETER HATCH Il Cimento dell'armonia e dell'inventione (Three Seasonings)RODNEY SHARMAN Elsewhereless CHRIS PAUL HARMAN Amerika

APRIL 24 SUBLIME TO (SLIGHTLY) SILLYGordon Gerrard conductorJOHN REA Accident: Tombeau de GriseyALICE PING YEE HO Dark Waters JUDITH WEIR Musicians Wrestle Everywhere FREDERICK RZEWSKI Les Moutons de Panurge

MAY 22 THE ELUSIVE, IMAGINARY FUTUREGordon Gerrard conductorEDGARD VARÈSE OctandreMELISSA HUI From Dusk to Dawn GABRIEL DHARMOO New Work (World Premiere) KATIA MAKDISSI-WARREN Parade THOMAS ADÈS Living Toys

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SYMPHONY AT THE ANNEX

NORTH SHORE CLASSICS

3 CONCERT SERIES 7:30PM SUNDAYS ANNEX, DOWNTOWN VANCOUVER

3 CONCERT SERIES 8PM MONDAYS CENTENNIAL THEATRE,NORTH VANCOUVER

OCTOBER 19 Darrell Ang conductor Angela Cheng piano*ZHOU LONG Rhyme of Taigu BEETHOVEN Piano Concerto No. 1 in C Major*DEBUSSY Prélude à l’après midi d’un faune DEBUSSY La MerPlease refer to page 11 for description.

MARCH 7 Rory Macdonald conductor Angelo Xiang Yu violin*KABALEVSKY Colas Breugnon: OverturePROKOFIEV Violin Concerto No. 2 in G minor*STRAVINSKY The Fairy’s Kiss: Divertimento PROKOFIEV The Love for Three Oranges: Symphonic SuitePlease refer to page 11 for description.

MAY 30 Bramwell Tovey conductor Johannes Moser cello*TCHAIKOVSKY Eugene Onegin: Polonaise TCHAIKOVSKY Variations on a Rococo Theme* TCHAIKOVSKY Symphony No. 6 in B minor, PathétiquePlease refer to page 11 for description.

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3 CONCERTSERIES SUBSCRIPTIONVSO AT THE ANNEX SENIORSECTION ADULT STUDENT ALL $ 87 $ 78

3 CONCERTSERIES SUBSCRIPTIONNORTH SHORE CLASSICS SENIORSECTION ADULT STUDENT ALL $ 108 $ 93

VANCOUVER SUN

SYMPHONY AT THE ANNEX SERIES SPONSOR

FINANCIAL SUPPORT FOR THE ANNEX SERIES PROVIDED BY

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DARRELL ANG ANGELA CHENG

OCTOBER 25 INSPECTOR TOVEY INVESTIGATES MELODYBramwell Tovey conductorChildren of the VSO FamilyVSO Music Director Maestro Bramwell Tovey hits the Orpheum stage as “Inspector Tovey” in a fun and educational concert that investigates the meaning and role of melody in music-making.

NOVEMBER 29 WINTER SOLSTICEGordon Gerrard conductor Samantha Whelan Kotkas author/narrator Keon Birney composerTravel to the majestic, magnificent and mysterious Mount Assiniboine on a musical journey through the amazing Canadian Rockies. Encounter the magical faeries who call these mountains home, each hypnotically voiced by their own musical instrument.

JANUARY 10 GERSHWIN’S MAGIC KEYGordon Gerrard conductorClassical KidsWill Martin pianoThe CANADIAN PREMIERE of a story that tells of a chance meeting on the streets of New York City between a poor newspaper boy and the great American composer, George Gershwin. The orchestra magically weaves Gershwin’s greatest hits into the drama, as they explore the vast melting pot of American music and discover the key to unlocking the boy’s own musical potential.

FEBRUARY 7 THE MOZART EXPERIENCEGordon Gerrard conductorMagic Circle MimeJulia Lockhart bassoonA mischievous street musician is caught playing the orchestra’s grand piano, and instead of scolding her, the conductor instead offers her the chance to “be Mozart” for this program about one of the greatest composers of all time. Through the street musician, her prankster companion, and sublime music, the audience experiences Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s life as a very human story – as well as a great musical adventure.

MAY 8 AL SIMMONS: SYMPHONIC SHENANIGANSGordon Gerrard conductor Al Simmons children's entertainerJUNO® Award-winner Al Simmons is a creative genius whose highly original performances of profound wackiness and of off-the-wall inventions have taken the arts of music and comedy to unparalleled heights of hilarity. Al’s humour touches a responsive chord in people of every age — join Al and the VSO for a high-energy show that’s fun for the whole family!

