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Behind the Score: Home For the Holidays 2025

Each December, the Maryland Symphony Orchestra turns The Maryland Theatre into a place where music, tradition, and a touch of holiday mischief meet. Home for the Holidays has become a cherished hallmark of the season, and this year’s program brings together the sparkle of familiar favorites with several surprises crafted by Music Director and Conductor Elizabeth Schulze. The concert blends warmth, color, and a generous spirit—much like the holidays themselves. Join us as Elizabeth shares what inspires the program, the memories that shape her approach to this time of year, and a few reasons why this season’s celebration will feel especially spirited.

Q: What excites you most about this year’s Home for the Holidays program?
A: The repertoire is upbeat and festive and our guest artists are top notch!
Q: When you plan a holiday concert, what elements guide your decisions?
A: Making sure that there’s a good balance of familiar seasonal favorites and a few works we haven’t performed before to keep things fresh.
Q: What sets this year’s concert apart from previous seasons?
A: We’ve got bonafide, Tony and Olivier Award winning Broadway Stars joining us! Scarlett Strallen and Ben Davis will truly light up our stage!
Q: As a conductor, do you have a favorite moment during a holiday performance?
A: I love the sing-along with our audience – it’s such an uplifting moment in the program.
Q: Is there a piece on the program this year that you think audiences will be talking about afterward?
A: There are several, including a cool arrangement of Trans-Siberian Orchestra’s Christmas Eve/Sarajevo 12/24. And of course, our guest artists, Scarlett and Ben will add their special magic to every song.
Q: What is a holiday tradition you enjoy in your own life?
A: Setting up my Christmas Tree.
Q: Do you have a favorite holiday treat or recipe that makes an annual appearance?
A: I love Lebkuchen, a German gingerbread cookie. Oh, and marzipan!
Q: Thinking back to childhood, is there a musical memory that stands out from the holidays?

A: I always loved singing carols in church on Christmas Eve – it was magical.
Q: What do you hope audiences feel as they leave the theater after Home for the Holidays?
A: I hope we will have warmed their hearts and filled them with the joy of the season.
Q: For those attending the concert for the first time, what would you want them to know?
A: Welcome! We’re thrilled you’ve chosen to make our performance part of your holiday celebrations

We hope these reflections offer a small glimpse of the spirit behind Home for the Holidays. We would be delighted to see you in the audience and share a program designed to lift spirits and mark the season with care! For tickets, visit tickets.marylandsymphony.org.

Broadway Stars Bring Holiday Magic to Hagerstown

The Maryland Symphony Orchestra’s Home for the Holidays concert is a cherished annual tradition — a festive celebration where timeless music, dazzling talent, and community spirit come together on one stage. This year, the concert promises to be especially memorable, featuring two world-class guest artists whose stage and concert careers span Broadway, London’s West End, and concert halls across the globe: Ben Davis and Scarlett Strallen.

Ben Davis: A Commanding Voice of Stage and Song

With a voice that moves effortlessly between musical theatre and symphonic performance, Ben Davis is one of Broadway’s most versatile leading men. Audiences will recognize him from acclaimed roles including Javert and Enjolras in Les Misérables, Trevor Graydon in Thoroughly Modern Millie, and Larry Murphy in Dear Evan Hansen. His portrayal of Marcello in Baz Luhrmann’s La Bohème earned him both a Tony Honor and an Ovation Award, highlighting his talent and artistry.

Davis has graced stages from London’s Royal Albert Hall to Lincoln Center, performing alongside stars like Kelli O’Hara and Victor Garber. He has also toured the U.S. as Captain Von Trapp in The Sound of Music and performed with renowned orchestras including the Boston Pops, Los Angeles Philharmonic, and West Virginia Symphony. Beyond the stage, Davis has appeared in television and film, including Blue Bloods, 30 Rock, and Kenneth Branagh’s The Magic Flute.

