Dallas Symphony Orchestra is kicking off summer with a European tour

Fabio Luisi and the Dallas Symphony Orchestra are gearing up for an extensive European tour in June, marking the orchestra’s first international excursion since 2013. Initial plans for an international tour in 2016 were halted due to security concerns following a terrorist attack in Paris, while the departure of former music director Jaap Van Zweden in 2018 further delayed such plans. The COVID-19 pandemic added another layer of postponement, making this upcoming tour a long-awaited event.

The meticulous planning for this tour spanned nearly three years, starting with the coordination of available dates for both the orchestra and its music director. Working closely with a European presenter, the orchestra secured performance slots in various cities across Spain, Germany, Austria, and Belgium. This involved navigating scheduling conflicts, considering travel logistics, accommodating cargo requirements, and even factoring in major events like the UEFA European Championship to ensure smooth operations.

Fabio Luisi, the orchestra’s music director, curated a diverse repertoire for the tour, aiming to showcase the ensemble’s versatility and sound. Alongside established works by composers like Tchaikovsky and Mahler, the program includes pieces by American and contemporary composers, reflecting Luisi’s vision of presenting a balanced selection of music.

The tour is not just about performances; it’s also an opportunity for the orchestra to bond as a cohesive unit and enhance its global profile. International tours play a crucial role in elevating the orchestra’s brand, fostering relationships with sponsors and donors, and garnering attention from international media.

For Kim Noltemy, the orchestra’s Ross Perot President & CEO, this tour marks the culmination of her tenure with the Dallas Symphony Orchestra. Having recently been appointed as the President & Chief Executive Officer of the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Noltemy reflects on her time in Dallas with gratitude and looks forward to new challenges ahead. She acknowledges the support of the board, staff, and musicians in achieving various milestones during her tenure and expresses confidence in the orchestra’s continued growth under its leadership.

As the orchestra embarks on this European adventure, it not only aims to captivate audiences with its performances but also to further solidify its position as a leading cultural ambassador on the international stage.