ALL CONCERTS 2PM SUNDAYS

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KIDS' KONCERTS

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The VSO presents concerts for children four to eleven years of age and their families in five fun and educational musical presentations. The Kids’ Koncerts series features the full orchestra, and the very best in children’s musical entertainers.

5 CONCERT SERIES 2PM SUNDAYS ORPHEUM THEATRE

INSTRUMENT FAIRBeginning one hour before each concert in the Orpheum lobby, the Instrument Fair provides children with the opportunity to touch and play real orchestral instruments generously provided by Tom Lee Music. FREE TO TICKETHOLDERS.

5 CONCERTSERIES SUBSCRIPTIONKIDS' KONCERTS STUDENTSECTION ADULT SENIOR CHILD ALL $ 120 $ 109 $ 79

WINTER SOLSTICE

GORDON GERRARD BRAMWELL TOVEY

PREMIER EDUCATION PARTNER

THE VSO’S KIDS' KONCERTS HAVE BEEN ENDOWED BY A GENEROUS GIFT FROM THE WILLIAM AND IRENE MCEWEN FUND.


1 OCTOBER 30: PLAYHOUSE THEATRE OCTOBER 31: ANVIL CENTRE FOLK AND FIDDLIN’ TIME! It's a Symphony Barn Dance! This playful show introduces children to the fiddle, where they will tap their toes and clap their hands to folk favourites.

2 DECEMBER 4: PLAYHOUSE THEATRE DECEMBER 5: ANVIL CENTRE HOLIDAY HOORAY! Let’s play in the snow today! Celebrate the holiday season with a brass trio, sing-along snow songs, and move-along classics.

3 FEBRUARY 19: PLAYHOUSE THEATRE FEBRUARY 20: ANVIL CENTRE JUMPIN’ JAZZ TIME! Look at those Jazz Cats! Children and families will enjoy move-along, sing-along fun on the A-Train.

4 MAY 13: PLAYHOUSE THEATRE MAY 14: ANVIL CENTRE SHINE-TIME MUSIC OLYMPICS! I can sing! I can play! Celebrate the music of many lands, through the marimba, timpani and other fun percussion instruments.

ALL CONCERTS 10AM & 11:30AM FRIDAYS or SATURDAYS

4 CONCERTSERIES SUBSCRIPTIONTINY TOTS UNDER 6SECTION ADULT SENIOR CHILD MONTHSALL $ 54 $ 54 $ 25 $ 8

TINY TOTS4 CONCERT SERIES 10AM & 11:30AMFRIDAYS PLAYHOUSE THEATRE, VANCOUVERSATURDAYS ANVIL CENTRE, NEW WESTMINSTER ANVILCENTRE.COM

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LISA ALLISON AND LINDA SEBENIUS LETYOURMUSICSHINE.COM

TINY TOTS SERIES SPONSOR

PREMIER EDUCATION PARTNERPREMIER EDUCATION PARTNER

GREAT-WEST LIFE

A four-concert series for children up to five years of age, focusing on early childhood development through enjoyable and entertaining music education. This series features professional music educators and musicians, Let Your Music Shine! with Lisa & Linda, in their own musical presentation for kids.

THE VSO’S TINY TOTS SERIES HAS BEEN ENDOWED BY A GENEROUS GIFT FROM MARY AND GORDON CHRISTOPHER.

OCTOBER 28, 29 or NOVEMBER 1 MORLOCK NightsongSophie Dansereau bassoon Elizabeth Volpé-Bligh harpIBERT Trio for Violin, Cello and HarpYi Zhou violin Charles Inkman celloElizabeth Volpé-Bligh harpTCHAIKOVSKY Piano Trio in A minor, Op. 50Dale Barltrop violin Ariel Barnes celloChiharu Iinuma piano

DECEMBER 2, 3 or 6 BARBER Summer MusicNadia Kyne flute Beth Orson oboe Jeanette Jonquil clarinet Gwen Seaton bassoon Andrew Mee french hornNIELSEN Wind Quintet, Op. 43Nadia Kyne flute Beth Orson oboe Jeanette Jonquil clarinet Gwen Seaton bassoon Andrew Mee french hornFAURÉ Piano Quartet in C minor, Op. 15Ann Okagaito violin Matthew Davies violaJanet Steinberg celloTerence Dawson piano

