Saint Bede Catholic Church
3686 Ironbound Road,
Williamsburg, VA 23188
Phone: (757) 229-3631
Parking: Parking available on site
Chrysler Hall
Upcoming Concerts at St. Bede Catholic Church
7.16.21 | THOMAS WILKINS NAMED PRINCIPAL GUEST CONDUCTOR OF THE VIRGINIA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
THOMAS WILKINS NAMED PRINCIPAL GUEST CONDUCTOR OF THE VIRGINIA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
HAMPTON ROADS, VA [July 16, 2021] – Internationally renowned conductor and Norfolk native Thomas Wilkins has been named the Virginia Symphony Orchestra’s first-ever Principal Guest Conductor. Having recently stepped down after 17 years as music director of the Omaha Symphony, Mr. Wilkins is currently principal conductor of the fabled Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles, as well as Artistic Advisor for Education and Community Engagement at the Boston Symphony Orchestra. His guest conducting credits include leading the orchestras of Cleveland, Philadelphia, Atlanta, Dallas, the New York Philharmonic among others, in addition to his posts at the Hollywood Bowl and BSO.
A frequent guest conductor and favorite of VSO audiences, Mr. Wilkins credits a performance by the Virginia Symphony for inspiring him at the age of eight to pursue a career as a professional conductor, when he attended a youth concert as a student at Young Park Elementary in Norfolk (now Park Place Elementary).
“I often say that I didn’t choose music; music chose me,” said Mr. Wilkins. “And to be invited to return as a leader to the place where I made that decision to embrace music as a career and way of life so many years ago is incredibly moving for me. I have enormous love and respect for the musicians of the Virginia Symphony and I’m thrilled and honored to join them in this new role.”
Mr. Wilkins joins the organization at an exciting time as the orchestra begins its second century. Since 2019, the VSO has been recognized nationally for striving to reflect the region’s ethnic and racial diversity in its members, its programming, and its leadership.
The appointment of Wilkins as not only the orchestra’s first Principal Guest Conductor but its first Black artistic leader comes just weeks after 38-year-old Eric Jacobsen was selected as the VSO’s new music director, another bold step toward expanding the VSO’s vision to engage wider audiences with creative and relevant programming.
In announcing the appointment, VSO Board Chair Mike McClellan said, “This is a true dream team! Eric and Thomas share the VSO’s commitment to telling our community’s stories and advancing the important conversations that will promote understanding and belonging among all our residents.”
The symphony will host a welcome event for Mr. Wilkins on Monday, July 19th at 4:30pm at the Chrysler Hall Dress Circle Lobby, with a special performance by the Boys Choir of Hampton Roads, led by Julius McCullough. Free and open to the public; please RSVP by registering here.
Devoted to promoting a life-long enthusiasm for music, Mr. Wilkins brings energy and commitment to audiences of all ages. He is hailed as a master at communicating and connecting with audiences. Following his highly successful first season with the Boston Symphony, the Boston Globe named him among the “Best People and Ideas of 2011.” In 2014, Mr. Wilkins received the prestigious “Outstanding Artist” award at the Nebraska Governor’s Arts Awards for his significant contribution to music in the state, while in 2018 Mr. Wilkins received the Leonard Bernstein Lifetime Achievement Award for the Elevation of Music in Society conferred by Boston’s Longy School of Music. And in 2019 the Virginia Symphony bestowed Mr. Wilkins with its annual Dreamer Award.
During his conducting career, Mr. Wilkins has led orchestras throughout the United States, including the New York Philharmonic, the Chicago Symphony, the Los Angeles Philharmonic, the Cincinnati Symphony, and the National Symphony. Additionally, he has guest conducted the Philadelphia and Cleveland Orchestras, the Symphonies of Atlanta, Dallas, Houston, Baltimore, San Diego and Utah, and the Buffalo and Rochester Philharmonics, as well as at the Grant Park Music Festival in Chicago.
Mr. Wilkins is a graduate of the Shenandoah Conservatory of Music and the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston. He and his wife Sheri-Lee are the proud parents of twin daughters, Erica and Nicole. Mr. Wilkins’ first appearance with the orchestra in his new role will be February 18-20, 2022. Tickets will be on sale in mid-August at www.virginiasymphony.org.
