tThe Detroit Symphony Orchestra is teaming up with Detroit Public Television to ring in 2015 with a televised black tie gala, to be held at the Max M. Fisher Music Center on New Year’s Eve.
tWhile the partnership between the DSO and DPTV is ongoing, the televised special is a first for the two organizations, says Della Cassia, spokeswoman for Detroit Public Television.
t“This is a perfect fit for several reasons — it showcases the DSO’s talent, and also brings something new and different to the city,” Cassia says. “This is the first time ever the New Year’s Eve concert will be televised and thus reaching larger audiences. People who tune in will see the talent of the DSO as well as the power of DPTV to broadcast such a show.”
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tThe New Year’s Eve festivities will begin at 8 p.m. Dec. 31, when participants will be provided with party favors, cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and cigars. DPTV’s telecast will begin at 10 p.m. as the concert commences in historic Orchestra Hall.
tLed by DSO Principal Pops Conductor Jeff Tyzik, the orchestra will perform jazz standards like Sweet Georgia Brown and Ain’t Misbehavin’ featuring jazz trumpet legend Byron Stripling and organist Bobby Floyd, as well as light classical selections by Strauss and Smetana. Guests will be invited to sing along with a full orchestral performance of Auld Lang Syne, making the audience literally part of the show.
tThe New Year’s Eve party will continue following the concert with a choice of traditional dance band, jazz lounge, and dance club atmospheres throughout The Max.
tFor concert tickets, priced at $40-$50, visit dso.org or call the Max M. Fisher Music Center Box Office at 313-576-5111. DSO box office personnel will be in Campus Martius today until 2 p.m. selling concert-only tickets under a shower of faux snow. Patrons over 21 will receive a free personal-sized bottle of champagne with the purchase of a ticket.
tGala packages (includes party favors and access to pre-concert cocktail reception and post-concert party) start at $250 and will go on sale later this summer.
