July 2–5: Salute to America at Greenfield Village in partnership with The Henry Ford
Free Summer in Sosnick outdoor festival presented in DSO’s Sosnick Courtyard, July 10–21, made possible by Gilbert Family Foundation
PNC Pops Series concludes, and special events presented in Orchestra Hall and The Cube
Detroit Neighborhood Initiative musical experiences will take place at Chandler Park on the East Side, MexicantownCDC Mercado and Clark Park in Southwest Detroit, and Spotlight Park in NW Goldberg
Detroit, (May 29, 2024) – The Detroit Symphony Orchestra (DSO) today announced 2024 summer events, including Salute to America in partnership with The Henry Ford and a fresh take on programming in the DSO’s Sosnick Courtyard green space with a free two-week Summer in Sosnick music festival. The summer also features concerts at The Max and in the community, including Detroit Neighborhood Initiative events throughout Detroit.
From July 2 to 5, The Henry Ford and the DSO continue their more than 30-year partnership with Salute to America. The events will take place in Greenfield Village from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. and include a wide variety of food trucks, musical performances, and presenters in period clothing strolling through the streets, plus a grand stage performance by the DSO with conductor Lawrence Loh to conclude with a stirring performance of Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture, cannon fire, and a brilliant fireworks finale.
Tickets are on sale now for Salute to America and can be purchased online at thehenryford.org, starting at $29.50 formembers of The Henry Ford and $35.75 for nonmembers, with additional 25% off youth (5–11) tickets and 10% off senior (62+) tickets for both member and public tickets across all event dates. All children under the age of five are free. For updates on hours and tickets, visit thehenryford.org or follow The Henry Ford on social media @thehenryford. Salute to America is presented by Ford Philanthropy, with additional support from Bank of America.
Made possible by Gilbert Family Foundation, Summer in Sosnick concerts will return to the DSO’s Sosnick Courtyard outdoor community green space, this year as a two-week festival from July 10 through 21, with all events free and open to the public (registration required). Programming will include a DSO chamber ensemble, the return of both Poetry & Music and the Urban Art Orchestra, a sensory-friendly family concert with Miss Paula and the Candy Bandits featuring pre-concert activities, a special collaboration with Opera MODO, a Detroit techno and jazz-infused performance by composer and experience designer Nova Zaii, and a program by New Music Detroit on July 18 as part of the 32nd Annual Concert of Colors festival, in collaboration with Detroit’s leading cultural institutions, celebrating summer’s go-to, free, live music and arts event in the great outdoors of Detroit’s Cultural Center. New Music Detroit will present "Open Channels," a sonic journey exploring the spectrum of human emotion and experience and our potential for illumination in times of darkness, featuring core members Jocelyn Zelasko and Justin Snyder alongside special guests Yvonne Lam (formerly of Eighth Blackbird) and Cole Randolph (DSO cello). Sosnick Courtyard is located at 51 Parsons Street, adjacent to the Max M. and Marjorie S. Fisher Music Center. More details about Summer in Sosnickwill be announced at a later date.
Throughout the summer, the DSO will also offer Detroit Neighborhood Initiative programming at community locations across Detroit. The Detroit Neighborhood Initiative is a community-driven process of dialogue and planning, resulting in cultural partnerships that enrich the community and musical experiences that align with the priorities of Detroit residents. Events include Chandler Park Sounds of Summer on June 8 (featuring performances by DSO musicians, Lulu Fall, Ultimate Ovation, and Brandon Waddles), Southwest Sounds at MexicantownCDC Mercado in Southwest Detroit on June 22, Chandler Park Community Arts and Music Festival on July 13, Clark Park Culture and Arts Festival on July 20, and a Music in the Park Celebration at Spotlight Park on July 27. See below for more information and visit dso.org/DNI for the latest list of programming. The Detroit Neighborhood Initiative is generously sponsored by the General Motors Corporation. Programming with Northwest Goldberg Cares is supported by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation.
On June 15, the DSO will party with purpose at Summer Soirée, featuring a performance by two-time Grammy-nominated duo Black Violin, plus a lively “Glitter and Glam” themed afterparty, featuring a strolling dinner, arcade games, craft cocktail bars, aerialists, and other live performers. Proceeds from the event support the DSO’s vision to ensure all people can experience their world through music. Click here to learn more about Summer Soirée.