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As the region’s most celebrated musical, educational and entrepreneurial arts organization, the Virginia Symphony Orchestra continues to challenge expectations and push the boundaries of what an American orchestra can be. Since the ground-breaking appointment of JoAnn Falletta in 1991, innovation and excellence have been at the heart of the VSO’s narrative.
The VSO has received national attention for its unique mission serving a home area of 1.7 million across the diverse communities of southeastern Virginia. Through appearances at the Kennedy Center and Carnegie Hall and commitment to adventurous programming, the VSO and its musicians have been highlighted in the media including The New York Times, The Washington Post, National Public Radio and BBC Worldwide News.
The largest performing arts organization in southeastern Virginia, the VSO and VSO Chorus present more than 150 concerts and events annually to educate, enlighten and entertain more than 100,000 residents and visitors. Recent innovations include health and wellness programs, including interactive therapeutic experiences for people living with Alzheimer’s and dementia, and adopting welcoming concert environments for those who are neurodiverse.
For Immediate Release
July 16, 2021
Contact: Kristen Bennington
Director of Marketing & Communications
Phone: 757.213.1411|
email: kbennington@virginiasymphony.org
Twitter: @VASymphony | Facebook: facebook.com/virginiasymphony
Twitter: @VASymphony
Facebook: facebook.com/virginiasymphony
Symphony Notes | December 2024
Local Friends and Family Join the Virginia Symphony Orchestra for Holiday POPs! This Year
Vocalist Kathryn Whitbeck and Pianists Angela and Valerie Zhang
HAMPTON ROADS, VA [December 4, 2024] The Hampton Roads tradition of Holiday POPs! continues this year with special performances suited for the whole family.
Former U.S. Navy Fleet Forces Band Vocalist Kathryn Whitbeck joins the Virginia Symphony Orchestra and Virginia Symphony Orchestra Chorus as the featured soloist. Whitbeck will be performing pop hits like “All I Want for Christmas is You”, made famous by Mariah Carey, and traditional carols like “We Wish You a Merry Christmas”.
“I am absolutely thrilled to be performing with the Virginia Symphony Orchestra at their Holiday POPs! concert!” says Whitbeck, ”It’s an incredible honor to be part of such a talented group, and to share the joy and magic of the holiday season through music. I can’t wait to experience the energy of the audience and help bring these festive songs to life. As a classically trained musician, I’ve spent years immersing myself in the rich, intricate world of traditional repertoire—learning to appreciate the precision, control, and structure that define classical music.
Whitbeck’s love for classical and contemporary music will be highlighted in this year’s program. “As much as I love this world, I’ve found myself increasingly drawn to contemporary music. Contemporary music allows for a freedom of expression that feels both exhilarating and liberating, encouraging me to explore a more spontaneous approach to singing” says Whitbeck, “Of all the pieces in the program, I’m most excited for the Jeff Tyzik arrangement of “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen” because it blends the timeless qualities of classical music with a modern twist.”
The VSO is also keeping it in the family this year with Associate Concertmaster Yun Zhang’s daughters, Angela and Valerie, performing on the piano during the concert.
Angela Zhang is a twelve-year-old pianist currently attending Greenbrier Middle School in Chesapeake, Virginia. She grew up in a musical family and started her music training when she was five years old. Angela is the Grand Prize Winner of the 2023 Young Artist Competition hosted by the Hampton Roads Philharmonic and successfully made her debut performance with the orchestra in March 2024 at the historic American Theater. “It’s such a special moment to celebrate the holiday season with the Virginia Symphony Orchestra on the stage!” says Angela.
Valerie Zhang is a nine-year-old pianist from Greenbrier Intermediate School in Chesapeake, Virginia. She started her musical training with her parents when she was four and began taking piano lessons at age six with Ms. Rebecca Willett. Valerie has performed in masterclasses with guest artists presented by the Virginia Symphony Orchestra and Symphonicity Orchestra of Virginia Beach. “It’s so cool to perform with daddy on the same stage!” says Valerie.
Holiday POPs! is presented December 12 at 7:30PM at the Ferguson Center for the Arts in Newport News, December 14 at 7:30PM at Chrysler Hall in Norfolk, and December 15 at 7PM at the Sandler Center for the Performing Arts in Virginia Beach.
More information are available at virginiasymphony.org/holiday-pops
Tickets: $25/39/56/79/119, $15 Student/Child Tickets.
