From the Wings, by Eleanor Long

This year we decided to simplify things and drop “Music Festival” from the title of our fall tour, just calling it “Made in Vermont.”  In honor of that fact, the speakers who introduced the concerts came clean with their origin stories.  In Johnson, violinist Hilary Hatch confessed that she was born in New Jersey, but has lived in Vermont for 33 years, and “is here for the duration.”  In Derby Line, Dirk Elston, representing the North Country Friends, revealed he was made in Ohio; three days later in Lyndon he sang the same tune, but wearing a different hat--having just been elected to the VSO’s Governing Board of Directors.  In Castleton, violinist Jane Kittredge did NOT shock a mostly-college-student audience, “I was made in Vermont, although this isn’t a topic I like to dwell on, considering the parties involved are here tonight.  Go, Mom and Dad!”  In Bellows Falls, local Board chair Dutch Walsh said he was not made in Vermont, but his three grandchildren (all at the concert) were.  Violinist Melanie Dexter shared that she was made in Rochester, and wasn’t able to escape for 22 years; however, she and her husband “made” a Vermonter.  In Randolph, cellist Bonnie Klimowski said she was made in New Jersey, but her parents were “gung ho” Vermonters, and the sojourn in the Garden State was brief.  She said her dad, who grew up in tiny Island Pond in the Northeast Kingdom, maintained that he walked to school all winter through chest-high snowdrifts!  In St. Albans, oboist Katie Oprea gave a synopsis of this family history:  “I was born in St. Albans, at the old St. Albans hospital where my grandmother did her nurse’s training back in the 30s.  This building is now part of Bellows Free Academy, where my son goes to school.”  (And where our concert was taking place!) “Alex is the fourth generation of my family to attend BFA:  my grandfather was a student there when the building was new.”  Although (full disclosure) Katie says she was made in Maine…if we were holding a contest, I’d say she wins hands down!

As for other participants in “Made in Vermont,” Jaime Laredo, of course, was made in Bolivia.  Jennifer Jolley, our commission composer, was made in Los Angeles, but came to Vermont, “maybe following Ben & Jerry?” but also because she wanted to experience snow.  After four years, she’d experienced enough!  But she loved being back for this tour.  Sue Jenkins from the Champlain Valley Friends, who introduced the Vergennes concert,  didn’t tell the crowd (but told me) that she was born in St. Louis but moved here in 1965—another win for the Green Mountain State.  Violinist Sofia Hirsch was born in Ontario, but moved to Vermont when she was 11.  Flutist Alison Hale was born in New Hampshire, but married a Vermonter who was born in Brattleboro, and they live in the same house he grew up in!  Joy Worland, French horn, was born in Indiana, but her mother was a New Englander who got two degrees from the University of Vermont, and taught high school in White River Junction.  Joy relates, “She never completely reconciled herself to Middle America, and obviously neither did I!”  (Joy and her family have recently relocated to Montpelier from Nashville.)

We had a doorprize at each concert, a bag of “double” gifts as a nod to the Bach Double Concerto.  Winners received double fudge brownie mix, double-stuffed oreos, double-dipped chocolate peanuts, doublemint gum, and (wait for it) double-acting baking powder.  Flutist Anne Janson, who handled the  giveaway at each concert, got a good laugh from each audience as she announced “I WAS made in Vermont.”  

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Meet Ben

The Vermont Symphony Orchestra has turned to a Vermont native for leadership. The Governing Board of Directors announced Monday that the Orchestra's next Executive Director will be Benjamin Cadwallader, currently Education Programs Manager of the Los Angeles Philharmonic. Previously, he had worked in New York City and San Antonio, Texas in senior administrative positions.

Charles Smith has been acting Executive Director since May. Cadwallader said in a statement that he was looking forward to working with the Vermont Symphony Orchestra and Music Director Jaime Laredo. He called the orchestra “the brightest example of a Vermont cultural gem.”

"Growing up in South Burlington, the VSO has been part of my musical life from an early age and had a profound impact on my steps to a life-long career in music. Returning to my beloved home state to work for an orchestra committed to sharing world-class concerts with the entire State of Vermont is inspiring. My decision to join the VSO was further confirmed by the Board's commitment to inventing the institution's future, the passion and dedication of the outstanding staff and impressive family of volunteers throughout the state, and the truly exceptional artistic leadership of Jaime Laredo and Anthony Princiotti," Cadwallader shared. "I look forward to building on the legacy of musical excellence, commitment to community, and financial strength. My Vermont pride runs deep, and the opportunity to call this beautiful state home once again is, of course, the icing on the cake."

In announcing the appointment, Board president Victoria Young noted, “We are thrilled that Benjamin has chosen to return to his home state to lead this marvelous organization. Benjamin’s experience in educational programming and new initiatives will be invaluable as the VSO moves forward.”

