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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.

Discover the Joy of Music with Symphony Saturdays!

The Maryland Symphony Orchestra is thrilled to announce the return of Symphony Saturdays! This FREE four-week program is designed to introduce children in Grades 1-3 to the magical world of orchestral music through performances, interactive activities, and hands-on exploration with our instrument petting zoo.

Each week, participants will learn about a different family of instruments, including strings, percussion, brass, and woodwinds. This engaging and educational program is a perfect opportunity for young learners to experience the joy of music and develop an appreciation for the arts.

Program Details

We’re excited to offer Symphony Saturdays in two locations this year!

Hagerstown

First Christian Church (1345 Potomac Ave, Hagerstown, MD)
Session Times: 9:30 AM or 10:45 AM
Dates:

  • Strings: February 1, 2025
  • Percussion: February 8, 2025
  • Brass: February 15, 2025
  • Woodwinds: February 22, 2025

Register online: https://www.cognitoforms.com/MarylandSymphonyOrchestra1/_2025SymphonySaturdays

Frederick

C. Burr Artz Public Library (110 E Patrick St, Frederick, MD)
Session Time: 2:00 PM
Dates:

  • Strings: February 1, 2025
  • Percussion: February 8, 2025
  • Brass: February 15, 2025
  • Woodwinds: February 22, 2025

There is no need to pre-register for the Symphony Saturdays program in Frederick.

Special Bonus

As a thank-you for attending all four sessions, participating families will receive complimentary tickets to the Maryland Symphony Orchestra’s Bernstein & Mozart concert in March! Choose from the following performance dates:

  • Saturday, March 15, 2025
  • Sunday, March 16, 2025

Why Symphony Saturdays?

Symphony Saturdays is more than just a program; it’s a journey into the heart of music. Through live performances, hands-on exploration, and fun activities, children will connect with music in a way that inspires curiosity and creativity. By fostering a love for music at a young age, we aim to build a foundation that lasts a lifetime.

Don’t Miss Out!

Space is limited, so be sure to register today for the location that works best for your family. Whether in Hagerstown or Frederick, Symphony Saturdays promises to be a fun and enriching experience for all who attend.

We look forward to seeing you and your young music lovers at Symphony Saturdays!

Maryland Symphony Orchestra Announces Retirement of “Salute to Independence”

The Maryland Symphony Orchestra (MSO) has announced the difficult decision to retire the Salute to Independence concert and brand. Since its inception in 1986, the Salute to Independence has been a community tradition, celebrating America’s independence and honoring our men and women in uniform. The event, once held at Antietam National Battlefield and later moved to Hagerstown Community College, has brought together families from across the region for decades with its spectacular fireworks display, live cannon demonstrations, military flyovers, and more.

The decision to retire the Salute to Independence was made recently by the MSO Board of Directors after months of careful deliberation following two years of intense discussions with the National Park Service (NPS), local officials, and community members. Since Salute was last held at Antietam, NPS has increased their safety and security requirements, resulting in the need for substantially more equipment and personnel. The unprecedented financial and logistical challenges stemming from these requirements, along with reduced budgetary support at the Federal, state, and local levels, have made the concert financially unfeasible.

“We understand how important the Salute to Independence has been to so many in our community,” said Kim Bowen, Executive Director of the Maryland Symphony Orchestra. “When the National Park Service informed us of their construction plans, we immediately looked at options to continue Salute elsewhere on an interim basis. We are so grateful to Hagerstown Community College for being an amazing host over the last few years. While we are all sad to see such a treasured event in our community end, we recognize the need to adjust to find new, meaningful ways to serve our community that are also financially responsible and ensure the MSO continues to be one of the pillars of the arts in Washington County and the surrounding region for years to come.”

As a result of this decision, there will be no MSO summer concert in 2025. The organization is, however, beginning to explore new opportunities for future seasons that align with its mission of “Music for Everyone.”

Jason Call, President of the Maryland Symphony Orchestra Board of Directors, shared his thoughts on the decision. “This was an incredibly difficult decision for the Board, and one that was not made lightly. We are proud of the legacy of the Salute to Independence and the role it has played in bringing people together for nearly 40 years. As we look ahead, we remain committed to ensuring the MSO continues to thrive and serve our community through exceptional musical experiences.”

