When the full 2026/27 season is revealed, what kind of reaction do you expect from audiences?
Under Maestro José Luis Gómez’s artistic leadership, audiences have come to expect a season of great variety and musical depth, and I am very confident they will love what will be announced on February 12. In fact, I think they’ll be blown away! There’s also the added component of programming curated by the TSO’s newly appointed Principal Pops Conductor, Evan Roider.
Without giving anything away, what can you say about the range of experiences audiences can expect next season? From the kinds of performances to the overall energy in the hall?
Whether classical or pops, there’s much thought given to every program, revealing connections between pieces that enrich the overall experience for the listener. This will be José Luis’ 10th season as music director, and audiences tell me with great enthusiasm how the quality of the orchestra has gotten better and better with each new season. The whooping and hollering and rapturous applause at the end of every concert as the Maestro acknowledges the musicians definitely speaks to the incredibly energy in the hall.
Are there moments in the upcoming season that you think will become “you had to be there” experiences for Tucson audiences?
Each season there are moments when you say to yourself, “I’m so glad I was there.” It might be a piece that hasn’t been performed in many years. Or a special guest artist whose playing lifts spirits with their breathtaking musicianship. Or a unique performance highlighting the heritage of our region that brings audiences together. For us, every concert is approached with the intent that audiences will come away having experienced something truly memorable.
For people who love live music but may only come to one or two concerts a year, why might this next season be the one where subscribing really makes sense?
Well, as I mentioned a little earlier, the addition of new pops leadership will enhance the variety of programming. I would encourage folks to sample that variety by building their own unique subscription package, which we call Create Your Own. You enjoy a discount with a minimum 3-concert commitment. We have a great orchestra in Tucson, and whether they are performing the music of Mahler, John Williams, Mozart, or Astor Piazzolla, audiences will be amazed and feel uplifted by the musicians’ ability to seamlessly pivot from one style to another.
For someone thinking about becoming a new subscriber, what would you want them to know about what they’re saying yes to?
I’d want them to know that they are joining a community of music lovers, people that come together to experience live music as performed by this fantastic group of musicians. And I think that sense of needing to find a community, to enjoy social interaction through music, is more needed than ever as we navigate the stressful world we live in. For two hours inside the concert hall we can immerse ourselves in a different world – a world of beauty and community. Who wouldn’t want to say yes to that?