ACCENT programs allow the FRIENDS community to come together for "insider access" to the world of classical music through an intimate interview with a classical musician.
From the very first ACCENT program on February 2, 2008 which featured Kathy Kienzle (then Minnesota Orchestra principal harp), these intimate meet-a-musician interviews and performances have been a favorite of FRIENDS members and guests. Hosted by MPR's Melissa Ousley since 2019, the programs have featured discussions with Minnesota Orchestra musicians, visiting soloists, composers and conductors, and even Music Directors!
Tickets include access to the program (musician interview and performance) and light food/beverage hospitality during the social hour before each program. FRIENDS schedules 5 or 6 ACCENT events each season. Recently, they have been held at Orchestra Hall's Target Atrium or Schmitt Music headquarters' auditorium and FRIENDS members receive a discounted ticket price. Come "make new FRIENDS" at the next ACCENT.
Upcoming ACCENT Events
- Tue, Jan 07Schmitt MusicJan 07, 2025, 6:15 PM – 8:00 PMSchmitt Music, 7800 Harmony Dr, Bloomington, MN 55439, USAGabriel Campos Zamora, a native of San José, Costa Rica, is the principal clarinet of the Minnesota Orchestra. Join us as Gabriel shares his perspectives on Nielsen's Clarinet Concerto he is set to perform with the Minnesota Orchestra. Tickets will be available for purchase soon.
- Tue, Apr 01Location is TBDApr 01, 2025, 6:15 PM – 8:00 PMLocation is TBDLet's toast to Manny's career with the Minnesota Orchestra as he approaches his retirement. MPR's Melissa Ousley hosts a look back on an extortionary career. Tickets will be available for purchase soon.
- Tue, Jun 03Schmitt MusicJun 03, 2025, 6:15 PM – 8:00 PMSchmitt Music, 7800 Harmony Dr, Bloomington, MN 55439, USACharles Lazarus, trumpet and composer of Kinder Konzerts™ Perfect Square composition featured in 2024-25 season, joined by other members of the Kinder Konzerts™ ensemble. Tickets will be available for purchase soon.
ACCENT ARCHIVES
Through the years, many musicians have been featured artists for ACCENT programs. A partial list appears below: