The Metropolitan Symphony Orchestra has been very fortunate to work with many exciting and phenomenal artists. Although we don’t generally like to toot our own horns, we thought you’d like to see what some of them have had to say about working with us.
“Even in our Twin Cities, with the wealth of orchestral music provided by the big-budget bands… there’s always room and reason for an ensemble as accomplished and imaginative as the Metropolitan Symphony Orchestra. The intriguing variety of the music they play, and the high quality (and enthusiasm) with which they play it makes each concert a memorable occasion.”
Michael Barone, Minnesota Public Radio“It was great working with Maestro William Schrickel and the wonderful MSO on our Schumann Konzertstuck. We appreciated the high degree of professionalism and exuberance present during our collaboration. Bravo MSO!”
Michael Gast, Principal Horn, Minnesota Orchestra“As a guest artist, I’ve found working with the Metropolitan Symphony Orchestra to be a joy! Not only are they superb in their musicianship, but they have such heart and enthusiasm in their performance. The players welcome the guest as one of their own and the result is a splendid collaboration. As a performer and as an audience member I have appreciated their program choices. It is a privilege to sing with them and the wonderful William Schrickel.”
Lisa Habeck, Soprano“Over the past twenty-five years, Central Lutheran’s association with the Metropolitan Symphony Orchestra has been a source of both pride and pleasure. The enthusiasm and energy of its players, the competent artistry of Music Director Bill Schrickel and outstanding programming are to be treasured and applauded. It is at MSO concerts that some of us have had our first “live hearings” of works we’ve only read about or heard by way of recordings. In addition, working with various orchestra members on joint projects (MSO/Central) has been nothing less than thrilling. Congratulations to you all! Bravo! Bravo! Bravissimo!”
Mark Sedio, Director of Music, Central Lutheran Church , Minneapolis“It has been such a pleasure working with you these past few months. Thank you for all your efforts in bringing the MSO to Marshall. You and your group are remarkable people and made this a memorable experience for me and so many others. We loved having you here and are so grateful you made the journey. Thanks again!!”
Jessie Soucy, Corporate Sponsorships & Events, Schwan’s Shared Services, LLC“The Metropolitan Orchestra continues to be a marvelous addition to the Worship and Sacred Music Series at St. Olaf Church, downtown Minneapolis. In addition to bringing a high level of varied and challenging repertoire, their delivery is remarkably musical and dynamic. Their mission of offering excellent music-making to our community fits hand in hand with the mission of St. Olaf in downtown. It is here that many come, young and old, rich and poor, to enjoy programs which cost little or nothing to enjoy.
The Orchestra’s pioneering effort to perform music for orchestra and the pipe organ at St. Olaf is most commendable, and a fine addition to the Twin Cities music scene not accomplished by others. All things combined, they are at the top of community orchestras in the region.”
Dr. Lynn Trapp, Director of Worship/Music, St. Olaf Church, Minneapolis“The Metropolitan Symphony began 25 years ago as more or less a St. Olaf ‘alumni orchestra’ in the fall of 1982 with about 35 talented and enthusiastic orchestral musicians. At that time, the ensemble was called the Central Chamber Orchestra. We were all proud of those humble beginnings. We established a seriousness of purpose to make music at a high level, and to have fun sharing our talents with those who would listen. We had enthusiastic audiences and we established a fine group of people to serve on the first board of directors, and they were determined to see this ensemble become established as a fine performing ensemble that would enable talented amateurs and aspiring young professionals the opportunity to play a variety of great orchestral literature. In one of those early years we did a concert with the Metropolitan Opera Star, Judith Blegen among other memorable performances. The orchestra grew to near symphony size over the five years I conducted. This orchestra has very much helped to shape the musician and conductor I am today.
It has been a joy and privilege to see the MSO grow to what I believe is the finest amateur symphony in Minnesota and probably the midwest. Thanks to the dedication of the conductors, the board, the members of the orchestra and to all who have supported the group over the years, the MSO is making music with vitality, intelligence, charisma, and with a vision for the future. It’s clear that the MSO has another wonderful 25 years in store. Congratulations!!”
Steven Amundson, Orchestra Director, St. Olaf College, MSO Music Director 1982-1987