AUSTIN, Texas — Justus Zimmerman, CEO of the Austin Symphony Orchestra, praised the organization's accessible role in Central Texas, noting that "we exist as a service to our community". Speaking with host Brian Fitzgerald in a recent interview on Inside Austin, Zimmerman emphasized the symphony's mission to bring music to as many people as possible while actively working to dismantle traditional perceptions of elitism in orchestral music. He encouraged attendees to embrace a relaxed atmosphere, inviting audiences to show up in casual attire like shorts and tie-dye shirts.
The orchestra's upcoming October schedule showcases its effort to offer accessible and varied programming. On Oct. 16 and Oct. 17, the symphony will present Tim Burton’s 1989 film "Batman," performing Danny Elfman’s iconic live score alongside a big-screen showing at the venue. Zimmerman described the experience of hearing live acoustic instruments perform film scores directly to an audience as magical, noting that fans are encouraged to wear costumes and celebrate their shared love for the DC Universe.
The weekend continues on Sunday, Oct. 18, with a family-oriented Halloween children's concert featuring Sergei Prokofiev’s "Peter and the Wolf". Theater artist Liz Zimmerman will join the orchestra for a Commedia dell'Arte performance designed to help children identify orchestral instruments through story characters. The program will also feature selections from "How to Train Your Dragon," preceded by pre-concert interactive games and arts activities on the plaza.
Rounding out the monthly performances on Oct. 23 and Oct. 25 is the Masterworks series concert titled "To Have and To Hold". The concert program centers on themes of love and marriage, featuring a 40-minute short opera by Leonard Bernstein. Jamie Bernstein, daughter of the composer, will direct the opera and read poems by Ogden Nash during the second half of the performance.
The Masterworks performance carries added significance as part of Music Director Peter Bay’s final season leading the orchestra after 30 years. Reflecting on working alongside Bay, Zimmerman praised the conductor's easygoing nature and artistic leadership through three decades of growth in Austin. Following his final season as music director, Bay will transition into the role of conductor laureate.
