Tagged: Music in Savannah
Sinisa Ciric of the Savannah Philharmonic One of Thirty-Six Professionals Selected to Attend League of American Orchestras’ Essentials of Orchestra Management Program
League’s Flagship Professional Development Program Will Take Place in New York City at Juilliard’s Lincoln Center Campus[Savannah, GA] – {July 21, 2023} – Sinisa Ciric, Director of Artistic Operations and Concertmaster Emeritus of the Savannah Philharmonic, is among an international cohort of 36 orchestra and arts professionals selected to participate in Essentials of Orchestra Management, the League of American Orchestras’ premier leadership development program. The ten-day program, running from July 26-August 4, 2023 is presented in collaboration with Juilliard Extension and will take place in New York at Juilliard’s Lincoln Center Campus.
“Creating pathways for future leaders is central to the League’s work,” said League of American Orchestras President and CEO Simon Woods. “But Essentials is so much more than just a learning environment — it’s a place of highly creative thinking where the leaders of today and the future can tackle together some of the challenges and opportunities orchestras are facing. And when we add in the great faculty and Juilliard’s inspiring location, we’re guaranteed to get some really thought-provoking conversations.”America’s flagship program for early- and mid-career orchestra and arts professionals, Essentials of Orchestra Management offers a pathway to future leadership and career success; since its inception in 2000, over 550 individuals have participated in the program. Now in its 23rd year, Essentials connects, inspires, and challenges tomorrow’s leaders, providing them the knowledge they need to enhance their careers.Topics will include artistic planning and artistic leadership; development, finance, and strategic planning; equity, diversity, and inclusion; education, community engagement, and community and youth programs; human resources and organizational culture; leadership and governance; advocacy, marketing, and communications; orchestra operations; and negotiations. The program also includes concerts of the Mostly Mozart Festival Orchestra and a tour of David Geffen Hall, as well as peer discussions and mentoring opportunities.“This is an incredibly exciting opportunity for Sinisa, as he is a tremendous contributor to the SavPhil, both on stage as Concertmaster Emeritus and behind the scenes as Director of Artistic Operations,” states Executive Director Amy Williams. “The skills he will gain through this prestigious program will prove invaluable throughout his career, and we are grateful to Rhegan White-Clemm and her husband Tim for their support in making Sinisa’s attendance possible.”This year’s seminar is taught and directed by a faculty comprised of expert leaders of the orchestra field and beyond, including:Core Faculty:Scott Faulkner (Faculty Director) Principal Bassist, Reno Philharmonic and Reno Chamber Orchestra; Former Executive Director, Reno Chamber Orchestra; Director, League Alumni NetworkJennifer Barlament, Executive Director, Atlanta Symphony OrchestraAlex Laing, Executive Director, Gateways Music Festival; Principal Clarinetist, The Phoenix SymphonyLeague Leadership:Simon Woods, President and CEOCaen Thomason-Redus, VP, Inclusion and LearningDavid Styers, Director, Learning and Leadership ProgramsJuilliard Leadership:
Savannah Philharmonic Performs Chamber Music Concerts This Weekend
SAVANNAH, GA [July 19, 2023]– The Savannah Philharmonic will present an engaging series of
chamber music concerts titled “A Little Night Music” at three Savannah locations this Friday and
Saturday. Featuring a dynamic string quintet comprised of Sinisa Ciric (violin), Ricardo Ochoa
(violin), Patrick Shelc (viola), Daniel Mumm (cello), and Marc Chesanow (bass), the program will
include a wide range of music, spanning from Mozart to Etta James.
Performances of SavPhil’s “A Little Night Music” will be presented at St. Anne Catholic Church in Richmond Hill on Friday evening at 7pm; St. Peter’s Episcopal Church on Saturday afternoon at
4pm; and Congregation Mickve Israel on Saturday evening at 7:30pm.
“We are so pleased to be presenting year-round programming during our 15th Anniversary
season, which gives us the opportunity to present these special chamber music concerts for our
community to enjoy over the summer,” shared SavPhil’s Executive Director Amy Williams. “It
will be wonderful to take a break from the heat and experience music together in these
beautiful venues across the region.”
Seats for all concert performances are general admission. To learn more, please visit:
savannahphilharmonic.org.
ABOUT THE SAVANNAH PHILHARMONIC:
The Savannah Philharmonic, a nonprofit 501©(3), is a community-focused arts organization
which strives to present concert performances and music education of the highest caliber
throughout the southeast. Comprised of a professional orchestra and community chorus, and
led by the masterful baton of Keitaro Harada, the SavPhil performs a vast range of works from
composers of the past and present, and in all genres from classical to contemporary. The
organization focuses on fostering community and inspiring a true appreciation of music through
equitable access to performances and education programs.
To learn more, please visit: savannahphilharmonic.org.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Jamie Coffey | Director of External Relationships | Savannah Philharmonic
jamie@savannahphilharmonic.org / (941) 350-5120
Savannah Philharmonic Welcomes New Board Members
Savannah, GA [July 12, 2023] – The Savannah Philharmonic is delighted to announce four tremendous additions to their Board of Directors: Rosalie Morris, Chuck Chewning, Bob Kenyon and Mason Waters.
Now celebrating their 15th Anniversary Season, the SavPhil is a community-focused organization dedicated to presenting concert performances and music education programs of the highest caliber throughout Savannah and the southeast region – and their diverse members of the board are devoted to upholding the SavPhil’s mission and vision.
“The SavPhil has experienced significant growth over this past season, and now having these four incredible individuals on our Board will further strengthen our organizational governance and fortify our mission as we move boldly into the future,” shared Executive Director Amy Williams.
Having called Savannah home for over 50 years, Rosalie Morris has actively contributed to numerous boards and organizations in the community by serving the Telfair Academy of Arts and Sciences, the Junior League, Memorial Health University Medical Center, and Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation, as well as being an advisor to First Union-Wachovia and Chatham Capital. Rosalie was appointed by Governor George Busbee to the Georgia Council for the Arts and Humanities as the First Congressional
District Representative and achieved a significant milestone as the first woman to be elected as board chair of Savannah Country Day School. Along with her passion for her community, Rosalie is deeply committed to her family and relishes in her role of grandmother.
Chuck Chewning brings thirty years of experience in luxury residential, hospitality and preservation interior design, as well as extensive civic engagement to the board. Currently running his own design business, Charles H Chewning Interiors, based in coastal Georgia, his attention to conceptual design development, documentation and management in the interior design field is coupled with his cross-cultural experience from living in London, Milan and New York City. A recipient of numerous awards and accolades, he has been featured in Architectural Digest and Travel + Leisure – and, as a graduate of The Savannah College of Art and Design, he was the first recipient of the SCAD Distinguished Alumnus Award in 2008. Chuck recently completed the restoration of the prestigious c. 1916 Armstrong Mansion in Savannah’s National Register Historic District for the Kessler Collection, which won the Historic Savannah Foundation‘s President’s Award.
