blog

Orchestra, chorus to shine spotlight on Broadway

Thu, 03 May 2012 07:34:06 -0700

The Sheboygan Symphony Orchestra and Chorus will present "Give My Regards to Broadway" at 7:30 p.m. May 12 at the Stefanie H. Weill Center for the Performing Arts, 826 N. Eighth St., Sheboygan.

Dr. Kevin R. McMahon will conduct the orchestra, while the chorus is under the direction of Janet L. Herrick. The program, which features a variety of classic and contemporary show tunes, will feature 22 songs from 15 shows.

"The Sheboygan Symphony Orchestra, Chorus and soloists will traverse almost 100 years of Broadway music, stretching from 1904 to 2003," McMahon said in a news release.

Musical composers include Cole Porter, Richard Rodgers and Leonard Bernstein. Shows represented include favorites like "Guys and Dolls," "Oklahoma," "The Sound of Music," "Evita" and "Les Miserables." There also will be an arrangement of music from "The Lion King" written by Jonathan Schwabe.

"This concert program includes music from shows that define America over the past century, including our mythologies, issues of race and ethnicity, exoticism and World War II" McMahon said. "All told, the concert will be a fun, lovely and nice evening for our audience."

Vocal soloists will include A.J. Grulkowski, Clarissa Reis, Cody Linder, David Neese, Emily Rendall-Araujo, Fabian Qamar, Fred Hollander, Frederick Strassburger, Jeff Britton, Joelle Barrett, Judy Walkenhorst, Kathryn Basler, Kristal Klemme, Lisa Landwehr, Michael Gartman, Pat Radovan, Shannon Meulbroek, Stephanie Wasmer, Stephanie Weeden and Tim Van Zeeland.

Tickets cost $39, $35, $30 and $22, and $15 for students. For tickets, call 920-452-1985. As long as tickets remain, they'll also will be available at the box office, which will open two hours before the concert.

The Interludes pre-concert talk, a free event for concert ticket holders, will be held at 806 N. Eighth St. Space is limited, and an RSVP is required. For more information, email vicki@sheboygansymphony.org or call 920-452-1985.

The concert is sponsored by the Frank G. and Frieda K. Brotz Family Foundation, Inc. Interludes is sponsored by the Sheboygan Symphony Carolers.

Sheboygan Area Youth Symphony concludes 30th season with concert today

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 09:53:38 -0700

Anna Mancl loves to play her cello. The North High School sophomore has designs on a career in music, but for now she's got the Sheboygan Area Youth Symphony.

"I'd love to play in adult symphonies my whole life," said Mancl, 16. "This gets us prepared for it, which is really nice. It gives us an opportunity to see what that's like at a young age."

The Sheboygan Area Youth Symphony is closing out its 30th season at 3 p.m. today, with a concert at the Stefanie H. Weill Center, 826 N. Eighth St., for the Performing Arts.

The program, which includes some popular music, including music from the most recent Harry Potter movie as well as classics such as "Jupiter" from Gustav Holst's "The Planets" Suite, was chosen by Youth Symphony conductor Walter Rich.

"The purpose of this orchestra is to provide enrichment for the young musicians in the area," he said.

"I try to pick music that is challenging for the students and also enjoyable for them to play, and in addition to that I try to pick music that will be enjoyable for our audiences to hear."

Debbie Williamson, concertmaster of the Sheboygan Symphony Orchestra, was a co-founder of the Youth Symphony 30 years ago and served as solo conductor for 15 years.

"I'd always played in youth symphonies, many of them, in my own youth," Williamson said. "I know the experience of youth symphonies and how important it is. Kids don't get the opportunity to play in full orchestras in a school situation. It's a unique experience because kids could play in the full group."

Musicians in the Sheboygan Area Youth Symphony are required to participate in whatever ensemble is offered at their school.

"We don't want them to leave the band or orchestra at school and join the youth symphony instead," Williamson said.

The connection between the adult Sheboygan Symphony and the youth symphony is important and ongoing, Williamson said.

"I think it's great because a lot of people have been influenced by this throughout the years, a lot of the young musicians," she said. "It's been very important not only to the youth symphony but to adult symphony as well. We have quite a few kids play in the adult orchestra. We have some that have gone to college and come back and played with the symphony."

Mancl said one of the fun parts of being in the youth symphony is visiting area middle schools to recruit new members.

Although most of the organization's musicians are extremely busy, it's worth it, she said.

"All of us have private lessons, I teach too, all of us have orchestra too," Mancl said. "It's just a lot of fun, so it doesn't feel like a lot. If rehearsals were boring we wouldn't do all this stuff. They're a lot of fun."

Sheboygan Symphony Orchestra plans auditions for several sections

Mon, 09 Apr 2012 07:14:27 -0700

The Sheboygan Symphony Orchestra will hold auditions for viola, cello, third flute/piccolo, principal string bass and tuba on Tuesday, May 1, from 4 to 6:30 p.m.

Those interested in auditioning should prepare a solo of your choice equivalent to or beyond the standards of the Wisconsin School Music Association Class A repertoire list. Refer to the Sheboygan Symphony Orchestra website for the required excerpts and to fill out an audition form. Contact the symphony office if you need a copy of an excerpt.

Auditions will be held at the Stefanie H. Weill Center for the Performing Arts. To schedule an audition time, contact the Symphony Business Office at 920-452-1985 or email business@sheboygansymphony.org.

