COMMUNITY SUPPORT FOR USUO ABOUNDS 

Local Utahns have shown their unwavering support for Maurice Abravanel Hall, USUO, and the arts by flocking to the final performances of the 2023-24 season as well as our recent performance of Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 3 with Yefim Bronfman. The outpouring of community support was especially notable at a May performance of Scheherazade, at which guest conductor Delyana Lazarova returned to the stage three times to continuous ovations. In addition, Carolyn Abravanel delivered heartfelt remarks about the hall's legacy following that performance, before illuminating the name Maurice Abravanel Hall outside the building for the very first time.

We have been grateful for the outpouring of support for our beloved Marurice Abravanel Hall, which has even extended nationally—with famed composer John Williams recently praising our symphony as “one of our country’s finest orchestras” and the hall as “an iconic landmark.” 

For more information regarding Abravanel Hall, please review our statement and FAQ.

ABRAVANEL HALL STATEMENT & FAQ

Grand Spectacle: Thaïs Production Impresses

Eight years in the making, Utah Opera’s production of Thaïs culminated with stellar performances by Nicole Heaston and Troy Cook in the lead roles. The collaboration with Repertory Dance Theatre added a breathtaking, visual commentary through dance, particularly during the sublime "Méditation" which was performed by Utah Symphony Concertmaster Madeline Adkins. With intricate costumes, complex sets, and an impressive cast, chorus, and orchestra, the production moved audiences beyond expectations.

Critics praised the production, with Ed Reichel for Utah Arts Review commending Heaston’s vibrant performance and the dancers' grace. B.F. Isaacson for Utah Theater Bloggers Association highlighted the exceptional choreography and orchestration, calling it a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

We look forward to welcoming audiences back soon for a spectacular 2024-25 opera season!

READ THE REVIEW

Utah Symphony Welcomes New Assistant Conductor

Jessica Rivero Altarriba has been appointed Assistant Conductor of the Utah Symphony for the 2024-25 season. Selected through an extensive audition and interview process, Jessica impressed with her technical expertise, musicianship, and ability to connect with audiences.

“From the first notes with the Utah Symphony, I was amazed by the sound, the high level of music making, and the spirit of collaboration. I couldn’t be more thrilled to be part of such an extraordinary ensemble and arts-loving community,” said Rivero Altarriba.

LEARN MORE ABOUT JESSICA RIVERO ALTARRIBA

Young Musicians Shine In Side-by-Side Concert

40 high school students joined Utah Symphony musicians for a Side-by-Side concert in May, conducted by Assistant Conductor Matthew Straw. The students, who prepared through rehearsals and sectionals with Maestro Straw and symphony musicians, were thrilled to perform at Abravanel Hall.

“There’s nothing quite like seeing young people making such refined and exciting music. The Side-by-Side concert provides a fantastic opportunity for them to be mentored by professionals and experience the symphony. Thank you for coordinating this remarkable event,” said the parent of a student violinist.

DISCOVER OUR MANY EDUCATION PROGRAMS

Access To Music Concert Fosters Belonging

This year’s Access to Music concert saw 444 attendees enjoying operatic and orchestral highlights. Resident Artists Jasmine Rodriguez, Sarah Scofield, Jeremiah Tyson, and Tshilidzi Ndou performed with the Utah Symphony, conducted by Steven White at the Janet Quinney Lawson Capitol Theatre.

Patrons expressed gratitude for this inclusive event, designed especially for those with sensory sensitivities and disabilities, where everyone can enjoy great live music without judgment. One mother stated, "I will try to put into words just how much that evening meant to our family…to have a night where we felt like we belonged and we didn't have to try to fit into the mold society sometimes creates. We were welcomed exactly as we are—and to have a night like that felt like a real gift."

SUPPORT OUR COMMITMENT TO ACCESSIBILITY

A Brand-New Partnership

USUO has announced partnerships with two prominent Utah organizations, 47G: Utah Aerospace & Defense and World Trade Center Utah. To celebrate, USUO hosted a joint event with Aaron Starks, President and CEO of 47G, and Jonathan Freedman, President & CEO of World Trade Center Utah, along with members from both organizations, who attended a private rehearsal featuring world-renowned pianist Yefim Bronfman with the Utah Symphony.

These partnerships aim to foster connections between STEM and the arts, with 47G building a leading ecosystem for aerospace, defense, and cyber industries, and World Trade Center Utah enhancing Utah's role as a global crossroads. These collaborations will also strengthen USUO's mission to connect the community through great live music and bolster support for Utah's vibrant arts culture on a local, national, and global scale.

EXPLORE CORPORATE PARTNERSHIPS

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