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MARCH 16, 17 or 20 BRITTEN Fanfare for St. EdmundsburyLarry Knopp trumpet Vincent Vohradsky trumpetMarcus Goddard trumpetGODDARD Brass QuintetLarry Knopp trumpet Vincent Vohradsky trumpetBenjamin Kinsman french hornMatthew Crozier trombonePeder Maclellan tubaSCHNITTKE String TrioRebecca Whitling violin Emilie Grimes violaOlivia Blander celloBRAHMS Piano Quartet in C minor, Op. 60Jason Ho violin Emilie Grimes violaOlivia Blander celloJane Coop piano

MAY 24*, 26 or 29 *NOTE: CONCERT TAKES PLACE TUESDAYBEETHOVEN Serenade in D Major, Op. 25Christie Reside flute Nicholas Wright violinMatthew Davies violaSHOSTAKOVICH Five Pieces for Two Violins and PianoJennie Press violin Karen Gerbrecht violinTerence Dawson pianoHINDSON Little Chrissietina’s Magic FantasyJennie Press violin Karen Gerbrecht violinMARTINU Madrigal SonataChristie Reside flute Nicholas Wright violinTerence Dawson pianoBEETHOVEN Grosse Fuge, Op. 133Jennie Press violin Karen Gerbrecht violinMatthew Davies violaZoltan Rozsnyai cello

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VSO CHAMBER PLAYERS4 CONCERT SERIES 7:30PM WEDNESDAYS* & THURSDAYS / 2PM SUNDAYSPYATT HALL, VSO SCHOOL OF MUSIC, 843 SEYMOUR STREET

The extraordinary musicians of the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra step off the Orpheum stage and into the intimate, state-of-the-art Pyatt Hall in the VSO School of Music to perform some of the greatest chamber music ever written.

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4 CONCERTSERIES SUBSCRIPTIONVSO CHAMBER PLAYERS SENIORSECTION ADULT STUDENT ALL $ 140 $ 140Limited number of Student discount tickets, call for availability

WITH SUPPORT FROM

DALE BARLTROP KAREN GERBRECHT MARCUS GODDARD

*EXCEPT MAY 24

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COMPOSE YOUR OWN

SERIES SUBSCRIPTIONCOMPOSE YOUR OWN 10 SENIORSECTION ADULT STUDENT DRESS $ 751 $ 751ONE 540 511TWO 426 406THREE 365 346FOUR 304 289FIVE 247 234SIX 223 191




5 or 6 or 7 or 10 CONCERT SERIES CREATE THE SEASON YOU WANT!

Simply flip through this brochure, and choose the concerts you want, from any regular series package (Compose Your Own excludes Specials, Festivals, and Chamber Players) and create your own 5, 6, 7 or 10-concert package. Don't wait — book your seats early in the season for best seats and concert options!If you need help composing your own series, call VSO Customer Service at 604.876.3434, or check out:

vancouversymphony.ca/popularCYO

HOW IT WORKS:

A Compose Your Own package gives you the best combination of flexibility and savings, and best of all, it's your very own custom-made season!The Compose Your Own series comes in 5, 6, 7 or 10-concert packages — the more you buy, the more you save over single concert prices!And, of course, Compose Your Own series subscribers receive all the Subscriber Benefits listed in the centre of the brochure.

NOTE: Compose Your Own pricing for Classical Traditions concerts at the Chan Centre apply in sections 1 to 3 only.

JOYCE YANG

AUGUSTIN HADELICH INGRID FLITER CHAD HOOPES

NICOLA BENEDETTI

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War of the ROMANTICS

vancouversymphony.caPURCHASE YOUR FESTIVAL PASS 604.876.3434

5 CONCERT FESTIVAL ALL PERFORMANCES AT THE ORPHEUM THEATRE

It was the mid-1800s, and Beethoven’s towering genius still loomed over the world of music. As composers tried to come to grips with the shadow cast by Beethoven’s works, a conflict emerged —The War of the Romantics had begun. In one corner: Johannes Brahms, Robert/Clara Schumann, and the Leipzig Conservatoire, founded by Mendelssohn. This “conservative” camp viewed Beethoven’s music as the unassailable, unchallengeable peak of music, and their compositions aspired toward this lofty ideal. In the other corner, the avant-garde champions of “modern” music: Wagner and Liszt. These “progressive” composers felt that Beethoven represented a new beginning in music, and that it was their calling to continue to push the boundaries forward from where Beethoven left off.