The Sheboygan Symphony Orchestra is directed by Kevin McMahon and was established in in 1918. Today the orchestra has a roster of 68 musicians.

The orchestra rehearses weekly on Tuesday evenings from 7 to 10 p.m. at the Weill Center. It performs a five-concert subscription series, holiday concert and a children's concert each year.

The Symphony Chorus and Symphony Singers are affiliated with the Symphony Orchestra. The Symphony Chorus is a 100-plus voice chorus directed by Janet L. Herrick, associate professor of music at Lakeland College. The orchestra also jointly sponsors the Sheboygan Area Youth Symphony with the Sheboygan Area School District.

For more information on the Sheboygan Symphony and other audition opportunities, visit the website at www.sheboygansymphony.org.

Letters: Hats off to Sheboygan Symphony for outstanding performance

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 07:29:38 -0700

I am writing to congratulate the Sheboygan Symphony on its spectacular performance March 10 of "A Tribute to the Music of John Williams."

From the moment Maestro Kevin McMahon took the podium to read a letter from John Williams himself wishing the orchestra well during its performance of his music, the sellout crowd was mesmerized by the magical music Williams created for movies including "Schindler's List," "Jurassic Park," "Raiders of the Lost Ark" and "Star Wars.:

It is such a privilege for a community this size to have a symphony of this caliber, and I look forward to many more such captivating performances.

Bravo.

Jenny Brault

Sheboygan

Letters: Music plays important role of everyone's life

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 07:04:11 -0700

Bravo to the Sheboygan Symphony Orchestra for its spectacular "Tribute to John Williams" Concert recently.

The Weill Center was almost sold out for this concert of well known, and much loved music by one of America's most famous film composers.

I can't say enough positive things about the orchestra and its sound. Maestro Kevin McMahon is obviously enjoying his work with the orchestra and I for one am so glad he is on the podium for each symphony concert.

All the musicians deserve Sheboygan's appreciation and applause.

Bravo also to Sargento Foods for sponsoring the children's concert on March 14. Thank you for supporting this wonderful musical event for Sheboygan county fourth-grade students. I know that my fourth-grade general music students will never forget their Sheboygan Symphony experience. We had such valuable learning experiences leading up to the concert and the looks on the students' faces and watching them during the orchestra's excellent performance was unforgettable.

Many of my students remarked that the orchestra sounded exactly like the music from the movies, such as "Star Wars" and "Indiana Jones."

March is Music in our Schools Month and it seems that many people forget the importance of music in a child's education. In these times of standardized and high-stakes tests, let us remember that we are educating human beings, who need to be able to appreciate beauty, express emotions, and feel the whole spectrum of human emotions.

Music touches those emotions in ways that no other subject can.

Studying music enhances a child's education and the discipline, focus, and self-confidence that music students develop in learning their craft will carry over into other aspects of their education.

Thank you again to the Sheboygan Symphony and Sargento for bringing wonderful music to our ears and hearts.

Laurie Gleim

Sheboygan

Concertmaster will conduct free master class March 9

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 11:28:09 -0800

Debbie Williamson, concertmaster of the Sheboygan Symphony Orchestra and violin soloist for the symphony's March 10 concert, will conduct a free master class on Friday, March 9, between 4 and 5 p.m. at the Stefanie H. Weill Center for the Performing Arts.

The master class will be a hands-on violin technique workshop geared to Sheboygan Area Youth Symphony students. String teachers in the Sheboygan area and Sheboygan Symphony violinists are invited to attend. The workshop is open to the public, including both musicians and non-musicians. Observers are welcome and do not need to bring a violin to be a part of the audience.

All violin and viola students in the Youth Symphony (firsts and seconds) are invited to bring their instrument and attend the class; no music is needed. The class will cover both basic and advanced violin techniques. Williamson will cover specifics such as articulations, shifting positions, bow techniques, different types of tone quality and how to ultimately achieve the desired sound.

The Sheboygan Symphony Orchestra Guest Artist Master Class Series is a collaborative effort between the symphony and Lakeland College. The series is free to the participating student and open to the public for observation. To observe or participate, contact the symphony office at 920-452-1985 or e-mail business@sheboygansymphony.org.

Williamson has served as concertmaster for 25 years. She and Louis Schmidt founded the Youth Symphony in 1982 .

Symphony to salute movie music magic of John Williams

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 10:30:41 -0800

The Sheboygan Symphony Orchestra promises a monster concert Saturday, March 10, when it showcases the music of John Williams, one of the most popular and successful modern American composers.

Williams composed the music and served as music director for nearly 80 films. The symphony will perform "The Star Wars Suite," "Highlights from 'Jurassic Park,'" and the "Raiders March" from "Raiders of the Lost Ark." The orchestra also will perform three pieces from "Schindler's List," which earned Williams both an Oscar and a Grammy.

The 100-plus voice Symphony Chorus will join the orchestra for a rendition of "Hymn to the Fallen" from "Saving Private Ryan."

A personal greeting from Williams will be presented to the Sheboygan Symphony Orchestra and the audience at the concert Saturday evening

Symphony concertmaster Debbie Williamson will be violin guest artist. Williamson is in her 29th year as concertmaster here and continues to perform chamber and orchestra music as well. Williamson founded the Sheboygan Symphony String Quartet and performed at hundreds of events over the past 18 years.

