Role

:

Ensemble

Period

:

Romantic

Genre

:

Symphony

 

 

Vocal

 

The Virginia Symphony is a classical music ensemble based in Norfolk, Virginia. Founded in 1921, the orchestra has a rich history of bringing world-class music to the Hampton Roads region of Virginia. The Virginia Symphony was originally founded as the Norfolk Symphony Orchestra by a group of local musicians who wanted to bring classical music to the community. The orchestra's first concert was held on November 23, 1921, and was conducted by its first music director, Arthur Fickenscher. Over the years, the orchestra has had many notable music directors, including Edgar Schenkman, Russell Stanger, and JoAnn Falletta. Falletta, who served as music director from 1991 to 2020, is widely credited with elevating the orchestra's profile and bringing it to new heights of artistic excellence. Under Falletta's leadership, the Virginia Symphony has performed at some of the world's most prestigious concert halls, including Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, and the Royal Albert Hall in London. The orchestra has also collaborated with many renowned soloists, including Itzhak Perlman, Yo-Yo Ma, and Lang Lang. One of the Virginia Symphony's most notable achievements under Falletta's leadership was its recording of the complete symphonies of American composer Walter Piston. The recording, which was released on the Naxos label, received widespread critical acclaim and helped to establish the Virginia Symphony as one of the leading orchestras in the United States. In addition to its performances and recordings, the Virginia Symphony is also committed to music education and outreach. The orchestra's education programs reach thousands of students each year, providing them with opportunities to learn about and experience classical music firsthand. The Virginia Symphony is made up of approximately 70 full-time musicians, many of whom have been with the orchestra for many years. Some of the orchestra's most notable members include principal clarinetist David Niethamer, principal cellist Michael Daniels, and concertmaster Vahn Armstrong. Over the years, the Virginia Symphony has received many awards and accolades for its performances and recordings. In 2019, the orchestra was awarded the ASCAP Award for Adventurous Programming, which recognizes orchestras that demonstrate a commitment to contemporary music. The Virginia Symphony has also been nominated for several Grammy Awards for its recordings, including its recording of the music of Aaron Copland. In conclusion, the Virginia Symphony is a world-class classical music ensemble with a rich history and a commitment to artistic excellence and music education. Under the leadership of JoAnn Falletta and its talented musicians, the orchestra has established itself as one of the leading orchestras in the United States and a cultural treasure for the Hampton Roads region of Virginia.

More....