Bob Kenyon was named Divison President for Colonial Oil Industries, Inc. in August of 2022. A a dynamic leader known for his high-energy and entrepreneurial spirit, he has a history of transforming organizations and expanding their influence. With more than 29 years of experience in fuel operations, Bob oversees the sales, marketing, operations, strategy, and financial performance for one of the nation’s leading fuel distributors. Prior to Colonial Oil Industries, he most recently served as senior vice president, Sales & Marketing for Renewable Energy Group, Inc. Bob is also the former president of Atlas Oil Company where he led the company’s global operations spanning four countries, 20 terminals and more than 900 employees. Throughout his career, Kenyon has served on multiple industry advisory councils and held various philanthropic board positions.
As Regional President for United Community Bank, Mason Waters is responsible for operations along the coast of Georgia and in Bluffton, South Carolina. A Georgia native, Mason has also enjoyed a career as a professional musician, having spent a decade in Nashville, Tennessee prior to returning to Georgia to raise his family. Mason has an extensive history of volunteer service in coastal Georgia, including being past Chair for Habitat for Humanity of the Golden Isles, the Golden Isles Chamber of Commerce, and Relay for Life of Glynn County. He and his wife Jodi were awarded the Coastal Georgia Volunteers of the Year by the Golden Isles Chamber of Commerce and are also alumni of the Leadership Georgia program. Mason is proud to be a part of the United Community Bank family, as United still believes in the importance of supporting their communities and encourages their employees to get involved.
Chairman of the Board Scott Lauretti is elated by the newest members, stating “The SavPhil board is fortunate to welcome Rosalie, Chuck, Bob and Mason. Each of these individuals is deeply committed to our community. Collectively, they have an exceptional record of significant achievements and civic engagement. They will help steward the Savannah Philharmonic’s evolution as a community asset that is model for arts organizations everywhere.”
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ABOUT THE SAVANNAH PHILHARMONIC:
The Savannah Philharmonic, a nonprofit 501©(3), is a community-focused arts organization which strives to present concert performances and music education of the highest caliber throughout the southeast. Comprised of a professional orchestra and community chorus, and led by the masterful baton of Keitaro Harada, the SavPhil performs a vast range of works from composers of the past and present, and in all genres from classical to contemporary. The
organization focuses on fostering community and inspiring a true appreciation of music through equitable access to performances and education programs.
To learn more, please visit: savannahphilharmonic.org.
MEDIA CONTACT: Jamie Coffey | Director of External Relationships | Savannah Philharmonicjamie@savannahphilharmonic.org / (941) 350-5120
Savannah Philharmonic Presents Season Finale Concert Featuring Saint-Saëns’ Organ Symphony and a World Premiere from Robin Beauchamp
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Savannah Philharmonic Presents Season Finale Concert Featuring Saint-Saëns’ Organ Symphony and a World Premiere from Robin Beauchamp
SAVANNAH, GA – [May 4, 2023] The Savannah Philharmonic is set to conclude their 2022-23 concert season with a spectacular performance this Saturday at the historic Lucas Theatre for the Arts. Under the baton of esteemed Music and Artistic Director Keitaro Harada, the orchestra and chorus will perform Poulenc’s Gloria, the magnificent Organ Symphony by Camille Saint-Saëns, as well as the world premiere of local composer Robin Beuchamps’ “Homage,” which is inspired by the town of Savannah.
“After writing so many arrangements for orchestras and choirs, I am very excited to have this opportunity to compose an original work for such an accomplished group,” states composer and SCAD professor Robin Beauchamp. “Homage is written in three movements, each designed to evoke a different mood. The last movement should really make you feel like you are in Savannah!”
Another very special element of the concert is the debut of the newly, fully restored Wurlitzer organ. This historical instrument was originally installed in the Lucas Theatre in 1925, and then removed in the 1970s – and now recently reinstalled after a meticulous, years-long restoration process. To date, there are only four playing pipe organs throughout the state of Georgia, and the Lucas is the only one to house a Wurlitzer.
Maestro Harada shares his excitement for the season finale: “This final concert for our 14th season truly defines the direction in which the new Savannah Philharmonic is heading. We are so pleased to present a world-premiere work by local composer Robin Beauchamp, and to have the SavPhil Chorus perform Poulenc’s Gloria with world-renowned soprano Anna Christy. All of this will then be followed by Saint-Saëns Organ Symphony, during which the Mighty Wurlitzer makes its return to the Lucas stage with our chorus master Paul Thornock playing, who is also the Director of Music and Organist at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist. We are honored to be sharing the story of Savannah through music, and this concert is so wonderfully representative that it can only be experienced in the Hostess City of the South.”
The performance promises to be a dynamic conclusion to a successful season for the organization, showcasing their exceptional musicianship and dedication to presenting innovative programming that offers something for everyone to enjoy.
To learn more about the Savannah Philharmonic and their upcoming 15th Anniversary Season, please visit www.savannahphilharmonic.org.
ABOUT THE SAVANNAH PHILHARMONIC:
The Savannah Philharmonic, a nonprofit 501©(3), is a community-focused arts organization which strives to present concert performances and music education of the highest caliber throughout the southeast. Comprised of a professional orchestra and community chorus, and led by the masterful baton of Keitaro Harada, the SavPhil performs a vast range of works from composers of the past and present, and in all genres from classical to contemporary. The organization focuses on fostering community and inspiring a true appreciation of music through equitable access to performances and education programs.
To learn more, please visit: savannahphilharmonic.org.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Jamie Coffey | Director of External Relationships | Savannah Philharmonic
jamie@savannahphilharmonic.org / (941) 350-5120
Savannah Philharmonic Extends Contract of Executive Director Amy Williams Through 2025-26 Season
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Savannah Philharmonic Extends Contract of Executive Director Amy Williams Through 2025-26 Season
Savannah, GA [April 28, 2023] – The Savannah Philharmonic is pleased to announce the contract extension of Executive Director Amy Williams through the 2025-26 season. Dr. Williams has played a pivotal role in elevating the organization’s presence and fostering connections within the community since her tenure began.
Under Williams’s leadership, the SavPhil has produced innovative concerts through their Phil the Neighborhoods series and Phil the Park event in Forsyth, which have been instrumental in engaging the local community and expanding the organization’s reach. This has garnered many new patrons and a more diverse audience at their season concerts, with multiple sold-out performances at The Lucas Theatre for the Arts.
