The Colorado Symphony continues to take on the lax style of laws in their home state for themselves. Earlier in May they announced their “Classicaly Cannabis: The High Note Series” concerts will remain intact on an invite-only basis. Now, the Colorado Symphony (CSO) will allow alcoholic drinks into the performance hall. To wit, the musicians themselves are no longer required to wear tuxedos.
"It's an overdue change, honestly," said CSO vice president of artistic administration Anthony Pierce. "We're always talking about how to make ourselves as accessible as possible and this is one way,” he continued.
Further, the orchestra announced Tuesday their taking on the role of concert promoter featuring a contemporary lineup of non-classical events. Titled the "CSO Presents" series, the new feel will feature a performance by Herbie Hancock and Chick Corea in March as part of their highly anticipated reunion tour.
The change from stuffy to puffy will start with CSO’s new season on Sept 18. CSO will open their 2014-15 round with Beethoven's Ninth and male musicians in black suits including black jackets, ties, shirts and pants instead of the historical tux. The lady musicians will continue their all-black dress code including the choice of a dress, skirt or pants.
The Classically Cannabis fundraiser series is expected to produce over $67 million in tax revenue to the State of Colorado in 2014. That’s good news all around, especially for CSO who have been having their own financial problems. They hope to raise $200,000 from the Classically Cannabis events, which close with their fourth concert September 13 at Red Rocks Amphitheatre.
Watch below as DeVotchKa performs with the Colorado Symphony at Red Rocks in September of 2012.
