“We want to make the RSO, and classical music in general, more accessible and more relatable,” stated Laurie Kenagy, Executive Director of the Ridgefield Symphony Orchestra.
A brand new addition to the RSO, Kenagy’s plans include spearheading a movement to make classical music and concerts less intimidating and with a broader appeal. While still holding larger classical performances in the standard auditorium setting, the RSO also plans to play in smaller, more intimate venues where audience members can socialize before and after performances and enjoy live music. Kenagy feels that these smaller music events, featuring both classical and more contemporary or popular music, will help the RSO reach a broader audience.
Kenagy, who was formerly the Executive Director of the Western Connecticut Youth Orchestra (WCYO), and is currently the president of the WCYO Board of Directors, also hopes to further collaboration between the youth orchestra and other music and arts organizations in and around Ridgefield. For next season, the RSO will hold three concerts at Anne Richardson Auditorium in October, November, and December respectively, as well as smaller events throughout the season. In its October concert, the RSO will collaborate on a piece with Ridgefield’s SPHERE, a nonprofit organization that assists adults with developmental disabilities, as well as feature violinist Yevgeny Kutik as soloist with the orchestra.
Going forward, the RSO hopes to further develop an image of classical music that is anything but “stuffy,” and can be accessible and exciting for everyone! If you want to learn more about the RSO or to become a patron or donor, click here