Conductor Tyzik extends RPO contract

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Jeff Tyzik, the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra Principal Pops conductor for the past 17 seasons, has extended his contract for five additional years, through the 2015-2016 season.

In addition, the orchestra will host a special Birthday Benefit Bash to celebrate Tyzik’s 60th birthday — with all ticket proceeds benefiting the RPO Musicians’ Pension Fund.  The special concert, with Tyzik conducting, will be at 9 p.m. July 30 in Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre.

“We are delighted with Jeff’s commitment to an additional five seasons,” said Suzanne Welch, RPO board chair. “Jeff is an inspiring leader, an engaging community ambassador and an experienced, innovative conductor, composer, and arranger.”

Tyzik will conduct six concerts during the 2011 summer including The Music of John Williams: Star Wars, Harry Potter and More! July 9 at CMAC and Gershwin’s “Porgy and Bess” July 16 in Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre.  Other performances include Summer Spectacular July 8 at SUNY Geneseo; Take Me Out to the Ballgame, a post-Red Wings concert, on July 17; Temple B’rith Kodesh Benefit Concert on July 27; and his birthday bash which will feature a wide range of favorite works — including Tyzik originals — and RPO musicians in solo roles.

Tyzik has invited colleagues and friends from over the years to join the Orchestra on stage.  RPO musicians featured include David Brickman, Peter Kurau, Jim Tiller, Michael Griffin, Ray Ricker, and Mark Kellogg; special guests include Mambo Kings and Tonio DiPaolo.

Suggested minimum ticket prices for this concert are $25 (zones 3 & 4), $45 (zones 1 & 2), and $65 (box seats).  To purchase tickets for this or other RPO events, call the Eastman Theatre Box Office at 454-2100 or go online to www.rpo.org.