Annapolis Symphony Orchestra Association Inc

Programs: Program 1:the core programming of the aso is centered around the masterworks series, five programs (two performances each), featuring symphonic repertoire from various periods of music history, and usually featuring a distinguished guest soloist from the international roster of musical artists. The masterworks series programs are given five rehearsals for preparation, and take place friday and saturday evenings from october through may at maryland hall for the creative arts. Throughout the 2016-17 season, the aso welcomed the following acclaimed soloists to the stage: midori, violin; christopher janwong mckiggan, piano; fatma daglar, oboe; james ehnes, violin; noah bendix-balgley, violin. The series continues to feature works that delight audiences and challenge the orchestra to rise to new heights of artistry. The masterworks series is largely subscribed, with over 800 subscribers over two evenings and average capacity of over 75% per performance. Program 2:complementing the masterworks series is the aso holiday pops concert. The 2016-17 holiday pops concert, christmas fiesta, featured the acclaimed group sultans of string. The concert received great accolades from audience members of all ages. Program 3:a key component of the aso is its education and outreach programs. In 2016-17, the aso continued its programming for youth and family audiences with four education concerts performed for second graders at maryland hall in annapolis. The concert, which introduces the symphony to young listeners, featured classical kids in a performance of beethoven lives upstairs. Another key element of the education outreach initiatives includes the adopt-a-school program. Adopt-a-school partnerships continued with annapolis elementary and middle school, bringing professional aso musicians in to the schools to mentor music students. The music van provided approximately 800 anne arundel county third graders the opportunity to learn about the instrument families, meet musicians who play them, and encourage participation in school music programs. Approximately 30% of the students are from underserved title i schools and neighborhoods. For many of these students, the asos programs are their first and only opportunities to hear a live symphony performance and experience professional musical introduction. Other outreach activities included the free summer pops concert, an outdoor full symphonic concert presented on labor day weekend at quiet waters park. The aso summer pops concert attracts a diverse audience from throughout the county. The concert remains the highest attended at quiet waters with approximately 3,000 people.