SAVANNAH PHILHARMONIC is ready to usher in a new era. Under the direction of the orchestra's new Music & Artistic Director Keitaro Harada, who's beginning his first full season here in Savannah, the Philharmonic unveiled its plans for the upcoming 2020-21 season.
With a new logo in tow and some refreshed branding, the Harada era of the Philharmonic is set to launch the new season on Thurs., Sep. 21, 2020 with an opening night performance at the Lucas Theatre. Beyond that, they're set for a number of season subscription shows, including a Holiday Spectacular run on Dec. 5 and 6. The annual Picnic In the Park show, which is free an open to the public, will take place Oct. 11 at 7 P.M.
"I could not be more excited about my first season leading Savannah Philharmonic. We are committed to bringing world class performances to the wider community through our new initiatives. There will be many highlights to look forward to, from Handel’s Messiah to our traditional Holiday Spectacular concerts and Picnic In The Park. World renowned pianists Awadagin Pratt and Stephen Hough will make their Savannah Philharmonic debuts," Harada said in a press release of the new season programming.
"Mr. Hough will perform an evening of chamber music with the Savannah Philharmonic principal strings and then join the full Philharmonic the following evening to play TWO concerti by Saint-Saëns! I also look forward to seeing our very young audience at the Lollipops Concert which will premiere Sleepy Town, a children's book by Paula and Dr. Taras Danyluk from Paris Market. My wife, Yuri, and I have enjoyed being part of the Savannah community since last summer. I look forward to sharing beautiful music with you all once again at the season finale on May 2, 2020."
Also on the docket for the new season is a new initiative called SavPhil On the Road, which will find the orchestra traveling to venues outside of the Savannah area and their traditional Philharmonic settings.
"Taking the orchestra beyond Savannah to perform in surrounding towns and communities is very fulfilling. The full-season vision of Maestro Harada is so uplifting and enthusiastically infectious," Executive Director Terri O'Neil said in a press release.
"Collaborating artistically with many area arts organizations and expanding our education and outreach programs will strengthen our contribution to the City of Savannah’s cultural value.
