The Binghamton Philharmonic Orchestra has announced the renewal of Music Director Daniel Hege’s contract for an additional five years, “solidifying Maestro Hege’s continuing stewardship and artistic vision for the ensemble,” according to a press release from the orchestra.

Hege first assuming the role of Music Director in 2018. During his tenure with the Binghamton Philharmonic Orchestra, he has achieved numerous artistic milestones, the release notes. Some of his accomplishments include:

  • Artistic excellence: Maestro Hege’s unwavering commitment to artistic excellence has enabled the Philharmonic to cultivate an elevated standard of performance that resonates deeply with audiences.
  • Innovative programming: Hege has spearheaded innovative programming throughout the course of his tenure with the Philharmonic. As one of the only Indigenous music directors of an American orchestra (he is wal’wáma, Chief Joseph Band of Nez Perce), his showcasing of works by composers from historically underrepresented groups has been particularly significant. His programming has attracted new audiences to the Philharmonic.
  • Education and outreach: Hege’s engaging style of communication from the stage has empowered Philharmonic audiences with a deeper understanding of the symphonic repertoire and made audiences from all backgrounds feel welcome. He has also enriched the cultural fabric of Binghamton with regular visits to Riverside Towers and Good Shepherd Village. In the 2024-2025 season, he will expand his presence in the community by participating in the Kilmer Lectures and adding a series of public chats at the Broome County Arts Council.
  • Stewardship and vision: His strategic vision and exceptional leadership skills have positioned the orchestra for continued growth and artistic excellence in the years to come.

In renewing his commitment to the Binghamton Philharmonic Orchestra, Maestro Daniel Hege “reaffirms his dedication to fostering a thriving cultural community in Binghamton and to enriching the lives of audiences from all backgrounds through the transformative experience of sharing in the cultural riches of great symphonic music,” the press release concluded.

For more information about the Binghamton Philharmonic Orchestra and upcoming performances, please visit binghamtonphilharmonic.org. Subscriptions are now on sale for the 2024-25 season.
The Symphonic Series includes:

  • “Restless Oceans,” 7:30 p.m. Sept. 28, featuring Anna Clyne: Restless Oceans; Richard Strauss: Horn Concerto No. 1 with Alex Shuhan, French horn, and Ludwig van Beethoven: Symphony No. 6.
  • “Thresholds,” 7:30 p.m. Nov 16, featuring Hilary Purrington: Threshold, Felix Mendelssohn: The Hebrides and Anton Bruckner: Symphony No. 6.
  • “Little Symphonies,” 3:30 p.m. Feb. 1, featuring Béla Bartók: Roumanian Folk Dances; Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: Sinfonia Concertante with Uli Speth, violin, and Victoria Miskolczy, viola; Quinn Mason: Petite Symphonie, and Franz Schubert: Symphony No. 5.
  • “In the Beginning,” 7:30 p.m. March 29, featuring Einojuhani Rautavaara: In the Beginning, Jean Sibelius: Symphony No. 3 and Sergei Rachmaninoff: Piano Concerto No. 3 with Andrew Russo, piano.

The Pops series includes:

  • “Dancing Queen: The Music of ABBA,” 7:30 p.m. Oct. 26, featuring Jeans ‘n Classics with guest conductor Jeff Christmas.
  • “Winter Wonderland,” 3:30 p.m. Dec. 7, featuring soloists from Tri-Cities Opera and an organ prelude at 3 p.m. by Nancy Wildoner of the Binghamton Theater Organ Society.
  • “Pops at the Forum: A Tribute to the American Spirit,” 7:30 p.m. March 1.
  • “She’s Got Soul, featuring Capathia Jenkins,” 7:30 p.m. May 3, a revue of the greatest hits of soul and R&B.