The Vancouver Symphony Orchestra’s 2016 Spring Festival explores the War of the Romantics, one of the most important periods in classical music history, and a time when some of history’s greatest music was written and performed. The Festival kicks off with an exploration of the conflict through the eyes and writings of the two most prominent music critics of the time, Eduard Hanslick (battling on behalf of the Conservatives) and Richard Pohl (championing the New School). Actors will portray these critics as they spar with one another about the future and present of classical music, interspersed with chamber music played by musicians from the VSO.

The Festival continues with the piece that started it all, Beethoven’s extraordinary Symphony No. 9 — and for the very first time, the VSO performs Gustav Mahler’s orchestration of this legendary work. Next, Wagner and Brahms go toe-to-toe in a concert that features the first symphony that Brahms was finally able to write, after a full twenty years of despairing in Beethoven’s shadow.

After this, we hear an all-Brahms concert, as the Conservative camp makes their final statement, headlined by the epic choral masterpiece that is the Brahms German Requiem. Then it’s the New School’s turn, and Wagner’s game-changing operatic saga, the Ring Cycle is selected as their champion, as the VSO performs The Ring Without Words — an astonishing 75-minute arrangement of all the major orchestral themes in Wagner’s four-opera cycle.

Join the VSO and Maestro Bramwell Tovey for the 2016 Spring Festival: The War of the Romantics!

CONCERTS 2, 3, 4 0R 5PRICE PER TICKET VSO SPRINGFESTSECTION ADULT SENIOR STUDENT SUBSCRIBERDRESS $ 95 $ 95 $ 95 $ 81ONE 72 68 54 61TWO 59 56 44 50THREE 49 46 36 41FOUR 39 37 29 33FIVE 29 27 22 24SIX 25 24 19 21

CONCERT 1PRICE PER TICKET VSO SPRINGFESTSECTION ADULTALL $ 25

5 CONCERTFULL FESTIVAL PASSVSO SPRINGFESTSECTION ADULT SENIOR STUDENT SUBSCRIBERDRESS $ 284 $ 284 $ 284 $ 244ONE 219 208 169 188TWO 183 174 141 158THREE 155 146 118 132FOUR 127 121 99 110FIVE 106 99 85 91SIX 94 91 76 82

BONUS SAVINGS! Order the FESTIVAL PASS and SAVE 30% over single concert prices!

Please see concert page at vancouversymphony.ca for seating map

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JOHANNES BRAHMS

FESTIVAL SPECIAL EVENTS The VSO Spring Festival includes Pre-Concert Talks at 7:05pm for concerts 2 through 5. Post-Concert mix-and-mingle with Maestro Bramwell Tovey and musicians of the VSO each night. FREE TO TICKETHOLDERS.

RICHARD WAGNER

LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN

THURSDAY, APRIL 7 SETTING THE STAGEBramwell Tovey conductor/host Actors and Chamber Music

SATURDAY, APRIL 9 BEETHOVEN’S NINTHBramwell Tovey conductor/host Jeanette Jonquil clarinet* Monica Huisman soprano+ Sarah Fryer mezzo-soprano+ David Pomeroy tenor+ Alfred Walker bass+ UBC University Singers UBC Choral Union+

Graeme Langager chorus directorWAGNER Lohengrin Prelude to Act III BRAHMS (ORCH. BERIO) Clarinet Sonata No.1 in F minor* BEETHOVEN (ARR. MAHLER) Symphony No. 9 in D minor+

ALL CONCERTS 8PM AT THE ORPHEUM

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MONDAY, APRIL 11 WAGNER VERSUS BRAHMSBramwell Tovey conductor/hostWAGNER Die Meistersinger Overture WAGNER Tristan and Isolde: Prelude and Liebestod BRAHMS Symphony No. 1 in C minor

SATURDAY, APRIL 16 THE CONSERVATIVES: BRAHMS REQUIEMBramwell Tovey conductor/host Tracy Dahl soprano+ James Westman baritone+ Phoenix Chamber Choir+ UBC University Singers+

Vancouver Cantata Singers+

Graeme Langager chorus directorBRAHMS A German Requiem+

MONDAY, APRIL 18 THE PROGRESSIVES: WAGNER’S RING WITHOUT WORDSBramwell Tovey conductor/hostLISZT Les Preludes WAGNER Der Ring Ohne Worte (The Ring Without Words)

