FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
	WHO: Austin Symphony WHAT: 1996/1997 Season WHEN: Opens on September 20, 1996
	CONTACT: Anne Lasseigne (512) 476-6064 or 346-9139 (evenings, weekends)

Austin Symphony Announces 1996-97 Season

Season Sponsors: First State Bank and Austin American Statesman

The Austin Symphony’s 1996-97 season is filled with internationally renowned musicians such as Nadja Salerno-Sonnenberg, Doc Severinson and, in addition to the regular season, a special performance by Van Cliburn. The season opens on Friday, September 20, 1996, with Corey Cerovsek playing both the violin and piano.

This season’s excitement is heightened by the continuing search for a new conductor. This season the Austin Symphony looks forward to hosting five more candidates, conducting at various concerts throughout the season – Philip Greenberg, JoAnn Falletta, Stephen Stein, Lawrence Leighton Smith and Andre Raphel Smith.

Season Highlights:

• Nadja Salerno-Sonnenberg, Violin
  A violinist whose bold, energetic style is in demand both nationally and internationally. She is acclaimed worldwide for her intense and impassioned performances.

• Doc Severinson, Trumpet
  Best known as the "Tonight Show’s" flamboyant Grammy Award-winning musical director. He will playing Mozart, Rachmaninoff/Proto, Haydn and Puccini.

• Holiday Pops and Promenade Pops
  Holiday Pops in December and Promenade Pops in June under the baton of popular Assistant Conductor, Timothy Muffitt.

Van Cliburn’s appearance with the Symphony on Saturday, May 24, is co-presented by the Austin Symphony and the U.T. Performing Arts Center. The legendary pianist’s selections will be announced at a later time.

Season subscribers receive priority seating and are able to save up to 36% of the cost of buying individual tickets. Season ticket holders may also exchange tickets from one night to the other in a concert pair or for a future concert..

Season ticket prices range from $70 to $195 and may be purchased at the Austin Symphony Box Office, in Symphony Square at 11th and Red River, or by calling 512-476-6064 with a VISA, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover card. For a season brochure, call 476-6064.

All programs, artists and dates are subject to change.

The 1996/97 Schedule