Raising the Curtain: A-List Artists and Defining Moments

Our special anniversary series Behind the Baton: Looking Back on 20 Years of

Memories, Milestones and Magical Moments continues. Enjoy!

By Zandra Wolfgram

Q: How did you attract the A-list you have?

DF: I was able to travel the world and guest conduct and meet many artists and agents/

managers. I went to the Cincinnati Conservatory of Music (CCM), one of the top five music

schools in the USA. Many of the artists who sit in the orchestra were classmates of mine or

attended CCM. Many successful artists on the scene today are CCM grads. I think awareness

is a critical thing. I didn’t know Bernadette Peters, (Sinfonia’s first celebrity guest artist in

2006), but was aware of her. Kristin Chenoweth (performed for Sinfonia’s 10th anniversary

gala) has become a friend. Morgan James was a last-minute replacement when Broadway

star Christiane Noll fell ill, and she has become one of my best friends. Surrounding

yourself with that caliber of talent who respect and agree with your vision and can assist

your mission is a recipe for success.

Q: How did Bernadette Peters, the first celebrity guest artist, come about?

DF: I called her agent. Carol Gagliardi (founding board member) was a huge fan of

Bernadette Peters and her role in Into the Woods. I figured if I could get Bernadette, it

would solidify that we are breaking on to this scene and we mean business. Bringing

Bernadette back to start our 20th season is a full-circle moment.