Music to Our Ears

This season marks a milestone for Symphony of the Americas and maestro James Brooks-Bruzzese in more ways than one. Not only has the symphony been a vibrant part of the community for 30 years, but it continues to make classical music accessible and inspiring at a time when similar cultural entities around the country struggle.

“Isn’t it wonderful that we, as a symphony orchestra, have been in the community for 30 years?” asks executive director Renée LaBonte. “The fact that we are still here and [still] producing as a nonprofit organization—and that we have been able to survive—is worth celebrating.”

As seen in its 2017-18 programming, Symphony of the Americas is doing more than just surviving. The season began with a performance by pianist Thomas Tirino, honoring Italian and Hispanic Heritage Month in October, and continues early this month with a holiday concert featuring Florida Singing Sons and the Girl Choir of South Florida.

Concerts in 2018, all at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, include the orchestra paired with traditional jazz (Jan. 9), a collaboration with Broadway and opera singers (Feb. 20) and guest appearances by soloists of the Houston Ballet (March 13). The season finale will feature Conrad Tao, an accomplished pianist, composer and violinist, performing his own composition with the symphony (April 10).

“Our approach to the audiences and the community is youthful,” Brooks-Bruzzese says. “Keeping everyone young in spirit is our goal; [we do that through] inspiring classics, new works that expand your horizons—and encores that send you out of the theater with a song in your heart.”

Engaging younger audiences remains a high priority for LaBonte and her team, especially since music education is no longer part of today’s standard school curriculum. “We have to create things that will be interesting [enough] to draw them into the concert hall,” LaBonte says.

In addition to concert programming, the symphony has done that through a variety of well-received creative and family-oriented events—matinees tailored to children, “petting zoos” during which kids may touch and feel instruments, and wine tastings for young professionals.

As one of Broward County’s designated major cultural institutions, the symphony promises many more curtain calls for the community.

You May Also Like
Boca’s Summer Soundtrack: Enjoy Legendary Sounds Under the Stars

City of Boca Raton Celebrates 100 Years with a Star-Studded “Summer in the City” Concert Series.

Read More
Third ‘Lead with Love’ Mural Debuts at the Dania Beach Marina

Cey Adams shares vibrant message of community and compassion in latest ‘Lead with Love’ mural.

Read More
City of Boca Raton Names Tiffany Beasi Winner of Inaugural Seafood Festival Art Contest

Beasi’s design stood out for its creative interpretation of the festival’s theme and tribute to the city’s Mizner architecture

Read More
It’s National Reading Month: Chill in the Library at The Goodtime Hotel

A stylish retreat in the heart of South Beach, The Goodtime Hotel’s library offers the perfect spot to unwind with a good book.

Read More
Other Posts
Jack Alexander’s Magician Exposed Residency Premieres in South Florida

Seen on TMZ and celebrated worldwide, Jack invites audiences to step into his world of magic, where the impossible becomes an intimate, exhilarating experience.

Read More
The 37th Annual Las Olas Art Fair Part 2 Returns

The festival will be held on Saturday, March 1 and Sunday, March 2 and will feature works from over 200 local and national artists.

Read More
Las Olas Art Festival
Savor the Weekend: Top Experiences at SOBEWFF 2025

From star-studded cooking battles to late-night parties and surprise celebrity appearances, here’s your guide to the most photo-worthy moments of the weekend.

Read More
Second Annual Boca International Jewish Film Festival Opens February 23

The Festival Presents 70 Feature Films and Shorts to Include U.S., Florida, and Palm Beach County Premieres of Films Spanning 25 Countries.

Read More