Conductor

Music Director

Strauss's last and largest orchestral work has all the powers needed for an experience of awe—music for an ascent to the height of the world. Rockstar violinist Nemanja Radulović makes his DSO debut, and we hear new music by Jessie Montgomery that is "wildly colorful and exploding with life" (Washington Post).

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Strauss’ Alpine Symphony

Orchestra Hall

Cellist Sheku Kanneh-Mason has established himself as "nothing less than the future of classical music" (NPR). We celebrate the centennial of Julia Perry’s birth with a brilliant piece by the prolific Kentucky-born composer, and we end the 2023–2024 season with the fateful theme and inevitable glories of Beethoven's timeless Fifth Symphony.

Beethoven's Fifth Symphony

Join us for an unforgettable evening as the Detroit Symphony Orchestra welcomes the incomparable Branford Marsalis for a concert that promises to be a highlight of the 2024-2025 season. This special performance, featuring the works of Gershwin, Bernstein, and Joan Tower, will take place at the iconic Orchestra Hall on Thursday, September 26, and Friday, September 27, 2024.

Saxophone virtuoso Branford Marsalis returns to dazzle audiences with jazz-infused showpieces, while Music Director Jader Bignamini leads the orchestra through musical postcards by Bernstein and Gershwin, capturing the essence of city vibes, Cuban beats, and the bustling cafés and streets of Paris. The evening will kick off with a celebratory fanfare by Joan Tower, marking the beginning of an exciting new season.

The program for the evening includes:
- JOAN TOWER: Fanfare for the Uncommon Woman No. 6
- ERWIN SCHULHOFF: Hot Sonate
- GEORGE GERSHWIN: Cuban Overture
- DARIUS MILHAUD: Scaramouche
- LEONARD BERNSTEIN: Three Dance Episodes from On the Town
- GEORGE GERSHWIN: An American in Paris

Under the baton of Jader Bignamini, who was introduced as the 18th music director of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra in January 2020, the orchestra continues to reach new heights of musical excellence. Bignamini's infectious passion and artistic brilliance have captivated audiences and musicians alike, promising a night of extraordinary music.

Branford Marsalis, an award-winning saxophonist known for his remarkable versatility and depth, brings his exceptional talent to the stage, performing with an energy and passion that is truly mesmerizing. Marsalis's collaborations with orchestras around the world have been hailed as transformative, and his appearance with the Detroit Symphony Orchestra is eagerly anticipated.

This concert is not just a performance but a celebration of music's power to connect and inspire. Don't miss this opportunity to experience the magic of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra with Branford Marsalis in a program that spans the spectrum of musical expression, from the jazz-infused to the classically sublime.

Tickets are available now. Join us at Orchestra Hall, 3711 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, MI, for an evening that promises to be a memorable start to the DSO's 2024-2025 season.

Bernstein & Gershwin

Join us for an unforgettable evening at the Detroit Symphony Orchestra Opening Night Gala featuring the extraordinary talents of saxophonist Branford Marsalis. This special event is scheduled for Saturday, September 28, 2024, at 7:00 pm, held in the prestigious Orchestra Hall. The night promises to be a celebration of musical virtuosity, with Music Director Jader Bignamini leading the orchestra through a program that bridges the worlds of classical music and jazz.

The evening's repertoire includes a vibrant selection of works that showcase the unique blend of classical music with jazz influences. From Milhaud's Brazilian-inspired "Scaramouche" to Bernstein's lively "Three Dance Episodes from On the Town," and Gershwin's iconic "An American in Paris," each piece captures the essence of their respective cities through music. Adding to the excitement, Marsalis will breathe life into John Williams’s "Escapades from Catch Me If You Can," highlighting his incredible skill as a saxophonist.

Under the baton of Jader Bignamini, who was introduced as the 18th music director of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra in January 2020, the orchestra continues to thrive. Bignamini's passion for music and his close relationship with the orchestra have been pivotal in bringing high-caliber performances to the stage. His approach to conducting, often without a score, fosters a deep connection with the musicians, ensuring a performance that is both heartfelt and engaging.

Branford Marsalis, a celebrated saxophonist known for his versatility across genres, brings his award-winning talent to the gala. With a career spanning several decades, Marsalis has earned accolades including three Grammys and nominations for Emmy and Tony Awards. His collaborations with renowned orchestras around the world have been critically acclaimed, making his performance at the gala a highly anticipated event.