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As the region’s most celebrated musical, educational, and entrepreneurial arts organization, the Virginia Symphony Orchestra continues to challenge expectations and push the boundaries of what an American orchestra can be. Innovation and excellence are at the heart of the VSO’s narrative. The VSO has received national attention for its unique mission serving a home area of 1.7 million across the diverse communities of southeastern Virginia. Through appearances at the Kennedy Center and Carnegie Hall and its commitment to adventurous programming, the VSO and its musicians have been highlighted in the media including The New York Times, The Washington Post, National Public Radio, and BBC Worldwide News.
As the largest performing arts organization in southeastern Virginia, the VSO and VSO Chorus present more than 150 concerts and events annually for more than 100,000 residents and visitors. Recent innovations include health and wellness programs, including interactive therapeutic experiences for people living with Alzheimer’s and dementia, and adopting welcoming concert environments for those who are neurodiverse. Since 2019, the VSO has been recognized nationally for striving to reflect the region’s ethnic and racial diversity in its members, its programming, and its leadership.
The selection of the young and dynamic conductor Eric Jacobsen as music director in 2021 was another bold step forward for the VSO, further expanding its vision to attract wider and larger audiences with engaging concert experiences and creative and relevant programming. Rounding out the artistic leadership team is Norfolk native Thomas Wilkins in the role of Principal Guest Conductor, reflecting the VSO’s commitment to tell its community’s stories and advance the important conversations that will promote understanding and belonging among all residents.
CLASSICAL CHRISTMAS
HAMPTON ROADS, VA [December 2, 2024]
WHO:
Virginia Symphony Orchestra with Morihiko Nakahara and Jonathan Richards
WHERE:
Norfolk Academy’s Johnson Theatre 1585 Wesleyan Dr, Norfolk, VA 23502
William and Mary’s Music Arts Center 551 Jamestown Rd, Williamsburg, VA 23185
WHEN:
December 7-8, 2024
WHAT:
Morihiko Nakahara conducts this festive program featuring holiday and winter themed works by Bach and Vivaldi alongside selections from Tchaikovsky’s captivating music for The Nutcracker.
TICKET PRICES:
$25/39. $15/20 Student/Child Tickets
https://virginiasymphony.org/classical-christmas/
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As the region’s most celebrated musical, educational, and entrepreneurial arts organization, the Virginia Symphony Orchestra continues to challenge expectations and push the boundaries of what an American orchestra can be. Innovation and excellence are at the heart of the VSO’s narrative. The VSO has received national attention for its unique mission serving a home area of 1.7 million across the diverse communities of southeastern Virginia. Through appearances at the Kennedy Center and Carnegie Hall and its commitment to adventurous programming, the VSO and its musicians have been highlighted in the media including The New York Times, The Washington Post, National Public Radio, and BBC Worldwide News.
As the largest performing arts organization in southeastern Virginia, the VSO and VSO Chorus present more than 150 concerts and events annually for more than 100,000 residents and visitors. Recent innovations include health and wellness programs, including interactive therapeutic experiences for people living with Alzheimer’s and dementia, and adopting welcoming concert environments for those who are neurodiverse. Since 2019, the VSO has been recognized nationally for striving to reflect the region’s ethnic and racial diversity in its members, its programming, and its leadership.
The selection of the young and dynamic conductor Eric Jacobsen as music director in 2021 was another bold step forward for the VSO, further expanding its vision to attract wider and larger audiences with engaging concert experiences and creative and relevant programming. Rounding out the artistic leadership team is Norfolk native Thomas Wilkins in the role of Principal Guest Conductor, reflecting the VSO’s commitment to tell its community’s stories and advance the important conversations that will promote understanding and belonging among all residents.
A GOSPEL CHRISTMAS FEATURING A TRIBUTE TO RICHARD SMALLWOOD
HAMPTON ROADS, VA [November 26, 2024]
- WHO: Virginia Symphony Orchestra with Dr. Henry Panion, III, and Earl Bynum Jr.
- WHERE: Chrysler Hall, 215 St Pauls Blvd, Norfolk, VA 23510
- WHEN: Saturday November 30, 7:30PM
- WHAT: Dr. Henry Panion, III, is back at Chrysler Hall to lead a soulful celebration of the season! Featuring a tribute to the beloved Richard Smallwood with a 100-voice community gospel choir led by Minister Earl Bynum (Director of The Mount Unity Choir) and guest soloists Peggy Britt, Earl Bynum Jr., Desmond Harrison, Naomi Kimberly Thomas, this concert is the perfect way to start the holidays.