Williamson also is co-founder of the Sheboygan Area Youth Symphony and had conducted the group for 15 years. Williamson has had extensive string teaching experience in the Sheboygan area, including beginning strings at Wilson and Longfellow schools, serving as director of the orchestra program at South High School and maintaining a home studio for private violin instruction. A frequent adjudicator at WSMA District and State music festivals, she serves on the faculty at Lakeland College.

Job Announcement for Music Director/Conductor of the Sheboygan Area Youth Symphony

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 11:15:46 -0800

Job Title:  Youth Symphony Conductor(s)

Organization/Orchestra Name:   Sheboygan Area Youth Symphony

Position:  Music Director/Conductor(s)

Duties and Responsibilities:  Choose repertoire; prepare and conduct a weekly rehearsal; conduct 3 concert programs; audition new members. Lead and share in an organizational vision. Conduct an annual concert tour of schools in the county. Be responsible for organizing concerto competition and sectional rehearsals. Consult with SSO Board and Music Director on policies and growth of the orchestral program.  Interact closely with parents’ organization. Help with budgeting.  Participate in fundraising for the SAYS.  Coordinate periodic out of area orchestra trip.

Requirements:  High level of conducting skill and experience.  Experience in education and programming music for young musicians.  Demonstrate leadership and a commitment to education. Demonstrate ability in outstanding rehearsal technique and motivation of young musicians.  Excellent organizational skills.

Compensation: commensurate with service requirements
Contract position

Organization Description:  The Sheboygan Area Youth Symphony is affiliated with and administered by the Sheboygan Symphony Orchestra.  It was established in 1981 to provide superior orchestral, educational and performing opportunities to the young people in Sheboygan and the surrounding areas.  This experience is designed to supplement the instruction received in the public school orchestra programs.  Currently the Sheboygan Area Youth Symphony is comprised of students ranging from 6th grade to 12th grade.  The orchestra performs a wide range of repertoire from classical to pops.

Location:  Sheboygan, WI

Date Posted:  2/8/12
Application Deadline:  3/31/12

Contact Name:  Mary Schallhorn, Managing Director
Contact Email:  mary@sheboygansymphony.org
Contact Phone:  920-452-1985
Contact Fax:  920-452-0165

Application Procedure:  Please submit resume, letter of application, and references.  No recordings at this time.

Mail applications to:
Mary Schallhorn, Managing Director
Sheboygan Symphony Orchestra
921 North 8th Street, Suite 208

Sheboygan, WI 53081
ATTN: Youth Symphony Conductor Search

Click here to download a PDF version of the posting

Symphony to focus on the classics for Feb. 4 concert

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 12:50:59 -0800

The Sheboygan Symphony Feb. 4 midwinter concert promises to be a "feast for the ears" with the theme "Focus on the Classics."

Conductor Kevin McMahon said, "This program is ideal for veteran concertgoers or those that might be new to symphony events. The program includes two popular and well-loved traditional orchestral works, the Beethoven Piano Concerto No. 5 "Emperor" and Tchaikovsky's Symphony No. 4.

"The Beethoven Piano Concerto was completed in 1809, his fifth and last in the concerto genre. That year was marked with the occupation of Vienna by Napoleon's soldiers. Beethoven's music traverses an expansive first movement, a serene and devout second movement and finally a spirited third movement."

Tchaikovsky's Symphony No. 4 is among the works of this composer that directly reflect his life.

"The work sounds ideas about fate, turbulence and torment to joyful musings over a glass of wine," McMahon said. "Military bands pass, folk songs are heard and a joyful finale caps off this perennial favorite."

Guest pianist Li-shan Hung has appeared both as a soloist and a chamber musician internationally. Besides Carnegie's Weill Recital Hall, she has performed in many venues; among them Rachmaninoff Hall in Moscow, Shriver Hall Concert Series in Baltimore, Orpheus Classical Music Series in Chicago, Sejong Cultural Arts Center in Seoul, Korea, and the National Recital Hall in Taipei.

Hung also has performed as a soloist with many orchestras, such as Taipei Symphony Orchestra, Stockton Symphony, Palo Alto Philharmonic, Illinois Valley Symphony and Hunan Symphony in China. She has collaborated with many distinguished artists and conductors, including Menahem Pressler, Bin Huang and Peter Jaffe.

Since 2008, Hung has been on the piano faculty at the MasterWorks Festival. A native of Taiwan, she received her bachelor's degree from National Taiwan Normal University. She obtained her master's and doctorate from Peabody Conservatory at Johns Hopkins University, where she studied with the pianist Ann Schein, who was a pupil of the Arthur Rubinstein.

Want to join orchestra on stage for concert?

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 10:58:05 -0800

SSO program offers the opportunity

Many symphony orchestra patrons have wondered what it would be like to enjoy the concert on stage where the music happens.

Now they will have their chance.

The Sheboygan Symphony Orchestra is offering the Guest Orchestra Member Program that will allow music lovers to get the very best seat in the house — on stage with the musicians.

A $500 tax-deductible gift to the orchestra will guarantee participation in the Guest Orchestra Member Program for either the Feb. 4 or March 10 concert. Up to four guests will be highlighted on stage for each concert.

The Feb. 4 concert will focus on the classics and offers an evening of Beethoven and Tchaikovsky. Guest artist Li-shan Hung will perform Beethoven's Piano Concerto No. 5.

The music of popular American composer John Williams will be showcased at the March 10 concert. The symphony's concertmaster, Debbie Williamson, will be featured as soloist. Some of the pieces that will be heard in the program are highlights from "Jurassic Park," "The Raiders March from Raiders of the Lost Ark" and "Star Wars Suite."