Scarlett Strallen: A Leading Lady of Stage and Screen

Born and raised in London, Scarlett Strallen is celebrated for her luminous voice and vibrant stage presence. She is best known as Mary Poppins on Broadway, in London, and Australia, and as Sibella in A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder. Her West End credits include Singin’ in the Rain (Olivier Award nomination), A Chorus Line (Whatsonstage Award for Best Actress), Candide, Passion, and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.

Strallen has performed with orchestras around the world, including The Boston Pops, The Cleveland Orchestra, and the Royal Albert Hall’s BBC Proms. She has also been invited to perform for members of the British Royal Family, including Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and King Charles III, underscoring her exceptional talent and international acclaim.

A Holiday Concert You’ll Remember

Under the direction of Elizabeth Schulze, the Maryland Symphony Orchestra will perform beloved holiday classics, including Leroy Anderson’s Sleigh Ride, and even a special sing-along led by Santa Claus. With Ben Davis and Scarlett Strallen joining the orchestra on stage, audiences are in for a festive experience that blends Broadway brilliance with the timeless magic of the season.

Home for the Holidays
Saturday, December 20, 2025 | 7:00 PM
Sunday, December 21, 2025 | 3:00 PM
Maryland Theatre, Hagerstown

For tickets, visit tickets.marylandsymphony.org.

Join us for an unforgettable evening that captures the spirit of the season and creates the perfect opportunity to share joy, laughter, and music with family and friends.

Behind the Score: Mayer’s Symphony No. 7 in F Minor

Before you hear the Maryland Symphony Orchestra perform Forged by Beethoven on November 8 and 9, take a moment to explore another extraordinary work on the program—Emilie Mayer’s Symphony No. 7 in F Minor.

Often called the “female Beethoven,” Mayer was one of the most prolific and fearless symphonists of the 19th century. Her Seventh Symphony, composed in 1855, brims with energy and emotional depth, blending classical form with her own bold, Romantic voice.

Take a closer look at five things to listen for when this remarkable symphony comes to life on stage:

1. A stormy opening that commands attention.
The symphony begins in restless motion, driven by dark harmonies and urgent rhythms. From the first bars, Mayer pulls you directly into her world—passionate, complex, and unafraid of intensity.

2. Elegance amid turmoil.
In the second movement, Mayer reveals her lyrical side. Flowing melodies and graceful lines weave through shifting moods, creating moments of unexpected serenity within the storm.

3. A scherzo full of wit and vitality.
The third movement dances with energy. Listen for quick exchanges between strings and winds, sharp contrasts in rhythm, and the unmistakable sense of a composer delighting in orchestral color.

4. Craftsmanship that rivals her contemporaries.
Mayer’s mastery of structure and counterpoint shines throughout the work. Each theme develops with precision and purpose, proof that her place alongside the great symphonists is long overdue.

5. A finale of fierce determination.
The symphony concludes in a surge of momentum and fire. Mayer builds tension until the final chords blaze with triumph—a musical statement of resilience and power that still feels revolutionary today.

Maryland Symphony Orchestra Offers Free Tickets to Veterans and Military Families for Forged by Beethoven Concerts This Weekend

The Maryland Symphony Orchestra (MSO) is proud to honor veterans, active-duty military personnel, and their families with free tickets to its upcoming concerts, Forged by Beethoven, on Saturday, November 8 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, November 9 at 3:00 p.m. at The Maryland Theatre in Hagerstown.

In celebration of Veterans Day, this special offer provides military families the opportunity to experience an inspiring program that highlights courage, freedom, and triumph — values reflected in both Beethoven’s music and the service of our nation’s heroes.

Led by Music Director Elizabeth Schulze, the concert features Beethoven’s Leonore Overture No. 3 and pianist-composer Timo Andres performing his Pulitzer Prize–finalist composition The Blind Banister, a modern reflection on Beethoven’s artistry and influence. The program concludes with Emilie Mayer’s Symphony No. 7 in F Minor, a testament to Beethoven’s influence, echoing his bold harmonies and structural innovations while showcasing Mayer’s own compelling musical vision. 

“Music has the power to unite, heal, and honor,” Kim Bowen, Executive Director of the Maryland Symphony Orchestra, said. “We are deeply grateful to our veterans and service members, and it is our privilege to welcome them and their families to enjoy an evening of extraordinary music as our guests.”