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5 CONCERTFULL FESTIVAL PASSVSO SPRINGFESTSECTION ADULT SENIOR STUDENT SUBSCRIBERDRESS $ 284 $ 284 $ 284 $ 244ONE 219 208 169 188TWO 183 174 141 158THREE 155 146 118 132FOUR 127 121 99 110FIVE 106 99 85 91SIX 94 91 76 82

15/16 SPECIALS

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 28PM, ORPHEUMBramwell Tovey conductor Itzhak Perlman violin*

BEETHOVEN Symphony No. 7 in A Major BRUCH Concerto No. 1 in G minor*

The one and only Itzhak Perlman. Simply one of the greatest musicians to ever hold an instrument, legendary violinist Itzhak Perlman returns to the VSO to perform Bruch’s remarkable Violin Concerto No. 1. VSO Music Director Bramwell Tovey conducts this once-in-a-lifetime concert that will also include Maestro Perlman performing the heartbreaking theme from Schindler’s List, by John Williams.itzhakperlman.com

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BRAMWELL TOVEY

Check the VSO website regularly for exciting new concert announcements or register online to receive updates by email.

PLEASE NOTE that these prices are subject to change.


THE LEGENDARY ITZHAK PERLMANSECTION ADULT SENIOR STUDENT SUBSCRIBERDRESS $ 225.00 $ 225.00 $ 225.00 $ 191.25PRIME 200.00 200.00 200.00 170.00ONE 175.00 166.25 148.75 148.75TWO 145.00 137.75 123.25 123.25THREE 115.00 109.25 97.75 97.75FOUR 95.00 90.25 80.75 80.75

THE LEGENDARYITZHAK PERLMAN

PRESENTS

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MONDAY, MAY 98PM, ORPHEUMJames Ehnes violin Andrew Armstrong piano

One of Canada’s greatest classical artists and one of the world’s top violinists, (and the VSO's GRAMMY® and JUNO®-winning partner) James Ehnes performs in recital as part of his fortieth birthday recital tour. Hear this exceptional artist unplugged and on the Orpheum stage in a solo performance that includes a work written for James by Maestro Bramwell Tovey.jamesehnes.com

JAMES EHNES IN RECITALSECTION ADULT SENIOR STUDENT SUBSCRIBERDRESS $ 95 $ 95 $ 95 $ 81ONE 72 68 54 61TWO 59 56 44 50THREE 49 46 36 41FOUR 39 37 29 33FIVE 29 27 22 24SIX 25 24 19 21Please see concert page at vancouversymphony.ca for seating map

JAMES EHNESIN RECITAL

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 7:30PM, ORPHEUM THEATRE SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2PM & 7:30PM, ORPHEUM THEATREGeorge Daugherty conductor Vancouver Symphony Orchestra

Bugs Bunny at the Symphony II celebrates the world’s most beloved Looney Tunes and their legendary stars projected on the big screen — Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Elmer Fudd, Pepe Le Pew, Tweety, Sylvester, Wile E. Coyote, and Road Runner — while their extraordinary original scores are played LIVE by the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra! This new version of the concert spotlights acclaimed classics like What's Opera, Doc?, The Rabbit of Seville, and Rhapsody Rabbit, alongside eye-popping brand-new Warner Bros. 3D theatrical shorts I Tawt I Taw A Puddy Tat and Coyote Falls. And don’t miss special guest stars Tom and Jerry!

CONDUCTED BY GEORGE DAUGHERTYCREATED BY GEORGE DAUGHERTY

& DAVID KA LIK WONG

LOONEY TUNES and all related characters and elements are trademarks of and © Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.TOM AND JERRY and all related characters and elements are trademarks of and © Turner Entertainment Co.(s15)

VSO PERFORMANCES BROUGHT TO YOU BY

BUGS BUNNY STUDENT/SECTION ADULT SENIOR CHILD SUBSCRIBERONE $ 69 $ 65 $ 52 $ 58TWO 55 52 41 46THREE 39 37 29 34


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WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23 7:30PM, ORPHEUMThe Bollywood Masala Orchestra and Dancers of India present The Spirit of India, a bold vision in Indian live music and dance, presented to the world for the first time. Rahis Bharti, one of India’s greatest musical figures, and the Bollywood Masala Orchestra and Dancers of India invite you on a lively musical journey from Rajasthan to Mumbai. With seventeen professional artists onstage, you will experience a rich and authentic feast of Indian sounds, featuring a mix of Indian and Western instruments. NOTE this performance is presented by the VSO, and does not include the Orchestra.