“It has been wonderful to see the community come together and connect through music,” states Williams. “Watching the city embrace our change and growth has been inspiring, and I am very excited for what’s to come and honored to lead us into the future.”
Dr. Williams’s dedication to increasing the Savannah Philharmonic’s visibility and connecting with the community has been a significant factor in the organization’s growth and success. The contract extension reflects the board’s confidence in her ability to continue building on these achievements in the coming seasons.
“Amy is an exceptional leader. She is determined, thoughtful, and diligent. She is a musician and music scholar with a business mindset. We are fortunate that she is our chief executive,” cites Board Chair Scott Lauretti. “Her renewed commitment on the heels of Music & Artistic Director Keitaro Harada’s tenure extension ensures that the Savannah Philharmonic will continue to flourish as a cultural beacon for the region and a model for community-focused arts organizations everywhere.”
To learn more about their upcoming season, Phil the Neighborhoods, Phil the Park, and other SavPhil initiatives, please visit savannahphilharmonic.org.
ABOUT THE SAVANNAH PHILHARMONIC:
The Savannah Philharmonic, a nonprofit 501©(3), is a community-focused arts organization which strives to present concert performances and music education of the highest caliber throughout the southeast. Comprised of a professional orchestra and community chorus, and led by the masterful baton of Keitaro Harada, the SavPhil performs a vast range of works from composers of the past and present, and in all genres from classical to contemporary. The organization focuses on fostering community and inspiring a true appreciation of music through equitable access to performances and education programs.
To learn more, please visit: savannahphilharmonic.org.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Jamie Coffey | Director of External Relationships | Savannah Philharmonic
jamie@savannahphilharmonic.org / (941) 350-5120
Savannah Philharmonic Conductor Keitaro Harada Receives Prestigious Solti Award
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Savannah Philharmonic Conductor Keitaro Harada Receives Prestigious Solti Award
Savannah, GA – [April 24, 2023] – The Savannah Philharmonic proudly announces that its esteemed Music and Artistic Director, Keitaro Harada, has been awarded the prestigious Solti Award for his exceptional talent and dedication in the orchestra industry. The Solti Award recognizes the accomplishments of outstanding conductors, providing them with increased visibility and significant opportunities.
Named in honor of the legendary conductor Sir Georg Solti, the Solti Award has a rich history of acknowledging and supporting the careers of the most promising conductors in the world of orchestral music. Maestro Harada joins the acclaimed ranks of past winners who have gone on to achieve tremendous success in their respective careers.
Since taking up the baton as the conductor for the Savannah Philharmonic, he has led the orchestra and chorus to new heights, consistently delivering exceptional performances and garnering widespread acclaim. His passion, skill, and commitment to the organization have made an indelible mark on the music scene in Savannah and across the southeast region. Keitaro recently renewed his contract as Music and Artistic Director for the Philharmonic through the 2026-27 Season, and also serves as Associate Conductor of the Tokyo Symphony Orchestra.
Maestro Harada expressed his gratitude upon receiving the award, stating, “I am deeply honored to be recognized with the Solti Award, and I am grateful for the opportunity to continue making music with the Savannah Philharmonic. This achievement wouldn’t have been possible without the support of our dedicated musicians, patrons, the entire Savannah community, and my colleagues across the globe.”
“All of us are incredibly proud of this well-deserved recognition for Kei,” states Executive Director Amy Williams. “His leadership and vision have brought our organization to new levels of excellence, and we are excited to continue working together to engage with our community and to ensure that the Savannah Philharmonic is for all of Savannah.”
For more information about Keitaro Harada and the Savannah Philharmonic, please visit savannahphilharmonic.org. To learn more about the Solti Award, please visit soltifoundation.com.
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ABOUT THE SAVANNAH PHILHARMONIC:
The Savannah Philharmonic, a nonprofit 501©(3), is a community-focused arts organization which strives to present concert performances and music education of the highest caliber throughout the southeast. Comprised of a professional orchestra and community chorus, and led by the masterful baton of Keitaro Harada, the SavPhil performs a vast range of works from composers of the past and present, and in all genres from classical to contemporary. The organization focuses on fostering community and inspiring a true appreciation of music through equitable access to performances and education programs.
To learn more, please visit: savannahphilharmonic.org.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Jamie Coffey | Director of External Relationships | Savannah Philharmonic
jamie@savannahphilharmonic.org / (941) 350-5120
Music and Artistic Director Keitaro Harada renews contract with Savannah Philharmonic
(SAVANNAH, GA) The Savannah Philharmonic is pleased to announce Conductor Keitaro Harada’s contract renewal as Music and Artistic Director through the 2026-27 Season. This is a milestone moment for the organization, as Maestro Harada maintains a growing international presence and his creative leadership and vision have been instrumental in the SavPhil’s current success.
Together with Executive Director Amy Williams, Harada has broadened the reach of the Philharmonic beyond the concert hall by bringing music to the community and sharing diverse musical genres, with a goal of providing something for everyone to enjoy. Having joined the Philharmonic during the 2020-21 Season, he has conducted concerts throughout the region, from downtown Savannah to Richmond Hill, to Statesboro, and his passionate energy from the podium is palpable. Harada also serves as the Associate Conductor of the Tokyo Symphony Orchestra.
“We are so fortunate to have Kei with us for four more years. He inspires us all with his ideas and energy, and we lead together with the goal of bringing the joy of music to as many people as possible,” states Dr. Williams. “This partnership led to us launching our Phil the Neighborhoods series last season, and then welcoming 20,000 people to Phil the Park in Forsyth, and also expanding our music education programs and putting instruments in the hands of kids across Savannah.”
With the renewed contract comes renewed enthusiasm from Harada: “The SavPhil musicians, chorus and staff are incredibly talented and dedicated to enriching the performing and cultural arts across Savannah, and our new initiatives have resulted in us welcoming many new patrons to our events and to back-to-back sold-out performances this season. I am so excited by the direction our organization is moving, and this extension allows me to further share my vision for the future and helps to bring my dreams to life. Thank you, Savannah, for your trust in me.” The Philharmonic’s current season concludes this May, but the team looks forward to presenting year-round programming for the upcoming 2023-24 Season, which offers everything from Mozart, to the Beatles, to Gershwin. Under Harada’s artistic leadership, the future continues to shine bright.
“It’s a privilege and gift to secure Kei’s tenure as the Savannah Philharmonic’s artistic leader,” shares Chair of the Board of Trustees Scott Lauretti. “He is a world-class conductor and musician, and his continued commitment to our community affirms our mission to entertain, inspire and connect us all through music.”
