Halifax/K’jipuktuk, NS – Almost 30 years ago, a young Natalie MacMaster joined Symphony Nova Scotia onstage for her first time performing with an orchestra. On September 28, 2023, we bring her home as the special guest artist in Natalie MacMaster Opening Night Reunion.

Cape Breton’s sweetheart, the Grammy-winning superstar will be joined onstage by conductor Scott Macmillan, who she credits for bridging the two worlds of orchestra and Celtic fiddle.

“In 1995, the Symphony, Natalie, and I shared music across Nova Scotia on a fantastic tour,” says Macmillan. “We’re going to pick up right where we left off and have two fabulous nights of entertainment. I’m so looking forward to this.”

Then, on October 12, 2023, renowned cellist Denise Djokic brings her extraordinary talent back to the Halifax stage for a concert featuring works by Franz Joseph Haydn, Louise Farrenc, Dinuk Wijeratne, and a new commission by Symphony bassoonist Christopher Palmer.

Djokic has been a world-known performer since her television performance of Bach at the 2002 Grammy Awards following the lauded release of her self-titled debut recording. Her insightful playing has earned her worldwide recognition and appearances in some of the most venerable halls.

“We’re very excited to have Denise with us in our 40th Season,” says Music Director Holly Mathieson, who will conduct this performance. “As a cellist, she’s one of the world’s finest, and to see her back in her hometown is a joy.”

Later in the month, JUNO Award-winning saxophonist Mike Murley joins the Symphony for a parade of big band music from the likes of Henry Mancini, Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Quincy Jones, and more. Led by conductor Greg Burton, this concert is modelled on the popular symphonic pops concerts designed by the Symphony’s beloved Pops Conductor Laureate Howard Cable.  

“I am thrilled to collaborate with Greg Burton and Symphony Nova Scotia as the featured soloist for this program of jazz and big band orchestra music,” says Murley, who now lives in HRM after years of residing in Toronto.

Tickets for these concerts are available at 902.494.3820, symphonynovascotia.ca or in-person at 6101 University Ave. Interested in four or more concerts? Ticket packages offer the best savings. Prices range from $40 to $85, HST included, plus Dalhousie Arts Centre service fees.

NATALIE MACMASTER OPENING NIGHT REUNION
7:30 pm / Thursday, September 28, 2023
7:30 pm / Friday, September 29, 2023
The Rebecca Cohn Auditorium, Halifax

DENISE DJOKIC PLAYS HAYDN
7:30 pm / Thursday, October 12, 2023
The Rebecca Cohn Auditorium, Halifax

BIG BAND HIT PARADE
7:30 pm / Saturday, October 28, 2023
2:00 pm / Sunday, October 29, 2023
The Rebecca Cohn Auditorium, Halifax

About Symphony Nova Scotia
Symphony Nova Scotia is Nova Scotia’s orchestra, championing symphonic music in the province for 40 years. With a home base in Halifax/K’jipuktuk and performances across the province, Symphony Nova Scotia is proud to be a vibrant, vital part of Nova Scotia’s rich cultural community. From sold-out orchestral concerts to free family events, youth and seniors’ activities, and educational partnerships, Symphony Nova Scotia creates unforgettable experiences with truly great music. Visit symphonynovascotia.ca to learn more.

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For more information, please contact:

Carol Kehoe
Director of Marketing and Communications, Symphony Nova Scotia
902.421.5264
[email protected]
symphonynovascotia.ca