There is a common misconception about symphony orchestra concerts. “The biggest misconception is that the symphony is extremely formal and stuffy,” said Plano Symphony Orchestra Executive Director Debbie Watson.
“But people who come discover exciting performances and a warm, friendly atmosphere. People are also sometimes amazed at the caliber of the musicians and the quality of the Plano Symphony.”
Depending on the performance, 55 to 85 professional musicians will be on stage. Their credentials are impressive, having earned bachelor’s, master’s, and some even doctoral degrees from the best music schools in the country including Juilliard, New England Conservatory, Eastman School of Music, TCU, University of North Texas, SMU, and several noted international music schools.
Experiencing a live symphony orchestra concert is an unforgettable experience. “Live performances of any art form is truly the experience factor,” Watson shares. “We hear recorded music all the time, but seeing and hearing it live touches all the senses in an indescribable way. Plus the audience synergy is sometimes amazing. Musicians even feel the energy!
A live performance brings the music to life and adds a level of emotion that a soundtrack cannot. Feeling the excitement and moods of the audience cannot be experienced by listening to a recording by yourself.”
You can buy single tickets, or purchase season tickets for five or eight concerts of your choice for as little as $68 or $76, respectively. Purchase tickets for the 2015-2016 season by calling 972.473.7262.
Tchaikovsky Spectacular featuring violist Chee-Yun Kim
- September 26, 8 p.m.
- Eisemann Center
Celebrate Tchaikovsky’s glorious music on opening night of the new season. Joining PSO is award winning violinist
Chee-Yun Kim, who has performed with the Philadelphia Orchestra, San Francisco Symphony, at Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, and others. Plano Civic Chorus will also join the orchestra for Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture in a rarely heard choral version.
Here’s Doc
- October 24, 8 p.m.
- Eisemann Center
Best known as Johnny Carson’s musical sidekick on the Tonight Show, Grammy award winner Doc Severinsen has more than 30 albums to his credit. In this show, he will pay tribute to the American songbook and tunes from the Big Band era with songs like Summertime, I’m Getting Sentimental Over You, 12 O’Clock Jump, and more. His music, stories, and great sense of humor will make for an unforgettable evening.
Plano Symphony Showcase
- November 21, 8 p.m.
- Eisemann Center
In what is becoming a fall tradition, PSO showcases the exceptional talents of eight principal players in a concerto performance. Marvel at the romantic mix of tender passages and bold sections of Don Juan written by Richard Strauss at the age of 24. The showcase will conclude with Ravel’s sensual and heart-pounding crescendo Bolero, which features just about every member of the orchestra.
Home for the Holidays
- December 20, 4 p.m. & 7 p.m.
- St. Andrew U.M.C.
A more enjoyable musical holiday show cannot be imagined! Nearly 200 musicians will fill the stage of St. Andrew United Methodist Church for a night of orchestral arrangements, choral performances, and even a visitor from the North Pole. Soprano Kathy Light, former PSO Concertmaster Vesselin Demirev, Dr. Jonathan Gregoire on the majestic pipe organ, the Plano Civic Chorus, and the Frisco Chorale will make this a magical night to remember.
Made in America
- January 16, 8 p.m.
- Eisemann Center
“America’s Tenor” Steve Amerson joins Hector Guzman and the PSO for an evening of Broadway and patriotic songs. Guests will enjoy memorable songs from My Fair Lady, West Side Story, The Sound of Music, Jekyll & Hyde, Sweeney Todd, The Fantasticks and more. Patriotic songs will include the moving song Shenandoah, America the Beautiful and others. Amerson is an awardwinning singer who has recorded 17 albums and contributed his voice over to 160 feature films.
Time for Three
- February 20, 8 p.m.
- Eisemann Center
It’s impossible to define the musical group Time for Three. Fun and fabulously talented, the two violinists and double bass player will be featured with the Plano Symphony in works from Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons and the music of Bach, to renditions of Eleanor Rigby. Danny Boy, Theme from Schindler’s List, and Orange Blossom Special.
A Tribute to Marvin Hamlisch and the Young Artists
March 19, 8 p.m.
Eisemann Center
It cannot be overstated: Marvin Hamlisch was a musical genius who composed such wonderful songs from The Sting, The Way We Were, The Spy Who Loved Me, a Chorus Line, and so many more. Also, it cannot be overstated that the Young Artists Competition Winners are among the most talented musicians you will hear of any age! This special night will delight and amaze anyone who loves great music.
Best of Beethoven
- April 16, 8 p.m.
- St. Andrew U.M.C.
The season will crescendo with Hector Guzman and the Plano Symphony’s performing Beethoven’s crowning achievement, Symphony No. 9, including the final movement with Ode to Joy sung by four soloists and the full Plano Civic Chorus. The opening piece this final performance of the season will be Beethoven’s Choral Fantasy in C Minor, which includes a brilliant piano part that Beethoven himself played at the premiere. It promises to be a highlight of the season!
Photography by Mike Newman.
