It’s here. The end of the 2011-2012 season officially begins after our concert tonight. No matter how much I wish for the season to end, when it finally arrives, it is always a bittersweet occasion. A large part of that is saying goodbye to friends for the summer months, and in other instances, saying goodbye to colleagues moving on either to other pastures or retirement.
This season we bid farewell to percussionist Matthew McKay, who heads off to glory with the Boston Symphony; violinist Sarah Roth, who is staying in Portland and nurturing a burgeoning private studio of eager young violin students; and violinist Mary Ann Coggins Kaza, who is retiring after 42 years with the orchestra! Everyone who comes to the Oregon Symphony is part of the Oregon Symphony family, no matter how long or short their stay. Thanks to these three wonderful musicians for their years of service and dedication.