Veterans and military families may reserve complimentary tickets by calling 301-797-4000 and mentioning the special or visiting tickets.marylandsymphony.org and entering the discount code TYVETERANS at checkout.

Box seats are excluded from the offer. For additional information about Forged by Beethoven or upcoming performances visit www.marylandsymphony.org.

Symphony Summer: 12 Weeks of Musical Mastery

This summer, the Maryland Symphony Orchestra invites you to take a musical journey with us—no tickets required, just a love for great music. Beginning in June and continuing for twelve weeks, we’re launching Symphony Summer: 12 Weeks of Musical Mastery, a curated listening series that brings some of the most powerful, moving, and unforgettable orchestral works right to your ears.

Each Thursday evening at 7:00 PM, we’ll share a new video link on our Facebook page spotlighting a masterwork from the orchestral repertoire. These selections include timeless classics by composers like Beethoven and Debussy, as well as striking pieces from the 20th and 21st centuries that deserve a place in your summer soundtrack.

We’ve carefully chosen works that are not only significant in the world of classical music, but also deeply expressive—perfect for those quiet summer evenings or long weekend drives. Whether you’re a lifelong listener or just beginning to explore the orchestral landscape, there’s something here to discover, enjoy, and share.

We’re keeping the full list under wraps to preserve the fun of surprise, but trust us: each week’s post will be a feast for the ears and soul.

So mark your calendar, follow us on Facebook, and check back at 7:00 PM every Thursday all summer long for your next dose of musical brilliance.

Let the music move you. All season long.

https://www.facebook.com/MarylandSymphony

“Ensembles in the Schools” Inspires Young Learners

While the Maryland Symphony Orchestra was preparing to captivate audiences with Beethoven’s epic Ninth Symphony last week, another equally powerful performance series was unfolding—this time in the halls and classrooms of local elementary schools.

Ensembles in the Schools is one of the MSO’s core educational outreach programs, designed to introduce young students to the joy and wonder of orchestral music. Over the past few weeks, our talented musicians visited schools throughout the region, engaging first, second, and third graders in a series of interactive assemblies. Each visit gave students the chance to explore one of the various instrument families—strings, woodwinds, and brass—while learning basic musical concepts, hearing familiar tunes, and experiencing great classical compositions up close.

From lively question-and-answer sessions to spontaneous bursts of laughter and wonder, these performances are more than just assemblies—they’re unforgettable first encounters with live symphonic music.

While we’re excited to share a few photos from our string ensemble visits, it’s important to note that woodwind and brass ensembles were also out and about, bringing the full spectrum of orchestral sound directly to students. Many children had never seen—or heard—these instruments in person before. That kind of exposure can spark lifelong curiosity and a deeper appreciation for the performing arts.

These experiences wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of our community. We are deeply grateful to the organizations that help make Ensembles in the Schools a reality:

The City of Hagerstown, Delaplaine Foundation, Alice Virginia and David W. Fletcher Foundation, Groh Charitable Trust, Maryland State Arts Council, Albert E. & Naomi B. Sinnisen / Kershner Sisters Foundation, Washington County Arts Council, Community Foundation of Washington County, and Washington County Public Schools.

Thanks to their commitment to arts education, we’re planting the seeds of music appreciation in the hearts of hundreds of students—one school, one instrument, one song at a time.

MSO Launches Bravo! Program Cover Contest for 2025-26 Season

The Maryland Symphony Orchestra and Washington County Fine Arts Museum are proud to announce the Bravo! Program Cover Contest!

The Bravo! Program Cover Contest for the 2025-2026 season is an exciting opportunity for middle and high school students in the surrounding area (Washington and Frederick Counties in Maryland, Jefferson and Berkeley Counties in West Virginia, and Franklin County in Pennsylvania) to showcase their artistic talents.

Each concert’s program cover will feature the artwork of one selected student, ensuring a unique and thematically relevant design for every event.