In Orchestra Hall, the DSO will perform concerts including Disney & Broadway Favorites: The Magic of Menken conducted by Steven Reineke from June 21 through 23 on the PNC Pops Series, featuring music from The Little Mermaid, Aladdin, Beauty and the Beast, Hercules, Little Shop of Horrors, Sister Act, Newsies, and more; The Gooniesin Concert on June 27, featuring the beloved ‘80s classic projected on stage with the DSO playing the entire score live to film; Tituss Burgess with the DSO in a celebration of Pride conducted by Principal Pops Conductor Designate Enrico Lopez-Yañez on June 29 (learn more); Tchaikovsky Spectacular on July 7 conducted by Thomas Wilkins in celebration of the legendary composer; a tribute to Chicago led by Brass Transit and the DSO on July 17; and superstar Ben Rectorwith singer-songwriter Cody Fry in a one-of-a-kind acoustic show on July 24, also conducted by Lopez-Yañez. The title sponsor of the DSO’s PNC Pops Series is PNC Bank.
In The Cube, located within the DSO’s Max M. and Marjorie S. Fisher Music Center, neo-classical piano renegade and culture innovator BLKBOK returns home to Detroit on June 19 for the second headline Juneteenth Celebration. Born and raised in Detroit, BLKBOK's live, high-energy performance is culturally reflective and seeks to entertain with a live piano-based performance that encourages dialogue and counterpoint in the way we perceive ourselves and the world we live in together. On August 17 at 11 a.m. and with support from Young Women’s Home Association, the DSO will present a sensory-friendly concert with Kris Johnson. This event will include pre-concert musical activities, such as an instrument exploration station, and is designed for individuals on the autism spectrum and with other sensory sensitivities who may experience hypersensitivity to visual, auditory, and tactile stimuli. Adjustments are made to the concert experience and environment so that audience members can enjoy a musical performance in a space that is more supportive to their individual needs.
The DSO will also perform at venues across Michigan, including Meadow Brook Amphitheatre on July 28 for Direct from Sweden: The Music of ABBA in partnership with 313 Presents, featuring hits such as “Dancing Queen,” “Chiquitita,” “Waterloo,” “Mamma Mia,” “Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! (A Man After Midnight),” and many more. As previously announced, the DSO will return to Interlochen Center for the Arts for a residency with Music Director Jader Bignamini from July 19 through 21 (learn more). The DSO will also conclude the 2024 William Davidson Neighborhood Concert Series with performances June 13–16 and July 11–14.
See below or visit dso.org/summer for a current list of performances. Additional program information will be announced as it is confirmed.
CONCERT INFORMATION
Program and artists subject to change. Visit dso.org for full program information and to purchase tickets.
SALUTE TO AMERICA – Tuesday, July 2 – Friday, July 5 at Greenfield Village: Experience a masterful musical performance in an idyllic setting with 300 years of American history as your backdrop at Salute to America in Greenfield Village. For more than 30 years, two cultural gems—The Henry Ford and the Detroit Symphony Orchestra—have joined forces to create an unforgettable concert experience over the Fourth of July holiday. The village is brimming with food trucks along Main Street, the sounds of patrons riding our historic 1913 carousel, presenters in period clothing strolling through the streets, and musical ensembles tucked in every corner. With seven historic districts to explore, guests can enjoy everything from choral singing and ragtime to blues and jazz—and more. Once the sun sets, the world-renowned Detroit Symphony Orchestra takes center stage for a triumphant musical performance featuring celebratory orchestral music and selections from films and American popular culture, anchored by Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture, cannon fire, and a brilliant fireworks finale. The orchestra will be led by talented guest conductor Lawrence Loh, a pops programming specialist who has assisted famed American composer John Williams.
DSO AT INTERLOCHEN – Saturday, July 20 at 7:30 p.m. at Interlochen Center for the Arts: The DSO's annual residency at Interlochen Center for the Arts culminates in a stunning performance at Interlochen's iconic Kresge Auditorium conducted by Music Director Jader Bignamini. Under his baton, the orchestra performs Ludwig van Beethoven's "Eroica" Symphony and Richard Strauss's tone poem, Don Juan. Don't miss a heroic program featuring two revolutionary masterworks.
DIRECT FROM SWEDEN: THE MUSIC OF ABBA – Sunday, July 28 at 7:30 p.m. at Meadow Brook Amphitheatre: "The Music of ABBA"—a group comprised of some of Sweden’s most experienced and talented singers and musicians—are no strangers to the incomparable sound and look of Sweden’s greatest musical export. With meticulous attention to costumes, makeup, musical arrangements, movements, and singing, nothing is left to chance. Adding a few of ABBA’s live traits such as great solos, musical numbers, and a complete live band with back-up singers ensures an extra dimension unheard of in most similar productions. Dance, sing along, and enjoy hits such as “Dancing Queen,” “Chiquitita,” “Waterloo,” “Mamma Mia,” “The Winner Takes It All,” “Fernando,” “SOS,” “Take a Chance on Me,” “Money, Money, Money,” “Knowing Me, Knowing You,” “Super Trouper,” “Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! (A Man After Midnight),” “Voulez-Vous,” and many more. Please note: All tickets for this event will be sold through Ticketmaster on behalf of 313 Presents. The DSO Box Office will not sell tickets for this event. If you have questions about this performance, please contact 313 Presents.
