Struggle and Transcendence: Beethoven’s Symphony No. 3, Eroica

Join the Houston Symphony and Music Director Juraj Valčuha for the conclusion of the Tragedy and Triumph Festival on March 22, 23 & 24, and experience the power of Beethoven’s Symphony No. 3, Eroica. Beethoven’s Eroica Symphony has captivated and astounded audiences since its premiere over two centuries ago. For possibly the first time, a … Continued

Tōru Takemitsu: Concert Hall and Cinema

Tōru Takemitsu, a self-taught composer, stands as a remarkable figure in the musical landscape, seamlessly weaving together diverse influences to create a sound uniquely his own. While his early lessons with Japanese composer Yasuji Kiyose focused more on art and aesthetics than composition, Takemitsu’s post-World War II exploration of Japanese music and involvement in the “New … Continued

Behind the Scenes with Stefan Stout

Tell us a little about yourself: Growing up in a house filled with art, music, and wonderful people really set me up for a career in the arts. I hold a BFA in Arts Management from Emerson College and have worked as a lighting specialist for most of my career, but I have a very … Continued

A Twist on Tradition: Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker Gets a Makeover

We all know Tchaikovsky’s ballet The Nutcracker– it’s as much a part of the holidays as hot cocoa and snow (well, maybe not in Texas). But what happens when this classical piece gets a jazzy makeover? Enter Duke Ellington and his unique take on the beloved ballet. In 1960, Ellington and his collaborator Billy Strayhorn reimagined … Continued

Education and Community Engagement 2022–23 Rewind

You may know the Houston Symphony for its remarkable performances in Jones Hall, but the Symphony is also committed to enriching lives through music beyond the confines of a performance hall. The Houston Symphony’s Education and Community Engagement initiatives are designed to reach the diverse communities of Houston through a robust array of programs. Last … Continued