Submissions should reflect the emotions, stories, or imagery evoked by the music in each performance. Make sure to pick your concert of interest (found below) and that you know what your concert’s deadline is for submission!

A panel of judges consisting of symphony staff & volunteers, local educators, and art professionals will select the winning designs in two batches, once in the fall and once in the winter. The winning cover contest designs will be featured on the cover of the Bravo! program for their respective concert, winners will receive 4 tickets to the concert, and their work will be spotlighted in the theatre on concert weekend and the Washington County Museum of Fine Arts, providing an excellent platform for young artists to gain public recognition.

Students will be encouraged to use a variety of artistic mediums, including painting, drawing, photography and digital art. Each submission must be original and accompanied by a brief artist statement explaining how the work relates to the chosen concert theme. Once a student’s artwork is selected for a concert, it will not be eligible for another, ensuring that multiple young artists have the opportunity to be showcased throughout the season.

We look forward to seeing the artistic interpretations of these incredible works and celebrating the talent of our local students!

Learn more:
https://www.marylandsymphony.org/collaborate/bravo-cover-contest/

Maryland Symphony Orchestra Announces Launch of Youth Orchestra Program

The Maryland Symphony Orchestra is proud to announce the launch of the Maryland Symphony Youth Orchestra (MSYO)—a school year spanning orchestral program dedicated to inspiring and supporting young musicians across Washington County and the surrounding region. The first season of MSYO will begin in September 2025, with audition video submissions due by June 15, 2025.

The MSYO offers student musicians the opportunity to rehearse and perform in a full orchestra setting, guided by mentorship from professional musicians. The program is designed primarily for high school-aged students with prior playing experience, though exceptional younger musicians will also be considered.

“For over a decade, it has been my dream to bring a youth orchestra program to this region,” said Elizabeth Schulze, Music Director & Conductor of the Maryland Symphony Orchestra. “The MSYO represents a meaningful next step in our mission to serve this community. We’re creating a space where young musicians can develop their talents and grow as artists and individuals.”

A search is currently underway for a highly qualified Maryland Symphony Youth Orchestra Conductor who will lead the ensemble and help bring the artistic vision of this new program to life.

“This is something families in our region have been asking for, and we’re excited to make it a reality,” said Kim Bowen, Executive Director of the Maryland Symphony Orchestra. “We want the MSYO to be a welcoming, high-quality program that helps young musicians thrive.”

Program Highlights:

  • Auditions: Video submissions due by June 15, 2025 at 11:59 PM
  • Age Range: Primarily high school students; younger students considered based on ability
  • Season: September 2025 – June 2026
  • Tuition: $800 per year, with a $100 discount in the first year
  • Fees: $50 application fee and $100 deposit upon acceptance (both applied toward tuition)
  • Financial Assistance: Need-based scholarships and payment plans available

The MSYO reflects the MSO’s commitment to musical education, collaboration, and community engagement. Students will benefit from personalized guidance, ensemble experience, and a supportive environment that encourages growth both on and off the stage that will strengthen the whole arts community within the region. For audition details, tuition information, or scholarship inquiries, visit www.marylandsymphony.org or contact education@marylandsymphony.org.

The Art of the Possible: Beethoven, Taylor Swift, and the Power of Musical Storytelling

What do a 19th-century German composer and a 21st-century global pop icon have in common? More than you might think.

Join us for the final lecture of the Maryland Symphony Orchestra’s 2024–2025 Lecture Series as we welcome music educator and conductor Dr. Kyle Weary for a captivating exploration titled “The Art of the Possible: Connecting the Music of Beethoven to Taylor Swift.” This engaging and thought-provoking session will take place at Hub City Brewery in downtown Hagerstown on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, and promises to leave audiences with a fresh perspective on how music shapes identity, emotion, and imagination.

CLICK HERE TO RSVP FOR THE EVENT

Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 is universally hailed as a triumphant expression of the human spirit—a composition that transcends time, culture, and even adversity. But Dr. Weary challenges us to take a broader view. What if we examine this masterwork through the lens of contemporary artistry? Enter Taylor Swift—a storyteller whose songs resonate with millions, weaving personal narrative into cultural commentary.

