Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra

A near-capacity audience cheered on our talented RPYO musicians last Sunday at Fireside Stories, where they performed beautifully and showcased the bright future of classical music. One of the evening’s highlights? Ed Castilano, RPO bassist and alum of RPYO’s very FIRST season, who returned as a guest artist to perform a stunning concerto! Thank you to everyone who came to support these amazing young musicians! We would like to thank Pittsford Federal Credit Union for supporting our RPYO 24-25 Season.

Earlier this month, the RPO and Assistant Conductor Jherrard Hardeman delivered a moving concert at the historic Mt. Olivet Baptist Church in Corn Hill! Featuring works by groundbreaking composers William Grant Still and Florence Price, along with a captivating piece by Jherrard Hardeman himself, the night honored the rich legacy of African-American music. Special thanks to guests Dr. Crystal Sellers Battle, Rev. Dr. Rickey Harvey, and Peggy Harvey-Lee for joining us in this unforgettable evening of music, history, and community!

?? The November issue of MOVEMENTS is here! ?? https://rpo.org/movements In this edition, we celebrate 25 years of The Nutcracker with the Rochester City Ballet! Co-Artistic Director Shannon Purpura reveals that this anniversary production features fresh costumes and innovative elements. ? RPO Assistant Conductor Jherrard Hardeman steps into a teaching role at the Eastman School of Music. He’s excited to present Fireside Stories on Nov 17 at Hochstein—a program designed to inspire RPYO musicians with the power of musical storytelling. ?? We’re also thrilled about upcoming community concerts and collaborations with RIT, reinforcing our commitment to accessibility and engagement through free concerts and partnerships!

?? No puppies were harmed in the making of these costumes! The second violins showed up to Sunday’s OrKIDstra concert as characters from 101 Dalmatians—and who was the divinely wicked Cruella de Vil? Second Violin Principal Jeanelle! Thank you to everyone who came to the concert. You are the reason we do what we do, and your support brings our music to life. We can't wait to share more performances with you! Stay tuned for upcoming events! ??? https://lnkd.in/g2p-CQYt

Earlier in the month, RPO donors had the exclusive opportunity to attend "RPO to the Max," an event held in the atrium of Max of Eastman Place. The evening showcased our RPO Principal Harpist Grace Browning and Second and E-flat Clarinetist Kamalia Freyling. To learn how you can be part of similar exclusive evenings, contact the RPO's Development Team at [email protected]!

Our RPYO students had a wonderful time working with RPO musicians this weekend. We can't wait for "Fireside Stories" on Nov 17! FIRESIDE STORIES: https://lnkd.in/g5SCrj5s Our young musicians enjoy so many opportunities to learn from RPO musicians, including sectionals and our annual RPYO & RPO Side-by-side concert! LEARN MORE ABOUT RPYO: rpyo.org Thank you to our 24/25 Sponsor Pittsford Federal Credit Union.

?????October's Movements is here! Dive into the magic of live orchestras synchronized with films including Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1? in October and The Wizard of Oz in January, plus RPO musicians reveal their scariest moments on stage, just in time for Halloween! ???Also, don’t miss our guide to our THREE Halloween-themed concerts in October. Check it out: rpo.org/movements

Thank you to Pittsford Federal Credit Union for sponsoring the RPYO 24/25 Season! ?? Weather: Perfect 10/10 ?? Rehearsals & Concert: Nailed it ? Mini golf: Let's just say we hit the high notes better than the ball! ?? ?? Skit night: Just don’t get gonged by Jherrard! ???? ?? Campfire: Memories made! That’s how you kick off an RPYO Retreat! Led by RPYO Music Director Jherrard Hardeman, this past weekend was brimming with music, games, laughter, and unforgettable skits—a truly wonderful way to launch the season with joy and camaraderie!

?? Check out the all-new monthly online magazine of the RPO: rpo.org/movements We are thrilled to announce the highly anticipated relaunch of Movements, your monthly resource for insightful articles, thought-provoking interviews, and the latest noteworthy news items about your RPO! Our team has been hard at work to create a fresh, re-imagined experience, bringing the magazine online for your convenience. In this September edition, you'll find Music Director Andreas Delfs discussing what to expect as we start our second century, Prinicpal Pops Conductor Jeff Tyzik talking about new Pops concert offerings this season for fans of music from the 70s and 80s. Plus, you’ll hear from RPO musicians about what they’re looking forward to this most season, and more. Thank you for being a part of our journey, and we look forward to continuing to grow and evolve with you.

On Wednesday evening, with a mix of gratitude, admiration, and perhaps a bit of sadness, the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra family gathered to recognize and celebrate the exceptional leadership of Ross Lanzafame, Esq., who concluded his term as RPO Chair of the Board at the end of our magnificent centennial season. Over the past six years, Ross has exemplified true leadership, guiding us with integrity, passion, and an unwavering commitment to our mission. Under his guidance, our organization has navigated numerous challenges, embraced new opportunities, and achieved remarkable milestones. While Ross’s term as Chair of the Board has ended, we know his passion for our mission to serve the Greater Rochester region and his belief in our organization remain strong. We are fortunate that Ross will continue to be a part of our the RPO Board, and we know we are in great hands with Diana Clarkson, Esq., as her term as RPO Chair of the Board begins. With such dedicated volunteer leaders, the future is very bright for our community orchestra. We look forward to what lies ahead with great anticipation!