Delaware Symphony Orchestra to offer video-on-demand season
In response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the Delaware Symphony Orchestra has opted to present its upcoming 2020-21 season in a video-on-demand format for the safety of both patrons and musicians.
“Though the method of delivery will be completely new for us, the music will be the same – from classics to lesser-known gems, the season will have the appeal of an in-person one without any of the risks,” said Music Director David Amado.
The DSO will present a Chamber Series of three programs and a Classics Series consisting of six programs, with a diverse and captivating repertoire featuring both classic and modern masters. Digital season subscriptions and single tickets are available for purchase at delawaresymphony.org.
“As early as last March, we understood that the 2020-21 season would not look anything like normal,” said Executive Director J.C. Barker. “Our first step was to move the bulk of our season past the beginning of January 2021. We have since watched closely and listened to the science as the virus has progressed.”
All nine productions of the 2020-21 season will be presented in a video-on-demand format. Ticket holders and their household will receive a unique link to view the concert as soon as it premieres. They will also be able to view the performance multiple times for 30 days after it goes live.
“Crafting the season while slaloming through the limits and vagaries created by the pandemic has been a puzzle. But I am thrilled at the results,” said Amado. “The season is wide-ranging and appealing – old works and new, with music written for the concert hall, the ballet stage, and even the silver screen.”
Strict adherence to all health recommendations will be the cornerstone this year. Throughout months of planning, the multiple conversations among musicians, board, and staff established a set of guidelines that the DSO believes will keep everyone safe during the season.
"I'm overwhelmed with gratitude for our musicians, board, staff, and patrons for their efforts – and their patience – while we worked through all of this,” said Barker. “The past few months, we have been consumed with ideas, thoughts, and emotions running the gamut as we sought a steady focus and cautious forward motion. I believe that we have succeeded.”
“We are so excited to get back to performing for our wonderful DSO audience,” said James Finegan, DSO Players' Committee chair. “This has been a difficult time for many musicians, and we absolutely miss the energy and satisfaction that come from performing for an audience. For most of us, this has been the longest break from performing that we've ever experienced. While this season will look a little different, it will give us a chance to perform some new and exciting repertoire.”
"Our goal is not to reinvent the wheel, but to give our patrons great concerts that they can enjoy without any anxiety,” said Barker. “We also sought to provide our musicians with work in the safest possible environment during these months, so that the DSO could remain solvent – and stronger than ever – going into the 2021-22 season. If there was ever a time that we need the support of our loyal patrons, now is the time. And if there was ever a time that our community needs the magic of the arts to help lift our spirits, now is that time, too."
