Nikki Chooi photo credit: Den Sweeney
JoAnn Falletta photo credit: David Adam Beloff
Timothy McAllister photo credit: R.R. Jones
When the Springfield Symphony Orchestra takes the stage on April 19 at 3:00 PM, it promises to be an afternoon that blends tradition, innovation, and heartfelt musical storytelling. We sat down with our conductor and soloists – Maestra JoAnn Falletta, violinist Nikki Chooi, and saxophonist Tim McAllister – to learn more about their journeys, the music, and what audiences can expect from Something New.
A Love of Music Sparked Early
For JoAnn Falletta, it all began with a gift: a classical guitar from her father on her seventh birthday. “I was enchanted by making music,” she shared. From those first strums to attending orchestra concerts, she quickly realized she wanted to be the person standing at the center of it all, helping bring music to life.
Violinist Nikki Chooi’s journey started equally young. Enrolled in the Suzuki program at age four, Nikki discovered the joy of playing music in a group setting, gaining confidence and a passion for performing. “It was a hobby until I was about 13 or 14,” he said. A summer program at Juilliard exposed him to a new world of possibilities and sealed his desire to pursue music professionally.
Meanwhile, Tim McAllister, one of the world’s top classical saxophonists, found his love for the saxophone through school band programs in Texas, during a time when saxophone was thriving in pop culture. “It was the most popular instrument in the band,” he said, crediting his early music teachers for encouraging his discipline and drive.
The Power of Collaboration
This concert is especially meaningful for all three artists, whose paths have crossed through years of collaboration. Nikki Chooi currently serves as Concertmaster of the Buffalo Philharmonic under Maestra Falletta’s leadership, while Tim McAllister has worked with her extensively on recording projects.
Tim will perform the world premiere of Eventide by Kenneth Fuchs, a reimagined piece originally written for English horn. Through collaboration with McAllister, Fuchs adapted the work for saxophone, giving it a fresh voice. “The saxophone projects naturally with more power and energy, which gives the piece an operatic feel,” Tim explained. The premiere is especially meaningful, not only for McAllister, who played a key role in shaping the adaptation, but also for Maestra Falletta, who shares a longtime friendship and musical history with Fuchs dating back to their days together at Juilliard.
Nikki Chooi will take center stage for Mendelssohn’s beloved Violin Concerto in E minor, a piece he first learned as a young musician. “It’s a masterpiece for every violinist, emotional, passionate, and enduring,” he said.
Finally, the program closes with Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition, orchestrated by Ravel. The piece, rooted in grief and friendship, takes listeners on a powerful journey through a gallery of vivid musical imagery, this time enhanced by stunning visuals curated by Adrian Wyard.
“This concert is about friendship,” said Maestra Falletta. “Mussorgsky’s music immortalized his dear friend Viktor Hartmann, and through music, we share that connection with the audience.”
A Modern Experience
While honoring tradition, this program also embraces innovation. Visuals paired with Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition will add a new dimension to the performance, inviting audiences into the world behind the music. “It’s my first time working with visuals during this piece,” said Falletta. “I’m so excited.”
The artists emphasized how live music creates a truly irreplaceable experience. “Hearing an orchestra live is overwhelming in the best way,” said Falletta. “The air vibrates with the sound. It’s something you can’t replicate on a screen.” Nikki Chooi echoed this sentiment, describing live performance as an energy exchange between musicians and the audience.
Tim McAllister added that featuring the saxophone as a soloist in front of a symphony orchestra is rare and exciting. “It’s a different side of the saxophone many people haven’t experienced. The piece has something to resonate with everyone.”
Inspiring the Next Generation
As leaders in their fields, each artist spoke passionately about nurturing young musicians, such as the brilliant members of our Springfield Symphony Youth Orchestras. Falletta offered advice for aspiring artists: “You have to live with your music every day. It’s a life filled with joy and meaning, but it requires commitment.”
Nikki Chooi encouraged young musicians to embrace the gift of music, even through challenges. “It’s a worthwhile investment in yourself.”
Tim McAllister advised: “Never say no to anything. Every project and experience helps you grow your own place in the world.”
Their words reflect the spirit of Something New, a concert that invites audiences to discover, experience, and celebrate the timeless beauty and ever-evolving future of music.