For more information about the Guest Orchestra Member Program or concerts, call 920-452-1985 or visit www.sheboygansymphony.org.

Sheboygan Area Youth Symphony Members will compete for scholarship

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 08:17:30 -0800

The Sheboygan Area Youth Symphony is providing an opportunity for its members to compete in a competition for scholarship funds and perform at the Sheboygan Symphony's March Children's Concert.

The competition will be held Saturday, Jan. 14, from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. at First United Lutheran Church.

The winning symphony member will receive the $300 Walter and Lisa Rich scholarship award. The winner also may perform with the Sheboygan Symphony Orchestra at the March Children's concert.

All members of the Youth Symphony who participated in at least two trimesters with the orchestra during the 2011-12 season were invited to compete. Previous winners are not eligible in consecutive years on the same instrument.

The competition is open to the public, with the exception of competition participants.

The Youth Symphony is a full orchestra made up of 70 students from 12 Sheboygan county communities. They perform three public concerts each season as well as educational concert tours and long distance trips.

The Orchestra is co-sponsored by the Sheboygan Symphony Orchestra and the Sheboygan Area School District.

For more information about the Young Music Competition, call the Sheboygan Symphony Office at 920-452-1985.

Symphony, chorus will join again for 'Messiah'

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 10:02:03 -0800

"Messiah," Handel's masterwork, will be performed by the Sheboygan Symphony Orchestra, Chorus and members of the Lakeland College Concert Choir at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 10, at the Stefanie H. Weill Center for the Performing Arts.

Music director and conductor Kevin McMahon will lead the orchestra and chorus. The Sheboygan Symphony Chorus and Lakeland College Concert Choir are under the direction of Janet L. Herrick, professor of music at Lakeland College.

"Messiah" was composed in 1741, with Handel writing the entire work in a 24-day spurt from Aug. 22 until Sept. 14.

Consistent with the format of oratorios, "Messiah" is divided into three parts, which represent Christ's birth, death and resurrection, each section containing a series of arias and choruses.

"Since the opening night of Messiah in 1742, this sublime, tender and majestic work, with moving words and story, has elevated, charmed and transported audiences," McMahon said. "The work was initially written as a benefit concert for the poor and distressed in a debtor's prison, a charitable infirmary and for a hospital. This landmark work in music history is filled with many recognizable numbers, not least of which is the Hallelujah Chorus."

Soloists will be drawn from members of the Symphony Chorus and the Lakeland College Concert Choir. This year, soloists include Joelle Barrett, Jeff Britton, Kathleen Erdmann, Kristal Klemme, Cody Linder, Shannon Muelbroek, Fabian Qamar, Clarissa Reis, Emily Rendall-Araujo, Glynnis Shircel, Tim VanZeeland and Stephanie Weeden.

Sheboygan Symphony concert will bounce from Baroque beat to Latin heat

Wed, 02 Nov 2011 11:42:35 -0700

The Sheboygan Symphony Orchestra will mix sultry Latin music, a popular contemporary number and classic Mozart and Strauss at its Saturday, Nov. 12 concert.

"For those who enjoy the Handel's 'Messiah' or Vivaldi's 'The Seasons,' Richard Strauss' 'Dance Suite after Couperin' will be another Baroque treat," said conductor Kevin McMahon.

James Smith, professor of instrumental conducting at the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Music,will perform the Mozart "Clarinet Concerto."

The "south of the border" contribution will come from the "Sinfonia India" of Carlos Chavez and with Mexican folk music in the "El Salon Mexico" by Aaron Copland.

The concert concludes with Ravel's "Bolero," music familiar from the movie "10" starring Dudley Moore and Bo Derek.

Smith conducts the University Symphony Orchestra and Chamber Orchestra while serving as music director of the University Opera.

In addition, he conducts the University's Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band and Youth Symphony Orchestras.

Smith holds a graduate degree from the Cleveland Institute of Music. He has performed with the Empire Sinfonietta in New York City, the Dallas Symphony Orchestra and the Miami Philharmonic.

While in New York, he appeared as soloist with the Empire Sinfonietta, performing Copland's "Clarinet Concerto," with Copland conducting.

Eigth Notes

The concert begins at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 12, at the Stefanie H. Weill Center for the Performing Arts.

Ticket prices are $39, $35, $30, $22 and $15 for students. Call the Symphony Office at 920-452-1985. Tickets also are available in the box office two hours prior to concert.

This concert is sponsored by Bank First National, Highland House Restaurant & Morgan Stanley.

The Interludes Pre-Concert talk begins at 6:15 p.m. It is a free event for concert ticket holders. Space is limited and an R.S.V.P is required. For more information, email business@sheboygansymphony.org or call 920-452-1985.

Sheboygan Symphony opening concert marks 10 years of music at Weill Center

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 14:13:14 -0700

The Sheboygan Symphony Orchestra unwraps its 2011-12 season Saturday, Oct. 8

"Opening concerts of a new season are always celebratory and the Sheboygan Symphony Orchestra's is especially so, said conductor and music director Kevin McMahon. "The program marks not one anniversary, but four. Music by Franz Liszt celebrates the 200th year of his birth. American composer Wallingford Riegger is remembered on the 50th anniversary of his death.

