The Brazos Valley Symphony Orchestra is getting ready to launch the upcoming 38th season this month with a highly anticipated season opener. The 2019-2020 subscription series includes five symphonic performances — plus, two add-on concerts this year — and features well-known composers, exclusive guest artists, and the world-class BVSO™ musicians. Music Director Marcelo Bussiki and your professional orchestra will bring a colorful array of exciting programs and there is certainly something for all to enjoy in the BVSO’s upcoming “Kaleidoscope of Classics” season. BVSO™ is proud to once again partner with CHI St. Joseph Health as the official sponsor for the 2019-2020 Season.
The 2019-2020 season presents an outstanding lineup of symphonic favorites with a monumental opening concert set for Sunday, Oct. 20, at 5pm in Rudder Auditorium on the Texas A&M University campus. The BVSO season opener, Carmina Burana, combines the talents of three stunning soloists, the Brenham Children’s Chorus, and the 120-voice powerhouse that is the Brazos Valley Chorale as they celebrate their 50th Anniversary season. Though Carmina Burana has been sampled in songs by the likes of Michael Jackson and Ozzy Osborne, mixed into movies from The Matrix to Shrek, and sprinkled into commercials and all forms of pop culture, chances are most people have heard only the beginning or ending notes of this 24-movement masterpiece. Heralded as one of the most recognizable and iconic choral masterworks, the expanse of sound immerses the audience in dark drama, terrific power, soulful passion, and conveys an unwavering force of destiny. Join Maestro Marcelo Bussiki and the professional orchestra as BVSO starts the season with this classic work and its thrilling emotional experience.
“Every performance is unique — it captures a moment of connection with the audience and performers, but this year’s performance of Carmina Burana is even more special because it marks the 50th year of the Brazos Valley Chorale and its contribution to our cultural landscape,” said Music Director Marcelo Bussiki. “We have performed together many times over the years, but this will have a special meaning to all on stage.”
Bussiki continued, “Soprano Heather Phillips and tenor Justin Berkowitz will join us for the first time in their highly regarded performances of Carmina Burana’s very demanding roles. These soloists were chosen specifically with this work in mind. We are also delighted to bring acclaimed baritone Kelly Markgraf back to the BVSO stage. He has appeared with us several times, including as Escamillo in the concert version of Carmen.”
BVSO patrons can also enjoy free pre-concert talks one hour prior to each subscription performance in the Rudder Theatre Complex. Ann Thompson will again present her delightful and witty insights into the composers, the history, and meaning behind the music. Then after the concert, a patron social hour with the Maestro at Napa Flats will keep the enjoyment going to top off an exquisite evening of music and entertainment.
“Our theme for this year is ‘A Kaleidoscope of Classics’ due to our season featuring many popular symphonic works and composers, as well as modern classics,” according to Koeninger. “Carmina Burana is always an awe-inspiring production, filled with astounding moments, thrilling vocals, and monumental music that you simply must see in person to fully appreciate. There is still a chance to get your season ticket before this first concert or purchase an individual ticket through the MSC Box Office.”
Patrons can purchase season tickets securely online at www.bvso.org or by phone through the Symphony Office (979) 696-6100. A full season adult ticket is $230 and the full season student ticket is $105, a $5 to $10 processing fee is added to each order. Individual ticket sales are processed through the MSC Box Office at boxoffice.tamu.edu or (979) 845-1234. All programs are subject to change. Contact the Symphony Office with any further questions.
