MTT’s Opening Night Gala

SF Symphony President Sako Fisher Congratulates MTT at his Opening Night Gala
SF Symphony President Sako Fisher and Michael Tilson Thomas share a moment at San Francisco Symphony Opening Night Gala in his honor

Final Season Opening Night as Music Director

MTT’s final opening night gala as music director set the stage for a festive and remarkable season. Subsequently, San Francisco Symphony opened its 108th season with four sold-out and simultaneous gala dinners, a concert for the ages, and a dance-worthy afterparty, all on September 4, 2019.

Setting the Stage for MTT’s Opening Night Gala

Firstly, Gala Co-Chairs Rachael Bowman and Nicole Lacob designated Michael Tilson Thomas and his partner Joshua Robison as honorary chairmen. Bowman, Lacob and MTT also set the style scene. Secondly, Dinner Chairs Elizabeth Allin, Annie Buckman, Annie Dreshfield, Emilie Lynch, and Ann Paras set the menus. Importantly, After-Party Chairs Lauren Erickson and Brianna Haag kept the celebratory vibe alive all night long. At capacity, some 2,700 supporters filled Davies Symphony Hall, City Hall, and the Patrons Tent for the memorable night.

Blueprint Studios created the décor for all cocktail receptions, dinners, and the after-party, therefore the settings exceeded expectations. Combined with McCalls Catering and Events catering for all four dinners, the recipe worked beautifully. Moreover, Conjunto Karabali, Salsamania, and DJL! rocked the after-parties. As a result, each guest experienced a night made for delight. VIP proceeds from the Opening Night Gala benefited the San Francisco Symphony’s artistic, education, and community programs.

MTT’s Opening Night Gala

Concert Program:
Michael Tilson Thomas, conductor
Susanna Phillips, soprano
Jennifer Johnson, Canomezzo-soprano
Jonathan Tetelman, tenor
Ryan McKinny, bass-baritone
Luke Kritzeck, lighting design
San Francisco Symphony Chorus, Ragnar Bohlin, director
San Francisco Symphony

GLINKA: Overture toRuslan and Ludmila
COPLAND: “The Dodger” from Old American Songs
Gordon GETTY: Shenandoah
COPLAND: “Golden Willow Tree” from Old American Songs
BRITTEN: Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra
BEETHOVEN: IV. Finale: Ode, “To Joy” from Symphony No. 9 in D minor, Opus 125