
Melony Dodson and KSO Music Director Aram Demirjian announced the latest KSO season at a smal reception recently. Dodson is morning concert host and producer at WUOT-FM.
World-famous violinist Midori will return to East Tennessee next season to perform with the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra at the historic Tennessee Theatre.
In a series of programs celebrating the KSO’s 90th year and the 10th anniversary of Music Director Aram Demirjian‘s tenure here, the KSO also has commissioned nine world premieres to be spread throughout the season. That’s more world premieres than the KSO ever has performed in a single season.
“It’s definitely a milestone,” Demirjian said during an interview. “It’s about our recent history and about thinking to the future of our organization and the art form.”
The young conductor, who I believe is a master at program scheduling, said he aimed in making his selections to keep the offerings “fresh and vibrant” and to “demonstrate the breadth of what’s possible for a regional orchestra in a smaller city like Knoxville.” He praised the Symphony’s audiences for their open-mindedness. “Our audience seems to understand and be excited about new discoveries,” he said. “New music is met at least with a sense of curiosity and receptiveness.” Continue reading