Introducing the 2026/2027 Season: A Message from William Stevens

Dear NDSO Audience, 

After 20 years under the direction of its founding Music Director Kathleen Beckmann, Northern Dutchess Symphony Orchestra is entering its next chapter. For many of those years you may recognize me from the clarinet section and then eventually as guest conductor for various NDSO concerts, especially the Holiday ones. It is my goal to continue with the engaging programming you have come to enjoy from NDSO, while also designing this season as a way to get to know a bit more about me as your next conductor. For each concert you will hear familiar favorites as well as new works that I hope will spark your interest. As always, guest soloists and visuals will enhance your musical experience. 
​

• “From Stage to Screen” is all about my love for musical theater. I began conducting musicals at Arlington High School with the Admiral Players in 2010 and have worked on over 20 shows with them. I believe that the challenges in producing a musical helped to develop my skills as a conductor and led me to where I am today. 
• “Santa Baby” brings back some of my holiday favorites throughout the years of doing this program. When I was a child my parents would go overboard on decorating and gift giving, and they still do to this day! Santa always made an appearance, even long after my sister and I no longer believed. The joy of spending time with family and friends is what we hope to bring to you this season.
• “Out of this World” is an exploration of outer space, which has always fascinated me. My family watched so many movies and shows in this genre, especially Star Wars and Star Trek. The latter was so popular with us that we even went to a Star Trek convention when I was a child. Eventually my father built an observatory so we could better look at the stars and planets. 
• “Let’s Dance” came about from my memories of our family band growing up. Before I was able to play an instrument in the group, my sister and I would dance along to the music for the audience. Thank goodness there was no social media back then! The pieces from throughout the world showcase my enjoyment of travel and other cultures. 
• “And All That Jazz” has its roots in my introduction to dixieland, jazz, and the saxophone in high school. While not a great improviser, I did enjoy the freedom and change of style from more classically-based playing. As a teacher, I began the jazz program at Union Vale Middle School over 20 years ago with 30-40 students joining each year discovering this uniquely American artform. 

I hope you will enjoy our musical journey together this season with the wonderful musicians of Northern Dutchess Symphony Orchestra. 

Musically, 
William