September 25, 2015: Last night, the Toronto Symphony Orchestra (TSO) celebrated the launch of its 94th season with a breathtaking performance by renowned violinist Pinchas Zukerman, led by Music Director Peter Oundjian. Following the sold-out concert at Roy Thomson Hall, members of Toronto’s vibrant arts community dazzled, attending a VIP gala dinner and silent auction held at The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto. The night’s events raised over $500,000 in support of the TSO.
“We are absolutely thrilled with the generous support shown by our friends in the arts community, loyal patrons, and dedicated sponsors, who each year help us host live performances that enrich our city and its culture,” said Jeff Melanson, President and CEO, Toronto Symphony Orchestra. “We have a diverse collection of concerts, from masterworks to contemporary creations to exciting collaborations; there’s something for everyone to experience and enjoy. We look forward to this new and innovative season.”
With an enthusiastic audience of more than 2,600 music lovers, the hour-long concert featured Bruch’s Violin Concerto No. 1 played by Mr. Zukerman, and the Orchestra’s performances of Dukas’ The Sorcerer’s Apprentice (with RBC Resident Conductor Earl Lee at the podium) and Grieg’s Suite No. 1 from Peer Gynt. Post-performance, guests indulged their senses at The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto, with an unforgettable dining experience and surprise performances by drummer Nation, and members of the TSO and Toronto Symphony Youth Orchestra in a delightful flash mob.
TSO Opening Night: Our City. Our Symphony. was envisioned by Gala Co-chairs Renette Berman and Trish Moran, and proudly presented by RBC.
Thank you to all table supporters: AGF Management Limited, Renette & David Berman Family Foundation, BMO, Paul Brehl & Ann Lawson Brehl, Edmund & Frances Clark, Kiki & Ian Delaney, Deloitte LLP, Diamante Development Corporation, EY, Flor de Sal Restaurant, Fogler Rubinoff LLP, Foresters, Goodmans LLP, Dr. Noëlle Grace & Mr. Morris Shohet, Hansell LLP, HelloGbye, Huntress Company, Allan Kimberley & Pam Spackman, KPMG, LiberTerre (Retail Ready Foods Inc.), Livewire Communications, Oliver Wyman, Richard Phillips, PriceWaterhouseCoopers LLP, RBC, Trish & Kevin Reed, RioCan Management Inc, Scotiabank, TD Bank Group, TD Securities, Bill & Bronwen Thomas, Torys LLP, Tricon Capital, Wentworth Technologies.
Silent auction items generously donated by Michael Adamson; Aimia; Gee Beauty; The Georgian Bay Club; JdJ Jewellery; Long and McQuade; NetJets; the San Francisco Symphony; Steinway & Sons; The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco; and V Hazelton Men, Yorkville.
The TSO Season Patron is The Renette and David Berman Family Foundation.The Opening Night Gala Presenting Sponsor is RBC.The TSO Season Presenting Sponsor is BMO Financial Group.
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