West Virginia Symphony Orchestra Announces the Cancellation of the Remainder of the 20-21 In-Person Concerts and Introduces Live-Stream Event

CHARLESTON, W.VA. (1/11/21) –The WV Symphony Orchestra (WVSO) has announced its decision to cancel the remainder of the previously scheduled subscription concerts for the 2020-2021 season due to continued safety concerns caused by the COVID-19 global pandemic. The Symphony will continue to offer performances online and on West Virginia Public Broadcasting.

 President Joe Tackett said in regards to the cancellation; “The WV Symphony Orchestra is thankful that vaccines are becoming more readily available, and we hope to be able to be together in the hall again soon. Nevertheless, we are still making alternative concert events that follow state and federal guidelines until the pandemic restrictions are lifted.”

In lieu of the in-person concerts, the WVSO is excited to announce additional live streaming and broadcast concerts throughout the spring. The next concert, “Great Music—Old and New” will be live streamed on Wednesday, January 27, at 2:30 p.m. thanks to an ongoing partnership with West Virginia Public Broadcasting.

“Great Music—Old and New” brings Music Director Lawrence Loh and WVSO musicians back to the Culture Center stage for an afternoon of beautiful music. The concert features selections from several Black composers, including Jesse Montgomery’s Starburst and William Grant Still’s Danzas de Panama. Another highlight of this special concert is a performance of Quinn Mason’s Reflection on a Memorial. Mason is a 25-year-old, award-winning composer from Texas and has been lauded as “one of the most sought-after young composers in the country” (Texas Monthly).

Astral Artist and guest violinist, Katie Hyun joins the Symphony for the second half of this concert for a performance of Mozart’s Violin Concerto No. 4.

This concert is made possible thanks to our generous sponsors the Elliot Foundation, Jim & Keith Straw, and Dr. Steven & Mrs. Sharon Jubelirer.

FAQs Surrounding Cancellation of WV Symphony concerts

Q: What were the factors that influenced the decision to cancel these concerts?

A: After careful review and discussion, the WVSO announced that all previously advertised concerts have been cancelled due to the COVID-19 global pandemic. This cancellation represents the safest and most prudent plan to ensure the well-being of the entire community.

Q: How will the season cancellation affect musicians?

A: The WVSO is committed, alongside the WVSO’s extraordinary musicians, to creatively remain connected to the community. We are continuing to explore other programming options, including live streaming. The next live-stream concert will be “Great Music—Old and New” on Wednesday, January 27 at 2:30 p.m. Please visit wvsymphony.org for more details about this and other performances.

Q: How do I donate my 20-21 subscription or tickets back to the Symphony?

A: The WVSO is deeply grateful for those who choose to donate their tickets back. Patrons who donate tickets will receive an acknowledgement for their charitable contribution. Symphony staff will be making phone calls to touch base with subscribers beginning later this week. If you’d like to speak with someone directly and immediately, contact Amanda McDonald, Marketing Director, at 304.957.9880 or amcdonald@wvsymphony.org, or the Clay Center Box Office at 304.561.3570 or boxoffice@theclaycenter.org, to discuss subscription options.

Q: Can I receive a refund for my 20-21 subscription?

A: While the WVSO appreciates those who donate their tickets back to the Symphony during this trying time, they also understand some subscribers may want a refund for the cancelled concerts. Subscribers are eligible for a refund, and those interested should contact the Clay Center Box Office at 304.561.3570 or boxoffice@theclaycenter.org, to discuss subscriptions and refunds.

Q: I have credit or vouchers from the 19-20 season. Will that credit or voucher(s) be available and applicable to the 21-22 Season?

A: Yes, vouchers will be honored. However, the most impactful thing patrons can do right now is to donate the value of any credit(s) or voucher(s) back to the Symphony. To explore available options, please contact Amanda McDonald, Marketing Director, at 304.957.9880 or amcdonald@wvsymphony.org.

Q: Are the Symphony’s education programs affected as well?

A: Our partnership with Kanawha County Schools is continuing throughout the current school year. Additionally, the Symphony is excited to produce and record a new Young People’s Concert. Details will be released as soon as possible.

Q: Whom do I call with questions? Is the Clay Center Box Office still open?

A: Contact Amanda McDonald, Marketing Director, at 304.957.9880 or amcdonald@wvsymphony.org, or the Clay Center Box Office at 304.561.3570 or boxoffice@theclaycenter.org  to discuss subscription options. The Clay Center Box Office hours are currently phone only, Tuesday-Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. Patrons are encouraged to leave a message if calling on Monday and times in which the box office is closed, and someone will return your call as soon as possible.

The West Virginia Symphony Orchestra is West Virginia’s premier performing arts organization, presenting classical, pops, and chamber-music concerts annually throughout the Mountain State. The WVSO is a proud member of the community and enriches the region by providing affordable, high-quality concerts, collaborations with West Virginia arts organizations and a nationally award-winning education program.

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