The VSO Board is grateful to the Search Committee, which included past Board member Ed Colodny, marketing committee chair Toby Knox and members of Board, staff, and orchestra. “Benjamin has been working tirelessly and effectively in arts management for many years. Beginning his musical career in his home state of Vermont was a definitely a factor in our decision to hire him,” explained Colodny.

“I am delighted with the choice of Ben. I couldn’t be happier. He and I are going to be great partners,” remarked music director Jaime Laredo. The Vermont Symphony Orchestra looks forward to introducing Cadwallader to the communities of Vermont. He plans to be fully “on board” in November.

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THE VSO WELCOMES NEW BOARD MEMBERS TO THE FAMILY

At its September 2015 board meeting in the offices of Blue Cross/Blue Shield, the Vermont Symphony Orchestra Governing Board of Directors approved their new officers and elected new board members. The four three-year term members new to the board are Jim Girardin of Burlington, Cathy Stadecker of Burlington, Dirk Elston of St. Johnsbury and Betsy Bloomer of Rutland.  “The level of experience and commitment these newly elected board members bring to the Vermont Symphony Orchestra is truly gratifying,” noted Board chair Victoria Young.  “The breadth of talent will insure that the strategic and artistic directions created will continue taking the VSO in the right direction.”  Officers elected were Victoria Young, Chair; Barbara Wessel, Vice-chair; Ginny Roth, secretary and Perez Ehrich, treasurer.

Gov. Madeleine Kunin and Andrea Forrest Brock retired from the board after six years of service. “We are truly appreciative of the service of Madeleine and Andrea during these past years,” remarked Board chair Victoria Young. “They have brought not only an appreciation for the art form but insight into the financial and operational aspects of the organization.  We thank them truly.”

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FROM THE WINGS, BY ELEANOR LONG

I'm into photojournalism this issue!

After harpist/cannoneer Heidi Soons requested that our aged electronic keyboard be retired from service this summer, clever Technical Director Colin Fletcher built this alternative. Pressing the red button triggers a (free) cannon sound harvested from the internet. Close your eyes during the 1812 Overture and you will swear Heidi muzzle-loaded a 24-pounder!

Speaking of retiring things...my mom and I made this lap harp carton travel-worthy for Rebecca Kopycinski's last few Musical Petting Zoo school visits this spring, but duct tape has its limits! Would some generous harp-lover (and/or SymphonyKids fan) want to buy us a new case for next season? It's only $140 for a custom-designed, padded case that will keep this plucky member of the Zoo safe and sound for another generation of schoolkids!  

   

Still speaking of retirement...Joy Worland, Jason Whitcomb, and Lori Salimando, a.k.a. our wonderful Fanfare Brass Trio, are all (for various reasons) leaving the group. This photo was taken at their last school show, in Londonderry, in March. Replacement musicians are in the works, and they will no doubt also rely on coffee for the long haul to early morning gigs. 

    

Surprise! Still on the topic of retirement! David Brubaker, long time principal trumpet of the VSO, came back to Vermont for a visit in May and posed with our Bruckner trumpet section.

And finally...a classic photo of Alan Jordan, an Executive Director who wasn't afraid to have fun in his job. Let's hope his successor has as good a sense of humor, for starters!

 

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Segue

It has been a busy time in the administrative offices.  Besides preparing for the annual eight-concert Summer Festival Tour, a transition in leadership is underway. Alan Jordan, who held the position of Executive Director for sixteen years, has stepped down to pursue other orchestra management opportunities. Charles Smith of Burlington has been named as Interim Executive Director. 

During his Jordan's tenure, the VSO achieved significant artistic and administrative growth. Through its first-ever endowment campaign, the Orchestra raised more than $3.5 million, at the same time the country was going through the Great Recession. Since 1999, the VSO's endowment has grown, currently standing near $4.5 million. Jordan directed efforts to acquire significant new equipment, including a new Steinway concert grand piano, a concert hall sound shell, musician chairs and stands, timpani, and two vehicles.

New media initiatives were effected, including local weekly radio broadcasts, a concert DVD, national radio broadcasts ("Performance Today"), two commercial CD projects, and an internet e-boutique. In addition, new music activities were greatly expanded, including the creation of a New Music Advisor position and the commissioning or co-commissioning of more than 30 new works.

As Interim Executive Director, Smith will guide the Vermont Symphony Orchestra as it continues its mission of fostering and encouraging the appreciation of music in all its various forms, with emphasis on orchestral, choral and chamber music, and providing high quality performances for a broad and diverse public throughout the state of Vermont.