The Opening Night Gala with Branford Marsalis is not just a concert; it's a celebration of music's power to unite and inspire. It's an opportunity to experience the brilliance of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and the artistry of Branford Marsalis in one of the most beautiful concert halls in the country. Don't miss this extraordinary evening of music and celebration.

Opening Night Gala With Branford Marsalis

Join us for an unforgettable musical journey as the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, under the baton of the acclaimed conductor Jader Bignamini, presents a spectacular program featuring works from Bernstein, Gershwin, Coleridge-Taylor, Verdi, and Tchaikovsky. This thrilling concert series, titled "Rhapsody in Blue," will showcase the extraordinary talents of pianist Wayne Marshall in his DSO debut, performing Gershwin’s iconic masterpiece.

The performances are scheduled for Friday, October 11, through Sunday, October 13, 2024, at the historic Orchestra Hall. Each concert promises an evening of rich musical exploration, lasting approximately 2 hours, with tickets starting at an accessible price point.

The program includes Leonard Bernstein's electrifying "Symphonic Dances from West Side Story," George Gershwin's groundbreaking "Rhapsody in Blue," Samuel Coleridge-Taylor's evocative "Othello," Giuseppe Verdi's dramatic "Ballet Music from Act III of Macbeth," and Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky's passionate "Romeo & Juliet Fantasy Overture."

Music Director Jader Bignamini, celebrated for his infectious passion and artistic excellence, will lead the orchestra through these diverse and dynamic works, highlighting the themes of love and drama that connect them. Wayne Marshall, renowned for his interpretations of 20th-century composers, will bring his exceptional musicianship to the forefront, promising a performance of "Rhapsody in Blue" that is not to be missed.

This event is not only a celebration of musical genius across different eras but also an opportunity to experience the vibrant culture and community spirit of Detroit. Don't miss your chance to be part of this musical feast. Secure your tickets now and prepare to be moved by the power of live orchestral music.

Rhapsody in Blue

Experience the profound intensity and emotional depth of classical music as the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, under the baton of the esteemed Jader Bignamini, presents a captivating program featuring Mahler's Symphony No. 5 and Haydn's Military Symphony. This remarkable concert series, set to take place from Thursday, November 21 to Saturday, November 23, 2024, at the iconic Orchestra Hall, promises to be an unforgettable journey through the extremes of symphonic music.

From the dramatic opening trumpet solo of Mahler's Fifth Symphony to the serene and heartfelt adagietto, audiences will be taken on an emotional rollercoaster, showcasing the full power and range of the orchestra. More than a century earlier, Haydn's Symphony No. 100, known as the "Military," introduced elements of drama and intensity with its evocative sounds of the battlefield, setting the stage for Mahler's expansive work.

Jader Bignamini, who was introduced as the 18th music director of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra in January 2020, brings his infectious passion and artistic excellence to the podium. A native of Crema, Italy, Bignamini's deep connection with the orchestra and his commitment to exploring the complexities of American music and Detroit’s rich jazz culture have already marked a new and exciting chapter for the DSO.

The concert will be held at Orchestra Hall, located at 3711 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, MI, offering a venue that matches the grandeur of the performances. With a duration of approximately 2 hours, this event is a must-attend for classical music enthusiasts and those looking to experience the transformative power of a live symphony orchestra.

Tickets are available now, with prices starting at a range accessible to all. Don't miss this opportunity to witness the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and Jader Bignamini as they bring to life the monumental works of Mahler and Haydn, promising an evening of unparalleled musical artistry.

Mahler's Fifth Symphony

Join the Detroit Symphony Orchestra for an unforgettable evening of music and celebration, featuring the world-renowned violinist Ray Chen. This special performance, set against the backdrop of the iconic Orchestra Hall, promises to be a highlight of the musical season, taking place from Friday, December 6, to Sunday, December 8, 2024.

Under the baton of Music Director Jader Bignamini, the orchestra will bring to life a diverse and vibrant program. The evening will open with Carlos Simon's "Four Black American Dances," followed by Samuel Barber's poignant "Violin Concerto," performed by the exceptional Ray Chen. The concert will also feature selections from Tchaikovsky's beloved "The Nutcracker Suite," before taking a unique turn with Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn's jazz-infused arrangement of the same, promising a blend of classical grace and swing-era cool that's not to be missed.

