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55 B U S I N E S S P RO F I L E S S P O N S O R E D C O N T E N T B U S I N E S S P R O F I L E this adaptability, the Symphony developed a close relationship with internationally recognized recording company, PARMA, to produce its digital content, leading it to another milestone. In 2023, with the help of PARMA, the Portland Symphony Orchestra recorded its first commercial CD, Máscaras: Music from Mexico. Focusing on music by three living Mexican composers, the recording upholds the PSO's commitment to diversify its repertoire and help enrich the musical landscape for American orchestras. is commitment continues into the Symphony's 100 th season, where it seeks to both honor the music of the past and look towards the future. Commitment to Artistic Excellence and Inclusion If the first thing that comes to mind when you hear Portland Symphony Orchestra is "Magic of Christmas," you're not alone. e PSO's holiday concert has become an annual tradition for Mainers of all ages, drawing audiences from across the region since it first began 45 years ago. But the PSO's role in the cultural life of Portland extends far beyond the holiday season. Performances span from September until June and feature a diverse array of classical and contemporary works that demonstrate the orchestra's commitment to innovation. Concerts range from the Classical series, which celebrates the full scope of classical music from Beethoven's 9 th to new compositions from living composers, to POPS!, highlighting popular music such as the Beatles, Disney songs and film scores. In addition to its mainstage programs, Discovery concerts for families give fun introductions to classical music, including preconcert activities where kids learn about instruments and conducting before the performance. e PSO's inventive approach to programming reflects its commitment to excellence. roughout each season, PSO concerts offer a broad and diverse range of musical works with special focus being given to underrepresented works and composers as part of the organization's commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion. Meaningful collaborations with renowned guest artists — most notably an upcoming, sold out performance with Yo-Yo Ma — and partnerships with local arts organizations are also prevalent in the PSO's 100 th season, including a first-time col- laboration with Opera Maine to present a staged opera concert of La Bohème, and appearances from Portland Stage, Portland Ballet, ChoralArt Masterworks and the PSO Children's Chorus. "With these diverse, entertaining and evocative programs and partnerships we aim to share this joyful celebration with our local artistic community and all music lovers," says Preu. "We are thrilled to showcase the artistry of the PSO musicians and celebrate the vibrant landscape of orchestral music, both past and present." As part of this goal, the Portland Symphony Orchestra is piloting a chamber music series in its 100 th season, where small, musician- led ensembles will perform in venues across southern and central Maine, including the Olin Center in Lewiston, Meetinghouse Arts in Freeport and Maine Jewish Museum in Portland. All the chamber performances will have a "pay what you can" ticket option as part of the PSO's commitment towards accessibility. "We believe that the experience of seeing the symphony is something that everyone can enjoy but know there are many bar- riers that prevent individuals from attending. One of the ways that we can help is through keeping ticket prices affordable," says Nishon. "e 'pay what you can' model for the Chamber series is one way. Another is our College Card program, where students pay $30 for the season to attend as many concerts as they want. We're also committed to keeping our Discovery concerts afford- able with $10 general admission tickets." Acknowledging the actualities of running a nonprofit busi- ness, Nishon says, "Of course, the reality of this is that the PSO wouldn't be able to offer these programs and maintain accessi- bility without the support of our individual donors, foundations and corporate sponsors. None of what we've done over the past 100 years would be possible without our community behind and alongside us and for that we are grateful." e Portland Symphony Orchestra knows this involvement and support will be just as integral as it sets its sights on the next century. "Our 100 th season is not just a reflection of our history," says Nishon. "It's also about shaping the future that we envision for the PSO — one that embraces a sense of community in the broadest and most inclusive way. Success in the next 100 years depends on the Symphony's ability to evolve further, so we can continue to serve our city and state by doing what we do best — enriching lives through music." l Portland Symphony Orchestra 85 Exchange Street, 4th Floor, Portland, Maine 04101 Sector: Performing Arts, Nonprofit Carolyn Nishon, Executive Director Founded: 1924 Maine employees: 17 portlandsymphony.org P H O T O C O U R T E S Y O F P O R T L A N D S Y M P H O N Y O R C H E S T R A

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