"Another American composer Michael Torke, originally from Wisconsin, is celebrating a 50th birthday. Even closer to home, the Sheboygan Symphony Orchestra celebrates the 10th anniversary of the opening of the Weill Center and the music that was played at that time."

The concert opens with music of Richard Strauss, the opening moments from the tone poem "Also Sprach Zarathustra" (well-known from the movie "2001: A Space Odyssey), the same music that was performed 10 years ago at the orchestra's first concert in the newly renovated Weill Center.

The program continues with Torke's composition "Javelin," a piece written to celebrate the Atlanta Symphony's 50th anniversary and commissioned by the Atlanta Committee for the Olympic Games Cultural Olympiad for the 1996 Olympics.

From this point forward, each selection contains some element of dance music. Riegger's "Dance Rhythms" was written for the Cincinnati Symphony and its then conductor Thor Johnson.

The symphony then welcomes guest artist Christopher Taylor, who will perform the tour de force, Liszt's "Totentanz" (Death Dance). "This work is a remarkable set of variations on the Gregorian plain chant, "Dies Irae" (Day of Wrath)," McMahon said. "The work is dedicated to the conductor and pianist Hans von Bulow."

Taylor is an internationally acclaimed concert pianist who has performed throughout Europe, Korea, the Philippines and the Caribbean. At home in the U.S., he has appeared with such orchestras as the New York Philharmonic, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Detroit Symphony, St. Louis Symphony, Atlanta Symphony, Houston Symphony and Boston Pops and has toured with the Polish Chamber Philharmonic.

As a soloist he has performed in such venues as New York's Carnegie and Alice Tully halls, Washington's Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, the Ravinia and Aspen festivals and dozens of others.

Taylor is professor of piano at the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Music.

The orchestra caps its opening performance with a presentation of Antonin Dvorak's Symphony No. 6, written for the Vienna Philharmonic and their conductor Hans Richter.

Sheboygan Symphony Chorus Auditions

Thu, 01 Sep 2011 10:12:45 -0700

SSO ANNOUNCES AUDITIONS FOR THE SYMPHONY CHORUS

7:00 pm – 9:30 pm Monday, September 12, 2011

The Sheboygan Symphony Chorus, established in 1994, is currently auditioning permanent positions for all voices. Auditions will be held Monday, September 12^th at the Sheboygan Symphony Business Office, 921 North 8^th Street.

The Sheboygan Symphony Chorus rehearses on Monday evenings from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm at First United Lutheran. Each season they perform with the Orchestra for one concert along with a holiday show. This season the chorus will perform the treasured Handel’s Messiah on December 10^th. Additionally they will be performing during the March 10^th concert, A Tribute to the Music of John Williams, and will end the season on May 12^th with Give My Regards to Broadway.

Professor Janet L. Herrick, Chorus Conductor, stated that candidates may prepare a short song for the audition or she will assign a piece for them. All types of music are welcome. For complete audition information go to sheboygansymphony.org. Please call 920-452-1985 to schedule a time for your audition.

Herrick emphasized, “Though we do have regional performers join us, we are first and foremost proud to be a chorus built from the finest city and county musicians.”

No one-note teacher: Cathy Perronne's students credit her with more than music lessons

Sat, 27 Aug 2011 12:00:00 -0700

Music teacher Cathy Perronne listens carefully to Caitlynn Winkler

For more than 20 years, Cathy Perronne of Hingham has been offering private flute and piccolo lessons to students throughout Sheboygan County.

A member of the Sheboygan Symphony Orchestra, a frequent participant in Sheboygan Theatre Company shows and an instructor for Silver Lake College's Music for Tots program, Perronne stays busy. But her hectic schedule does not prevent her from giving 100 percent to her students.

"She is honestly one of the most genuinely nice people I know," said Caitlynn Winkler of Sheboygan Falls, 18, who will be freshman at Lawrence University in Appleton this fall and has been a student of Perronne's since fourth grade. "She treats everyone with respect and caring and is genuinely excited to see you.

"I had been interested in playing the flute for quite a while. (My parents) debated on who to go with and finally decided on Cathy, and she has been amazing. She is just incredible. My parents joke around that she is just like a mother. She has taught me everything I know. She has taught me so much beyond music, she is like a life teacher, a mentor."

Caitlynn's mother, Carrie, is a music teacher at Sheboygan Falls Middle School and a member of the Sheboygan Symphony, so she can appreciate how much Perronne goes above and beyond.

"Her attention to the flute player's 'daily diet' of practice exercises (that are) needed to be a successful flute player is impeccable," Carrie said. "The time she spends looking for just the right solo to perform at festival is truly incredible.

"When you take lessons from Cathy Perronne, you learn more than just the flute. She is the entire package, and she is an amazing lady."

Perronne, 57, has been known to attend her students' district and state festivals and competitions. "It shows that you are interested" in more than just studio practices, Perronne said.

Another flute student, Katie Evraets, a senior at Sheboygan North High School, said about Perronne: "She knows so much about music. She's really a great teacher. She is very dedicated to it and loves it so much and it reflects on her teaching." Katie has been taking lessons with Perronne since fifth grade.

Perronne believes it takes more than raw talent to advance top-notch music students. It takes drive, enthusiasm, love, passion and self motivation.

"It's helping them be the best they can be and to be their own teacher, to give them those tools and guide them so that when they are working on their own, they can ask the questions they ask in lessons," Perronne said. "Hopefully, the things I ask my students they are thinking about at home, that they are thinking on a deeper level."

