Santa Cruz Symphony Partners with Music Director for Five More Years
SANTA CRUZ — As part of continued actions to further its creative trajectory, the Santa Cruz Symphony Board of Directors announced that Maestro Daniel Stewart has signed a contract renewal for five more years as music director for the 2016–2017 through 2020–2021 concert seasons.
“We are thrilled with Danny’s decision to join us for another five years. His youthful passion and rapport with the musicians and the community have transformed the Santa Cruz Symphony into an ensemble of the highest caliber. Danny’s innovative programming with up-and-coming national soloists is attracting a wider, younger audience. Sellout concerts are more frequent, with attendees from all over Northern California and beyond. We enthusiastically look forward to many more years!” affirms Board President Dorothy Wise.
Entering his final year under the current three-year contract, Maestro Stewart has successfully blended the music of living composers with classic masterpieces. A graduate of the Metropolitan Opera’s Lindemann Young Artist Development Program under James Levine, Stewart’s balanced and painterly approach to repertoire has garnered a resurgence of longtime supporters, while building a new generation of devotees in attendance and throughout the media.
Maestro Stewart’s roots as a principal violist and dedication to classical music education have also contributed to expanding the Santa Cruz Symphony’s reach, accessibility and regard. Through the free Open Rehearsals program, music students throughout the Greater Monterey Bay and San Francisco Bay Areas witness the workings of a symphony orchestra, with the added benefit of a personal address by the Maestro. United with the Classical Music Classrooms, Mueller Scholarships and Classroom Visits programs—all supported by professional musicians and nuanced instructors—the educational focus of the Symphony forges ahead under Stewart’s baton.
“I’m very proud of the world-class results our critically acclaimed Santa Cruz Symphony has achieved over our first two seasons together. To serve and create community through music is vitally important, and it gives me great pleasure to help ensure that the future of our vibrant symphony orchestra is ever brighter. I eagerly look forward to our continued journey together!” states Stewart.
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Founded in 1958, the Santa Cruz Symphony’s mission is to inspire, educate and engage through artistic excellence, distinctive musical performances, and varied activities that celebrate and enhance cultural vibrancy. With Maestro Daniel Stewart as Music Director since 2013, the Symphony partners regularly with regional and international guest artists in both traditional and modern concerts. A cornerstone of the performing arts in the Greater San Francisco and Monterey Bay Areas, Santa Cruz Symphony receives frequent critical acclaim. Visit santacruzsymphony.org for more information.