Richmond Symphony President



Marcia H. Thalhimer,
PresidentWelcome to the 50th Anniversary Season of the Richmond Symphony! This year represents an important milestone for the orchestra and we promise a wide variety of exciting programs and events to celebrate 50 years of music making.

This season takes a look back into the Symphony's past. Highlights include the recreation of the orchestra's first concert performed on October 28, 1957, the return of former maestros Jacques Houtmann in November and George Manahan in April 2008, and a "50 Years of Pops" concert.

At the same time, several important firsts are featured as well. The Symphony welcomes new associate conductor Erin Freeman to our Kicked Back Classics and Pops series, Bugs Bunny (on Broadway!) makes a guest appearance, and Richmond’s own Mason Bates and renowned bassist Edgar Meyer join forces for a season-ending Masterworks concert.

The culmination of the year, however, will be the Symphony’s Kennedy Center Gala performance on May 27, 2008, led by music director Mark Russell Smith. This very special evening is not to be missed and I invite all of you to mark your calendars and join us in Washington, D.C.

This season would not be possible without the hard work and dedication of our musicians and staff. As we journey through this year, please take a moment to speak to them, get to know them and thank them. They and their predecessors have brought us to this noteworthy point in our orchestra’s history.

On a personal note, this season marks my 29th year as a volunteer and supporter of the Richmond Symphony. I’m sure that some of you have memories of the orchestra that stretch back further than mine but I also know that many of you are new to our family. I ask you to continue your involvement—attend concerts, bring friends, become donors, enjoy the incredible experience that live classical music offers. This is your orchestra. Make the most of what promises to be a memorable 50th Anniversary and let’s all celebrate together!