- TICKET PRICES: $25/39/56/79/119. $15 Student/Child Tickets https://tickets.virginiasymphony.org/gospelchristmas/chryslerhall
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As the region’s most celebrated musical, educational, and entrepreneurial arts organization, the Virginia Symphony Orchestra continues to challenge expectations and push the boundaries of what an American orchestra can be. Innovation and excellence are at the heart of the VSO’s narrative. The VSO has received national attention for its unique mission serving a home area of 1.7 million across the diverse communities of southeastern Virginia. Through appearances at the Kennedy Center and Carnegie Hall and its commitment to adventurous programming, the VSO and its musicians have been highlighted in the media including The New York Times, The Washington Post, National Public Radio, and BBC Worldwide News.
As the largest performing arts organization in southeastern Virginia, the VSO and VSO Chorus present more than 150 concerts and events annually for more than 100,000 residents and visitors. Recent innovations include health and wellness programs, including interactive therapeutic experiences for people living with Alzheimer’s and dementia, and adopting welcoming concert environments for those who are neurodiverse. Since 2019, the VSO has been recognized nationally for striving to reflect the region’s ethnic and racial diversity in its members, its programming, and its leadership.
The selection of the young and dynamic conductor Eric Jacobsen as music director in 2021 was another bold step forward for the VSO, further expanding its vision to attract wider and larger audiences with engaging concert experiences and creative and relevant programming. Rounding out the artistic leadership team is Norfolk native Thomas Wilkins in the role of Principal Guest Conductor, reflecting the VSO’s commitment to tell its community’s stories and advance the important conversations that will promote understanding and belonging among all residents.
A Very Merry Musical Market
HAMPTON ROADS, VA [November 11, 2024]
WHO: Virginia Symphony Orchestra
WHERE: Elation Brewing; 5104 Colley Ave, Norfolk, VA 23508
WHEN: Thursday November 21, 6-8:30PM
WHAT: Get your holiday shopping done early while you listen to live chamber music performed by members of the VSO Brass Section and sip on tasty brews from Elation Brewing!
TICKET PRICES: $15 in advance. $20 at the door. Children 12 and under, $10.
https://tickets.virginiasymphony.org/verymerrymusicalmarket/elationbrewing
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As the region’s most celebrated musical, educational, and entrepreneurial arts organization, the Virginia Symphony Orchestra continues to challenge expectations and push the boundaries of what an American orchestra can be. Innovation and excellence are at the heart of the VSO’s narrative. The VSO has received national attention for its unique mission serving a home area of 1.7 million across the diverse communities of southeastern Virginia. Through appearances at the Kennedy Center and Carnegie Hall and its commitment to adventurous programming, the VSO and its musicians have been highlighted in the media including The New York Times, The Washington Post, National Public Radio, and BBC Worldwide News.
As the largest performing arts organization in southeastern Virginia, the VSO and VSO Chorus present more than 150 concerts and events annually for more than 100,000 residents and visitors. Recent innovations include health and wellness programs, including interactive therapeutic experiences for people living with Alzheimer’s and dementia, and adopting welcoming concert environments for those who are neurodiverse. Since 2019, the VSO has been recognized nationally for striving to reflect the region’s ethnic and racial diversity in its members, its programming, and its leadership.
The selection of the young and dynamic conductor Eric Jacobsen as music director in 2021 was another bold step forward for the VSO, further expanding its vision to attract wider and larger audiences with engaging concert experiences and creative and relevant programming. Rounding out the artistic leadership team is Norfolk native Thomas Wilkins in the role of Principal Guest Conductor, reflecting the VSO’s commitment to tell its community’s stories and advance the important conversations that will promote understanding and belonging among all residents.
The Virginia Symphony Orchestra’s Holiday Season Begins This Month!
There’s No Place like the VSO for the Holidays!
HAMPTON ROADS, VA [November 4, 2024] The Virginia Symphony Orchestra is bringing seven unique programs to the Hampton Roads area this holiday season. Featuring brand new events, like A Very Merry Musical Market, and timeless traditions, like Holiday POPs, the VSO has something for everyone!