Most recently Smith has worked with Vermont PBS in team building, strategic planning and managing the company's transition to a new permanent president and CEO. He owns and operates Charles P. Smith Management and Strategic Consulting, which specializes in business, finance and government matters, primarily in Vermont. Recent areas of project focus have included bank markets, health care reform, alternative energy, and the state 911 system. 

The Governing Board of Directors and a search committee plan to explore a full range of options as they consider Jordan's successor. Meanwhile, we all look forward to the continuation of the exceptional musical programs that the Vermont Symphony Orchestra is known to provide.

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VSO Honors Robert De Cormier as Conductor Emeritus

Vermont Symphony Orchestra (VSO), Vermont’s only statewide symphony orchestra, announced this week during a choral concert in Burlington, Vermont that Robert De Cormier has been honored as Conductor Emeritus, Vermont Symphony Orchestra Chorus. De Cormier held the position of choral conductor for twenty years having retired in 2014. 

 

Robert De Cormier and José Daniel Flores-Caraballo

Robert De Cormier has dedicated his life to music and social justice.  Following a career as an educator, composer, arranger, and director—and that included affiliations with Harry Belafonte, Peter, Paul, and Mary, the Eastman School of Music, and the New York Choral Society, among others—Robert founded the Vermont Symphony Orchestra Chorus in 1993.  This auditioned volunteer ensemble of more than 100 comprises vocalists from across the state who shares Robert’s love of choral music.

Mr. De Cormier retired as Director of the Vermont Symphony Orchestra Chorus at the end of the 2013/2014 season, and his tenure was celebrated in January 2014 in Burlington and Rutland with two remarkable and memorable performances of Leonard Bernstein’s Chichester Psalms and A German Requiem by Johannes Brahms, under his baton.  De Cormier has been a Vermont resident for over forty years; however, his reputation is known beyond the state.  During his tenure with the Vermont Symphony Orchestra, the chorus has won unqualified praise.  Vermont concert goers have been treated to many significant choral works including the Requiems of Verdi, Faure, and Mozart. Many performances featured De Cormier’s personal arrangements and favorites.

“It is fitting to honor Robert De Cormier with the Orchestra’s first-ever emeritus recognition.  He has established a legacy through his forming and development of our wonderful and dedicated VSO Chorus,” remarks Alan Jordan, Executive Director of the Vermont Symphony Orchestra.   This honor has been heartily endorsed by Music Director Jaime Laredo, the new Director of the VSO Chorus, José Daniel Flores-Caraballo, and the staff.

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Masters in Springtime

The Vermont Symphony Orchestra Chorus will present a spring concert at 7:30 pm on Saturday, April 18, at the College Street Congregational Church, located at 265 College Street in Burlington.

“Masters in Springtime” will be conducted by José Daniel Flores- Caraballo, director of the Vermont Symphony Orchestra Chorus, as his inaugural stand-alone concert.  Melissa Dickerson will accompany on piano.  Newly-appointed chorus director Flores-Caraballo comments, “The legacy of Maestro Robert De Cormier is alive, and it will be witnessed this night.”

The program features a selection of favorite master choruses of all time, including works by Bach, Handel, Brahms and Vaughan Williams.  Flores-Caraballo remarks, “The audience will enjoy a feast of the best of the best; favorite movements from all-time favorite masterworks.  It is like shopping on iTunes and making your own CD with the music you love!”

The Vermont Symphony Orchestra Chorus is a full chorus representing premier voices from around the state.  The Chorus performs a variety of literature both with the orchestra and with smaller instrumental complements.  “It has been a great pleasure working with these dedicated singers this season!” notes Flores-Caraballo.

Event page  

Tickets Here

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Get Ready to Bid!

We hope you will listen to one of Radio Vermont Group's eight stations around the state on April 30, 2015, so that you don't miss the 17th annual radio auction to benefit the Vermont Symphony Orchestra.

Auction items will be published in local newspapers statewide and on our website.  Past items included ski passes, travel, dinners, wine and spirits, and, of course, VSO concert tickets.  This year's items are starting to come in and, among them is a 2-night stay in Iceland!

The radio auction provides $15,000-$20,000 in support to the Vermont Symphony Orchestra each year, which is why your participation is so important and appreciated.

For the most up to date details, please visit our website.  And, don't forget to tune in on April 30th!

Radio auction volunteer, Jim Leyton, takes bids

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From the Wings; by Eleanor Long

From the Wings 

by Eleanor Long

If someone were playing a word association game with you (and you were a classical music enthusiast, which of course you are if you’re reading this!) and that someone said “Symphony No. 5,” what are the chances you would say “Beethoven”?  “Symphony No. 9”:  same answer?  Prokofiev, Shostakovich, Mahler, Schubert, and Bruckner MIGHT have hurt feelings, though, not to mention Mendelssohn and Vaughan Williams…  But while we’re playing this game, let’s go ahead and mention them!  