Jader Bignamini, celebrated for his infectious passion and artistic excellence, leads the orchestra with a deep connection to both the music and the musicians, ensuring a performance that resonates with energy and emotion. Ray Chen, known for redefining what it means to be a classical musician in the 21st century, brings his remarkable musicianship and dynamic presence to the stage, guaranteeing a rendition of Barber's Violin Concerto that will be both palpable and memorable.

This event is not just a concert but a celebration of music's power to unite and inspire. It's an invitation to experience the joy and depth of classical music, brought to life by some of the most talented artists of our time. Whether you're a lifelong classical music fan or looking for an introduction to the genre, this performance is sure to leave you moved and exhilarated.

Tickets are available now, with prices starting at a range accessible to all. Don't miss this opportunity to witness the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and Ray Chen in what promises to be a spectacular set of performances at Orchestra Hall, a venue renowned for its acoustics and historic charm. Join us for a night of exquisite music, and let the melodies of Carlos Simon, Samuel Barber, Tchaikovsky, Duke Ellington, and Billy Strayhorn transport you.

Ellington & The Nutcracker

Immerse yourself in the passionate and dramatic world of Bizet's "Carmen" as the Detroit Symphony Orchestra presents a captivating concert performance at Orchestra Hall. This special event, taking place from Friday, February 21 to Sunday, February 23, 2025, celebrates the 150th anniversary of the iconic opera. Under the baton of conductor Jader Bignamini, the DSO will be joined by an all-star cast including mezzo-soprano J’Nai Bridges in the title role, tenor Russell Thomas, soprano Ailyn Pérez, and baritone Paulo Szot. The performance will also feature the talents of Opera MODO & Audivi choir and the Ann Arbor Youth Chorale, adding depth and richness to the production.

Jader Bignamini, the DSO's 18th music director, brings his infectious passion and artistic excellence to the forefront, promising an unforgettable rendition of Bizet's masterpiece. J’Nai Bridges, celebrated for her "allure, fiery stage presence, and a stunning voice" (Chicago Tribune), is set to captivate audiences with her portrayal of Carmen. The cast also includes acclaimed artists who have made significant impacts on the world's opera stages, ensuring a performance of the highest caliber.

This concert version of "Carmen" offers a unique opportunity to experience the opera's timeless delights and drama, brought to life by a remarkable ensemble of voices and the superb musicianship of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra. The event will be held at the historic Orchestra Hall, located at 3711 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, MI, offering a splendid venue for this musical celebration.

Tickets are available for purchase, with prices starting at a range that accommodates all attendees. Don't miss this chance to experience the power, drama, and beauty of "Carmen" in a concert setting, promising to be a highlight of the DSO's season and a memorable event for all in attendance.

Bizet's Carmen

Join the Detroit Symphony Orchestra for an unforgettable evening of classical music featuring soloists Robyn Bollinger on violin and Wei Yu on cello. This spectacular concert will showcase the talents of these renowned musicians through the performance of pieces by Strauss, Brahms, and Beethoven. Under the baton of Music Director Jader Bignamini, the orchestra will bring to life Brahms's robust Double Concerto, Beethoven’s enchanting Sixth Symphony, and Strauss’s exhilarating overture to Die Fledermaus.

The event will take place at the iconic Orchestra Hall, from Friday, March 21 to Sunday, March 23, 2025. Each performance promises to be a journey through the heights of classical music, lasting approximately 2 hours. Tickets are available now, offering you the chance to experience the magic of live orchestral music.

Don't miss this opportunity to see DSO Concertmaster Robyn Bollinger and Principal Cello Wei Yu perform together, showcasing their incredible synergy and mastery. With Jader Bignamini's passionate and dynamic conducting, this concert is set to be a highlight of the DSO season. Reserve your seats today and be part of a musical experience that celebrates the legacy and beauty of Strauss, Brahms, and Beethoven.

Beethoven & Brahms

Join the Detroit Symphony Orchestra for an unforgettable evening of music and talent as they welcome the prodigious young pianist Alexandra Dovgan to the stage. This special performance, under the baton of Music Director Jader Bignamini, will feature an original work by DSO cellist Jeremy Crosmer, alongside masterpieces by Camille Saint-Saëns and Johannes Brahms.

The highlight of the evening will be Brahms’s dramatic Third Symphony, a piece known for its relentless intensity and joyous affirmations, conducted by Jader Bignamini. Alexandra Dovgan will make her Orchestra Hall debut, performing Saint-Saëns's Piano Concerto No. 2, showcasing her incredible talent and precision that have captivated audiences worldwide.

