Half of the Austin Symphony Orchestra’s next season will go virtual, with no live audiences returning to the Long Center for the Performing Arts until the end of December, ASO representatives announced.
The 119-year-old performing arts organization has altered its concert plans accordingly.
“Scheduling has been adjusted to maximize the virtual experience during the first half of the season, and the live performances starting at the end of December,” ASO leaders said in a statement.
“Gustav Holst’s ‘The Planets’ will be moved to January along with Beethoven’s 9th in March. Another change will be Handel’s ‘Messiah,’ typically performed in December, which will be programmed around Easter; in addition, the family-favorite Halloween Children’s Concert on Oct. 25, 2020, will remain on the schedule but virtual. The October Butler Pops Series concert will be moved to later in the season as an orchestral offering.”
No touring soloists are on the bill for fall. Local pianist Anton Nel is scheduled to join the symphony for its Nov. 20 concert.
Exactly how the concerts will be safely performed by the musicians has yet to be settled, symphony representatives said.
Beginning in December, with a Paul Simon-themed pops concert, audience members will have the option of attending in person at the Long Center or continuing with online performances.