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PEKING DREAMS

THE NATIONAL CIRCUS AND ACROBATS OF THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4 7:30PM, ORPHEUMDirect from Beijing, The National Circus and Acrobats of the People’s Republic of China performs “Peking Dreams.” Founded in 1953, the National Circus and Acrobats group is one of the longest running and most distinguished circus troupes in China. Marvel at the breathtaking feats of these world-renowned acrobats and athletes, a troupe that has made a profound contribution to the Circus world and heavily influenced the creation of Cirque de Soleil.

NOTE this performance is presented by the VSO, and does not include the Orchestra.

PEKING DREAMSSECTION ADULT SENIOR STUDENT SUBSCRIBERONE $ 70.00 $ 66.00 $ 52.00 $ 59.00TWO 55.00 52.00 41.25 46.75THREE 42.00 42.00 31.50 35.50

BOLLYWOODSECTION ADULT SENIOR STUDENT SUBSCRIBERONE $ 70.00 $ 66.00 $ 52.00 $ 59.00TWO 55.00 52.00 41.25 46.75THREE 42.00 42.00 31.50 35.50

BOLLYWOOD: THE SPIRIT OF INDIA!



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VIVALDI'S FOUR SEASONS/GLUZMANSECTION ADULT SENIOR STUDENT SUBSCRIBERONE $ 66.00 $ 63.00 $ 49.00 $ 56.00TWO 52.00 50.00 39.00 45.00THREE 37.50 35.00 26.75 31.00

VIVALDI’S FOUR SEASONS, WITHVADIM GLUZMAN

FRIDAY & SATURDAY, DECEMBER 18 & 19 8PM, CHAN CENTRE, UBCVadim Gluzman leader/violin*MOZART Divertimento in D Major Salzburg Symphony No.1KANCHELI A Little Daneliade MOZART Eine kleine Nachtmusik VIVALDI Four Seasons*

The Vancouver Symphony presents a can’t-miss annual tradition: Vivaldi’s Four Seasons. This year, the VSO is thrilled to welcome one of the world’s greatest violinists, the extraordinary Vadim Gluzman, to perform this timeless classic — on his amazing 1690 ‘ex-Leopold Auer’ Stradivarius violin (incredibly, an instrument that was created some thirty years before Vivaldi wrote the famous set of concertos that Gluzman will perform!). vadimgluzman.com

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A TRADITIONALCHRISTMASPRESENTS

ST. ANDREW’S-WESLEY CHURCH, VANCOUVER Thursday, December 10 at 7:30 pm Friday, December 11 at 4 pm & 7:30 pm Saturday, December 12 at 4 pm & 7:30 pm Sunday, December 13 at 7:30 pmSOUTH DELTA BAPTIST CHURCH, DELTA Wednesday, December 16 at 7:30 pmBELL PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE, SURREY Thursday, December 17 at 4:30 pm & 8 pmCENTENNIAL THEATRE, NORTH VANCOUVER Friday, December 18 at 4 pm & 7:30 pmKAY MEEK THEATRE, WEST VANCOUVER Saturday, December 19 at 4 pm & 7:30 pmMICHAEL J. FOX THEATRE, BURNABY Sunday, December 20 at 4 pm & 7:30 pm

Rosemary Thomson conductor Christopher Gaze host UBC Opera Ensemble EnChorMetro Vancouver’s most beloved Holiday music tradition plays to sold out houses in Burnaby, the North Shore, Surrey, Delta, and downtown Vancouver. Get your tickets early!

A TRADITIONAL CHRISTMASSECTION ADULT SENIOR STUDENT SUBSCRIBERALL $ 43 $ 37 $ 37 $ 35

THE VSO’S TRADITIONAL CHRISTMAS CONCERTS HAVE BEEN ENDOWED BY A GENEROUS GIFT FROM SHEAHAN AND GERALD MCGAVIN, C.M., O.B.C.

SPONSORED BY SUPPORT FROM


LUNAR NEW YEARSECTION ADULT SENIOR STUDENT SUBSCRIBERONE $ 68 $ 65 $ 51 $ 58TWO 52 49 39 43THREE 38 36 28 32

20TH ANNIVERSARY IN VANCOUVER!

