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Message from the Board Chair

Dear Phil family,
At this moment of global strife and conflict, we need Beethoven. One of the
most innovative and influential composers of all time, Beethoven’s music speaks
powerfully to the human condition. Despite his own personal travails – including illness, progressive
hearing loss, family issues and personal unfulfillment – Beethoven’s music continued to soar, writing
delicately of human love and mightily of human triumph. His Ode to Joy from his Symphony No. 9
continues to inspire hope and courage in people across time, space and different cultures. Beethoven
helps us believe that life, love and goodness will ultimately prevail if we keep faith and hope alive.
The pandemic has challenged and tested us in countless ways. For non-profit organizations such as
the Phil it raised questions and concerns about how we would emerge from the pandemic. Emerge
we have, stronger in some ways than when the virus began more than two years ago. How we have
done that is a testament to many people – our nonpareil executive and music directors, Kim Corben
and Steven Karidoyanes, our dedicated staff and musicians, our volunteers, members of the board and
you. Our patrons and donors expressed their belief in us even when we could not perform, and that
belief sustained us in ways big and small. Thank you.
As we emerge from this most difficult period, I can think of no more fitting music than Beethoven’s –
expressing the triumph of light over darkness.
Warmest regards,

Paul F. Jean
Chair
Board of Directors
From the Executive Director

Welcome!
We’re so glad you are joining us for the Phil’s belated celebration of Beethoven’s 250th, as
we laud the genius who set the standard for perfection. We are also excited to have Boston
Symphony Orchestra associate concertmaster, Alexander Velinzon, join us this weekend as
our featured soloist. Mr. Velinzon is a graduate of the Julliard School, and he has performed
throughout the United States, Europe, and Japan. We’re honored to be performing with him in a
concert that is more than two years in the making!
This weekend, we welcome healthcare workers from Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital–Plymouth
as our special guests in a small gesture of thanks for their extraordinary service throughout the
pandemic. Through the beauty of Beethoven’s music, we hope to provide you and the healthcare
workers with a relaxing and joyful respite.
We cannot thank you enough for your continued support of the Phil over the past two years. Your
ticket purchases, donations, and sponsorships enable us to move forward on solid ground and
with renewed optimism. Thank you!
Cheers,

Kim Corben
Executive Director
2021/22 SEASON Just Add Music! PAGE 3