Pittsburgh Symphony cancels Heinz Hall dates amid covid concern
The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra has canceled all concerts that were scheduled for January through March at Heinz Hall in downtown Pittsburgh.
PSO said cancellations are because of ongoing restrictions from public health and government entities related to the coronavirus pandemic, and for its concerns for the health and safety of its patrons.
“It deeply saddens us to know that we will not be together with audiences at Heinz Hall this winter to enjoy the outstanding experience of live music with the orchestra, but we must continue to prioritize the health and safety of all of our community members, and current guidance and restrictions make gathering together not possible,” said Melia Tourangeau, PSO president and CEO. “These times call on us to adapt and innovate, and continue to bring the experience of great music, so while we are working on revised plans for the winter, we invite all to join us for our exciting online digital series, Front Row, which brings together our magnificent musicians with inventive programs in special places.”
“Front Row: The PSO Virtual Experience” features music performed by ensembles of the orchestra and special guests, along with behind-the-scenes interviews and features guided by the episode’s particular theme. Front Row programs are recorded at locations throughout the region.
Episodes already released are “Our Love for Pittsburgh” and “Originators and Disruptors.” Episodes to be released through January are “Finding Your Song,” “Tapestry of Light: A Holiday Celebration,” “Holiday Sensory Friendly” and “For the People.”
“Front Row” is available free to the public on the symphony website and on demand for Comcast’s Xfinity customers in the Pittsburgh region. Each program is available for viewing for six months following the premiere.
Cancellations include BNY Mellon Grand Classics and PNC Pops concerts, along with Learning and Community Engagement programs for students. All 2020-21 Schooltime concerts also have been canceled, with online programming scheduled to begin in January.
All subscribers to the current season, which included the canceled dates, have had their subscriptions rolled automatically to the 2021-22 season.
Details: pittsburghsymphony.org
Shirley McMarlin is a Tribune-Review staff writer. You can contact Shirley by email at smcmarlin@triblive.com or via Twitter .
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