Detroit Symphony Orchestra and Branford Marsalis

Founded in 1914, the Detroit Symphony Orchestra (DSO) has thrived despite challenges, with highlights like the first radio symphonic concert in 1922. Under directors like Ossip Gabrilowitsch, Paul Paray, and Leonard Slatkin, the DSO gained international acclaim and won several awards. It overcame financial woes and now thrives at the restored Orchestra Hall. Notable collaborations include Chandos, Mercury, and Naxos labels. Jader Bignamini became music director in 2020, continuing DSO’s legacy of excellence.

Branford Marsalis, born in Breaux Bridge, LA, is a virtuoso jazz saxophonist known for his genre-defying work in jazz, classical, funk, and rock. He rose to fame in the 1980s alongside his brother Wynton Marsalis and collaborated with Sting, Béla Fleck, and Spike Lee. His acclaimed albums include Grammy-winning I Heard You Twice the First Time and Contemporary Jazz. Known for his innovative spirit, he explores diverse sounds with his genre-bending group Buckshot LeFonque. Marsalis led The Tonight Show band, founded Marsalis Music, and scored the 2020 film Ma Rainey's Black Bottom.