ABOUT THE SAVANNAH PHILHARMONIC
The Savannah Philharmonic, a nonprofit 501©(3), is a community-focused arts organization which strives to present concert performances and music education of the highest caliber throughout the southeast. Comprised of a professional orchestra and community chorus, and led by the masterful baton of Keitaro Harada, the SavPhil performs a vast range of works from composers of the past and present, and in all genres from classical to contemporary. The organization focuses on fostering community and inspiring a true appreciation of music through equitable access to performances and education programs. To learn more, please visit: savphil.org.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Jamie Coffey | Director of External Relationships | Savannah Philharmonic
jamie@savannahphilharmonic.org / (941) 350-5120
Savannah Philharmonic to present On the Road series in Statesboro, Richmond Hill and Skidaway
(SAVANNAH, GA – April 3, 2023) – The Savannah Philharmonic proudly announces the upcoming “On the Road” concert series, featuring violin virtuoso Rubén Rengel from April 14-16. This engaging spring series will present performances across Bulloch, Bryan, and Chatham Counties, providing residents with an unforgettable musical experience.
Under the baton of Artistic and Music Director Keitaro Harada, the orchestra is thrilled to welcome renowned violin virtuoso Rubén Rengel as a guest artist to present Mozart’s “Turkish” Violin Concerto No. 5 and Beethoven’s Symphony No. 2. As recipient of the revered Robert F. Smith Prize at the 2018 Sphinx Competition, Rengel’s exceptional talent and captivating performances have earned him critical acclaim and a dedicated following.
The series begins at Georgia Southern in Statesboro on Friday, April 14, at 7 PM. Prior to the evening performance, the Savannah Philharmonic will host a master class with students enrolled in the Fred and Dinah Gretsch School of Music, and members of the Georgia Southern Symphony will later join the orchestra for a unique side-by-side performance at the Performing Arts Center.
On Saturday, April 15, at 7:30 PM, the Philharmonic and Mr. Rengel will perform at St. Anne’s Catholic Church in Richmond Hill, and the series will culminate with a concert at Skidaway Island United Methodist Church on Sunday, April 16, at 3 PM.
Executive Director Amy Williams recognizes the importance of sharing music throughout the region: “As a community-focused arts organization, understanding and embracing the rapid growth of our neighboring counties further inspires the SavPhil to continue offering something for everyone, and we look forward to greeting both new and familiar audiences to this wonderful series.” For more information or to purchase tickets, please call 912-232-6002 or visit savannahphilharmonic.org.
ABOUT THE SAVANNAH PHILHARMONIC
The Savannah Philharmonic, a nonprofit 501©(3), is a community-focused arts organization which strives to present concert performances and music education of the highest caliber throughout the southeast. Comprised of a professional orchestra and community chorus, and led by the masterful baton of Keitaro Harada, the SavPhil performs a vast range of works from composers of the past and present, and in all genres from classical to contemporary. The
organization focuses on fostering community and inspiring a true appreciation of music through equitable access to performances and education programs.
To learn more, please visit: savphil.org.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Jamie Coffey | Director of External Relationships | Savannah Philharmonic
jamie@savannahphilharmonic.org / (941) 350-5120
Savannah Philharmonic and Savannah Music Festival in support of the City’s plan to renovate the Johnny Mercer Theatre
(SAVANNAH, GA) The Savannah Philharmonic (SavPhil) and Savannah Music Festival (SMF) attended a presentation from architect and urban planner Christian Sottile at a City Council meeting last spring where a plan was presented for the redevelopment of the Civic Center site downtown. The proposed plan includes the largest restoration of the Oglethorpe Plan in Savannah’s history, returning six of the 10 blocks that were lost in Elbert and Orleans wards when the Civic Center was built in 1972. In order to do so, the Martin Luther King Jr. Arena would be demolished, but the Johnny Mercer Theatre would remain standing and undergo a full renovation to incorporate contemporary technology and performance industry-standard acoustics, as well as a complete décor makeover.
As understanding and momentum build around the proposed plan for the current Savannah Civic Center, the SavPhil and SMF fully support the renovation of the historic Johnny Mercer Theatre. The theater offers an infrastructure that, if lost, would be expensive to recreate and would prohibit certain performances from taking place in Savannah. Further, it is a very important gathering place for our community.
The Johnny Mercer Theatre is part of an important portfolio of entertainment venues, including the Enmarket Arena, the Lucas Theatre for the Arts, and Trustees Theater, among others, that provide a broad range of entertainment options. Each space serves a unique function allowing different types of presentations. Within this portfolio, the Mercer has an infrastructure that none of the others have, including a large-scale fly system—a pulley system that allows scenery backdrops and lighting to be moved in and out for a Broadway-caliber theatrical performance such as Phantom of the Opera. Many Broadway shows also require an orchestra pit, which it has, and the seating capacity of 2,566 is also the perfect size for acts like the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, the Tedeschi Trucks Band, Wilco, Bonnie Raitt, or Bob Dylan.
Currently, the Savannah Philharmonic performs at the Lucas Theatre for the Arts throughout their season, and with the organization’s 15 th anniversary on the horizon they are looking to the future. The annual Savannah Music Festival is held throughout 9-12 venues across the City and having the opportunity to plan for performances in the iconic venue would be a tremendous asset. Additionally, both organizations could continue to utilize the Mercer as a site for youth concerts and educational activities.
While the decision to move forward with the project has not yet been voted on and determined, and completion of the proposed Mercer project would be years away, now is the time for crucial conversations and key planning meetings between the City of Savannah and arts organizations from the Savannah community to emphasize the importance of the Mercer, discuss potential uses for a renovated theater, and ensure that the needs of the arts community are met.
The Savannah Philharmonic and Savannah Music Festival share the vision of what has been proposed and are eager to be instrumental members of the team that will bring the project to fruition.
ABOUT THE SAVANNAH PHILHARMONIC
The Savannah Philharmonic, a nonprofit 501©(3), is a community-focused arts organization which strives to present concert performances and music education of the highest caliber throughout the southeast. Comprised of a professional orchestra and community chorus, and led by the masterful baton of Keitaro Harada, the SavPhil performs a vast range of works from composers of the past and present, and in all genres from classical to contemporary. The organization focuses on fostering community and inspiring a true appreciation of music through equitable access to performances and education programs. To learn more, please visit: savphil.org.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Jamie Coffey | Director of External Relationships | Savannah Philharmonic
jamie@savannahphilharmonic.org (941) 350-5120
ABOUT THE SAVANNAH MUSIC FESTIVAL
A leading nonprofit performing arts organization, Savannah Music Festival (SMF) is dedicated to presenting world-class celebrations of the musical arts by creating timeless and adventurous productions that stimulate arts education, foster economic growth and unite artists and audiences in Savannah. In addition to year-round music education and broadcast initiatives, SMF has produced one of the most distinctive multi-genre music festivals in the world for more than three decades. Hailed by the Atlanta-Journal Constitution as “one of the gleaming musical treasures of the Southeast”; and by the Toronto Star as “one of North America’s most distinctive musical events,” the Savannah Music Festival has featured more than 2,000 artists over the past three decades. The 2023 Savannah Music Festival will take place March 23 through April 8, 2023. For more information, visit savannahmusicfestival.org.
