tour domestically , along with coveted invitations to the BBC Proms and the Edinburgh Festival - the orchestra ' s first international tour in over a decade . These U . K . performances in 2018 showcased the BSO as an innovative artistic force under Marin ' s baton .
Sophisticated as it is , the impact of Marin ’ s artistic leadership is also fundamental : great music has the power to change lives . She raised the bar for artistic excellence and innovation at the BSO , and in doing so has changed lives throughout Maryland and the world . These values will continue to be a stronghold of the BSO ’ s artistic DNA .
“ I think music can connect people where words can often antagonize them , so I look at it more as a vehicle than an end goal . Music is a great comfort — it brings joy , memory , sadness . When words escape us , music can often be the consoler .
Marin Alsop
Peace concert outside of The Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall in April 2015 .
Leadership
As a conductor , Marin puts equal passion into the performance and a person ' s connection with the music . The projects Marin led at the BSO showcase her commitment and skill in fostering connections . With the creation of the Off the Cuff series , Marin demystified classical music with her humor and openness in speaking from the stage , creating context and a more approachable concert experience .
Another hallmark of Marin ’ s tenure has been her presence off the BSO ’ s stages .
From handing out donuts to a line of subscribers at the first on-sale day of her inaugural season , she immediately connected with audiences . In partnership with our musicians , Marin stood up for justice and peace , leading an impromptu concert to help our Baltimore community come together after the uprising that followed Freddie Gray ' s death in 2015 .
Our recent transformation efforts center on connecting with the entire Maryland community . We have new and diverse artistic positions and partners , a 5-year orchestra contract with unprecedented stability , and expanded accessibility through virtual experiences in BSO Sessions and free education concerts .
For more than a decade , we ’ ve learned from the best that giving everyone an opportunity to create a personal , lifechanging connection to music is not just a responsibility ; at the BSO , it is our “ why .” We will continue to learn and grow in this work , with your support .