Chamber Music Society's 10th Anniversary Gala Adds 2nd STL Icon - Ozzie Smith

The Chamber Music Society of St. Louis (CMSSL) adds another level of excitement to "Notes From Hollywood - The Sequel" their Tenth Anniversary Gala celebrating Maestro Leonard Slatkin on May 21, 2018 in the Sheldon Concert Hall at 7pm. St. Louis icon Ozzie Smith will join the festivities to honor Slatkin and welcome the couple back to St. Louis as permanent residents. CMSSL's Executive and Artistic Director, Marc Gordon is "so pleased to have Ozzie Smith join us in honoring Leonard Slatkin as we celebrate the 10th Anniversary of Chamber Music Society of St. Louis on May 21st. These two iconic figures have been wonderful Ambassadors for our city." The pair hit it off after Slatkin, a diehard Cardinals fan, threw out a first pitch at Bush Stadium. Smith participated in activities at Powell Hall with Slatkin and both shared departures from their respective St. Louis organizations the same year, 1996.

This program will reprise the Notes From Hollywood theme from the 2013 St. Louis and 2014 Chicago performances, featuring chamber music written by Hollywood film composers. In addition to the musical entertainment, Slatkin will share stories and the history of the music and composers, many of whom were regular visitors in the Slatkin home as he was growing up in Los Angeles.

Slatkin and Smith will collaborate to have some fun with a Leroy Anderson favorite piece featuring an almost extinct instrument...The Typewriter.

Hosts for the gala include Centene Charitable Foundation, Honorary Chairman Noémi K. Neidorff, Co-Chairs Thomas R.re` and Carol J. Voss along with Committee Cho-Chairs Miran Halen and Mary Forsyth and Faith Berger. Gazelle Magazine and Town & Style are the media sponsors for the event. VIP packages for the event are available and include valet parking, pre-concert cocktails, post-concert dinner by Butler's Pantry, and a copy of Slatkin's book "Leading Tones" in addition to the main concert program. Concert Only tickets are also available and on sale now. Tickets can be purchased through their website.

Chamber Music Society of St. Louis Mission:

To present chamber music of the highest quality, support educational activities that encourage more students and adults to appreciate the art form, and nurture exceptional emerging chamber music performers and ensembles.