Perronne began playing flute in the fifth grade in her hometown of West Bend and later went on to earn a degree in music education for grades kindergarten through 12. When she relocated to Sheboygan, Perronne began offering private flute lessons from her home, giving her time to care for her daughter. She has had students from throughout Sheboygan County's public and private schools.

Now operating out of her home in Hingham, Perronne was concerned about the location, but she didn't lose any students along the way.

"I thought for sure I would have a small number of students drop off and be starting all over again, but they all followed," she said.

Perronne continues to learn more about music herself.

"You are always learning from your kids," said Perronne, who takes private lessons herself to improve her technique. "I've probably had more lessons in my adult life than I did when I was in school. You are always picking up other things from flutists."

Sarah Beardsley, a senior at Oostburg High School, has been studying with Perronne for five years. "She always gives very helpful tips to improve my technique and makes practices fun and is always more than happy to help when something isn't working out, to make my playing abilities better." Beardsley said. Perronne has attended some of Beardsley's winter and spring concerts as well as solo ensemble events. Beardsley has been to state solo competitions three times.

Beardsley has taken away life lessons from Perronne: "Just to never give up if something is difficult, just keep working at it and eventually you will get it."

Evraets echoed those sentiments: "It helped my self-esteem and my organization skills and stuff. It helped me improve."

Having grown up in a theater family, Perronne draws on that experience in her instruction, encouraging her students to draw on emotions and transform their music to reflect their own personality.

According to Caitlynn, once you get down the basics of learning finger positions and how to read music, then the fun begins.

"That is when you work on the musicality of it, working on the notes and the rhythms, getting it technically right and then pouring in your own emotions and personality, and that is when you start having fun with it, it brings you to the next level."

Caitlynn and Perronne have performed duets at private functions and have a gig later this year at a wedding for a former student of Perronne. Those relationships have come about because of the time and energy Perronne invests in her students.

"It's really building that special bond with students that helps you conquer so many other things," Perronne said. "That you are not only getting deeper into the music, but you are a little part of their life as well, so I'm curious about what's going on in school and what's happening. They are not just a person in the door, you collect a check and bye-bye."

From the Sheboygan Press August 27, 2011

SHEBOYGAN AREA YOUTH SYMPHONY ANNOUNCES AUDITIONS FOR THE 2011-2012 SEASON

Tue, 23 Aug 2011 09:48:22 -0700

SHEBOYGAN AREA YOUTH SYMPHONY ANNOUNCES AUDITIONS FOR THE 2011-2012 SEASON

Saturday, September 10th 10:00 AM – 1:00 P.M. Sheboygan Symphony Orchestra Office

The Sheboygan Area Youth Symphony invites all area Middle and High School aged musicians from the Sheboygan County Area to consider auditioning for a position on the Youth Symphony. All string, woodwind, brass and percussion musicians who are students at any Sheboygan County middle or high school as well as home-schooled students are eligible to audition.

Student musicians are asked to call the Sheboygan Symphony Office at 452-1985 for an appointment. Interested candidates are requested to prepare a solo of the difficulty level of the WSMA Class A or B list. Accompanists are not required. String students should perform a solo that includes shifting to the upper positions and third position work. Percussion students should call the Sheboygan Symphony Orchestra office at 920- 452-1985 to arrange an audition.

The Sheboygan Area Youth Symphony rehearses weekly from September to April and performs 3 public concerts each season, at the end of each trimester. Members of the Sheboygan Area Youth Symphony travel to area schools in the spring to perform concerts for students and staff. In the spring of 2012, members will have the opportunity to perform in a major North American city to polish their skills as musicians.

The Sheboygan Area Youth Symphony was founded in 1982 as a full orchestra. Today the group, under the direction of Dr. Walter H. Rich, celebrating its 30th anniversary, has grown to over 80 musicians with members representing 14 different communities and 17 different schools around the Sheboygan County.

Eighth Notes

1. Fall auditions for the 2011-2012 season will take place Saturday, September 10th. For more information, please call the Sheboygan Symphony Office at 920-452-1985.

Download a Printable PDF Version

JUDY VANCALLIGAN, SHEBOYGAN SYMPHONY CELLIST, RETIRING AFTER 53 YEARS

Tue, 16 Aug 2011 09:45:10 -0700

JUDY VANCALLIGAN, SHEBOYGAN SYMPHONY CELLIST, RETIRING AFTER 53 YEARS

Long time cello player with the Sheboygan Symphony, Judy VanCalligan, has decided that she will no longer be able to perform with the organization. VanCalligan stated, “It has been a privilege to be part of this great group for so long; I loved every minute of it. And this last year with Kevin McMahon was special. However, we will be out of town for most of the concerts so I feel it is time to officially close my tenure with this wonderful organization. I will miss everyone!”

For VanCalligan the Symphony was a family affair. She explained, “I met my husband, also a cello player, through the Sheboygan Symphony. In addition my father, William Nickel, and sister, Ruth Siegworth, were cello players with the SSO and my father also served as treasurer of the board for many years.” Beyond playing cello, VanCalligan also served the organization as president of the players and member of the board of directors.

VanCalligan started playing with the Sheboygan Symphony (then called the Sheboygan Civic Orchestra) when she was a sophomore in high school. She mused, “This year we are celebrating our 50th class reunion so it has been a long time since I started playing with the Sheboygan Symphony. The first director I player under was Otto Huettner then Don Radmer, Bill Block, Manuel Prestamo, Guy Bordo, Andrews Sill and Kevin McMahon. We also had many guest conductors, each one bringing their own special talent and gift to the symphony. Over the years we had many outstanding soloists as well. I feel blessed to have been part of the Sheboygan Symphony for over 50 years.”