FRIDAY, JANUARY 1 2:30PM, ORPHEUMThe Strauss Symphony of Canada featuring the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra András Deák conductor (Budapest) Sera Gösch soprano (Vienna) Dániel Lőkös tenor (Vienna) featuring dancers from Kiev-Aniko Ballet of Ukraine and International Champion Ballroom Dancers

Celebrate the ageless beauty of Viennese music at Vancouver's 20th annual New Year's Concert. Strauss waltzes and sweeping melodies from operettas are performed by hand-picked European singers and full orchestra. Beautifully costumed dancers present romantic vignettes. You'll fall for the Blue Danube Waltz all over again; make it your tradition!

SALUTE TO VIENNASECTION ALL TICKETS *VIP $ 150.00 **ONE 99.50TWO 89.50THREE 78.50FOUR 67.50FIVE 57.50Special event. Service charge applies.VIP TICKET HOLDERS will watch the concert from the very best seats, and are invited to an exclusive post-performance event with the artists for autograph signing. Bring your camera for photos! Call to enquire.

***

LUNAR NEW YEARWITH AVAN YU

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 137:30PM, ORPHEUMGordon Gerrard conductor Avan Yu piano

Welcome the Year of the Monkey with the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra and Vancouver-born, internationally-renowned piano sensation Avan Yu, for a very special celebration of the Lunar New Year.


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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 30, 7PM, ORPHEUM THEATREJustin Freer conductor Vancouver Symphony Orchestra

THE GODFATHER, LIVE WITH THE VANCOUVER SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA!“We’re gonna make you an offer you can’t refuse”: The Godfather on the big screen at the Orpheum, with the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra performing the sweeping soundtrack live on stage! Starring Marlon Brando, Al Pacino, James Caan, Robert Duvall, Talia Shire and Diane Keaton, Francis Ford Coppola’s legendary masterpiece has been unanimously hailed as one of the greatest movies ever made, and Nino Rota’s epic score has been ranked by the American Film Institute as one of the greatest film scores ever written. See — and hear — this film masterpiece as you have never seen or heard it before: Live, with the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra!

Classification: MPA-C 18A — Strong violence & coarse language. Persons under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

THE GODFATHER LIVE SECTION ADULT SENIOR STUDENT SUBSCRIBERDRESS CIRCLE $ 75.00 $ 75.00 $ 75.00 $ 63.75ONE 65.00 62.00 48.75 55.00TWO 55.00 52.00 41.25 46.75THREE 42.00 40.00 31.50 35.75FOUR 29.00 27.50 21.75 24.50Please see concert page at vancouversymphony.ca for seating map

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LAST NIGHT OF THE PROMS

LAST NIGHT OF THE PROMSSECTION ADULT SENIOR STUDENT SUBSCRIBERDRESS $ 65 $ 65 $ 65 $ 55ONE 55 52 41 47TWO 45 42 34 38THREE 39 37 29 33FOUR 32 30 24 27FIVE 27 25 20 23SIX 22 21 17 19

WEDNESDAY, MAY 25 8PM, ORPHEUMBramwell Tovey conductor David Childs euphonium Vancouver Bach Choir

A proud one-hundred and twenty year-old tradition returns to the Orpheum stage, as the VSO, Maestro Tovey and the Vancouver Bach Choir present Last Night of the Proms. Traditional Proms favourites like Jerusalem, Rule Britannia and Pomp and Circumstance will be featured along with Blue Bells of Scotland and the Karl Jenkins Euphonium Concerto.

BRAMWELL TOVEY

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SUNDAY, APRIL 3 2PM, ORPHEUMTania Miller conductor Stewart Goodyear piano*MICHAEL OESTERLE Entr'actesGRIEG Piano Concerto* COPLAND Appalachian Spring STRAVINSKY Firebird SuiteThe Victoria Symphony Orchestra travels from Vancouver Island for a very special performance at the Orpheum. Hear our sister orchestra, with outstanding Canadian pianist Stewart Goodyear, and Victoria Symphony Music Director (and former VSO Associate Conductor), the wonderful Tania Miller.

victoriasymphony.com

VICTORIA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA 75TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR

VICTORIA SYMPHONYSECTION ADULT SENIOR STUDENT SUBSCRIBERONE $ 55 $ 52 $ 41 $ 46TWO 42 39 32 35THREE 30 28 23 25

TANIA MILLER

STEWART GOODYEAR Please see concert page at vancouversymphony.ca for seating map


SPONSORED BY

The second annual VSO Orchestral Institute at Whistler

Summer 2016Whistler, British Columbia

Study music in beautiful Whistler Resort! vsoinstitute.ca

SPONSOR OF THE NORTH VANCOUVER SCHOOL DISTRICT HONOUR BAND AND

HONOUR STRING ORCHESTRAS

VANCOUVER SYMPHONY EDUCATION AND COMMUNITY PROGRAMS

P R E M I E R E D U C A T I O N P A R T N E R

The VSO and TELUS are proud to play a leading role in the music education of students throughout British Columbia. A positive impact is made on the lives of more than 50,000 young people annually through the following programs:

