From the President
AS SPRING ARRIVES , we celebrate a 2024 – 25 season that is far from over , brimming with more exciting performances and unforgettable musical moments . On behalf of the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra , we are thrilled to have you with us for this next chapter in our season .
March begins with Music Director Jonathon Heyward leading two highly anticipated programs : Beethoven ’ s iconic Fifth Symphony , followed by a one-night-only tribute to jazz legend Duke Ellington . This special event showcases Jonathon ’ s passion for jazz and Baltimore ’ s rich musical community . We ’ ll share the stage with pianist and Baltimore native Cyrus Chestnut , Sean Jones and the Peabody Jazz Ensemble , and talented students from our OrchKids and Baltimore Symphony Youth Orchestra programs .
In honor of Women ’ s History Month , we celebrate women leaders in the BSO and our global musical community throughout this issue . Our Spring programming features Pianist Yeol Eum Son , guest conductor Eva Ollikainen , and composers Gabriella Ortiz and Sofia Gubidulina . We excitedly welcome back Music Director Laureate Marin Alsop in a program pairing Scheherazade with Gabriela Montero performing her own Piano Concerto No . 1 , “ Latin Concerto .” Catch up with Marin and read all about her love for our greater BSO community on page 8 .
Beyond our subscription concerts , exciting education and community performances take center stage . GospelFest returns to the Meyerhoff , featuring three of Maryland ’ s premier HBCU choirs , a GRAMMY Award-winning gospel icon , and another world premiere by Composer in Residence James Lee III . In collaboration with the Cathedral Choral Society , we return to The National Cathedral for a special performance of Ethel Smyth ’ s Mass in D and Mozart ’ s rarely heard Meistermusik . And , for the first time , the BSO partners with Carnegie Hall for Link Up : The Orchestra Sings , an interactive Midweek Education concert where thousands of local elementary students will play along with the Orchestra from their seats . Learn more on page 10 .
With so much to enjoy in the weeks ahead , don ’ t forget to explore our recently announced 2025 – 26 Season ! Awe-inspiring talent , innovative programs , cultural celebrations , and breathtaking performances await . See what ’ s ahead on page eight and visit BSOmusic . org to subscribe today .
Thank you for your unwavering support and passion for the BSO . We can ’ t wait for you to experience all that is to come .
Mark C . Hanson
PRESIDENT AND CEO BALTIMORE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
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Nancy Horowitz