When I first began planning this new season, I marveled at the realization that 2009-2010 marks my thirty-eighth consecutive season as conductor of McLean’s original  all-volunteer Symphony orchestra. Hard to believe. And what’s more, I’m just as excited today as I was in 1971 when it all began!

I think you will find this season full of music of extraordinary beauty, passion and fire – something for every musical taste. I am delighted to present two remarkably gifted pianists this year: the brilliant Carlos Ibay, who returns this season after his glittering performance of the Grieg concerto last spring, and the Ukranian artist, Elena Ulyanova, whose many appearances  in this area have received reviews as glowing as those garnered abroad. I know you will be dazzled by our percussionist, Bryan Wethington, whose marimba playing will be unforgettable. In addition, there will be two distinguished vocal ensembles performing with us – VOCE Chamber Singers and the Symphony Festival Singers.

Last but not least, our special guest artist, heard this spring, is Elisabeth von Trapp, granddaughter of Maria and Georg von Trapp of “Sound of Music” fame. Continuing in the tradition of the renowned Trapp Family Singers, Ms. Von Trapp is an accomplished singer/songwriter in her own right, known for delighting enthusiastic audiences around the country. 

So, come hear for yourself. On behalf of the Symphony players, I invite you to attend all of our performances. I promise, you’ll be glad you did!

Dingwall Fleary
Music Director

September, 2009