EVENTS AT THE MAX M. AND MARJORIE S. FISHER MUSIC CENTER
- SUMMER SOIRÉE WITH BLACK VIOLIN – Saturday, June 15 at 7 p.m. at the Max M. and Marjorie S. Fisher Music Center: The evening will begin at 5:30 p.m. with a private sponsor only pre-glow in the Herman and Sharon Frankel Donor Lounge. Guests will move to the legendary Orchestra Hall for a concert featuring Grammy-nominated duo Black Violin with our incredible Detroit Symphony Orchestra. Following the concert will be a lively afterparty, themed Glitter and Glam! The party will feature a strolling dinner, arcade games, craft cocktail bars, live performers, and so much more!Concert-only tickets are also available here.
- BLKBOK'S JUNETEENTH – Wednesday, June 19 at 7 p.m. in Sosnick Courtyard: BLKBOK, neo-classical piano renegade and culture innovator, returns home to Detroit for the second headline Juneteenth Celebration. BLKBOK's live, high-energy performance is culturally reflective and seeks to entertain with a live piano-based performance like nothing you have ever seen before. BLKBOK's vision is to illuminate awareness for all, encouraging dialogue and counterpoint in the way we perceive ourselves and the world we live in together.
- DISNEY & BROADWAY FAVORITES: THE MAGIC OF MENKEN – Friday, June 21–Sunday, June 23 in Orchestra Hall, PNC Pops Series: From Disney classics including The Little Mermaid, Aladdin, Beauty and the Beast, andHercules, to Broadway smashes like Little Shop of Horrors, Sister Act, and Newsies, the music of eight-time Academy Award-winner Alan Menken has become part of our world.
- THE GOONIES IN CONCERT – Thursday, June 27 at 7:30 p.m. in Orchestra Hall: Hey, you guys!Join a group of misfits on a search for long-lost treasure, complete with an ancient map, deadly booby traps, a ruthless crime family, and Baby Ruth candy bars. Experience one of the most-loved films of the '80s with the DSO playing the entire score live to film. No matter the dangers—Goonies never say die!
- TITUSS BURGESS WITH THE DSO: PRIDE CELEBRATION – Saturday, June 29 at 8 p.m. in Orchestra Hall: The inimitable Tituss Burgess joins the DSO and Principal Pops Conductor Designate Enrico Lopez-Yañez for a fabulous evening of song! With his incredible high-tenor voice and dynamic stage presence, Burgess sings selections from Broadway and film in this concert celebration of Pride. This event will celebrate the vibrant spectrum of identities within the LGBTQIA2S+ community and marks the first official Pride concert by the DSO, a tradition the symphony intends to continue.
- TCHAIKOVSKY SPECTACULAR – Sunday, July 7 at 3 p.m. in Orchestra Hall: Join the Detroit Symphony Orchestra for a "Tchaikovsky Spectacular," a celebration of the legendary composer led by conductor Thomas Wilkins. The evening promises a journey through Tchaikovsky's most beloved works, beginning with Polonaisefrom Eugene Onegin and Piano Concerto No. 1's first movement. The program then ventures into the haunting Suite from Swan Lake, culminating in the 1812 Overture. Experience the depth and beauty of Tchaikovsky's musical landscape in a carefully crafted testament to the composer's enduring appeal.
- BRASS TRANSIT: THE MUSICAL LEGACY OF CHICAGO – Wednesday, July 17 at 7:30 p.m. in Orchestra Hall: Dive into the heart of rock history with a one-of-a-kind tribute to Chicago led by Brass Transit and the Detroit Symphony Orchestra. Relive classics like "Saturday in the Park," "25 or 6 to 4," "If You Leave Me Now," and many more. Celebrate the enduring legacy of one of the greatest rock bands of all time with spine-tingling renditions that will bring audiences to their feet.
- BEN RECTOR & CODY FRY – Wednesday, July 24 at 7:30 p.m. in Orchestra Hall: Join us as the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and Enrico Lopez-Yañez unite with indie superstar Ben Rector and singer-songwriter Cody Fry for a one-of-a-kind acoustic show featuring the intimacy of guitar and piano backed by the versatility and strength of a full orchestra. One of the most successful independent artists of today, Rector’s evocative, piano-pop anthems have garnered more than one billion streams and sold-out amphitheaters worldwide. Combined with Cody Fry's genre-bending musicianship and widescreen approach to pop music, this one-night-only performance is sure to leave a lasting impression.
