News Summary
The Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra (TSO) has launched its search for a new Music Director and Conductor, attracting nearly 160 applications. The Search Committee has selected five finalists, each set to present their musical visions during the 2024-25 concert season. Maestro Wesley Schulz is among the finalists, conducting a special concert featuring Grammy-nominated violinist Tessa Lark. Community engagement initiatives will accompany performances, including opportunities to meet the maestro. Mark your calendars for an exciting upcoming season backed by a blend of talent and innovative programming.
Exciting Times Ahead for Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra!
Tallahassee is buzzing with excitement as the Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra (TSO) kicks off its search for a new Music Director and Conductor! In a quest that drew attention far and wide, the orchestra received nearly 160 applications from talented musicians eager to fill this prestigious role. With such a talented pool to choose from, the Search Committee has skillfully whittled the group down to just five finalists, each of whom will have a chance to showcase their unique musical vision during the 2024-25 concert season.
Five Finalists, One Amazing Season!
Each finalist is ready to bring their own flair to the stage, and they’re not holding back! The finalists have curated concert programs that promise to be electrifying, featuring internationally-renowned soloists that will surely captivate the audience. The goal is clear: to create performances that get the community buzzing about music.
Meet Maestro Wesley Schulz!
One of the finalists, Maestro Wesley Schulz, is set to conduct a concert titled “Sea and Sky” on Saturday, January 18. This special performance will feature the extraordinary Grammy-nominated violinist Tessa Lark, adding star power to an already thrilling program. Schulz’s concert will include:
- Carl Nielsen’s “Helios Overture” – a piece that paints a vivid picture of the sun.
- Michael Torke’s Pulitzer Prize-nominated “Sky” Concerto – a modern masterpiece that explores the vastness of the sky.
- Jean Sibelius’s Second Symphony – a powerful symphonic work filled with emotional depth.
Schulz believes that live performances are a unique, one-time experience that should feel nothing short of spectacular. His vision emphasizes the importance of high-caliber musicianship and a compelling artistic direction. As a conductor, he sees himself as a collaborative spirit, working alongside musicians, guest artists, and the audience to bring everyone together in a shared musical experience.
Connecting with the Community!
In addition to the concert, Schulz is all about building bridges within the community! He is committed to advocating for the arts beyond just the concert stage. To facilitate this, attendees will have the chance to engage with Schulz through events such as “Lunch with the Maestro” at the Governors Club and an Open Rehearsal before the concert. It’s a great opportunity to see the behind-the-scenes action and to meet the man who might be the TSO’s next leader.
Mark Your Calendars!
The upcoming concerts will take place at the Ruby Diamond Concert Hall, which is conveniently located at 222 S Copeland St. Tickets for these mesmerizing performances are priced between $35 to $64, making it accessible for a wide range of music lovers.
What’s Next?
As the competition heats up, the excitement doesn’t end with Schulz. The final two candidates, Kellen Gray and Yaniv Dinur, are set to take the stage on March 29 and May 3, respectively. Each concert will provide a fresh perspective on what it means to lead the orchestra into its next chapter.
Don’t Miss Out!
For those eager to know what’s in store, special reviews of each concert will appear in the local paper, penned by composer David Lipten, to give you all the juicy details. So, mark your calendars, gather your friends, and get ready to be swept away by the magic of music right here in Tallahassee!
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Additional Resources
- Tallahassee.com: Guest Conductor Takes TSO to Sea and Sky
- Spokesman: Julia Pyke to be Featured Soloist
- Tallahassee.com: Daniel Black Conducts TSO
- Wikipedia: Music Director
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Orchestral Music
Author: STAFF HERE TALLAHASSEE WRITER
The TALLAHASSEE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERETallahassee.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Tallahassee, Leon County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Springtime Tallahassee, Tallahassee Jazz & Blues Festival, and LeMoyne Chain of Parks Art Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Tallahassee Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Big Bend, plus leading businesses in education, healthcare, and insurance that power the local economy such as Florida State University, Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare, and Capital Health Plan. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
