Since the start of the new year, the Utah Symphony has proudly presented two world premieres and a U.S. premiere performance. USUO was a co-commissioner of each new piece; it is an honor to work with such brilliant artists and bring new music to the classical repertoire.

Having collaborated with the Utah Symphony for 20 years, internationally acclaimed pianist Stephen Hough (above, far right, with conductor Donald Runnicles) chose Utah for the world premiere of his first Piano Concerto, The World of Yesterday. The symphony’s own Principal Trombone Mark Davidson was soloist in the world premiere of a Trombone Concerto, Sonorous, by Quinn Mason (above, center stage). Finally, Tabea Zimmermann, widely regarded as the world’s top violist, gave the U.S. premiere of Michael Jarrell's Émergences-Résurgences, inspired by an Impressionist painting.

Salt Lake City Weekly echoed the importance of the premieres: “As much as symphony fans love hearing the classic works of the great masters, it would be foolish to think that orchestral music no longer has great practitioners creating fascinating new work. Utah Symphony has set out to make that point in its 2023-2024 season, debuting not one, not two, but three brand-new compositions, showing local audiences that contemporary work belongs on programs with work from centuries past.”

HEAR OUR NEXT U.S. PREMIERE

Resident Artists’ Performance at Children’s Hospital Honors Young Musician's Legacy

Directly following excellent performances in featured roles in The Little Prince, our Opera Resident Artists performed at Sophie's Place in Primary Children's Hospital, offering solace and joy to patients, families, and staff. The live performance was also streamed to patients throughout the hospital, extending the joy of music to those unable to attend in person. Named in memory of Sophie Barton, a passionate young musician, Sophie's Place serves as a music therapy space, an initiative of the Forever Young Foundation.

MEET OUR RESIDENT ARTISTS

5th Grade Concerts Connect Music Education with the Digital World

In February, Abravanel Hall once again opened during the school day for the 40th year of 5th grade concerts—a tradition started by Maurice Abravanel! This year, 141 schools were introduced to the world of symphonic music with the help of Bravi, a virtual assistant (like Alexa or Siri) built into the hall, or technically, performed from backstage by actor and USUO staff member Ellesse Hargreaves. The concert is titled "Hey, Bravi!" and integrates live performances with narration in a way familiar to digital-age students.

“This is an exceptional experience. We are appreciative that this strong and wonderful tradition continues,” said a Salt Lake City School District teacher.

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Music Education Leaves Lasting Impact in San Juan County

Building on last spring's opera residency in San Juan County, the Kigalia Fine Arts Council facilitated transportation so that every school in the district could attend the symphony’s education performances in Blanding. At San Juan High School, our musicians delivered three concerts introduced in the Navajo language, which garnered a standing ovation. To show their gratitude, the Navajo First Peoples provided lunch featuring traditional Navajo tacos.

“The mention of Utah Symphony | Utah Opera always elicits a slight surprise as listeners learn that such a prestigious organization would come to this rural part of Utah,” wrote the Kigalia Fine Arts Council in support of our continued collaborations with the San Juan community. “And you’ve also increased the quality of life for us as rural citizens. Thank you!”

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Donors Learn About the Life of an Orchestral Librarian

At a recent Donor Insider event, USUO Librarian Claudia Restrepo captivated attendees with an in-depth presentation on the many responsibilities of her role.

Highlighting the meticulous expertise and care involved in preparing and managing scores for rehearsals and performances, Restrepo provided a fascinating glimpse into this vital and often unseen aspect of orchestral life. The presentation sparked lively discussions and numerous questions about the behind-the-scenes work essential to our musicians' success.

EXPLORE DONOR BENEFITS

Holiday Concerts Welcomed Nearly 24,000 People to Abravanel Hall to Celebrate with Music

We love that our holiday concerts play an important part in the traditions of so many people in our community! During this past holiday season, we were delighted to welcome nearly 24,000 individuals from all over the world. With audience members coming from 438 cities across 45 states and 8 countries, music connected us all.

As we reflect on the joyous memories shared, we eagerly anticipate the opportunity to gather once again with familiar faces and new friends next year! Our 2024-25 season was recently announced, including holiday programming.

VIEW HOLIDAY 2024 CONCERTS