DETROIT – The Detroit Symphony Orchestra has announced its schedule of performances for the 2021-2022 season, saying it hopes live performances can resume in the autumn if the coronavirus pandemic ebbs sufficiently so that can be done safely. “Now, more than ever before, we must play music for our audiences live in Orchestra Hall,” Jader Bignamini, DSO’s music director, said in a statement announcing the schedule Thursday. The new season will be the first full season with Bignamini, the Italian conductor appointed music director in early 2020. That will include season-opening concerts featuring Respighi’s “Fountains of Rome” and “Pines of Rome” in early October. The DSO also released its schedule for the PNC Pops Season.

COVID-19 may be limiting the ability for live audiences, but the Detroit Symphony Orchestra isn’t letting that stop them from bringing live music back to the city. The DSO is beginning its 2020 season virtually this week, with a digital concert series that will broadcast live performances on Thursday and Friday nights. The broadcasts will be available to watch at the DSO website, along with information about tickets, events, and how to watch. He says that the switch to virtual performances gave them the opportunity to try out new pieces that wouldn’t normally be performed in live concert. Bignamini said “We are energized at the opportunity to perform as an ensemble again and bring world class music into homes across Detroit and beyond.”