ESO in the News

Read the full Kane County article.

The Elgin Symphony Orchestra will host a master class with renowned cellist Lynn Harrell at the Gail Borden Public Library, 270 N. Grove, Elgin, at 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 3.

Classes are free and open to the public. Students may apply for the opportunity to perform for Harrell. Applications are available for download on the ESO website, www.elginsymphony.org. The application deadline is Sept. 7.

Read the full Chicago Tribune article.

The Elgin Symphony Orchestra hosted a celebration party recently at the Anvil Club in East Dundee in honor of Music Director, Andrew Grams’ extended five-year contract. The event was well attended by staff, subscribers, and musicians.

Addressing those in attendance, Grams recalled “when Dave Bearden, ESO Chief Executive Officer approached me about extending my three year contract, I immediately knew what my answer would be. It was one of the easiest decisions I have ever made. Everything has been going so well and the team is so great. I had no hesitation whatsoever.”

Read the full Chicago Tribune article.

After signing a five-year contract to remain music director of the Elgin Symphony Orchestra through the 2020-2021 season, Andrew Grams said the deal allows him time to further establish the roots of the organization.

“The things I want to do here are somewhat amorphous in terms of the ensemble and team,” Grams said. “But toward the big picture, my goal is to make sure the symphony is better off artistically and financially and stronger than when I started.”

Having the five years also allows more flexibility in planning concert bills and booking guest artists, Grams said, as he hopes to sew a thread between pieces performed on those bills and from concert to concert and season to season.