The Port Townsend Symphony Orchestra board shows off an enlarged version of the group’s new logo. Pictured in front row, from left, are Kristin Smith, Tigran Arakelyan and Robert Nathan; standing, from left, are Denise Sample, Miles Vokurka, Vicki Mansfield, Tom Berg, Lesa Barnes, Arianna Golden, Nan Toby Tyrrell, Pat Yearian, Nancy Miskimins and graphic artist James Sample.
The Port Townsend
Symphony Orchestra (PTSO) has announced the schedule for its
2019-2020 concert season with a new name, mission statement, logo and
website.
Formed in 1987 and known for 32 years as the Port
Townsend Community Orchestra, the orchestra board and its members
recently decided to change the name to Port Townsend Symphony
Orchestra to reflect the important strides they have made since their
inception. The orchestra now performs a wide range of works,
including symphonies, works by minority and living composers, as well
as scores from movies, television, and operas. Featured soloists,
both local and visiting artists, further enhance the symphonic
experience.
The mission of the Port Townsend Symphony Orchestra is to entertain, inspire and engage our community through musical excellence and affordable concerts.
Conductor and Artistic Director Tigran Arakelyan stated, “This year marks a new era for our orchestra. The big change comes with our new name, mission and logo. Change is essential for the growth of any organization and I am happy to see that the players have accepted the challenge.”
The orchestra is indebted to its team of capable volunteers, who designed the new website: Lesa Barnes, Arianna Golden and Pamela Roberts, all orchestra players. The website can be viewed at PTSymphony.org. The new logo was designed by graphic artist James Sample, a recent arrival to the Peninsula. His portfolio can be seen at JohnJSample.com. Arianna Golden was the brand strategist. You can learn more about her work at DreamingIntoAction.com.
Arakelyan is beginning his third season with the orchestra, which has grown significantly over the last few years. Guest artists from both coasts are featured this year and a new Young Artist Competition will give a local young musician the opportunity to solo with the PTSO.
“We have many talented musicians in our symphony, exciting repertoire, soloists and a new vision for the future. If you heard us a decade ago then it is time for you to join us again this season. I am confident you will be pleasantly surprised at the transformation. I look forward to seeing you at our concerts!” said Arakelyan.
Arakelyan is an award-winning conductor and educator, who holds a number of posts in addition to the Port Townsend Symphony Orchestra. These include Musical Director of the Northwest Mahler Festival, Assistant Conductor of the California Philharmonic Orchestra, and Music Director of both the Federal Way Youth Symphony and Bainbridge Island Youth Orchestra. Maestro Arakelyan has an outstanding ability to inspire players to strive for excellence while maintaining a positive, fun approach for everyone involved. Concert-goers anticipate each performance knowing that he engages his audiences, providing them with unique, memorable musical experiences.
“PTSO is essential to the vitality and richness of the arts community on the north Olympic Peninsula,” explained board treasurer and symphony member Lesa Barnes.
The 2019-2020 season will include four symphony concerts, each with a unifying theme, plus two performances by the Port Townsend Chamber Orchestra comprised of PTSO players. All performances are free to the public with donations accepted at the door.
PTSO Concert Schedule 2019-2020
October 27 – New World: Featuring Fanfare for the Common Man by Copland, Bassoon Concerto in B-flat major, (2nd mvt) by Mozart with soloist Dave Krabill, and the Symphony No. 9 in E minor, “From the New World” by Dvorak.Chimacum High School Auditorium, 2 pm.
December 7 – The Grand Finale: Featuring Radetzky March by Strauss with Phil Andrus conducting, Nutcracker Suite by Tchaikovsky, and the Violin Concerto in E minor by Mendelssohn with soloist Myroslava Khomik.Chimacum High School Auditorium, 7:30 pm.
February 23 – Literature in Music: Featuring Merry Wives of Windsor Overture by Nicolai, Romeo and Juliet Fantasy by Tchaikovsky, and Pelleas and Melisande by Faure. Guest artists: Port Townsend High School Orchestra. Chimacum High School Auditorium, 2 pm.
April 26 – Acclaimed Masterpieces: Featuring Gaelic Symphony by Beach, Trumpet Concerto in A-flat major by Arutunian with soloist Erick Jovel, and our Young Artist Competition winner and soloist.Chimacum High School Auditorium, 2 pm.
June 6 – Port Townsend Chamber Orchestra: Featuring Waltz by Shostakovich, Concertino for Oboe and Strings by Blauth with soloist Anne Krabill, and Violin Concerto No. 4 by Mozart with soloist Roman Yearian. Finnriver Farm and Cidery, 7 pm.
June 7 – Port Townsend Chamber Orchestra: Same program as June 6. Port Townsend High School Auditorium, 2 pm.
For additional details and updates please visit the new website at PTSymphony.org.