Media Contact:
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Capricorn Communications
912.441.1285
pr@capricorncomm.com
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Savannah Philharmonic announces their 15th Anniversary Season and year-round programming
(SAVANNAH, GA) – The Savannah Philharmonic (SavPhil) is elated to announce their unique and exciting new season in honor of the organization’s 15th Anniversary during their Celebration of American Song Concert at the Lucas Theatre for the Arts this Saturday evening. Continuing the momentum of offering “Something for Everyone”, the upcoming season includes everything from Vivaldi to the Beatles, and from Romeo and Juliet to Gershwin.
“Living in Savannah since 2019, I have completely fallen in love with the Hostess City of the South,”
states Music and Artistic Director Keitaro Harada. “I have gained so much from the history, culture and
people of Savannah, and the diversity of our 15th season is a musical gift and testament to this great
city.”
Along with the broad spectrum of programming, the SavPhil is moving to a new subscription model,
which provides programming from July 2023 through June 2024 for all subscribers, ticket buyers, and
the community at large.
“We’re excited that every month starting in July you’ll be able to find your Savannah Philharmonic
musicians performing somewhere within your community—popping up everywhere from the beautiful
Lucas Theatre, to your local neighborhoods, to your child’s school. We can’t wait to bring everyone
together through live music!”, exclaims Executive Director Amy Williams.
The upcoming season will also feature local artists such as Ricardo Ochoa as host of the Holiday Pops
concert with the Eric Jones Trio, as well as collaborations with the Savannah Voice Festival and The
Fabulous Equinox Orchestra.
The SavPhil will offer its well-received Phil the Neighborhoods Series this September in Gordonston, and on Burnside Island and Thunderbolt. In the spring of 2024, the series will continue at Tanger Outlets, in Victory Heights Park, and Chippewa Square.
The annual Phil the Park concert in Forsyth Park, which will again include the longstanding tradition of
the Picnic Competition, will take place on Saturday, October 7, 2023.
Further community concerts and the Philharmonic’s music education programs will be ongoing
throughout the 15 th Anniversary Season.
To learn more, please visit: savphil.org
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ABOUT THE SAVANNAH PHILHARMONIC
The Savannah Philharmonic, a nonprofit 501©(3), is a community-focused arts organization which
strives to present concert performances and music education of the highest caliber throughout the
southeast. Comprised of a professional orchestra and community chorus, and led by the masterful baton
of Keitaro Harada, the SavPhil performs a vast range of works from composers of the past and present,
and in all genres from classical to contemporary. The organization focuses on fostering community and inspiring a true appreciation of music through equitable access to performances and education
programs.
To learn more, please visit: savphil.org.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Jamie Coffey | Director of External Relationships | Savannah Philharmonic
jamie@savannahphilharmonic.org (941) 350-5120
Savannah Philharmonic’s Season continues at The Lucas with guest conductor Darko Butorac
(SAVANNAH, GA) – The Savannah Philharmonic (SavPhil), now celebrating its 14th Season titled “Something for Everyone”, will return to The Lucas Theatre for the Arts on Saturday, November 12 at 7:30pm.
The concert will be led by guest conductor Darko Butorac, who is currently the Music Director of the Asheville Symphony and the Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra. Butorac has established himself as a conductor in demand with orchestras both in Europe and the Americas and has received recognition for his “exceptional combination of passion, elegance and well-timed pacing.” This is his second time leading the SavPhil.
“I am thrilled to return to the Savannah Philharmonic for the first concert of the season at The Lucas. Brahms’ Second Symphony is radiant with light and dances with joy, a work I deeply love and one of my favorites in the repertoire,” states Butorac. “We paired it with William Grant Still’s sprightly Danzas de Panama, and Will Marion Cook’s Overture to “In Dahomey”, a work that introduced the sounds of ragtime to the musical, and was the first work composed, written, and performed by Black musicians on Broadway.”
The return to the Lucas Theatre for the Arts comes on the heels of a busy fall for the organization, during which they held their first Phil the Neighborhoods Series—three consecutive weekends filled with six free concerts across Savannah—and hosted the cherished annual event Phil the Park in Forsyth Park with over 17,000 in attendance.
In the spirit of offering “something for everyone”, the 2022-23 season presents a more accessible approach to programming and subscription packages and is expanding the SavPhil’s impact through their community concerts, music education programs, and creative collaborations with local arts organizations throughout the region.
ABOUT THE SAVANNAH PHILHARMONIC
The Savannah Philharmonic, a nonprofit 501©(3), is a community-focused arts organization which strives to present concert performances and music education of the highest caliber throughout the southeast. Comprised of a professional orchestra and community chorus, and led by the masterful baton of Keitaro Herada, the SavPhil performs a vast range of works from composers of the past and present, and in all genres from classical to contemporary. The organization focuses on fostering community and inspiring a true appreciation of music through equitable access to performances and education programs.
To learn more, please visit: savphil.org.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Jamie Coffey | Director of External Relationships | Savannah Philharmonic
jamie@savannahphilharmonic.org (941) 350-5120
Savannah Philharmonic Names Jamie Coffey Director of External Relations
(SAVANNAH, GA) – The Savannah Philharmonic (SavPhil) has announced the appointment of Jamie Coffey as the new director of external relations. She brings with her an extensive resume of work in nonprofit development and, before that, in higher education administration.
“The Savannah Philharmonic is delighted to welcome Jamie to our organization. Jamie’s role is critical to the SavPhil as the organization strengthens its commitment to strategic initiatives including the patron experience, community collaborations, and communications,” said Executive Director Amy Williams. “Jamie’s extensive experience in fundraising, community development, event management, and strategic planning with nonprofit and higher education institutions will help the SavPhil fulfill our mission and bring to life our vision of ensuring that there is something for everyone at the SavPhil.”
Coffey will oversee SavPhil’s public relations, development and marketing initiatives.
“I am delighted to join the Savannah community and to help SavPhil in its mission to bring the power of music to everyone,” said Coffey. “This organization has a dynamic team and I’m excited to become part of it.”
Coffey most recently served as director of development for the Field Arts and Events Hall, a new venue being developed on the waterfront in Port Angeles, Washington. There, she led fundraising efforts for an ongoing $55 million capital campaign, in addition to other responsibilities.
