Lynn Holladay
Sr. Vice President and COO
Welcome to the first edition of High Notes! This quarterly newsletter is our way of keeping you informed on all the exciting projects and events shaping the future of music at the Colorado Springs Philharmonic.
Since joining the Philharmonic in 2011, I’ve had the privilege of seeing firsthand how your support transforms our work. Now, in my new role as Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, I’m thrilled to share stories about the impact you’re making. Your generosity is making it all happen, and we’re excited to share the stories, successes, and behind-the-scenes with you.
Nutcracker for a Day
- Collaboration with Solid Rock Community Development
- Five youth members joined cast on stage
Few events in the Pikes Peak region capture the magic of the holidays quite like the Colorado Springs Philharmonic’s performances of Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker. This year, made possible by generous support from the W&H Foundation and a special collaboration with Solid Rock Community Development, Nutcracker for a Day brought five Solid Rock youth members to our stage, offering them a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to step into the spotlight. Welcomed by the cast and crew, they enjoyed a backstage tour, professional costume and makeup fitting, and the thrill of performing alongside the company in the opening act. This unique program not only created lasting memories but also reinforced the power of music and dance to bring people together in celebration.
Because of You, Music Lives – Now & Forever
With immense gratitude, we are thrilled to share the incredible success of the Now & Forever campaign! Thanks to the generosity of donors like you, we met—and exceeded—our goal of new or increased gifts to the general fund, ensuring a lasting legacy for symphonic music in our community.
300 Young Voices Take Over Our Stage
- Collaboration with Academy School District 20
- Grades K-12
With open hearts and shining faces, young voices joined the Colorado Springs Philharmonic at the Pikes Peak Center. The culmination of months of preparation and a full-day workshop with the musicians of the Colorado Springs Philharmonic and expert clinicians, this performance was a first-of-its-kind partnership with Academy School District 20 and the U.S. Air Force Academy Cadet Chorale.
Michael Sabatka
associate principal viola
Year joined: 2018
From: Rochester, New York
Hobbies: hiking
Is there a certain composer or piece that holds a special place for you?
I really love the music of Bartók. In fact, my dog’s name is Bartók. Also, playing Dvořák’s New World Symphony reminds me of my family. My family lived in the Czech community where Dvořák summered when he wrote the symphony. This symphony has been a family favorite for generations.
Masterclass with Guest Artists
- Guest Artists Randall Goosby and Tessa Lark
- Partnership with Colorado Springs Youth Symphony
Masterclasses offer an educational opportunity for aspiring musicians to learn directly from world-class guest artists. We hosted two sessions with violinists Randall Goosby in September 2024 and Tessa Lark in January 2025. Students perform prepared pieces for the guest artist and received personalized feedback and expert guidance in real time. The program is a cornerstone of our commitment to nurturing the next generation of musicians.
Maestro’s Circle Grows in 2024
We proudly welcomed 35 new households to the Maestro’s Circle, expanding our community of passionate supporters and champions of the Philharmonic.