Through this lecture, Dr. Weary will explore how both artists use music to navigate the complexities of human emotion, frame stories of struggle and resolution, and inspire listeners to reimagine what’s possible. Whether you’re a lifelong classical aficionado or a devoted Swiftie, this is your opportunity to discover surprising connections between two seemingly different—but deeply kindred—musical voices.

About the Speaker

Dr. Kyle J. Weary brings a dynamic blend of scholarship, creativity, and community leadership to the stage. Currently the Coordinator of Music Education and Visiting Assistant Professor of Music Education at Gettysburg College, Dr. Weary also serves as the Artistic Director of the Gettysburg Children’s Choir. With advanced degrees from Shenandoah Conservatory and Auburn University, his accolades include multiple GRAMMY Music Educator Award nominations and regional recognition for excellence in vocal and contemporary commercial music education.

Dr. Weary has deep roots in the Maryland music community, having founded the vocal music program at the Barbara Ingram School for the Arts in Hagerstown and served as a guest conductor for the Maryland Symphony Orchestra. His presentations have engaged audiences at state, regional, and national levels.

Let’s Celebrate!

To mark the close of this year’s Experience Enhancement lecture series, each attendee will receive one complimentary drink ticket—our way of saying thank you for joining us in celebrating music, curiosity, and community.

MSO Lecture: Music in Cinema Featuring Industry Professionals

Explore the Sound Behind the Screen

Have you ever found yourself humming a movie theme long after the credits roll? Or wondered how a few notes of music can instantly transport you into the world of a film? The Maryland Symphony Orchestra invites you to dive into the captivating world of film scoring with MSO Lecture Series: Music in Cinema—a free and engaging event that will take you behind the scenes of Hollywood’s most powerful storytelling tool: music.

Join us on Wednesday, April 16 at 5:30 PM at Hagerstown Community College (Behavioral Sciences & Humanities Building, Room 114) for a dynamic conversation about the creative and collaborative process that shapes the music in your favorite films.

This event brings together a powerhouse panel of industry professionals:

Julie Sessing
Music Producer
(I Am Number Four, Real Steel, The Manchurian Candidate)
Julie brings firsthand experience managing the complex process of pairing music with narrative. She’ll offer insight into what it takes to develop, produce, and refine the sound of a film from script to screen.

Simon Taufique
Film Composer
(The Land of Gold, Imperium, The Interpreters)
Simon will share how he crafts emotional landscapes through music and how composers adapt their creative voice to serve each film’s unique story and mood.

Moderated by Shelly Strong
Former Executive Vice President, DreamWorks
With a storied career in film production, Shelly brings deep knowledge of the business and artistic sides of Hollywood. She’ll guide the conversation through topics like collaboration between directors and composers, music as narrative, and the impact of sound on audience perception.

From iconic themes to subtle scores that shape entire scenes, this discussion promises to offer a fascinating glimpse into the role music plays in filmmaking—and why it’s often the most powerful storytelling device you never see.

This event is free and open to the public, but seating is limited. Please RSVP HERE in advance to ensure your spot.

Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with the creative minds behind the music that moves us. Whether you’re a film buff, music lover, student, or simply curious about how movies come to life, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

Maryland Symphony Orchestra Unveils the 2025/26 Concert Season – Subscriptions Now on Sale!

The Maryland Symphony Orchestra is set to embark on another extraordinary season of music, and we couldn’t be more excited to share what’s in store for 2025/26! Unveiled at our Season Launch Party on March 14th, this upcoming season offers a thrilling blend of beloved classics, groundbreaking contemporary works, and an exploration of cultures and histories through the power of music. Whether you are a devoted subscriber or new to the MSO family, there has never been a better time to secure your seats for an unforgettable year of performances.

A Season of Discovery, Emotion, and Musical Brilliance

Led by Music Director & Conductor Elizabeth Schulze, the 2025/26 season promises to transport audiences on a journey of discovery, passion, and artistic excellence.