“This year’s Holiday POPs is full of melodies and carols that are sure to ring in the season with nostalgia and excitement!” says VSO Chorusmaster Robert Shoup, “We hope the community will come to share classics like Sleigh Ride and the Christmas song as well as some re-imagined favorite that really swing! The concert will once again feature super talented children from our VSO family as well as the fabulous singer Kathryn Whitbeck. Full of bells and magic, this program is always a highlight for all of us here at the VSO!”
Norfolk native, Anthony Parnther returns to conduct Handel’s Messiah. Parnther wowed VSO audiences back in 2023 when he conducted The Music of Star Wars. He is particularly excited to return home for the holidays this year.
“I was born in Norfolk, Virginia, and returning home to conduct the Virginia Symphony Orchestra in Handel’s Messiah is particularly meaningful” says Parnther, “This performance celebrates my Tidewater roots and is a chance to connect with the community that helped shape my love for music. Having the opportunity to bring this cherished work to life in the state where my musical journey began, alongside these incredible soloists I hold dear, fills me with immense joy and gratitude.” This concert will feature the full Christmas portion in addition to selections from the second and third parts of this sacred masterpiece which are sure to inspire.
With sixteen concert performances to choose from, including A Gospel Christmas and the family favorite, PB&J Jingle Bell Jam, the holiday season this year in Hampton Roads will be merry and bright all November and December long. Read on to learn more about each spectacular event.
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Sponsored by Elation Brewing, the first SoundBridge event, A Very Merry Musical Market, is on November 21 at Elation Brewing, 5104 Colley Ave, Norfolk, VA 23508. This event includes early holiday shopping from arts vendors, local tasty brews, and live chamber music from VSO Musicians.
On November 30, A Gospel Christmas Featuring a Tribute to Richard Smallwood will grace the stage at Chrysler Hall. The Virginia Symphony Orchestra is overjoyed to welcome Dr. Henry Panion back to lead this soulful celebration of the season featuring a community gospel choir led by Minister Earl Bynum (Director of The Mount Unity Choir).
With an added performance in Norfolk, Classical Christmas features holiday and winter works by Bach and Vivaldi, alongside selections from Tchaikovsky’s captivating music for The Nutcracker. December 7 in Norfolk at the Norfolk Academy’s Johnson Theater. December 8 in Williamsburg at William & Mary.
With lots of holiday warmth, familiar carols, and a surprise or two, Holiday POPs is a must-see holiday tradition! Performances are December 12 at the Ferguson Center for the Arts in Newport News, December 14 at Chrysler Hall in Norfolk, and December 15 at the Sandler Center for the Performing Arts in Virginia Beach.
Coming all the way from the North Pole, Santa Claus is stopping by to be a part of the VSO’s ever-popular PB&J Jingle Bell Jam! Celebrate the magic of the season with an afternoon that showcases the music of the holidays with the best talent in Hampton Roads. This concert is a family favorite and is open to all ages. Join the VSO and Norview High School Choir on December 15 at the Sandler Center for the Performing Arts in Virginia Beach.
Holiday Brass rings out bold sounds of the Virginia Symphony brass section ring in the holidays with a blast! Performing on December 18, at Saint Bede Catholic Church, 3686 Ironbound Rd, Williamsburg, VA 23188, experience the festive sounds of the season in a concert filled with wit, virtuosity, and the glorious music!
Iconic music including the Hallelujah chorus portrays one of the greatest stories ever told at Handel’s Messiah this December. Performances are December 19 at Regent University Theatre in Virginia Beach, December 20 at First Baptist Church of Newport News, and December 21 at Harrison Opera House in Norfolk.
Tickets and more information on all holiday concerts can be found at virginiasymphony.org
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As the region’s most celebrated musical, educational, and entrepreneurial arts organization, the Virginia Symphony Orchestra continues to challenge expectations and push the boundaries of what an American orchestra can be. Innovation and excellence are at the heart of the VSO’s narrative. The VSO has received national attention for its unique mission serving a home area of 1.7 million across the diverse communities of southeastern Virginia. Through appearances at the Kennedy Center and Carnegie Hall and its commitment to adventurous programming, the VSO and its musicians have been highlighted in the media including The New York Times, The Washington Post, National Public Radio, and BBC Worldwide News.