Coffey previously served as chief of staff to the president at Ringling College of Art and Design in Sarasota, Florida. At Barnard College-Columbia University, she served as chief of staff to the president, followed by interim director of alumnae affairs. She also has served as development associate for corporate and foundation relations at Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.
Coffey’s civic work includes service on multiple nonprofit boards, including Morningside Area Alliance at Columbia University and Sarasota Contemporary Dance, as well as serving on the Diversity & Inclusion Committee at Ringling, and the Development Committee of Ice Dance International.
Coffey graduated with a Master of Arts degree from the Tisch School of the Arts at New York University and from Rollins College with a Bachelor of Arts degree in humanities and English.
Coffey joins the organization as the SavPhil launches a full season with an enthusiastic, revised, and more inclusive approach to programming and subscription packages. The Savannah Philharmonic Orchestra will perform seven concerts as part of the 2022-23 season, often accompanied by the Savannah Philharmonic Chorus. The season will include six performances at the Lucas Theatre for the Arts, as well as a performance at the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist. In addition, the SavPhil will significantly expand its regional impact by performing 11 free community concerts in collaboration with local arts organizations and
neighborhoods throughout Savannah.
ABOUT THE SAVANNAH PHILHARMONIC
The Savannah Philharmonic, a nonprofit 501©3, is an innovative and influential arts organization with a mission to entertain, inspire and build community throughout the region. Guided by the SavPhil’s commitment to be a community-focused arts organization, the SavPhil seeks to present programming each year that ensures there is something for everyone. Through this vision, the SavPhil, under the baton of world-renowned Music and Artistic Director Keitaro Harada and Chorus Master Paul Thornock, present a full season of concerts at the Lucas Theatre for the Arts and other signature Savannah venues. In addition, the SavPhil partners with neighborhoods and parks throughout the region to annually present free community concerts as part of the Phil the Neighborhood, Phil the Park and Phil the Square series. Beyond the stage, the SavPhil collaborates with organizations and schools to present music education programs, training initiatives and master classes to children of all ages, inspiring the next generation of musicians and arts patrons.
To learn more about Savannah Philharmonic, please visit www.savannahphilharmonic.org. The office is located at 1515 Abercorn St. in Savannah, Ga.
SAVANNAH PHILHARMONIC – MEDIA CONTACT:
Amy Williams, executive director
amy@savannahphilharmonic.org
912.232.6002
MEDIA CONTACT
Marjorie Young
Carriage Trade Public Relations® Inc.
912.844.9990
www.carriagetradepr.com
Sav Phil Education Programs Partner with Various Summer Camps
(SAVANNAH, Ga.) Approximately 800 students this summer have participated in the summer camps that the Savannah Philharmonic has partnered with, in various community center programs.
Two rounds of summer camp are already in the books, having treated students to the documented learning benefits that go along with musical education. Those camps included a partnership with Savannah Horizons, a summer enrichment experience that involved exposing students to stringed instruments and even electronic music. The Savphil also partnered with Georgia Tech at its Savannah facility for a session dubbed “Ceismic Camp,” where students learned about sound waves, electronic components of music, and computer coding to produce their own electronic music.
The “Musical Safari” session will expose students to the full range of musical instruments available to them, many of which will be completely unfamiliar to youngsters. These sessions will help students understand their options as they choose a musical instrument to study, explained Amy Williams, executive director for SavPhil.
“I remember when I was introduced to my instrument for the first time. It really opened up a whole world for me,” Williams said.
Students who learn music tend to do better in language arts, math and science, she said, and research shows those students are more likely to graduate. But in addition to those concrete educational advantages, she said, “making music teaches young people a whole new way to experience joy in the world.”
The summer camp partnership programming is a natural extension of the Savannah Philharmonic’s programs with Savannah-Chatham County Public Schools throughout the school year. Among the many educational programs it offers is the Ben Tucker Musical Instrument Library, which maintains a collection of instruments for loan to ensure that students don’t face financial barriers to learning the musical instrument of their choice.
The SavPhil’s 2022-2023 season opens Nov. 12 at the Lucas Theatre for the subscription series, which runs through May 6 and is supplemented by several other concert series designed to take the SavPhil into the community as “the soundtrack of Savannah.”
ABOUT THE SAVANNAH PHILHARMONIC
The Savannah Philharmonic is a nonprofit 501©(3) organization of more than 60 professional musicians who are dedicated to bringing the “Soundtrack of Savannah” to all of the various communities and neighborhoods of Savannah and the region. Joining them on this mission are the 60-plus voices of the Philharmonic Chorus. The Philharmonic, or SavPhil, performs under the baton of Keitaro Harada. The SavPhil conducts an extensive and far-reaching educational mission in Savannah and the surrounding area, all the while building community and forging bonds with the unifying power of music. To learn more about Savannah Philharmonic, please visit www.savannahphilharmonic.org, call 912-232-6002. Offices are at 1515 Abercorn St. Stay engaged with Savannah Philharmonic on social media by using the hashtag #SavPhil.
MEDIA CONTACT
Savannah Philharmonic
Phone: 912.232.6002
www.savannahphilharmonic.org
amy@savannahphilharmonic.org
MEDIA CONTACT
Marjorie Young
Carriage Trade Public Relations® Inc.
912.844.9990
www.carriagetradepr.com
marjorie@carriagetradepr.com
Savannah Philharmonic Welcomes new Chorus Master Paul Thornock
(SAVANNAH, Ga) The Savannah Philharmonic (SavPhil) and its Chorus have welcomed a new chorus master, Paul Thornock. In his new role, he will work with Music and Artistic Director Keitaro Harada to prepare the SavPhil Chorus for performances.
“Choral performances are a major part of the SavPhil’s calendar, and we look forward to adding Dr. Thornock’s talents to the artistic team,” said Executive Director Amy Williams.
Thornock is well-known in Savannah’s sacred music community. He is the organist and director of music at the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist, where he conducts the semi-professional Cathedral Choir, the fully professional Choral Scholars, and acts as artistic director for the Friends of Cathedral Music concert series.
Before arriving in Savannah, Thornock was the director of music and the diocesan music consultant for Saint Joseph Cathedral in the Catholic Diocese of Columbus, Ohio for 16 years. He released two choral CD recordings and was responsible for commissioning the Cathedral’s Paul Fritts and Co. organ. Additionally, he served on the faculty at Capital University Conservatory of Music and Trinity Lutheran Seminary, where he taught organ literature. More recently, he was director of music at St. James Cathedral in Seattle and taught organ at the University of Puget Sound.
Thornock has performed at regional conventions of the American Guild of Organists, the Conference of Roman Catholic Cathedral Musicians, the national convention of the Organ Historical Society, and the American Institute of Organ Builders. He has been heard as both an organist and conductor on the nationally syndicated radio programs Pipedreams and With Heart and Voice.