The event will take place at Orchestra Hall, a venue renowned for its acoustics and historic significance, located at 3711 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, MI. The performances are scheduled for Thursday, March 27, to Saturday, March 29, 2025, offering a unique opportunity to experience the synergy of youthful exuberance and seasoned artistry.

This concert is not only a celebration of classical music but also a testament to the Detroit Symphony Orchestra's commitment to bringing diverse and enriching programs to its audience. Don't miss this chance to witness the convergence of emerging talent and established excellence in one of the most anticipated events of the season.

Brahms's Third Symphony

Join the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra for a mesmerizing journey to Italy without leaving the comfort of Symphony Hall. This enchanting event, part of the Delta Classical Series, is set to take place from May 1 to May 3, 2025, and promises an unforgettable experience that celebrates the rich musical heritage of Italy.

Under the baton of the Italian conductor Jader Bignamini, making his ASO debut, the orchestra will perform two dazzling showpieces by Respighi that have previously captivated audiences at the Kennedy Center, earning multiple curtain calls. The concert will also feature the Italian violin sensation Giuseppe Gibboni, winner of the Paganini International Violin Competition. Gibboni will perform the Paganini Violin Concerto No. 1, showcasing his exceptional talent and the devil-may-care spirit that has won him acclaim.

The program includes:
- Bottesini's "Il diavolo della notte Overture"
- Paganini's Violin Concerto No. 1
- Respighi's "Fountains of Rome"
- Respighi's "Pines of Rome"

This event is a unique opportunity to experience the beauty and drama of Italian music, brought to life by a conductor and soloist directly connected to the country's rich musical traditions. Tickets are on sale now, and attendees are encouraged to secure their seats early for this highly anticipated performance.

For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit the Atlanta Symphony Hall website. Don't miss this Italian holiday with the ASO, a celebration of music that promises to transport you to the heart of Italy.

Italian Holiday with the ASO

The Woodruff Arts Center

Join the Detroit Symphony Orchestra for an electrifying evening of music as they perform works by Prokofiev and Shostakovich, featuring the exceptional talent of violinist Alina Ibragimova. This captivating concert will take place from Thursday, May 8 to Saturday, May 10, 2025, at the prestigious Orchestra Hall.

Under the baton of Jader Bignamini, the orchestra's 18th music director, audiences will be treated to a program that includes Prokofiev's Overture on Hebrew Themes and his Violin Concerto No. 1, as well as Shostakovich's powerful Symphony No. 10. Bignamini's infectious passion and artistic excellence promise to bring these compositions to life in a performance that will resonate with both classical music aficionados and newcomers alike.

Alina Ibragimova, celebrated for her versatility and the immediacy of her performances, will showcase her extraordinary skills in Prokofiev's First Violin Concerto. Known for her performances on both modern and period instruments, Ibragimova's collaboration with the Detroit Symphony Orchestra is a highlight of the season, not to be missed.

The concert will be held at Orchestra Hall, located at 3711 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, MI, offering a chance to experience the magic of live classical music in one of the city's most iconic venues. With tickets starting at a range of prices, this event is accessible to all who wish to immerse themselves in the world of classical music.

Don't miss this opportunity to witness the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and Alina Ibragimova as they explore the depths of Prokofiev and Shostakovich's masterworks. Reserve your seats now for an unforgettable musical journey.

Shostakovich's Tenth Symphony

Join us for an unforgettable evening as the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, under the baton of the esteemed conductor Jader Bignamini, presents a captivating program featuring the works of Maurice Ravel and Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov. The highlight of the concert will be the performance of Ravel's Piano Concertos, with the virtuosic French pianist Bertrand Chamayou taking center stage. These concerts, set to take place from Friday, May 16, to Sunday, May 18, 2025, at the iconic Orchestra Hall, promise to be a celebration of orchestral color, pianistic virtuosity, and the influence of jazz.

The program includes Ravel's "Le Tombeau de Couperin," "G Major Concerto," and the "Concerto for the Left Hand," alongside Rimsky-Korsakov's vibrant "Capriccio espagnol." This selection showcases the composers' flair for orchestration and their ability to weave complex harmonies and textures into their music.