As the largest performing arts organization in southeastern Virginia, the VSO and VSO Chorus present more than 150 concerts and events annually for more than 100,000 residents and visitors. Recent innovations include health and wellness programs, including interactive therapeutic experiences for people living with Alzheimer’s and dementia, and adopting welcoming concert environments for those who are neurodiverse. Since 2019, the VSO has been recognized nationally for striving to reflect the region’s ethnic and racial diversity in its members, its programming, and its leadership.
The selection of the young and dynamic conductor Eric Jacobsen as music director in 2021 was another bold step forward for the VSO, further expanding its vision to attract wider and larger audiences with engaging concert experiences and creative and relevant programming. Rounding out the artistic leadership team is Norfolk native Thomas Wilkins in the role of Principal Guest Conductor, reflecting the VSO’s commitment to tell its community’s stories and advance the important conversations that will promote understanding and belonging among all residents.
Singer-songwriter Aoife O’Donovan to celebrate the long fight for women’s equality in Newport News concert
Her latest work considers history, success, and the costs and fragility of victory.
In the sweltering summer of 1920, thousands of supercharged lobbyists swarmed Nashville. It was an explosive mix of opponents and supporters sparring over whether American women should be given the right to vote.
Yet there was no “given” to it. Suffragists had been speaking out since the 1840s. More than 70 years later, a massive, organized effort persuaded 35 states to let women cast a ballot.
To ratify the notion as a national privilege, a 36th state had to OK the idea. It came down to Tennessee.
This was a pivotal moment and is where acclaimed singer-songwriter Aoife O’Donovan opens her recent collection of songs.
She’ll perform with the Virginia Symphony Orchestra and the Virginia Children’s Chorus on Nov. 15 at the Ferguson Center for the Arts in Newport News. Her husband, Eric Jacobsen, the orchestra’s music director, will conduct. She has performed in Hampton Roads before, but this will be her first time on stage with Jacobsen and the orchestra.
Symphony Notes | November 2024
Welcome back! We had a wonderful October sharing unforgettable memories and performances with you. As we enter November, we are excited to celebrate National Role Models Month.
To honor this special time, we sat down with some of our talented VSO orchestra members to talk about the mentors who have inspired them right here within the Symphony.
These incredible performances and opportunities are made possible because of you. And right now, your impact is doubled, thanks to a generous donor who is matching every donation. Thank you for being such a vital part of our VSO family!
Fellows Welcomed for the Third Year of the VSO Professional Development for Black Musicians Program
HAMPTON ROADS, VA [October 8, 2024] The Virginia Symphony Orchestra has welcomed its third class of Fellows for the VSO Fellowship Program: Professional Development for Black Musicians, partnered with Old Dominion University. The fellowship is an extension of the VSO’s continued efforts to advance the goal of increased diversity of orchestral musicians nationwide. This year trumpet, clarinet, violin, viola, cello, and bass applications were accepted. The new Fellows; Adrian Jackson, Jafet Díaz Martin, and returning Fellows Camille Jones and Omari Imhotep Abdul-Alim, joined the VSO this fall. They will be performing all over the region, producing chamber shows, mentoring local school kids, and hosting their Capstone projects for the community. The Fellows will also partake in small ensemble educational concerts for elementary school students, outdoor community concerts, and an assortment of media appearances to help them succeed in their careers as performers and educators.
“The Fellows program at the VSO is one of the things of which I am most proud that we do; it is so rewarding and inspirational to see the impact it has on the Fellows, the rest of the musicians in the orchestra, staff, and audiences,” stated Eric Jacobsen, music director of the VSO. “This year, we get to welcome Jafet and Adrian and enjoy another year with Camille and the return of Omari! I know each of them brings a high level of enthusiasm, talent, and motivation, and we are so looking forward to embracing them as members of the VSO family!”
A previous VSO Fellow, Zacherie Small, who won a position in the Double Bass section at New York’s The Orchestra Now speaks fondly of his time in the program. “The VSO’s Fellowship Program was pivotal in shaping my musical career, offering a unique blend of learning and professional experience. Being immersed in such an environment, I was always challenged to grow as a musician. Every challenge is an opportunity for growth. Reflecting on my experience, I have a profound appreciation for my personal growth and the growth of my artistic expression through this fellowship.”
The program’s third season is funded by the Hampton Roads Community Foundation, the Goode Family Foundation, and an Old Dominion University grant through the state of Virginia.
