Newburgh. Newburgh Symphony cancels balance of 2019/20 concert season

The Greater Newburgh Symphony Orchestra (GNSO) has canceled the balance of its 2019/20 concert season due to restrictions brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The action cancels subscription concerts scheduled for June 13 and July 25, as well as special concerts in Peekskill on June 14 and at Boscobel on July 4. The announcement was made jointly by GNSO Music Director Russell Ger and GNSO President George Levy.

“Our art form is predicated on large groups of people gathering in close proximity – both onstage and in the audience – and that is obviously not safe at this moment," Ger said in the press release detailing the cancellations. "We delayed making this decision as long as possible in the hope that we might have a different outcome, but ultimately this is where we find ourselves. The 2020/21 season is scheduled to open with a concert in late October, but that will depend on the progress we have all made by that time.”

Levy added: “As a not-for-profit organization, we hope that those who have already purchased tickets will consider donating the cost of those tickets to the GNSO. This would help us immensely and assure the continuation of our wonderful orchestra. If someone is not in a position to donate that cost, we will issue a refund if it is requested by May 31. If we do not hear from an audience member, we will thank them for their donation to the GNSO via email.”

People can call the symphony at 845/913-7157 or go online at www.newburghsymphony.org.