The Windsor Symphony Orchestra is promising concertgoers an "incredible variety of programming" in its upcoming concert season at the Capitol Theatre. The WSO's 2026-2027 season, titled "A Season of Becoming," will feature an eclectic mix of family-friendly concerts, movie soundtracks, country music, classic masterworks, and contemporary works from local and Canadian composers.
Embracing Human Artistry in the Age of AI
"There is something for everyone," Kyle Kootstra, chair of the board of directors of the Windsor Symphony Orchestra, told the Star on Wednesday. The concert experience, Kootstra said, is becoming increasingly vital in a world saturated with "AI slop."
"It's never been more important in my opinion to look for opportunities to connect as people, to celebrate human genius, and to celebrate human artistry, especially if you think about some of the threats from artificial intelligence," Kootstra added.
Season Highlights
The season, which kicks off on Sept. 26, will feature classical concerts from Copland's Concerto for Clarinet and Orchestra, Beethoven's Piano Concerto No. 3, Mozart's comedic opera Cosi fan Tutte, and Berlioz's Symphonie Fantastique.
For concertgoers looking for more contemporary music, the Toldo Pops series will start with a tribute to the sounds of country music with a blend of orchestra and modern country soul in WSO Goes Country with Genevieve Fisher on Oct. 24 and 25.
Other highlights of the calendar include "WSO Rocks! 80s Rock," which will feature music from Queen, Bruce Springsteen, Bon Jovi and U2, and concerts inspired by the movie soundtracks of James Bond and Harry Potter.
An Inviting Atmosphere
"This is not a stuffy, archaic concert hall," Kootstra said, adding that the season's concerts are designed for adults and children alike. "Everybody is welcome. There is no dress code. Come as you are — this is a safe, warm, inviting space."
Search for New Music Director
The WSO is looking for its next music director, and this upcoming season's programming will serve as an audition for the job, Kootstra noted. Robert Franz, the Symphony's last music director, died after a battle with cancer last September. Throughout the most recent season, the orchestra was led by guest conductors, including artistic advisor Jamie Sommerville.
The WSO will be soliciting feedback from concertgoers on the performance of the top finalists for the position, who will take turns directing the season's concerts, Kootstra said.
"Many Ontario cities have a symphony orchestra, and there are very few that have this good a symphony orchestra, this good a (concert) hall, and so much support from audiences and from corporations," Sommerville told the Star on Wednesday. "This orchestra is pretty unique in the country. And I hope people appreciate that and show their appreciation by coming around."
Ticket Information
Subscription packages are now available for sale at the WSO box office or online at windsorsymphony.com. Subscription tickets offer preferred seats and prices along with other perks, such as priority access to special performances, free ticket exchanges and discounts on WSO merchandise. Single tickets for concerts will be on sale as of July 8.
