Lynn Holladay
Sr. Vice President and COO
The Philharmonic’s 99th Season is off to an exciting start! From the inspiring debut of Music Director Chloé Dufresne to heartwarming community moments through the Center for Future Audiences, the energy on and off the stage has never been brighter. In this issue, you’ll catch a glimpse of how we’re connecting with young musicians, joining hands with local arts partners, and celebrating our very own musicians.
It’s a season of creativity, connection, and celebration—and we’re just getting started.
A Week Filled with Music, Connection, and Celebration
- Chloé connects with musicians, donors, and community leaders
- Week highlighted with collaboration, conversation, and musical inspiration
Music Director Chloé Dufresne’s first week was a vibrant showcase of community engagement, artistic leadership, and celebration. From the Bienvenue! donor event and Encore Society brunch to a reception with Opera Colorado, an arts community gathering, and even a community fun run, her presence brought warmth and excitement to every setting.
Chloé also joined local leaders for a cultural dinner roundtable, engaging in thoughtful discussion about the region’s creative and cultural future, and shared her artistic vision for her first Philharmonic performance during an interview with Michael Campion on KCME Classical Radio. Strengthening educational ties, she met with UCCS faculty and inspired young musicians while conducting the Colorado Springs Youth Symphony. The week culminated in her leadership of Masterworks 1 rehearsals and performances at the Pikes Peak Center—an exhilarating finale to a week that fully embodied connection, collaboration, and musical excellence.
Clarinetist Jeremy Reynolds Unveils New Album
We’re thrilled to celebrate Philharmonic clarinetist Jeremy Reynolds and his new album, Songs of Sea and Stone. Featuring world premiere works by composer Jenni Brandon, the album moves from the shores of California to the underwater wonders of Baja, culminating in Fin de la Tierra: Land’s End, a concerto inspired by the region’s landscapes and sea life.
Jeremy’s artistry shines throughout—bringing nuance, warmth, and depth to Brandon’s lyrical, nature-inspired compositions. Known worldwide as a champion of new music, Jeremy has premiered and commissioned works across six continents, and his commitment to expanding the clarinet repertoire is front and center in this recording.
A Special Night with Concertmaster Michael Hanson
- An Exclusive Evening with Philharmonic Concertmaster and Principals
- Donors Treated to a Candlelit Performance
Maestro’s Circle and Spotlight Society members gathered at the Ent Center for the Arts for an private performance with Concertmaster Michael Hanson on September 24. Michael was joined by Evan DeLong principal violin II, Catherine Hanson principal viola, William Cayanan principal cello, and Kelly McSweeney Zuercher principal piano in a program that highlighted both individual artistry and seamless ensemble collaboration.
Guests enjoyed a private reception before the concert, offering a warm opportunity to connect with fellow patrons and celebrate the Philharmonic’s 99th Season. The event set a beautiful tone for the season ahead, uniting patrons in support of the Philharmonic’s vibrant future.
Guest Artist Awadagin Pratt Inspires Young Musicians
- Awadagin Pratt visits orchestra class Columbia Elementary School
- Students ask questions at a school-wide assembly
World-renowned pianist Awadagin Pratt took a break from rehearsing Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 1 for Masterworks 1 to visit the 5th grade orchestra at Columbia Elementary, an arts-integrated school in D11.
Later, at a school-wide assembly, Awadagin delighted students with a special performance of Franz Liszt’s solo piano transcription of Robert Schumann’s “Widmung,” the same piece he once played on Sesame Street with Big Bird.
During a Q&A, a curious 3rd grader asked,
“Like when did you know you were really really good at piano and is that when you wanted to share it?” Awadagin humbly replied, “Well, I’m still not really really good, but I am getting there. And sharing is the most important part—sharing music is sharing your life.”
Celebrating Youth, Culture, and Community
- Youth ballet dancers audition for The Nutcracker
- Philharmonic and community partners attend Fiestas Patrias
The Center for Future Audiences was alive with the spirit of creativity and connection last month.
Young ballet dancers from across the Pikes Peak region gathered to audition for the beloved annual production of The Nutcracker. It was a joy to witness dancers aged 7 to 17 each bringing their heart and artistry to the marley floor.
The Philharmonic proudly joined the Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Region (COPPR) at Fiestas Patrias, Southern Colorado’s largest celebration of Latinx culture and community. We shared a vibrant table with our arts partners: the Colorado Springs Children’s Chorale, Theatreworks, Ormao Dance Company, the Fine Arts Center at Colorado College, and the Colorado Springs Conservatory. Together, we welcomed families into the Kidzone, where children explored a joyful array of percussion instruments—laughing, learning, and making music of their own.
Parents discovered opportunities like Phil Kids and Free for Kids, programs designed to ensure that every child, especially those in our Southeast community, can experience the transformative power of live music and performance.
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