Brian Hanes is leaving his position as principal trumpet chair. Playing with the SSO for 23 years, Hanes relocated to Green Bay since he accepted the position as Superintendent of the Ashwaubenon School District. Hanes shared, “Over the years I have felt an appreciation to be part of this esteemed organization. In addition, performing in the renovated Weill Center is a great blessing; its true splendor evidenced by the outward surprise of the many guest artists as they react to the beauty of their surroundings. It is a testament to the many people and companies involved in the restoration of this beautiful facility.” What’s next for Hanes in the musical arena? He stated, “I have been asked to play a solo with the high school band and I am looking forward to supporting the SSO from the other side of the stage. It will be especially sweet hearing my wife, Jill, principal clarinet, play with the orchestra.”

Martha Clarke, who has played flute and piccolo for the past 15 years, has announced that she will be retiring from the organization. She and her husband have relocated to Albuquerque, New Mexico. Though she was on a leave of absence from the Sheboygan Symphony for the past year, she and her husband have decided to remain in New Mexico for a couple more years since he is employed with an architectural engineering firm, WHPacific. Clarke stated, “I will always hold dear the wonderful musicians and exciting memories of creating music together.”

The Sheboygan Symphony bids them farewell and wishes them great success in their future endeavors.

The Sheboygan Symphony is actively seeking cello players from the Sheboygan County area. The SSO Players receive minimal monetary compensation; however, the camaraderie with other orchestra members and joy of performing with this community-based orchestra make the experience a musical treasure.

For complete audition information go to www.sheboygansymphony.org or contact 920-452-1985. Skill level required for a successful audition may be ascertained from the web instructions which provide required audition repertoire along with directions to help you select an optimal choice to demonstrate your skill level.

Download a Printable PDF Version

SHEBOYGAN SYMPHONY UNVEILS THE NEW 2011-2012 SEASON

Thu, 28 Jul 2011 08:37:13 -0700

SHEBOYGAN SYMPHONY UNVEILS THE NEW 2011-2012 SEASON

The Sheboygan Symphony Orchestra promises to provide an exciting musical journey which will unfold throughout the new season. Concerts will showcase an over-arching theme celebrating American music. Time-honored masterworks of Beethoven, Tchaikovsky, Chavez, Dvorak and Mozart will be featured. Sojourn with the Sheboygan Symphony Orchestra as they turn up the heat with fiery Latin numbers, pay tribute to “The Big Apple” with Broadway favorites, and explore America with contemporary selections.

The Sheboygan Symphony Chorus, under the direction of Janet L. Herrick, will be performing some outstanding classics with the orchestra such as Handel’s Messiah, John Williams’ Hymn to the Fallen from Saving Private Ryan and a variety of Broadway favorites.

Kevin McMahon, beginning his 2nd year as Music Director/Conductor will continue working his magic to present a 93rd Season that promises to build on the fine musical tradition of the orchestra yet celebrates the adventurous spirit of the group’s superb musicians.

SEASON OPENER, Celebrate! Weill Center 10th Anniversary

Saturday, October 8, 2011

In the season opening concert, the Sheboygan Symphony Orchestra celebrates its 10th anniversary in its new home, the magnificent Stefanie H. Weill Center for the Performing Arts and its second season with Music Director/Conductor Kevin McMahon at the helm. Highlights of this concert include Strauss’ Also Sprach Zarathustra, Torke’s Javelin, Riegger’s Dance Rhythms, Liszt’s Totentanz and Dvorak’s Symphony No. 6.

Pianist Christopher Taylor will perform Totentanz by Liszt. McMahon stated, “This pianist has the expressive capacity, poise and technical wizardry to be placed among an elite group of musicians. Together with our distinguished Sheboygan Symphony, this exciting opener will surely beg for an encore.”

South of the Border
Saturday, November 12, 2011

Join us for a night of great variety. Audiences will hear classical, American and soul-stirring Latin tunes. Clarinet soloist, James Smith, will perform Mozart’s Clarinet Concerto. “Conductor and clarinetist James Smith brings a depth of experience, style, and artistry to the Weill stage,” added McMahon.

Clarinet Concerto was one of Mozart’s final completed works, and his last purely instrumental work. The Clarinet Concerto is notable for its subtle interchange between the soloist and orchestra. The evening’s repertoire also includes Ravel’s Bolero, R. Strauss’ Dance Suite after Couperin, Chavez’s Symphony No. 2 “Sinfonia india,” and Copland’s El Salon Mexico.

Messiah
Saturday, December 10, 2011

The splendor of Handel’s Messiah will resound through the Weill Center as the Sheboygan Symphony Orchestra and Symphony Chorus perform this masterwork.

The role of the chorus was prominent in Handel’s oratorios – and the large Symphony Chorus will showcase its talent in this “ultimate” classical composition on the life of the Savior. Members of the Symphony Chorus will also be featured as soloists throughout the performance.

Focus on the Classics
Saturday, February 4, 2012

Hooked on classics - this concert shows pure classical favoritism. Audiences will be treated with Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 5 “Emperor” and Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 4 as they are presented in their entirety. Pianist Li-shan Hung will perform Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 5. Impressed with her talent and style, Mc- Mahon said, “I met Li-shan Hung in Rome, Italy and she is one of the finest artists I’ve ever had the privilege of working with.”