The MSO recognizes the impact this decision will have on the community and is deeply grateful for the support that has made the Salute to Independence a hallmark of the region for so many years. Appreciation goes to partner organizations who worked tirelessly over the years to help ensure the event’s success.

MSO Christmas Tree Shines Bright in the Maryland State House

This holiday season, the Maryland Symphony Orchestra is honored to be recognized with a stunning Christmas tree displayed in the Maryland State House. Thanks to the creativity and dedication of the Town and Country Garden Club of Hagerstown, the MSO is featured as the centerpiece of this festive decoration.

The tree, beautifully adorned, celebrates the MSO’s legacy with seven small frames highlighting key aspects of our organization:

  • The rich history of the Maryland Symphony Orchestra
  • The exceptional leadership of Music Director Elizabeth Schulze
  • Our impactful educational outreach initiatives that inspire the next generation of musicians

This recognition not only showcases the MSO’s contributions to the cultural life of Maryland but also brings the spirit of music into the heart of our state’s government.

We extend our deepest gratitude to Mary Heizer and the members of the Town and Country Garden Club for their thoughtful and creative efforts in making this tribute possible. Their dedication ensures that our music and mission are celebrated far and wide during this special time of year.

If you find yourself in or near Annapolis in the coming weeks, we encourage you to visit the Maryland State House to see the MSO tree in all its festive glory. It’s a wonderful opportunity to experience the holiday spirit while celebrating the arts that enrich our community.

From all of us at the Maryland Symphony Orchestra, we wish you a joyous and harmonious holiday season!

Maryland Symphony Orchestra Relocates Administrative Offices to Support Expanded Programs and Community Outreach Initiatives

The Maryland Symphony Orchestra (MSO) is excited to announce the relocation of its Administrative Office and Box Office to a new space at 363 South Cleveland Avenue in Hagerstown. This move, initiated by the MSO’s growth and new initiatives, will allow the orchestra to expand its educational outreach and deepen its commitment to the community. The MSO will begin transitioning from its current office at the Maryland Theatre on November 21, 2024, and the new location will be fully operational by December 2, 2024.

Since moving to the Maryland Theatre Performing Arts Center in 2019, the MSO has grown, adding new staff members to support the development of educational and community outreach programs. These include the creation of the Vincent Rauth and Barbara Ingram Groh Education Department, which will allow the MSO to broaden its reach, providing youth and adult education programs across local schools, senior centers, and other community spaces. The new office will also offer dedicated space for the re-established Symphony Guild, which will support the MSO’s mission by engaging volunteers in strategic projects and organizing community-focused events.

“We are excited to be entering this new chapter for the Maryland Symphony Orchestra,” said Kim Bowen, MSO Executive Director. “This move provides the space necessary to grow and expand our music education and community engagement opportunities across the region. We are grateful for the continued support of our patrons, partners, and the community as we embark on this journey of expanded service and outreach.”

As the MSO looks to the future, it remains deeply committed to its partnership with the Maryland Theatre. While the administrative office will be relocating, all MSO concerts will continue to be held in the theatre’s historic auditorium. This enduring collaboration ensures that audiences can continue to enjoy exceptional musical performances in the heart of downtown Hagerstown.

“The Maryland Symphony Orchestra has simply outgrown its current office space, thanks to the tremendous support of our community and the expansion of our community programs,” said Jason Call, President of the Maryland Symphony Orchestra Board of Directors. “We’re excited to offer an enhanced experience to patrons and to engage even more deeply with the broader community through new initiatives. This is truly a step forward for the MSO.”

During the transition period from November 21 to December 2, patrons are encouraged to call the MSO Administrative Office at 301-797-4000 before visiting to ensure they are directed to the correct location. The new office at 363 South Cleveland Avenue will officially open on December 2, 2024.

For more information about the Maryland Symphony Orchestra’s upcoming events, educational initiatives, and community programs, please visit www.marylandsymphony.org.

About the Maryland Symphony Orchestra

Founded in 1982, the Maryland Symphony Orchestra is dedicated to providing inspiring musical performances and impactful education programs to the residents of Maryland and the surrounding region. Through concerts, youth programming, and community partnerships, the MSO brings the joy of music to diverse audiences, fostering a deep appreciation for the arts in all generations.

Contact:
Maryland Symphony Orchestra
Michael Harp, Director of Marketing & Public Relations
Phone: 301-797-4001
Email: mharp@marylandsymphony.org
Website: www.marylandsymphony.org

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