A NEW ERA BEGINS WITH DONATO CABRERA

Celebrating its 98th season, the Green Bay Symphony Orchestra is the third largest professional orchestra in the state of Wisconsin. The mission of the GBSO is to provide orchestral performances and music education experiences of the highest artistic quality to Northeastern Wisconsin. The GBSO maintains a roster of 60 musicians and offers numerous community engagements and concerts annually. The Orchestra has grown to include a flourishing Youth Orchestra Program; now in its 42nd season, the GBSYO is one of the longest-running programs in the state and serves approximately 180 students from over 14 counties.

Donato Cabrera will raise his baton for the first time as the 10th Music Director of the Green Bay Symphony Orchestra during its 2011/12 season. Cabrera joined the San Francisco Symphony (SFS) conducting staff in 2009 and will continue in his current role. As Bruno Walter Resident Conductor Chair, he works closely with SFS Music Director Michael Tilson Thomas and leads the San Francisco Symphony Youth Orchestra as Wattis Foundation Music Director. Cabrera is dedicated to music education and community outreach and has worked with members of the young artist programs of the San Francisco Opera, Lyric Opera of Chicago, and Portland Opera. He was also a frequent conductor of Young People’s Concerts with the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra.

The Green Bay Symphony Orchestra, in partnership with Green Bay Area Public Schools, is introducing a new education initiative called the “Music for a Great City Program” this fall in 2011. The program engages 6th graders and their parents in music education curriculum; arranges school visits from Donato himself and other guest artists; and provides free tickets and transportation to attend concerts of the GBSO. The program encompasses approximately 1,400 students enrolled in general music classes or beginning band or orchestra. A two-week (10 day) session will take place in each school in the Green Bay Area Public School District. The goal of the program is to help students reach their individual potentials through involvement in music, regardless of economic, geographical or cultural barriers.