Rachmaninoff
On behalf of all my fellow musicians, welcome to Jones Hall and what we hope will be a very memorable concert of the Houston Symphony.
The Value Of Music Lessons
The beginning of the symphony season coincides with the start of the school year and a time when many children consider learning a musical instrument.
Classical Crossover
It is interesting to see an increasing number of pop and rock musicians incorporating orchestral instruments and sounds into their works.
Competitions
On behalf of my fellow musicians, welcome to the Houston Symphony! For our orchestra, June is our 'road warrior' month.
The Audition Process
The competitive process of hiring new players is highly regulated and intricate as, each year, conservatories around the world graduate hundreds of times more musicians than there are orchestral vacancies.
Take A Friend To The Orchestra Month
As musicians, it's often difficult to envision what we do through the eyes of the general public–many of whom have never been to a live symphonic concert.
Four Last Songs
Musicians are frequently asked about our favorite composer or compositions, and answering this question is often like trying to pick your favorite child–impossible!
The Era Of Recordings
Before the era of recording, Bach and Haydn wrote music intended for use in a single performance and it’s unique audience -- listening to music was inseparable from live performance.
The Miracle Of Stradivarius
Houston Symphony Principal Cello Brinton Smith is a monthly contributor to Houston Symphony Magazine. This letter is reprinted from the January 2011 issue.
Philanthropy
The mission of an orchestra is to bring the world’s top musicians together, not just for a single concert, but to become a part of the community
Music And The Holocaust
Great music has the power to reach a part of our being that words and information can not.
On Touring
As a musician, a tour is an exciting challenge.
A New Concertmaster
On behalf of the musicians, I would like to welcome you back to the Houston Symphony for our very exciting 97th season!