When the Music Stopped: ASO Cancels May and June Performances
Virginia stay-at-home order prompts move
Alexandria, VA – Merely a week ago the Alexandria Symphony Orchestra (ASO) announced with excitement its upcoming season. Now, with stay-at-home orders in place because of the coronavirus, plans for earlier concerts have changed. But then again, hasn’t everything?
Unfortunately, performances for the next two months have been cancelled. But the measures taken to protect Virginians are important: They limit the spread of the corornavirus. One day the music will return.
“These are extraordinary times, and we all must do our part to slow the spread of this virus, not only for our community, but also for our first responders and health care professionals,” says ASO Board President Melynda Wilcox. “When it’s safe, the ASO will be back on stage, ready to inspire our audiences with exciting programs.”
Some of the performances for May and June, according to Maestro James Ross, will be included in concert dates this fall. Brian Prechtl’s original work, “Tribute,” will be presented on October 3, the night Beethoven’s Ninth will be played.
Brian’s work is inspired by Beethoven,” said Ross, “so it’s a natural fit.”
People who bought tickets have been informed of the cancellations. Musicians, who often work on a concert-to-concert basis, will receive some compensation as a gesture for lost income.
The ASO will now focus on the 2020-2021 Season. Everyone involved anticipates bringing great music to audiences in the future.
“We look forward to a future when sharing music in live performance can bring us back together again,” Ross said.
READ MORE: ASO Announces Performance Schedule for Upcoming Season
