“The Akron Symphony Orchestra’s 2019-2020 season is filled with audience favorites and works by influential women composers,” writes Robin Goist in Friday’s (3/15) Plain Dealer (Cleveland). “The schedule includes Vivaldi’s ‘The Four Seasons,’ Mozart’s Requiem and Rachmaninoff’s Symphonic Dances, and symphonies from Mahler, Haydn and Schubert. In recognition of the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment granting women the right to vote, the orchestra also will explore the music of several female composers including Joan Tower, 2019 recipient of the League of American Orchestras’ Gold Baton; Florence Price, who often drew on the popular music of her African-American heritage; and Ethel Smyth, the first female composer to have an opera performed by the Metropolitan Opera. ‘I am tremendously excited about next season’s repertoire, which is filled with wonderful, recognizable and celebrated music,’ said Christopher Wilkins [in photo], who is entering his 14th season as music director. The ‘Classic Series’ season opens on Sept. 21 as guest conductor Benjamin Zander leads the orchestra in Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 4…. The Classic Series continues with Walton’s ‘Henry V: A Shakespeare Scenario,’ part of ‘Symphonic Shakespeare.’… The Akron Symphony will also present a ‘Home for the Holidays’ concert … and ‘Gospel Meets Symphony.’ ”
Posted March 21, 2019