“The fellows have seamlessly integrated into our vibrant community, enriching our lives and enhancing our shared experiences,” said Dr. Emily Ondracek-Peterson, Executive Director of ODU’s Diehn School of Music.” Their presence has been a source of inspiration for our students, witnessing their journey from campus rehearsals to captivating performances with the VSO, and their impactful teaching and performances across the Hampton Roads community.”
Adrian Jackson: A violist from Austin Texas, Jackson began studying viola at the McCallum Fine Arts Academy in Austin Texas at the age of 14. Jackson graduated from the Interlochen Arts Academy and got his bachelor’s degree at the Eastman School of Music in Rochester NY. Adrian has served as Section violist of the Southern Tier Symphony, Principal violist of the New York State Ballet Orchestra, Substitute in the Orchestra of the Southern Finger Lakes, San Francisco Ballet, and the recipient of the La Crosse Symphony Orchestra Fellowship.
Jafet Díaz Martin: Born in Panama, this versatile trumpet player, teacher, and arranger is a former member of the Panama Municipal Symphonic Band. Jafet has also performed as a guest musician with many symphonies including the National Symphony Orchestra of Panama, and more Jafet attended the University of Panama for his Bachelor of Music in Trumpet Performance, and the Lynn University Conservatory of Music for his Master of Music in the studio of Marc Reese.
Camille Jones: A native of Maryland, Camille Jones is a passionate collaborator and advocate for diversity in the arts. Camille currently serves as a Sphinx Orchestral Futurist in Residence for the National Philharmonic. She received a Master of Music in Violin Performance from the University of Michigan. Most recently she received a graduate certificate from Old Dominion University as part of her tenure as a VSO Fellow during the 2022-23 season and has been invited back to participate for another year.
Omari Imhotep Abdul-Alim: An accomplished violinist and educator with a Master of Music in Violin Performance from the Cincinnati Conservatory of Music and a Bachelor of Music from the University of Missouri-Kansas City, Omari is a dedicated instructor with extensive experience teaching violin to a diverse range of students. Omari has also contributed significantly as a violin instructor and orchestral strings coach at the Academy for Discovery at Lakewood, as a member of VSO’s first inaugural class of Black Musicians Fellowship. Omari is committed to enriching our musical education and performance landscape through his expertise and passion for music.
In addition to their performing and teaching, while in Virginia the Fellows will have several professional development opportunities, including private instrument instruction, mock auditions, and mentorship with VSO musicians. Applications for the 2025-26 program will open this November. More information can be found at www.virginiasymphony.org/fellowship.
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As the region’s most celebrated musical, educational, and entrepreneurial arts organization, the Virginia Symphony Orchestra continues to challenge expectations and push the boundaries of what an American orchestra can be. Innovation and excellence are at the heart of the VSO’s narrative. The VSO has received national attention for its unique mission serving a home area of 1.7 million across the diverse communities of southeastern Virginia. Through appearances at the Kennedy Center and Carnegie Hall and its commitment to adventurous programming, the VSO and its musicians have been highlighted in the media including The New York Times, The Washington Post, National Public Radio, and BBC Worldwide News.
As the largest performing arts organization in southeastern Virginia, the VSO and VSO Chorus present more than 150 concerts and events annually for more than 100,000 residents and visitors. Recent innovations include health and wellness programs, including interactive therapeutic experiences for people living with Alzheimer’s and dementia, and adopting welcoming concert environments for those who are neurodiverse. Since 2019, the VSO has been recognized nationally for striving to reflect the region’s ethnic and racial diversity in its members, its programming, and its leadership.
The selection of the young and dynamic conductor Eric Jacobsen as music director in 2021 was another bold step forward for the VSO, further expanding its vision to attract wider and larger audiences with engaging concert experiences and creative and relevant programming. Rounding out the artistic leadership team is Norfolk native Thomas Wilkins in the role of Principal Guest Conductor, reflecting the VSO’s commitment to tell its community’s stories and advance the important conversations that will promote understanding and belonging among all residents.
Fall into Fun Things to Do: Norfolk’s Must-Attend Events This Season
As the crisp fall air settles in, Norfolk, VA, comes alive with a variety of exciting events that showcase the city’s vibrant culture. From lively markets and community festivals to music, arts, and outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this season. Whether you’re looking to explore local offerings or enjoy the city’s scenic beauty, Norfolk’s fall things to do provide the perfect opportunity to experience all the charm and excitement the season has to offer.