He did his undergraduate work at the University of Puget Sound, where he studied organ with Edward Hansen and conducting with Paul Schultz. He earned a master’s degree in organ performance and literature from the University of Notre Dame as a student of Craig Cramer. While at Notre Dame, he was a graduate assistant organist at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart under Gail Walton. Thornock completed his doctor of musical arts degree at the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music as a student of Roberta Gary.
He is also active as an organ consultant, responsible for more than 30 projects, including the restoring and commissioning of new organs. In 2012, he was awarded a grant from the Tangeman Sacred Music Center to record four organs by Paul Fritts and Co., chronicling the firm’s evolution over four decades. Recent projects include two organs by Paul Fritts & Co. for Hillsdale College in Michigan, three instruments by Juget-Sinclair for the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Richmond, Virginia, and the restoration and renovation of the Noack organ at the Savannah Cathedral.
CONTACT
Savannah Philharmonic
Phone: 912.232.6002
www.savannahphilharmonic.org
amy@savannahphilharmonic.org
MEDIA CONTACT
Marjorie Young
Carriage Trade Public Relations® Inc.
912.844.9990
www.carriagetradepr.com
marjorie@carriagetradepr.com
The Savannah Philharmonic Announces Colonial Group as the Title Sponsor of Phil the Park on Oct 8
(SAVANNAH, GA) Savannah Philharmonic is pleased to announce Colonial Group as the title sponsor for “Phil the Park” on Oct 8, 2022. This free, outdoor, family-friendly concert starts at 4 p.m. at Forsyth Park, 2 W. Gaston St. in Savannah.
The concert will feature the Savannah Philharmonic orchestra and chorus with conductor Keitaro Harada. The event also includes music from local army bands; legendary Clarksdale blues artists; American Traditions Vocal Competition winners, and much more.
Patrons are invited to set up lawn chairs and blankets and bring picnic baskets or grab a bite from a variety of local food trucks. We are happy to announce that the traditional Picnic Setup Competition is back.
“We are thrilled to have Colonial Group as the title sponsor this year as we return to Forsyth Park for Phil the Park, Savannah’s favorite outdoor concert,” said Executive Director Amy Williams. “This concert truly is Something for Everyone as we continue to connect the entire community together.”
“We value opportunities to strengthen the communities we serve by making a positive difference in the lives of the people who live within them,” said Christian Demere, CEO of Savannah-based Colonial Group. “This event lets us bring all of Savannah together to celebrate our love of this community with an evening of music and fellowship. I hope everyone will join us for Savannah’s largest outdoor concert of the season.”
For interviews, photography or media inquiries, please contact amy@savannahphilharmonic.org.
ABOUT THE SAVANNAH PHILHARMONIC
The Savannah Philharmonic is a nonprofit 501©(3) organization of more than 60 professional musicians who are dedicated to bringing the “Soundtrack of Savannah” to all of the various communities and neighborhoods of Savannah and the region. Joining them on this mission are the 60-plus voices of the Philharmonic Chorus. The Philharmonic, or SavPhil, performs under the baton of Keitaro Harada, its music and artistic director who is simultaneously the associate conductor of the Tokyo Symphony Orchestra. The SavPhil conducts an extensive and far-reaching educational mission in Savannah and the surrounding area, all the while building community and forging bonds with the unifying power of music. To learn more about Savannah Philharmonic or the Link Up program, please visit www.savannahphilharmonic.org, call 912-232-6002, or email info@savannahphilharmonic.org. Offices are at 1515 Abercorn St. Stay engaged with Savannah Philharmonic on social media by using the hashtag #SavPhil.
MEDIA CONTACT
Marjorie Young
Carriage Trade Public Relations® Inc.
912.844.9990
www.carriagetradepr.com
marjorie@carriagetradepr.com
Savannah Philharmonic’s Keitaro Harada receives one of Japan’s Highest Musical Honors
(SAVANNAH, GA / JAPAN) Keitaro Harada, conductor for the Savannah Philharmonic, received the Hideo Saito Memorial Fund Award last month in his native Japan.
This award is presented each year to two promising young musicians – one a conductor, as in Harada’s case, and one a cellist. In addition to international recognition, the award includes a plaque and a significant financial prize of about $50,000.
The Sony Music Foundation established the Hideo Saito Memorial Award in 2002 to honor the late Saito, a renowned cellist, conductor and educator.
“We are so excited to see Keitaro receive this award, further proof of the international quality of musical talent the Savannah Philharmonic brings to our mission of building community through music,” said Dr. Amy Williams, SavPhil’s executive director.
The committee said it selected Keitaro because of his vast musical knowledge and training gained from living abroad and training under wonderful mentors. It cited the courage he shows as music and artistic director of the Savannah Philharmonic and how he has improved the importance of music in the Savannah region.
Harada is now in his third year with the Savannah Philharmonic. Previously, he completed his fourth and final season as Associate Conductor of the Cincinnati Symphony and Pops. He has performed extensively in Asia, Europe and North America.
ABOUT THE SAVANNAH PHILHARMONIC
The Savannah Philharmonic is a nonprofit 501©(3) organization of more than 60 professional musicians who are dedicated to bringing the “Soundtrack of Savannah” to all of the various communities and neighborhoods of Savannah and the region. Joining them on this mission are the 60-plus voices of the Philharmonic Chorus. The Philharmonic, or SavPhil, performs under the baton of Keitaro Harada. The SavPhil conducts an extensive and far-reaching educational mission in Savannah and the surrounding area, all the while building community and forging bonds with the unifying power of music. To learn more about Savannah Philharmonic or the Link Up program, please visit www.savannahphilharmonic.org, call 912-232-6002, or email info@savannahphilharmonic.org. Offices are at 1515 Abercorn St. Stay engaged with Savannah Philharmonic on social media by using the hashtag #SavPhil.
MEDIA CONTACT
Gabby Lauretti
Savannah Philharmonic
Phone: 912.232.6002
www.savannahphilharmonic.org
gabby@savannahphilharmonic.org
MEDIA CONTACT
Marjorie Young
Carriage Trade Public Relations® Inc.
912.844.9990
www.carriagetradepr.com
marjorie@carriagetradepr.com
The Savannah Philharmonic Announces the Ben Tucker Instrument Library and Instrument Donation Drive
(SAVANNAH, GA) The Savannah Philharmonic announces the Ben Tucker Instrument Library, a collection of musical instruments available to be loaned to deserving music students in Savannah’s schools.
“The Savannah Philharmonic’s goal for the instrument library is to ensure that all deserving students have access to quality instruments,” said Amy Williams, executive director of the Philharmonic. “By working alongside Savannah’s band and orchestra directors, we can help remove barriers to access, promote equitable student participation, and create a lasting community resource.”
