CSO News

Chattanooga, Tennessee – The Chattanooga Symphony & Opera announces a spectacular lineup for the 2009-2010 season. From Beethoven to the Music of Queen, Debussy to the Biscuit Brothers, the 2009-2010 CSO season is sure to have something for everyone.

“We are energized and excited about our 76th season, and delighted in the expansion of our programs,” states Maestro Robert Bernhardt. “Our Masterworks Series is back to seven concerts, and four of them will be conducted by some of the young stars on the podium today in the first year of our Music Director search. One of these four maestri may become the next artistic leader of the CSO and we hope you will take an active part in the search.”

In addition to a remarkable variety of music, the CSO is expanding the number of performances in its main stage concerts. The Masterworks Series will expand in the 2009-2010 season from twelve to fourteen performances, the Pops Series will expand from seven to eight performances, the Chamber Series will return, and a Family Concert is also scheduled.

“We’re very excited about 2009-2010 season,” states CSO Executive Director, Molly Sasse. “As Maestro Robert Bernhardt looks ahead to becoming our Music Director Emeritus in two years, we’re bringing in four very exciting guest conductors this season. The process to select the new music director will be exhilarating, and we certainly want to hear audience reaction to each conductor. We’ve got great pops shows coming, as well, and we’re looking forward to showcasing our chorus in both pops and classical concerts. I’m also thrilled that we’re partnering with the Read House again as we bring back our chamber orchestra concerts in the Silver Ballroom. It’s going to be a great year!”

The CSO First Tennessee Pops Series grows to six concerts and the variety and fun grows with it. An additional Halloween concert with costume contest is a part of the Pops Series, as well as the traditional Home for the Holidays and Big Band Fever concerts. Glorious film music, the music of one of Rock and Rolls iconic bands, Queen, and a tribute to the early days of TV round out the fabulous 2009-2010 Pops Series.

The Chamber Series will return as a three performance series of chamber music played at the Read House Silver Ballroom. The CSO performed at the Silver Ballroom in the early 80s to an overflowing venue of delighted patrons. These Sunday afternoon performances will return in the 2009-2010 season with the CSO Chamber Orchestra and Ensembles to present beautiful music in an intimate, relaxed and charming setting.

The season will also be highlighted by a Saturday afternoon family concert featuring Emmy-award winning PBS stars, the Biscuit Brothers.

Visit www.chattanoogasymphony.org for more details about the 2009-2010 season or call 423-267-8583 to request your 2009-2010 CSO Season brochure.