Thomas Wilkins, music director candidate for the Memphis Symphony Orchestra
The Memphis Symphony Orchestra’s exciting search for a new music director continues as Thomas Wilkins makes his first appearance before Memphis audiences on Friday, November 6, 2009 at the Buckman Performing and Fine Arts Center at 8pm. We want everyone to get to know a little more about the man who could be Memphis’ next Maestro!
A native of Norfolk, VA, Thomas Wilkins is currently the music director of the Omaha Symphony, Resident Conductor of the Detroit Symphony and Principal Guest Conductor of the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra, making him the first conductor to hold that title since the ensemble’s founder, John Mauceri, retired in 2006.
Thomas Wilkins also has a passion for the written word. Wilkins was kind enough to share his old favorites as well as his current reading list.
One of his all time favorite books:
– John Adams by David McCullough
Currently Reading:
- Margin by Richard Swenson
- The Language of God by Francis Collins
Favorite Authors for Recreational & Summer Reading:
– Robert B. Parker
– Stuart Woods
– Robert Crais
– Harlan Coben
– Lee Child
Wilkins will lead a program by classical powerhouses including Beethoven, Stravinsky, and Haydn. The program’s theme is featuring works by composers who found inspiration from other influences. Beethoven looked to the heroic Prometheus of Greek mythology. Stravinsky mimicked America’s popular ragtime, and Haydn included sounds from the battlefield to shape his symphony.
Get to know Thomas Wilkins even more:
Immediately following the concert on November 6th, there will be a reception with complimentary refreshments and a special Q&A session with Thomas Wilkins from the stage at Buckman for those who attend the concert.
Listen in to WKNO-FM 91.1 next Wednesday (Nov. 4) at 9am for Darel Snodgrass’ interview w/ Thomas Wilkins on Checking on the Arts!
I know quite a few people at the MSO (some who are on the committee looking for the new conductor), and they are very excited about Thomas Wilkins.
Hopefully it is meant to be.