Expanding Our Reach
In embracing digital platforms and programming , the traditional boundaries of geography , price , and mobility no longer applied . The BSO leveraged this fact to strategically connect with members of our community uniquely impacted by COVID-19 .
Bringing the BSO to our Isolated Residents
BSO VIOLIST COLIN SORGI INTRODUCES BSO AT HOME
In July and in partnership with the local musician ’ s union , the BSO packaged the best of its OffStage content and made it available free to Maryland ’ s retirement and continuing care communities . Our goal was to make this content easily compatible for enjoyment beyond the reliance of internet accessibility or social media comfort , from in-house television channels to pre-loaded tablets . By the close of summer , we had touched 5,220 , or 21 percent , of the region ’ s residents . Our outreach to facilitate such a reach was intentionally broad — including facilities of all sizes ( from an assisted living facility with just three residents to a large retirement home with 535 ) and all locations ( from our closest neighbors at FutureCare in Sandtown-Winchester to the edges of the state ).
Thanking our Heroic Front-Line Workers with Heroic Music
BSO MUSICIANS SHARE HANDWRITTEN NOTES OF THANKS
Just as Holst ’ s " Jupiter " is the keystone movement of The Planets , our community ' s front-line workers – health care workers to grocery store clerks , bus drivers to teachers and childcare providers — are the keystone of our community . Orioles infielder Hanser Alberto , actor André De Shields , artist Amy Sherald , Chefs Duff Goldman and Cindy Wolf , Music Director Marin Alsop , and the entire BSO came together to thank Maryland ' s frontline workers with a special message of words and music as a standing ovation to such heroic and essential work .
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Not only is this great for our residents as a whole , but many residents who were longtime BSO subscribers had to discontinue their subscriptions due to health issues over the years , and I know they appreciate feeling connected to the BSO again .” — Sara Wyatt , Mercy Ridge
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Just a few days ago , a resident filled out an engagement request form to see a Symphony or Opera . His wishes will come true ! … Thank you so much for this opportunity to enjoy the BSO , while staying socially distanced .“ — Andrew Goodman , Brookdale Pikesville
2019-20 BSO YEAR IN REVIEW
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