With honor and delight, the Olympia Symphony Orchestra introduces its new Music Director, Alexandra Arrieche. Her world-class experiences and skills garnered her a spot amongst the top four candidates who came to Olympia for live auditions. Alex’s authentic yearnings for collaboration, blended with her zest for music in life, are irresistible and earned her the position. She will be a gem for this community.
“We are proud of the search committee,” says Executive Director Jennifer Hermann. The team of 14 included four board members, six musicians elected by the orchestra, and four active community members. “We wanted a person not just for the orchestra, but for our community,” emphasizes Jennifer.
Fortunately, the feelings are mutual. When Alex first saw a photograph of the symphony, she had the feeling everyone was friendly. “I feel in love,” she smiles. “My nature is collaboration,” reflects Alex, who mentors youth and connects with musicians in varied genres including pop. She finds ways to integrate music with food, fun, and education. “Music can change lives and should be for everybody,” says Alex.
The pandemic demanded people increase their creativity and flexibility. This is truly reflected in the upcoming ’22-’23 season. For example, with the renovations of the Washington Center underway until early November, the fall concert conducted by Alex will be held at the Kenneth Minniert Center for the
Arts at SPSCC on October 16.
It’s a smaller venue, so selected seats will be added within the orchestra. A few lucky people will be able to purchase a seat to get a new perspective. The rest of the audience will get views from a special camera focused on Alex conducting. The orchestra will be playing excerpts from the upcoming season, and Alex will be talking with the audience and giving clues. It will be an exciting evening.
The new season will feature guest artists whose music selections will be known ahead of time. However, the full program won’t be revealed until the concert begins. For sure, the season will be packed with the unexpected. It’s a new chapter and the Olympia Symphony Orchestra invites you to dream with them.
Get your tickets to this invigorating season. October 16 (SPSCC), November 13, December 23, February 4 and 5, March 19, April 23, and the Season Preview May 23-24, all at the Washington Center.
For Additional Information
Olympia Symphony Orchestra
olympiasymphony.org
MARY ELLEN PSALTIS