Evansville Philharmonic Orchestra fulfilled a dream held by many when it was established in 1934. All the pieces were in place, from musicians and a theater for concerts, to supportive local leaders who shared a passion for music.
Today, these elements continue to drive the greater philharmonic family as it opens its 90th anniversary season.
โOur longevity primarily is due to the exceptional artistry of our orchestra,โ Evansville Philharmonic Music Director Roger Kalia says, โplus, the dedicated support of our administrative team, board of directors, patrons, and audience.โ
The philharmonic plans to celebrate its anniversary all season, says Executive Director Kim Bredemeier, starting with a reception at its Opening Night concert Sept. 21. The first work on the program, Franz Schubertโs Overture to โRosamunde,โ launched the philharmonicโs inaugural concert on Dec. 9, 1934.
Conducting will be Kalia, whose dynamic presence and innovative programming have energized the orchestra since he succeeded Alfred Savia as the philharmonicโs sixth music director in 2020. The orchestra has moved outside the walls of traditional home Victory Theatre to inspire community engagement through new informal concert series.
The philharmonic also makes its concerts free for students, a donor-subsidized investment in the future.
โLooking ahead, the philharmonic is focused even more on accessibility and building new relationships,โ Kalia says. โThere is a great sense of pride within our organization and people feel recognized and appreciated, which is a beautiful thing to be a part of.โ
EVANSVILLE PHILHARMONIC
