Patrons: The Lifeline of the Symphony

Dear Symphony Friends,

As we approach the announcement of the 2007-2008 season, I would like to take a moment to recognize you, the supporters of the Oregon Symphony. Sold-out performances of Itzhak Perlman, for example, are always a wonderful accomplishment, but we realize that we have the opportunity because of our patrons. You make this possible, and we thank you.

Speaking of next season, I know you will be pleased with the fantastic repertoire that we will be offering you. Carlos has put together a spectacular classical season, beginning with a gala opening with Horacio Gutiérrez performing Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2. You’ll also hear Strauss’ cinematic epic, “Also sprach Zarathustra,” among blockbuster favorites like Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons, the intoxicating Carmina burana and Barber’s nostalgic “Souvenirs.”

We’ll also be welcoming back pianist Kirill Gerstein, who performed Ravel and Gershwin last year to sold-out audiences. In addition, Resident Conductor Gregory Vajda will be taking the podium for two classical concerts, with a focus on the unforgettable second piano concerto’s of Beethoven and Chopin. Also, Laureate Music Director James DePreist will be reuniting with violinist Nadja Salerno-Sonnenberg for another sweeping performance.

And finally, we’re thrilled to offer an extremely rare opportunity to see one of the greatest classical pianists of all time—Van Cliburn. This virtuosic talent will perform Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 1, the piece that propelled him to international fame when he won the First Tchaikovsky Piano Concerto Competition in Russia in 1958.
But to guarantee a seat to this special concert, you’ll need to renew your seats as soon as possible.

As if that weren’t enough, stay tuned to hear what we have in store for our Pops, Inside the Score and Kids Concert Series. Here’s to an exciting 2007-2008 season!

Sincerely,

Walter E. Weyler
Board Chair