It seems like every day brings news that another symphony orchestra has folded. In the face of all the gloom the Memphis Symphony orchestra continues to innovate and thrive. Starting Thursday, May 26, ten finalists will gather at the Cannon Center in Downtown Memphis for a conductor off. Or whatever you call it when the people up front with the batons go to to toe. Simply said, rising conductorial talent from around the globe, will compete for bragging rights and cash prizes. This inaugural competition, the first of its kind in the U.S., will be judged by a jury that includes Robert Spano, Music Director of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Anthony Fogg, Artistic Administrator of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, and Aaron Jay Kernis, Pulitzer prize winning Composer and Professor at Yale School of Music.
Prizes include: First Place: The Joy Brown Wiener Excellence Award – $7500, Second Place – $3000, and Special Mention – $1000 in addition to the opportunity to conduct the MSO during the 2011-12.
The best part: ALL ROUNDS ARE FREE & OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
Thursday, May 26
1st Round: 1:30pm-4:00pm – 10 Contestants
2nd Round: 7:30pm-10:00pm – 6 Contestants
Friday, May 27
3rd & Final Round: 10:00am-12:30pm – 3 Finalists
Admission is free, but a pass is required. Passes may be obtained in advance through our box office by calling (901) 537-2525 or at 585 S. Mendenhall Rd. in east Memphis.
