Bill DeYoung, St. Pete Catalyst, 4th May 2022

Looking backwards has never been a priority for Michael Francis, musical director of The Florida Orchestra. The maestro is always focused on the now, the new, the next big thing.

And as TFO begins its final month of concerts before the summer break, Francis is quite naturally enthused about the 55th season, which will begin in October.

It’s a typically eclectic season, with a strong balance of classical concerts (the “Masterworks” series) including well-known and beloved works, pops shows, community concerts and other forms of musical magic-making (many from the latter categories still to be announced).

Here’s to the future. “I think The Florida Orchestra has weathered the storm better than most, because we didn’t really stop during the main Covid season of 20-21,” Francis said. “We kept going, so we had a good connection with our audiences.

“And although we’re still hopeful for even more audiences next season, we have certainly seen quite a lot of concerts sell out, particularly in St. Pete – so we’re feeling very positive about moving forward.”

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