The Big Picture :
MOMENTUM
In 1916 , the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra was founded by the City of Baltimore . In the 108 years to follow , the BSO has grown to a world-class Orchestra celebrated for compelling performances , award-winning recordings , and forward-thinking commissions . Our reputation for artistic excellence and innovation is matched only by our industryleading commitment to education and community engagement . And , of course , we make history . We remain the only major American orchestra to have two year-round homes ; were the first to shatter the glass ceiling with Marin Alsop ’ s arrival in 2007 ; and captured the world ’ s attention and imagination with last summer ’ s appointment of then 29-yearold Jonathon Heyward as our 13th Music Director .
The pairing of Jonathon Heyward with the Orchestra is magical in so many ways , and the 2022-23 season was an important “ building ” year for the remarkable journey ahead .
With intentionality , we constructed artistic plans for Jonathon ’ s inaugural season and the overall arc of his initial five-year contract . We made strategic investments in the Orchestra and administrative team . We began an ambitious modernization of our uniquely owned Baltimore home , a multi-year project encompassing acoustic and other patronfacing improvements , a reimagining of back-ofhouse spaces original to 1982 , and a comprehensive view of the Meyerhoff campus , including the site currently occupied by the Cathedral Garage .
And , of course , we put the strategic plan reprioritization crafted last fall into action across an incredible season of artistic , educational , and community programming . We adjusted concert inventory while also activating the Meyerhoff in new ways . We piloted an events and engagement plan to make every BSO concert a destination event . We embraced regional touring to bring the BSO to more Marylanders . Partnerships continue to stand at the center of our “ For All ” strategy . We remain deeply honored by all those who have shared their services , talents , venues , and more , to help make the stories outlined in this report possible .
The excitement behind the Baltimore Symphony ’ s future is unmistakable and contagious . We invite you to learn more and to take great pride as you explore these pages .
We also ask that you join us . With your continued support , and with Jonathon at the artistic helm , the BSO is well on its way to becoming America ’ s undeniable example of a cherished , widely relevant , and inventive symphony .
4 | BALTIMORE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA