To our dear Florida Orchestra family,
As we face this crisis together, with the world at such a standstill, never before have we been so physically isolated from our friends and families. When our every instinct is to find strength and comfort together in the safe haven of the concert hall, it is both cruel and crucial that we stay apart for the safety of everyone. Not being able to perform so many great live concerts for you in the coming weeks is heartbreaking for all of us at The Florida Orchestra. We deeply miss being with you, and long to provide the live symphonic music that so powerfully connects us, especially now.
However, our musicians and staff are determined to keep the music going. I encourage you to spend some time with our TFO at Home page and social media, where you will find wonderful, creative videos from our musicians that are sure to lift your spirits. Don’t miss our first virtual orchestra performance of Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 4 (finale). Also, we are broadcasting and streaming live recordings of some of our finest concerts from our current and recent seasons on Classical WSMR radio every Thursday. Even when we are not able to play live for you, the indomitable spirit of our remarkable TFO musicians cannot be dampened: We will keep bringing you music!
When we finally emerge from this crisis, where shall we look for inspiration? Music, of course. Music has given each of us comfort and compassion in times of difficulty. Whether it be the journey from darkness to light in Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony, or the reminder from Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons that spring will follow winter, music’s power to enrich lives, encourage empathy, provide beauty and inspire hope is unsurpassable. It is needed now more than ever before.
Our beloved community has been separated and secluded by this virus. What better way to unite us than to hear the world’s most beautiful music played with the passion and commitment of The Florida Orchestra musicians?
The orchestra and I dearly look forward to sharing the stage with you again. Please know that the entire TFO family and I are thinking of you and sending our love and best wishes.
We hope you and your families will stay safe and healthy.
Michael Francis
Music Director
