Stokowski Celebration

Yannick Nézet-Séguin and the Fabulous Philadelphians return to the Academy of Music for four exceptional performances June 21-23 that both pay tribute and carry forward Stokowski's tradition of innovation and vibrancy. The Stokowski Celebration concerts this June will introduce Symphony 5.0—a ground-breaking and exhilarating theatrical experience that enhances the glorious tradition of symphonic music with state-of-the-art live effects and cutting edge high definition visuals. A stunning orchestral performance, led by incoming Music Director Yannick Nézet-Séguin, remains the shining centrepiece of these innovative presentations.

The historic and beautiful interior of the Academy of Music—and those six majestic columns of the auditorium—will become a blank canvas that will visually transform to complement each score at key moments. These modern-day "magical" effects might even encourage the old maestro, Leopold Stokowski, himself to drop in and join the celebration!

Don't miss this once-in-a-lifetime event. Order your tickets now to the Stokowski Celebration at the Academy of Music.

 

JUN
21

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Stokowski Celebration

Thursday, June 21, 2012 8:00 PM

Yannick Nézet-Séguin Conductor

Dvorak Symphony No. 9 (“From the New World”)
Rimsky-Korsakov Sheherazade

Two dynamic and beloved works, combined as Stokowski presented these masterpieces nearly 100 years ago. Dvorak’s “New World” Symphony paints scenic landscapes of the American countryside, inspired by folk tunes and spirituals. Rimsky- Korsakov’s Sheherazade, one of the most vibrant and colorful orchestral works ever written, is based on the legendary tale of A Thousand and One Nights.

 

JUN
22

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Stokowski Celebration

Friday, June 22, 2012 2:00 PM

Yannick Nézet-Séguin Conductor

Brahms Symphony No. 1
Ippolitov-Ivanov Caucasian Sketches
Wagner Overture to Tannhauser

“The reception was not that of an audience merely glad that it had a competent conductor, but wildly enthusiastic because it had discovered a genius.” (Musical America). This was the response to Stokowski’s first concert in Philadelphia on October 11, 1912. One hundred years later, Yannick conducts repertoire from that historic opening concert.

 

JUN
23

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Stokowski Celebration

Saturday, June 23, 2012 8:00 PM

Yannick Nézet-Séguin Conductor

Audience Choice Program
Featuring Fantasia

Stokowski ended each season with selecting a program from audience requests. Now it’s your turn to help choose the final program of the year. This concert will also include your choice of the best highlights from Disney’s Fantasia accompanied by the original film and all those beloved Disney characters. The hallmark of Stokowski’s tenure, Fantasia comes to the Academy!

Presentation licensed by Disney Music Publishing © Disney

Stokowski Audience Choice—YOU DECIDE

Voting for the Stokowski Celebration Audience Choice Program is now closed. The top selections will be announced soon.

In the spirit of Stokowski’s tradition, the final program will be chosen at the discretion of Yannick Nézet-Séguin. Submissions will be collected and tabulated by The Philadelphia Orchestra.

 

JUN
23

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Stokowski Celebration

Saturday, June 23, 2012 11:30 AM
Family Concert

Yannick Nézet-Séguin Conductor

Featuring repertoire from Fantasia

Recorded by The Philadelphia Orchestra and Leopold Stokowski in the Academy of Music, Disney’s Fantasia has introduced young audiences to classical music for generations. Now experience all the splendor of those magical images—waltzing flowers, marching broomsticks, and beautifully restored images—with The Philadelphia Orchestra accompanying the iconic film live.

Presentation licensed by Disney Music Publishing © Disney

Renowned opera and theater director James Alexander was commissioned by The Philadelphia Orchestra to stage these celebratory concerts.

Photo credits: Philadelphia Orchestra Association Archives and © Disney Enterprises Inc.