Annual Report 2006 - Detroit Symphony Orchestra

Innovating“Creating great music, in both the jazzand classical realms, and inspiringyoung musicians and new audiencesthrough meaningful education programs,have been the focal points ofmy creative life. The DSO is one of thefew organizations that shares all ofthese goals. I have been impressed byboth the artistry and the commitmentI have found in Detroit, and I lookforward to becoming part of the DSOteam in both orchestral and quartetperformances, and as the Fred A. andBarbara M. Erb Jazz Creative DirectorChair.”—Branford Marsalis, DSO Fred A. and Barbara M.Erb Jazz Creative Director Chair“The DetroitSymphony’s ElaineLebenbom Awardis unparalleled inproviding an incredible opportunityfor women composers. The possibilitiesof where a composer’s career mightgo after such an award are infinite.I would hope any woman composerwould jump at this opportunity.”— Jennifer Higdon, composerand shaped their artistic vision with the musicians of the DSO.In the spring, the DSO announced it will host an annualinternational competition, unique in the world, designed to recognizeand support the creation of new orchestral works by womencomposers. Each winner of the Elaine Lebenbom Memorial Award forFemale Composers will have an original work premiered on the DSO’sClassical Subscription Series and earn a $10,000 prize.Complementing the hands-on service of the DSO box office in2005-06 was the launch of a new and enhanced web site, resultingin a 25% increase in web-based sales. For the first time, new ticketingsoftware enabled DSO patrons to use the Internet to choose theirPlay! A Video Game Symphonyown exact seating locations, in real-time. The site also introducedimproved navigability, information-at-aglanceand new material supporting thelive concert-going experience. Musicalexcerpts were added throughout site, andthe event schedule is now available as adownload to PDA’s and personal computers.Organizations interested in holding eventsat The Max were able to take a virtual tourof the world-class venue.Additionally, web site visitors wereinvited to learn more about DSO musiciansthrough the In the Spotlight section; readquick facts by clicking on Did You Know?;or subscribe to the DSO’s e-newsletter,Noteworthy. This monthly online publicationachieved a record subscriber base exceeding30,000 last season and provided “insider”information on upcoming concerts andRobert deMaine, Principal Cello, leads his sectionguest artists, as well as special ticket offersand more.www.detroitsymphony.com