I’m cribbing the contents of this article from an exchange I saw on Facebook a couple months ago.  I won’t use the real names involved, in case anyone is sensitive about that stuff, but “a guy” posted the following puzzle/challenge:

If you had to pick nine symphonies by different composers to include as part of a proverbial desert island survival kit, which would they be? (Nine because nine has been kind of a magical number for symphonists ever since Beethoven stopped there.)  Here are the rules:

You can choose only one symphony per composer. 

You must choose numbered symphonies (no Symphonie fantastique, in other words). 

You cannot choose two symphonies of the same number by different composers. 

Here are what sixteen FB friends replied:

1) Brahms

2) Sibelius

3) Mahler

4) Nielsen

5) Prokofiev

6) Tchaikovsky

7) Shostakovich

8) Bruckner

9) Schubert

1) Elgar

2) Rachmaninov

3) Brahms

4) Nielsen

5) Sibelius

6) Tchaikovsky

7) Bruckner

8) Mahler

9) Schubert

1)Fisher Tull

2) Mahler

3) Copland

4) Nielsen

5) Shostakovich

6) Tchaikovsky

7) Beethoven

8) Bruckner

9) Schubert

1)  Howard Hanson

2) Mahler

3) Brahms

4) Nielsen (love the lyricism)

5) Mendelssohn

6) Beethoven (ditto)

7) Vaughan Williams

8) Bruckner

9) Shostakovich

1) Mahler

2) Brahms

3) Copland

4) Nielsen

5) Prokofiev

6) Tchaikovsky

7) Shostakovich

8) Bruckner

9) Beethoven

1) Kalinnikov

2) Sibelius

3) Prokofiev

4) Nielsen

5) Mahler

6) Tchaikovsky

7) Bruckner

8) Shostakovich

9) Beethoven

1) Brahms

2) Mahler

3) Copland

4) Ives

5) Sibelius

6) Tchaikovsky

7) Shostakovich

8) Dvorak

9) Beethoven

1) Barber (wonderful, compact piece)

2) Sibelius (the last movement is the most uplifting thing I’ve ever heard)

3) Copland

4) Nielsen

5) Prokofiev

6) Dvorak

7) Beethoven (even though no trombones)

8) Schubert

9) Bruckner (awesome scherzo)

1) Elgar

2) Brahms

3) Saint-Saëns

4) Vaughan Williams

5) Mahler

6) Tchaikovsky

7) Bruckner

8) Dvorak

9) Schubert

1) Mahler

2) Brahms

3) Saint-Saëns

4) Shostakovich

5) Beethoven

6) Tchaikovsky

7) Sibelius

8) Dvorak

9) Schubert

1) Elgar

2) Sibelius

3) Copland

4) Shostakovich

5) Beethoven

6) Tchaikovsky

7) Vaughan Williams

8) Dvorak

9) Mahler

1) Sibelius (not the best first, just my favorite)

2) Rachmaninov

3) Beethoven (the best)

4) Nielsen

5) Shostakovich

6) Mahler (larger than life)

7) Bruckner

8) Schubert

9) Everybody!!!!

1) Bruckner

2) Elgar

3) Beethoven

4) Franz Schmidt

5) Vaughan Williams

6) Mahler

7) Sibelius

8) Shostakovich

9) Schubert

1) Sibelius

2) Brahms

3) Mahler

4) Beethoven

5) Prokofiev

6) Tchaikovsky

7) Shostakovich

8) Dvorak

9) Schubert

1) Brahms

2) Sibelius

3) Mahler

4) Vaughan Williams

5) Prokofiev

6) Tchaikovsky

7) Shostakovich

8) Bruckner

9) Beethoven

1) Corigliano

2) Sibelius (I’m a sucker for the mood changes)

3) Mahler (the biggest, baddest symphony in the standard repertoire!)

4) Shostakovich (quirky in all the right ways)

5) Prokofiev (one hell of a fun ride)

6) Tchaikovsky

7) Bruckner

8) Haydn (thrilled to find a spot for the guy who basically invented symphonies)

9) Beethoven (have to have something triumphant and life-affirming to play on my island!)

Okay, without looking back, can you guess “winners” for each number in this opinion poll?  Here they are:

1) Brahms

2) Sibelius

3) Copland

4) Nielsen

5) Prokofiev

6) Tchaikovsky

7) Shostakovich

8) tie between Dvorak and Bruckner

9) Schubert

Roll over, Beethoven!  So sorry, Ludwig—you got a lot of votes, though.  The runaway winner was Tchaikovsky’s Sixth, with 12 votes out of 16.  And…good news!  We are playing it next season!  Along with three other high-ranking contestants:  Beethoven’s Fifth, Dvorak’s Eighth, and Brahms’ First. 

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