Musical instruments are expensive. Student-level flutes, clarinets, saxophones, trumpets and trombones can range in price from $500 to $1,500. Used instruments can cost less, but often require expensive repairs. While the SCCPSS does a great job of supporting the different school programs’ instrument needs, providing and maintaining thousands of instruments is no small task. Many area students rent their instruments through local music stores for about $30 to $70 per month, but this cost is often still well beyond many families’ financial reach.
The instrument library is named in honor of the late Ben Tucker, a man of nationally recognized musical talent who relocated to Savannah and became an influential community leader.
“Ben Tucker was a musical icon, and the Savannah Philharmonic could think of no greater way to honor his memory than by a program which promotes musical equity and assures students can participate in musical education, regardless of their ability to pay,” said Williams.
Tucker was a multi-faceted musician, businessman and entrepreneur who succeeded in multiple fields. As a bassist, he played with the leading jazz musicians of the 1950s and ’60s. He was also a music composer and songwriter, with “Comin’ Home Baby” ranked as his most commercially successful song, recorded by diverse artists from Mel Tormé to Michael Bublé. Other ventures included television commercial production, which led him to collaborate in the development of the ’70s and ’80s educational shorts, “Schoolhouse Rock.” Tucker spent the last 40 years of his life in Savannah, where he became the 15th Black radio station owner in the United States, turning WSOK into the top AM station in Savannah.
Ben understood the meaning of “civic responsibility.” He worked on numerous boards, task forces, and planning committees within the City of Savannah and the impact he had on the youth in the community can be measured by his involvement with Junior Achievers, The First Tee of Savannah, and Bethesda Boys Academy, Boys and Girls Clubs of Savannah, YMCA, The Westin Foundation and now, the Savannah Philharmonic.
The Savannah Philharmonic is now accepting donations of any band or orchestra instruments to add to the library’s collection. Instruments may be donated at upcoming SavPhil events, such as from 5 to 9 p.m. March 4 at Location Gallery @ Austin Hill Realty, or in Chippewa Square in downtown Savannah beginning at 3 p.m. for “Phil the Squares with Song” on March 13th. Instruments may also be dropped off at meetings of the Rotary Club of Savannah on March 7, 21, and 28 at the DeSoto Hotel’s grand ballroom at noon.
To learn of other ways to donate to the Ben Tucker Instrument Library please contact Brad Behr, the orchestra’s Education & Community Initiatives Manager at Brad@SavannahPhilharmonic.com.
ABOUT THE SAVANNAH PHILHARMONIC
The Savannah Philharmonic, a nonprofit 501©(3), is an innovative and influential arts organization which entertains, inspires and builds community throughout the region. The SavPhil performs under the baton of Keitaro Harada, its world renowned Music and Artistic Director. The Philharmonic is dedicated to building community and inspiring youth achievement through equitable music education programming. To learn more about Savannah Philharmonic please visit www.savannahphilharmonic.org, call 912-232-6002, or email gabby@savannahphilharmonic.org.
MEDIA CONTACT
Gabby Lauretti
Savannah Philharmonic Phone:
912.232.6002
gabby@savannahphilharmonic.org
MEDIA CONTACT
Marjorie Young
Carriage Trade Public Relations® Inc.
912.844.9990
www.carriagetradepr.com
marjorie@carriagetradepr.com
Davis & Johnson and the FABULOUS EQUINOX ORCHESTRA present A CENTURY OF SINATRA: CELEBRATING THE CHAIRMAN’S 100TH BIRTHDAY
(SAVANNAH, GA) On the eve of Frank Sinatra’s 100th birthday, Jeremy Davis and Clay Johnson, along with their band the Fabulous Equinox Orchestra, will be throwing the party of the century as they pay homage to “The Chairman of the Board.” Along with the greatest songs, the best original arrangements and phenomenal musicianship, these two bring their rich friendship and charm to the stage. Now, Jeremy and Clay have garnered the attention of PBS producers, and this show will be filmed for their first-ever PBS special.
Davis & Johnson and the Fabulous Equinox Orchestra will perform at the Charles H. Morris Center (10 East Broad St, Savannah, GA) on Friday, December 11. General admission tickets are available at www.EquinoxOrchestra.com.
Who: Davis & Johnson and the FABULOUS EQUINOX ORCHESTRA
What: present A CENTURY OF SINATRA: CELEBRATING THE CHAIRMAN’S 100TH BIRTHDAY
When: FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11 – 7:30 PM (Doors at 7:00 PM)
Where: AT THE CHARLES H. MORRIS CENTER IN TRUSTEES’ GARDEN, SAVANNAH, GA
MORE ABOUT DAVIS & JOHNSON
A TRUE STORY: In the fall of 1987, two timid young boys and total strangers to each other, were herded into the awkward new world that was West Monroe Junior High, in West Monroe, LA. As fate would have it, by some glitch in the system, these two boys out of hundreds of students and scores of teachers were assigned with the exact same schedule—all seven class-periods were identical. It wasn’t until the night of “Open House” did their mothers make the connection that Jeremy and Clay had every class together. Mrs. Davis and Mrs. Johnson made the decision then and there to force a friendship upon their unsuspecting prepubescent sons. Jeremy and Clay had to do projects together and study nights and play dates and sleep overs; it was horrible! But eventually, they tolerated each other and slowly a lifelong friendship began to take root. Band was where they really shined. Clay played trombone and Jeremy played saxophone, and they both excelled on their instruments. Through high school and into college at Louisiana Tech, these two continued to perform, experimenting with all different kinds of groups — Rhythm & Blues, Rock-N-Roll, Classical, Jazz, Christian and even Rap. As the years rolled by their friendship remained, even as they each married their wives and had children. After learning the hard way of how not to run a band, Jeremy formed the Equinox Orchestra and asked Clay to come sing on a few tunes. That was the catalyst. It didn’t take long for Jeremy to look eastward for a new home base, and he planned his move to Savannah, GA. His moving date was the very day that Katrina made landfall. Clay hunkered down with his family in Baton Rouge, but almost three years later, he followed Jeremy to Savannah. From their new home on the Southeast Coast, Jeremy and Clay have been blessed to see the Equinox Orchestra grow beyond their wildest dreams, taking the show on the road all over North America — from Miami to Halifax, NS, Toronto to Las Vegas, Chicago to many gigs in NYC, and everywhere in between. God bless their moms…and God bless their wives! Find out more at www.EquinoxOrchestra.com.
Contact:
Jeremy Davis
912-547-3196
contact@EquinoxOrchestra.com
Clay Johnson
912-508-1848
clay@EquinoxOrchestra.com
MY SAVANNAH™ 