Each season, we strive to create programs that are as moving as they are exhilarating—bringing together the timeless brilliance of the classical repertoire with new voices that deserve to be heard. This year, we celebrate music’s ability to tell stories, evoke emotions, and connect us across time and cultures. Whether it’s the majesty of ‘Pines of Rome,’ the spirit of Native American traditions, or the cinematic mastery of John Williams, every concert offers a unique experience. I cannot wait to share this journey with our audience.

Elizabeth Schulze, Music Director & Conductor

From the evocative landscapes of Respighi’s Pines of Rome to the sweeping, adventurous movie music of John Williams, this season highlights the dynamic and transformative power of orchestral music. Audiences will experience works by legendary composers like Dvořák, Tchaikovsky, Haydn, and Rimsky-Korsakov while also embracing fresh perspectives through composers such as Timo Andres and Amy Beach.

Customize Your Concert Experience

With subscriptions now on sale, you have the flexibility to tailor your concert experience to fit your schedule and interests. Choose from:

  • Classical Series – Experience the complete lineup of our classical masterworks concerts.
  • Full Season Subscription – Experience it all with access to every performance.
  • Choose Your Own – Mix and match at least three concerts to create a custom package that works for you.

Subscribers enjoy priority seating, discounted ticket pricing, and exclusive benefits throughout the season.

Reserve Your Seats Today!

Don’t miss your chance to be part of another unforgettable year of music with the Maryland Symphony Orchestra. Order your subscription today and ensure you have the best seats for the performances that move and inspire you.

🔗 Purchase Your Subscription Now: marylandsymphony.my.salesforce-sites.com/ticket/#/subscriptions

📖 Browse the Digital Season Brochure: issuu.com/marylandsymphonyorchestra/docs/2025_26_maryland_symphony_concert_season_brochure?fr=xGAEoAT3_NTU1

We can’t wait to see you at the Maryland Theatre for another spectacular season of music!

#MSO202526

Behind the Scenes: How the Maryland Symphony Orchestra Plans a Concert Season

For music lovers, attending a symphony concert is a magical experience—an evening of breathtaking performances, world-class musicians, and a carefully crafted program that takes audiences on a journey. But what happens before the first note is played? How does an orchestra plan an entire season of performances that balance artistic ambition, audience engagement, and financial realities?

On Tuesday, March 4, 2025, at 5:30 PM, the Maryland Symphony Orchestra invites you to go behind the scenes with Kim Bowen, Executive Director of the MSO, for the first lecture in our Spring Lecture Series. Titled “Orchestrating a Season: The Art and Strategy Behind Concert Planning,” this fascinating discussion will take place at Hagerstown Community College, CBES Building, Room 103.

What Goes into Planning a Symphony Season?

Building a concert season is a complex process that blends creativity with logistics. Kim Bowen will explore the many factors that go into programming a season, including:

  • Repertoire Selection: How does the MSO choose which symphonies, concertos, and contemporary works to perform? What role do audience preferences and artistic vision play in the decision-making process?
  • Guest Artists: What goes into selecting the world-class musicians who take the stage each season? How does scheduling, contracting, and budgeting factor into these choices?
  • Budget & Logistics: From securing venues to balancing financial constraints, what challenges must be addressed to bring a season to life?
  • Audience Engagement: How does the orchestra ensure that each season resonates with both longtime patrons and new audiences?

Why You Should Attend

Whether you’re a devoted symphony-goer, a musician, or simply curious about what happens behind the curtain, this event offers a unique opportunity to gain insider knowledge about the orchestral world. Kim Bowen brings a wealth of experience and insight, offering a rare glimpse into the intricate planning that ensures each MSO season is a success.

Event Details

📅 Date: Tuesday, March 4, 2025
⏰ Time: 5:30 PM
📍 Location: Hagerstown Community College, CBES Building, Room 103
🎟 Admission: Free and open to the public!

Join us for an engaging discussion that will deepen your appreciation for the artistry and strategy behind every MSO performance. We look forward to seeing you there!

CLICK HERE to RSVP for this program.

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