The Annapolis Symphony Orchestra (ASO) is pleased to announce the extension of its contract with José-Luis Novo, engaging him for another five years as Music Director. Under the direction of Maestro Novo since 2005, the ASO has experienced unprecedented artistic growth and enthusiastic reviews from audiences, press and music critics.
“It is a tremendous coup for our organization and the community that Maestro Novo will continue his career here in Annapolis,” remarks Katharene Poston Snavely, ASO Executive Director. “He is a great asset to not only the orchestra but to the arts community at large.”
Says ASO Chairman Harley Flack, “José-Luis has made such an impact on the orchestra. I am excited that it will remain under his artistic direction for the next five years. The ASO board has tremendous confidence in his vision and leadership, as does our audience.”
The ASO has seen a significant increase in subscriptions and financial support over the past few seasons. Snavely credits much of this success to Novo. “Having someone as talented as José-Luis at the helm of the Annapolis Symphony Orchestra is a gift and to have someone who is equally as engaging, forward-thinking and community-minded is rare.”
“It has been a professional and personal pleasure to work with Maestro Novo. The musicians respect him immensely and it shows in their performance,” says Netanel Draiblate, ASO Concertmaster.
Some of the ASO’s highlights during Maestro Novo’s tenure include a 2006 debut concert appearance at Strathmore Hall, a 2008 ASCAP Adventurous Programming Award, a national broadcast on NPR’s Performance Today, a 2012 return appearance at the Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center with world-renowned mezzo-soprano Denyce Graves for the ASO’s 50th Anniversary Gala Concert, and the recent launching of the ASO’s first commercial CD commemorating the 300th anniversary of the signing of Annapolis’ Royal Charter. In 2011, the ASO was one of five orchestras nationwide awarded the prestigious Music Alive grant to support a two year residency with Latin Grammy Award Winning composer, Gabriela Lena Frank. Additionally, the League of American Orchestras recognized the ASO’s potential and selected it nationwide as one of only five participants in the Institutional Vision Leadership Initiative two-year seminar.
“I am thrilled to keep working with this incredibly talented group of musicians and continue building on the many accomplishments we have shared thus far. The ASO is an arts organization of which to be proud, and I am honored it has renewed its trust in my artistic leadership,” says José-Luis Novo.
The ASO recently announced its 2013-2014 season which kicks off Labor Day weekend with the annual free, family-friendly Lexus Pops in the Park concert. The new season also includes a five-concert Lexus Classic Series featuring such A-list soloists as Peter Serkin and Jon Nakamatsu, a holiday concert in December 2013 and a children’s concert in February 2014. Complete 2013-2014 season details can be found here: http://www.annapolissymphony.org/2013-2014-season
In addition to its concert schedule, the ASO will continue to expand its community education programs within area schools and its “Music Heals” program partnerships with local health and wellness-focused organizations and providers.
For more information on Music Director José-Luis Novo, click here. For more information on the Annapolis Symphony Orchestra, visit www.annapolissymphony.org or call 410-269-1132.
