Big Spring Symphony Board of Directors

Mark Watt, President

August 23, 2024

Dear Friends of the Symphony:

Please join us as we celebrate our 43rd season of the Big Spring Symphony Orchestra! Our new season will be entitled “A New Beginning.”  And for the Big Spring Symphony, indeed it is.  This will be the first season under our new Music Director – Dr. Fagner Rocha.  We on the board of the Big Spring Symphony Association are VERY EXCITED!  One new exciting change will be the start time of our concerts this season – 5:30 PM!  This will allow patrons to have more time after the concert to go out or just get home earlier! It is going to be a WONDERFUL season, and I encourage you to buy your season tickets ASAP!!!

The Kick-Off Reception for this wonderful season will be held Thursday September 19, 2024, at the Welch Reception Center on 907 Lancaster Street.  Please join us for “la Fiesta” and enjoy Mexican appetizers and refreshments, meet and greet Dr. Rocha. Tickets may be purchased for $25 a person or $45 a couple at the door or in advance by calling Pam Welch at 432-770-5501.

Our season opens September 21, 2023, with a program entitled “A New Beginning.” The night begins with the timeless elegance of Ludwig van Beethoven’s Violin Concerto in D Major, featuring the brilliant violinist, Fiona Shea. Her virtuosic performance promises to bring new life to this beloved masterpiece that showcases the virtuosity of the violin.  Fiona is an award-winning young violinist originally from Lubbock.

After intermission, enjoy the vibrant and enchanting, Antonín Dvořák’s “American Suite,” a delightful composition that reflects the diverse influences and rich musical tapestry of the New World.

Don’t miss this unforgettable performance, setting the stage for a season filled with musical enchantment and extraordinary artistry.

On October 19th, we are going to begin a new series called our Community Series. Each season we will feature a Chamber Orchestra.  This concert will be free of charge for everyone and will take place in different local venues each season.  This season’s concert will be at 5:30 PM at the First Methodist Church.  This concert will feature the extraordinary talents of Charles Olivier on the bandoneon. This special chamber orchestra concert will showcase the evocative “Five Tango Sensations” by the legendary composer Astor Piazzolla.

Experience the passion and intensity of Piazzolla’s compositions, brought to life through the dynamic interplay between the bandoneon and the orchestra. Charles Olivier’s masterful performance will transport you to the heart of Buenos Aires, capturing the soul of tango with every note.

Our third concert (second in the season-ticket package) will bring the return of The Nutcracker.  It has been six years since we were last able to enjoy this holiday classic in Big Spring.  It has always been a popular performance! The performance will feature the talented dancers of Ballet San Angelo and your magnificent Big Spring Symphony Orchestra. The performance will be at the Big Spring Municipal Auditorium at 5:30 PM on Saturday December 21^st.  What a wonderful addition to your Holiday Season!

On February 8th join us for an extraordinary concert event featuring Saint-Saëns’ whimsical masterpiece, The Carnival of the Animals. This delightful performance will showcase the exceptional talents of pianists Hunter Mabery and Dr. Steven Keniston on the pianos, bringing this beloved piece to life with flair and precision.

The Carnival of the Animals is a charming suite that takes listeners on a playful journey through the animal kingdom, capturing the unique character of each creature with vibrant musical imagery. From the majestic lion to the graceful swan, every movement is a delightful surprise, enhanced by the dynamic interplay of two pianos.

Don’t miss this enchanting evening of music that promises to captivate audiences of all ages. Join us for The Carnival of the Animals and let your imagination run wild!

Our final concert of the season will be April 26th.  It will be a fabulous concert entitled “Music of the Night.”  It will feature the extraordinary talents of soprano Kara Covey and bass-baritone Mark Covey. This enchanting concert will take you through a diverse repertoire, from the grandeur of opera to the magic of musical theater, including overtures, intermezzos, arias, and famous duets.

Kara Covey’s radiant soprano and Mark Covey’s powerful bass-baritone will bring to life timeless classics and beloved favorites, creating an evening filled with passion, drama, and exquisite artistry. Whether you’re an opera aficionado or a musical theater enthusiast, “Music of the Night” promises to captivate and inspire.

We know this will be a season you will not want to miss as the Big Spring Symphony begins a new era of GREAT MUSIC!

Season tickets for the orchestra season can be purchased at the gala or online at bigspringsymphony.org.

We thank you for your support and look forward to seeing you at the Kick-Off Reception and throughout the season!

Musically,

Mark Watt, President

Big Spring Symphony Board of Directors