ALL-ACCESS PASS SPONSORED BY

OUR GIVING BACK PROGRAM HAS BEEN ENDOWED BY A GENEROUS GIFT FROM

MARY ANN CLARK

THE VSO’S TINY TOTS SERIES HAS BEEN ENDOWED BY A GENEROUS GIFT FROM

MARY AND GORDON CHRISTOPHER

THE VSO’S KIDS’ KONCERTS SERIES HAS BEEN ENDOWED BY A GENEROUS GIFT FROM

THE WILLIAM AND IRENE MCEWEN FUND

VSO CONNECTS SURREY HAS BEEN ENDOWED BY A GENEROUS GIFT FROM

WERNER AND HELGA HÖING

VSO CONNECTS WITH SUPPORT FROM SYMPHONIC ENCOUNTERS & GIVING BACK PROGRAMS SPONSORED BY

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL CONCERTS The VSO performs twelve concerts annually for students in Kindergarten through Grade seven. Up to 25,000 students from more than 450 schools and home school groups attend each season.

SYMPHONIC ENCOUNTERS A series of five open rehearsals offering secondary and post-secondary students an opportunity to go behind the scenes with the VSO.

ALL-ACCESS PASS Offers full-time students and anyone thirty years of age or younger an opportunity to attend select regular season concerts for only $15.

VSO CONNECTS Maestro Tovey, VSO musicians, and post-secondary music students visit elementary and secondary schools in six of Metro Vancouver’s school districts to support public music education programs.

VSO KIDS’ KONCERTS Fun-filled Sunday afternoons for children and their families. (pg. 20)

TINY TOTS This series features professional music educators Let Your Music Shine! with Lisa and Linda in their award-winning productions for the very young. (pg. 21)

CRESCENDO A professional development symposium for music specialist teachers.

VSO CO-PRODUCTIONS The VSO collaborates with youth bands and orchestras in the Lower Mainland, including an annual concert with the North Vancouver School District Honour Ensembles and the Vancouver Youth Symphony Orchestra.

CLINICS AND MASTERCLASSES VSO guest artists share their expertise with students at the VSO School of Music, the Vancouver Academy of Music and UBC’s School of Music.

JEAN COULTHARD READINGS Gives emerging BC composers the opportunity to have their work played by the VSO.

GIVING BACK The VSO supports numerous local charities through donations of ticket vouchers, which are used for their fundraising activities.

EDUCATION AND COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS The VSO maintains partnerships with the Coalition for Music Education in BC, UBC's School of Music and Faculty of Education, the VSO School of Music, the Vancouver Academy of Music, and the Saint James Music Academy. We aspire to support the growth and appreciation of symphonic music, and to advocate for outstanding music education in schools and community music organizations.

For full program details visit vancouversymphony.ca

JEAN COULTHARD READINGS SPONSORED BY

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL CONCERTS WITH SUPPORT FROM

TINY TOTS SERIES SPONSOR

THE VSO’S ELEMENTARY SCHOOL CONCERTS HAVE BEEN ENDOWED BY

A GENEROUS GIFT FROM THE JIM PATTISON FOUNDATION

Register now for lessons or classes! 604.915.9300

The VSO School of Music is a state-of-the-art community music school, located in the heart of downtown Vancouver directly next to the Orpheum Theatre. Private lessons and a variety of classes are taught by members of the VSO and other experienced instructors. The School is open to everyone, regardless of age or experience.

vsoschoolofmusic.ca

Become a Friend of the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra today and discover more about the music you love through this deeper connection.

Friends of the VSO receive special behind-the-scenes experiences, discounts, our Fanfare newsletter and more.

Together, we can enrich and transform lives in our community by presenting passionate performances and inspirational education programs.

Visit vancouversymphony.ca/friends for more information.

Join us today!

The Vancouver Symphony Orchestra is a registered not-for-profit organization. Charitable Number 11928 2283 RR0001

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SPECIAL THANKS

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Documents

VSO 2015/2016 Season Brochure