- MUSIC OF ELVIS WITH FRANKIE MORENO – Friday, July 26 at 10:45 a.m. and 8 p.m. in Orchestra Hall: Get ready for Frankie Moreno to leave you "All Shook Up" as he becomes King for a night with the Detroit Symphony Orchestra. As a singer, songwriter, and showman, Frankie Moreno will perform a thrilling tribute to the music and legacy of Elvis Presley. Having won "Headliner of the Year" five times in a row, Moreno's dynamic style, paired with the power of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression. Don't miss this powerful celebration of the King of Rock!
SUMMER IN SOSNICK FESTIVAL CONCERTS
Wednesday, July 10 – DSO Chamber Ensemble: Dancing Down Woodward
Friday, July 12 – Poetry & Music: A Starlit Night
Saturday, July 13 – Urban Art Orchestra: Summer Madness
Sunday, July 14 – Sensory-friendly family concert with Miss Paula and the Candy Bandits
Thursday, July 18 – Concert of Colors featuring New Music Detroit
Friday, July 19 – An Evening with Opera MODO
Saturday, July 20 – Nova Zaii
Sunday, July 21 – Yoga & Music in partnership with Detroit Yoga Lab
DETROIT NEIGHBORHOOD INITIATIVE EVENTS
- CHANDLER PARK SOUNDS OF SUMMER – Saturday, June 8 at 2 p.m. – Chandler Park (12831 Frankfort St, Detroit, MI 48213): This is a free, family-friendly performance featuring musicians from the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and some of the region’s top talent! It will be located at the old tennis courts near the NW Corner of Frankfort Street and Gray Street.
- SOUTHWEST SOUNDS – Saturday, June 22 – MexicantownCDC Mercado (1552 21st Street, Detroit, MI 48216): programming to be announced
- CHANDLER PARK COMMUNITY ARTS AND MUSIC FESTIVAL – Saturday, July 13 at 1 p.m. – Chandler Park (12831 Frankfort St, Detroit, MI 48213): We can't wait to be back for this wonderful community celebration of arts and culture in Chandler Park! Come by on Saturday, July 13 from 1–4 p.m. to experience hands-on arts and music-making, food, and performances from DSO musicians and local artists. We'll be at the old tennis courts near the NW Corner of Frankfort Street and Gray Street.
- CLARK PARK CULTURE AND ARTS FESTIVAL – Saturday, July 20 at 1 p.m. – Clark Park (1161 Clark Avenue, Detroit, MI 48209): Come join the party! This event features a great lineup of music and dance, including musicians from the DSO, local artists, and students from Southwest Detroit! Interactive arts workshops run from 1–4 p.m.
- MUSIC IN THE PARK CELEBRATION – Saturday, July 27 at 1 p.m. – Spotlight Park (5945 Linwood St, Detroit, MI 48208): Join us for an afternoon of music featuring musicians from the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and local artists. The event also features instrument making, Detroit Harmony instrument zoo, and free food while supplies last.
About the DSO
The acclaimed Detroit Symphony Orchestra is known for trailblazing performances, collaborations with the world’s foremost musical artists, and a deep connection to its city. Led by Music Director Jader Bignamini since 2020, the DSO makes its home at historic Orchestra Hall within the Max M. and Marjorie S. Fisher Music Center, offering a performance schedule that features the PVS Classical, PNC Pops, Paradise Jazz, and Young People’s Family Concert series. In addition, the DSO presents the William Davidson Neighborhood Concert Series in metro area venues, as well as eclectic multi-genre performances in its mid-size venue The Cube, constructed and curated with support from Peter D. & Julie F. Cummings. A dedication to broadcast innovation began in 1922, when the DSO became the first orchestra in the world to present a live radio broadcast of a concert and continues today with the groundbreaking Live from Orchestra Hall series of free webcasts.
Since its first school concerts a century ago, and particularly since the founding of the Civic Youth Ensembles in 1970, the DSO has been a national leader in bringing the benefits of music education to students, teachers, and families in Detroit and surrounding communities. The DSO remains committed to expanding its participation in the growth and well-being of Detroit through programs like its Detroit Neighborhood Initiative—cultural events co-created with community partners and residents—and Detroit Harmony, a promise to provide an instrument and instruction to any student in the city who wants to learn. With unwavering support from the people of Detroit, the DSO actively pursues a mission to impact lives through the power of unforgettable musical experiences.