FROM THE PRESIDENT
Dear Friends,
Thank you for joining us during a particularly exciting time for your Baltimore Symphony Orchestra! We are so happy to welcome you to our Meyerhoff and Strathmore homes, our combined“ Hall for All.”
The programs in this issue represent some of the most ambitious and highly anticipated events of the season. With the first signs of spring upon us, our EARTH | Songs Festival brings to life symphonic works that reflect on humanity’ s relationship with nature. Signature Festival weeks led by Music Director Jonathon Heyward( March 7 – 8) and Music Director Laureate Marin Alsop( April 16 – 18) include both a world premiere and an East Coast premiere. Our Family Concert on March 21 weaves onstage storytelling through a program inspired by the legend of the Northern Lights. Beyond the Classical Collection, get ready to enjoy everything from the toe-tapping tunes of Broadway and Doo Wop, to the music of Phil Collins and Diana Krall.
On the heels of a highly praised Lunar New Year Celebration at Strathmore in February, we are also thrilled to welcome back a signature Baltimore tradition— our Fourth Annual GospelFest on Thursday, April 9 at 7:30 pm. Featuring the combined powerhouse choirs of Bowie State University, Coppin State University, Howard University, and Morgan State University, this evening will be a tribute to the life of gospel legend Richard Smallwood.
Not only can we share in a wonderful lineup of Orchestra and Live at the Meyerhoff events this spring, but we can also share in the great excitement of our recently announced 2026 – 27 season. Highlights include season opening Gala concerts featuring the six-time GRAMMY award-winner Samara Joy, a season-long celebration of Beethoven, three new concert series, and more. The 2026 – 27 season will be truly illuminating. Read more on page 10 for a look at what the upcoming season has in store, and to find out how to subscribe today.
Last but certainly not least, we honor the women who have made the BSO what it is today this Women’ s History Month. In addition to spotlighting leading women within the Orchestra across this issue, we are privileged to honor the legacy of a long-time BSO champion, Ruth Marder, in the naming of a new grand tier box at the Meyerhoff. Read more about Ruth Marder’ s life and legacy on page 38.
MARK C. HANSON President and CEO Baltimore Symphony Orchestra
PAGE 5
GET TO KNOW JAIME AN
2 | OVERTURE | BSOmusic. org
PAGE 10 2026 – 27 SEASON
PAGE 38
REMEMBERING RUTH R. MARDER