San Francisco Symphony’s Upcoming Opening Gala

One of the best social events of the season is upon us.  September 7, 2010 marks Michael Tilson Thomas’ opening of the San Francisco Symphony’s 99^th season. The evening will include a concert by world acclaimed soprano, Jessye Norman, as well as pre and post-concert celebrations.

The San Francisco Symphony, which was founded in 1911, has been widely known as one of the most artistically significant and financially stable orchestras in the United States. The Symphony was originally established after the devastation of the 1906 earthquake as a way to rebuild the city’s cultural history. Since that time, the Symphony has served as a strong ambassador of San Francisco’s music and arts traditions throughout the city and beyond.

The soprano, Jessye Norman, is the star performer of the Opening Gala. She is a one of the world’s most celebrated singers, known internationally for her beautiful arias. She will perform works by Berlioz, Copland, Ravel and a few pieces from Ellington, which she also recorded for her June 2010 album, titled Roots: My Life, My Song. This event will be Norman’s only appearance in the United States this fall.

The Opening Gala for their 99^th season will host a variety of pre and post-concert events and dinners, including the Patrons Dinner, Symphony Supper, and Symphonix dinner, all hosted in the Davies Symphony Hall. All Gala guests are invited to the Promenade for a pre-concert reception and complimentary champagne as well to the after parties hosted at City Hall and the Tent Pavilion to enjoy post-concert cocktails and treats.

Promenade Packages, which include the pre-concert promenade, the concert, and after-parties, are priced at $140 and $265 per person. Special Gala dinner and concert packages are also available from $360 to $3,000 per person. For dinner/concert packages, please call 415.503.5500. For tickets call 415.864.6000, visit the Davies Symphony Hall box office at 201 Van Ness Ave., San Francisco or www.sfsymphony.org.