“For almost two decades, I have begun each new season announcing the programs, eagerly looking forward to the music ahead. This year is no different. And yet — it is,” says Stern. “I have always tried to look ahead, not back, and my highest priority has been to guide the Kansas City Symphony toward greater artistic heights. Yet as I launch into this last year of my tenure as music director, I find myself thinking back on our journey together since my first concert as a guest conductor in 2003. Auditions, meetings, rehearsals, concerts, recordings — there have been so many projects, and so much wonderful music.”

Click to read the full press release