The musical architecture of Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 4 leans toward the dark and colorful side. From the opening fanfare the hard realities of life provide a backdrop for rich echoing sounds. The urgent tempo and intensity of the music provide a powerful demonstration of “ultimate victory through strife.” Tchaikovsky’s Fourth Symphony was very popular during World War II when many community leaders had ordered orchestras to continue its performances to keep the spirits high in the cities.

A Tribute to the Music of John Williams
Saturday, March 10, 2012

One man has remained at the epicenter of modern film music for nearly a half-century; John Williams. This concert of popular American Music features Highlights from Jurassic Park, Raiders March from Raiders of the Lost Ark, Cowboy Overture and the Star Wars Suite. The Symphony Chorus joins the SSO in a dramatic rendition of Hymn to the Fallen from Saving Private Ryan. In addition, SSO Concertmaster, Debbie Williamson, will step into the spotlight for a violin solo in 3 Pieces from Schindler’s List. McMahon added, It is always a wonderful moment when soloists are chosen from the orchestra membership.”

Give My Regards to Broadway (Season Finale)
Saturday, May 12, 2012

The season closes with an extravaganza of Broadway music. The Symphony Chorus, under the direction of Janet L. Herrick, along with the Sheboygan Symphony Orchestra will fill the theatre with the sights and sounds of Broadway. The SSO assures an evening of pure musical joy.

***

The Sheboygan Symphony Orchestra is a 93-year-old symphony, established in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, in 1918. Today the Orchestra has a roster of 68 musicians. In addition, the Symphony Chorus is also affiliated with the Sheboygan Symphony Orchestra. The Symphony Chorus is an over-100-voice chorus directed by Janet L. Herrick, Professor of Music at Lakeland College. The Sheboygan Symphony Orchestra also sponsors the Sheboygan Area Youth Symphony jointly with the Sheboygan Area School District. This student organization is conducted by Walter Rich.

EIGHTH NOTES

1. Full Concert Series tickets range in price from $85 to $165 for the entire five concert season. The Mini Series, which includes three of the five regular season concerts, range in price from $55 - $95. Call the Sheboygan Symphony Business Office, 920-452-1985.

2. Individual tickets for the regular season will be available beginning September 20, 2011. Prices range from $22 to $39, students at $15.

3. Tickets prices for Messiah are $25, $15 for students, and will be available beginning September 20, 2011, by contacting the Symphony Office, 921 North 8th Street, Suite 208, Sheboygan (920-452-1985). Reserved seating.

4. Auditions for the Sheboygan Symphony Orchestra will be held throughout the summer. For more information contact the Symphony Business Office at 920-452-1985 or email business@sheboygansymphony.org.

5. Interludes Pre-Concert Series, hosted by Music Director/Conductor Kevin McMahon, is an educational program providing patrons a unique event to connect to the music. Interludes is free for ticket holders. For more information and a reservation call 920-452-1985.

6. Master Classes are offered prior to several concerts with selected guest artists for music students from Sheboygan County. Check sheboygansymphony.org or call 920-452-1985 for further Master Class information.

Download a Printable PDF Version

Job Announcement for Managing Director

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 08:15:25 -0700

Please click here for a downloadable pdf of the Managing Director Job Summary.

Job Title: Managing Director
Job Status: Full-time, Exempt Position
Category: Administrative

Job Summary:

The Managing Director is responsible for managing the human and financial resources of the Sheboygan Symphony Orchestra (SSO). The individual is selected by and reports to the SSO board of directors through the board president and is responsible and accountable for all aspects of the SSO policies set by the board of directors. The Managing Director’s artistic counterpart is the Music Director. The Managing Director and the Music Director are responsible for providing the leadership, vision and information needed to enable the board of directors to adopt constructive, progressive, sound and practical plans for the continued development of the SSO. The individual manages the organization, including development and marketing, and serves as the liaison for the organization with the general public.

Requirements: The ideal candidate will 1) Have, at minimum, a four year degree. Experience in orchestral or other arts management preferred; 2) Have experience in all areas of arts management including development, marketing, education, finance, human resources and artistic operations; 3) Have experience with youth performing arts organizations; 4) Have considerable experience working with volunteers; 5) Have knowledge of orchestral repertoire and current arts marketing trends; 6) Have a track record of exceptional organizational skill and attention to detail; 7) Have the ability to manage multiple tasks and the ability to meet deadlines under pressure; 8) Exhibit integrity, commitment to confidentiality and professionalism; 9) Possess excellent verbal and written communication and interpersonal skills; 10) Have a passion for symphonic music and music education.

Organization: Sheboygan Symphony Orchestra, Sheboygan, WI (a 501(c)(3) organization) (www.sheboygansymphony.org). The Sheboygan Symphony Orchestra, now in its 93^rd season, is the oldest continuously performing symphony orchestra in Wisconsin. The Sheboygan Symphony Orchestra, a community based, semi-professional orchestra performs 5 subscription season concerts per year.

Application procedure:

Please submit electronically a resume with cover letter describing interest, relevant qualifications and a list of at least three professional references to: volunteer@sheboygansymphony.org Subject: SSO Managing Director Search

Date posted: July 19, 2011
Application Deadline: August 15, 2011
Anticipated Start Date: Late Summer / Fall 2011