Jader Bignamini, introduced as the 18th music director of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra in January 2020, brings his infectious passion and artistic excellence to the podium. His deep connection with the orchestra and his commitment to exploring the richness of American music, including Detroit’s vibrant jazz culture, have been hallmarks of his tenure.

Bertrand Chamayou, known for his masterful interpretations and extensive repertoire, brings his big technique and artistic approach to Ravel's challenging concertos. His performances are celebrated for their assurance, imagination, and remarkable consistency, making him a favorite among audiences worldwide.

This event is not just a concert but an experience, offering a deep dive into the works of two of the most influential composers of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It's an opportunity to witness the synergy between an orchestra and soloist at the top of their game, under the direction of a conductor whose passion for music knows no bounds.

Tickets for this must-see event are available now. Don't miss your chance to be part of a musical journey that promises to be both exhilarating and deeply moving. Join us at Orchestra Hall, 3711 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, MI, for a performance that will linger in your memory long after the final note has been played.

Ravel's Piano Concertos

Join the Detroit Symphony Orchestra for an unforgettable evening of classical music, featuring the world-renowned cellist Steven Isserlis. This special performance will showcase selections from the works of Franz Liszt, Robert Schumann, and Richard Strauss, providing a rich tapestry of musical emotions and virtuosity.

Event Highlights:
- **Performance by the Detroit Symphony Orchestra with Steven Isserlis**
- **Selections from Franz Liszt, Robert Schumann, and Richard Strauss**
- **Conducted by Jader Bignamini, the 18th music director of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra**

Program Details:
- **Franz Liszt:** Les Préludes
- **Robert Schumann:** Cello Concerto in A minor
- **Richard Strauss:** Don Juan
- **Richard Strauss:** Till Eulenspiegel’s Merry Pranks

**Date and Time:** Friday, May 30 to Sunday, June 1, 2025
**Duration:** 2 hours
**Location:** Orchestra Hall, 3711 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, MI

Experience the explosive energy of Strauss’s Don Juan, the whimsical adventures in Till Eulenspiegel, and the profound narratives within Liszt’s Préludes. Steven Isserlis, celebrated for his deeply moving performances, will bring his exceptional artistry to Schumann’s Cello Concerto, promising an evening of breathtaking music.

Tickets are available now. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness the synergy between the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and Steven Isserlis, under the baton of Maestro Jader Bignamini, in the acoustically superb Orchestra Hall.

For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit the Detroit Symphony Orchestra’s website. Join us for a night of exquisite music that promises to be a highlight of the season.

Schumann & Strauss

Join the Detroit Symphony Orchestra for an unforgettable evening of music and premieres at the iconic Orchestra Hall. Under the baton of Music Director Jader Bignamini, the orchestra will be joined by the exceptionally talented pianist Behzod Abduraimov for a program that promises to captivate and enchant.

The highlight of the evening will be the world premiere of a piece by the acclaimed composer Michael Abels, known for his compelling scores for Jordan Peele’s films such as "Get Out," "Us," and "Nope." This premiere is a testament to the DSO's commitment to presenting fresh and dynamic works to its audience.

In addition to Abels' premiere, the program will feature Tchaikovsky's heart-stirring "Piano Concerto No. 1," a masterpiece that showcases Abduraimov's "magic touch" and profound musicality, as praised by The Times, London. The concert will also introduce the Detroit premiere of Leokadiya Kashperova's lyrical "Symphony in B minor," further enriching the evening's exploration of musical landscapes.

This event is set to take place from Thursday, June 5, to Saturday, June 7, 2025, at Orchestra Hall, promising two hours of mesmerizing performances. Tickets are available now, offering a unique opportunity to experience the magic of live music performed by world-class musicians in one of Detroit's most revered venues.

Don't miss this extraordinary blend of world premieres and classical masterworks. Secure your tickets today and be part of a musical journey that celebrates innovation, talent, and the enduring power of the symphony orchestra.

Jader Bignamini

Conductor, Music Director

Events

May 31 - Jun 2, 2024

Strauss’ Alpine Symphony · Detroit Symphony Orchestra

6 - 8 Jun, 2024

Beethoven's Fifth Symphony · Detroit Symphony Orchestra

26 - 27 Sep, 2024

Bernstein & Gershwin · Detroit Symphony Orchestra

Sep 28, 2024

Opening Night Gala With Branford Marsalis · Detroit Symphony Orchestra

11 - 13 Oct, 2024

Rhapsody in Blue · Detroit Symphony Orchestra

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