KSO News

KALAMAZOO, MI   January 24, 2017 - The Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Music Director Raymond Harvey, presents Gustav Mahler's Symphony No. 6. Regarded by many critics to be one of the greatest symphonists of all time, Gustav Mahler expresses the vast range of human emotions. Composed in 1903-1904, his sixth symphony is sometimes referred to as the "Tragic." The work calls for a vast orchestra, drawing on the power of extra winds, brass, and percussion--most notably a giant hammer.

Kalamazoo, MI January 9, 2017 - The Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra presents The World of Smetana, an interactive and immersive concert experience exploring the life and music of Bedřich Smetana.

Kalamazoo, MI, December 6, 2016 - The Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra, under the direction of Resident Conductor Daniel Brier, proudly presents the world premiere of Daniel Capelletti's The Night Before Christmas, as they launch their first Family Discovery Series concert of the season. This KSO commission brings together the incredible talents of internationally recognized composer Daniel Capelletti from Brussels, Belgium, up and coming Los Angeles playwright, Adam Pasen, award winning director, Ben Zylman and Lighting Director Kristen Chesak, both of Kalamazoo, MI.

Kalamazoo, MI November 17, 2016 - The Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra is proud to present the second concert in its 2016-17 Special Event Series, Sounds of the Season - Christmas with Angel Blue featuring laureate of Plácido Domingo's international Operalia competition, Angel Blue.

Joining the orchestra and Ms. Blue, the Kalamazoo Children's Chorus, directed by Fred Sang, will delight audiences with their pure sound and excellent musicianship. The program, to be announced from stage, will include many of your holiday favorites - even Santa Claus will make an appearance.

Kalamazoo, MI November 4, 2016 – The Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Music Director Raymond Harvey, presents internationally renowned Principal harpist of the Metropolitan Opera House, Emmanuel Ceysson, for the third concert of its 2016-17 Symphonic Series. Billed the "enfant terrible" of the harp, Ceysson's virtuosity and infectious enthusiasm will be on full display in Glière's Harp Concerto.
 
Maestro Harvey rounds out the program with the music of Pulitzer Prize winning composer John Corigliano and Felix Mendelssohn. Corigliano's Voyage from 1978 is a string orchestra setting of Baudelaire's "L'invitation au voyage." Felix Mendelssohn wrote his Symphony No. 3 "Scottish" after a walking tour of Scotland.
 

Kalamazoo, MI October 24, 2016 – The Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra is proud to present the first concert in its 2016-17 Special Event Series, Ray Charles, Motown & Beyond!  featuring Ray Charles’ protégé, Ellis Hall.

Mr. Hall, a former member of the Tower of Power, produced this orchestra show to honor legendary musician, Ray Charles, after his death in 2004. The show celebrates their shared R&B roots and deep passion for the heart and soul of music. The program will be announced from stage and includes his own original works for the enjoyment of his audience.

Kalamazoo, MI - October 14, 2016 – The Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra presents the second concert of its 2016-17 Symphonic Series, Barber and Bartók with guest conductor, Stilian Kirov, and guest violinist, Liza Ferschtman.

Kalamazoo, MI, October 13, 2016 - The Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra is thrilled to announce that Maestro André Previn will write a ‘Concerto for Orchestra’ to be premiered as part of the Orchestra’s finale concert of its 100^th Anniversary season in 2020-2021.

Kalamazoo, MI - September 14, 2016  The Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra Board of Directors and Raymond Harvey, Music Director, announce the transition of Maestro Harvey to Music Director Emeritus at the conclusion of the 2016-17 concert season.

Kalamazoo, MI - September 13, 2016 The Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra Board of Directors is pleased to announce that it has ratified the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) with its musicians. The Kalamazoo Federation of Musicians – Local 228 submitted the contract to its musicians last month, which was followed by a vote to ratify. Management submitted the contract to the Board of Directors for ratification at its first meeting of the season; today, September 13, 2016.