Thank you

On February 22, the Richmond Symphony held a party to thank me for my 7 years of service as Associate Conductor.  The event included performances, auctions, speeches, and the gift of a facsimile of the Kyrie from Beethoven’s Missa Solemnis.  With over 250 people in attendance, I didn’t even get the chance to see and thank everyone in person, so I offer this open letter of gratitude to the planners, performers, sponsors and attendees who gave so generously of their time and funds to make the evening a success!

Erin with members of the RSChorus after their rousing (and technically perfect) rendition of the Hallelujah Chorus.

Dear Richmond Symphony staff, league, board, volunteers, party-planners, party-attendees, conductors, orchestra musicians, chorus members, YOP players, donors, sponsors, and more (aka my beloved Richmond Symphony family),

You might have noticed over the past 7 years that I am a bit of a micromanaging control-freak.  I like things a particular way, and I don’t hesitate to let people know.  With this self-aware admission, let me just tell you that I would not have changed a thing about Saturday night’s gala.  From the choice of location to the check-in table, from the music to the food, from the guests to the lovely table arrangements, everything was perfect!

What struck me most, however, is that in one night you embodied everything that I love about the Richmond Symphony.  The evening had incredible music that went from lyrical and serious to down-right hilarious.  The brass quintet + percussion performed with finesse and joy.  The YOP players played as one ensemble, and musically and astutely followed Becky Jilcott’s excellent direction.  The chorus – well, they got the flash mob they’ve always wanted, AND they admitted that count singing is the best tool out there!  Speeches by Aimee, David, Steven, Phil, and Joe made me laugh and touched my heart. And, the mix of people who attended perfectly represented my life and my passions in the good ole RVA.

So, I’d like to say thank you all so much for the party of a lifetime.  But, even more than that, thank you for all you did in the 7 years (9, including the RPO folks) leading up to Saturday’s incredible festivities.  My entire time here in Richmond has been an extended party with fun, joy, laughter, tears, good drinks, good food, and good friends – and of course, excellent music.  Congrats on a great event, and thank you for capturing that all in one unforgettable evening.

With much love and admiration,

​Erin