NYS Music: The Binghamton Philharmonic Orchestra Celebrates 70 Years with Beethoven’s Ninth, “Ode to Joy”

Soprano Sophia Hunt.

by Kira Faulhaber, March 18, 2026

Click here to see article on NYSMusic.com.

A milestone season reaches its crescendo on March 28, as the Binghamton Philharmonic Orchestra celebrates its 70th Anniversary with a performance of Ludwig van Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 at the Broome County Forum Theatre in downtown Binghamton.

Aptly titled “Ode to Joy,” the evening centers around one of the most powerful and universally recognized works in all of classical music—a symphony that transcends generations, borders, and musical traditions.

Closing out the orchestra’s 2025–2026 M&T Bank Symphonic Series, this performance is both a reflection on the Philharmonic’s rich history and a bold statement about its future. Beethoven’s Ninth, with its choral finale set to the poetry of Friedrich Schiller, remains a beacon of unity and human connection, an ideal centerpiece for an anniversary defined by community impact and artistic excellence.

Soprano Sophia Hunt brings a rapidly rising international profile to the stage. Praised by Opera News and others for her vocal precision and dramatic depth, Hunt has established herself as a compelling interpreter of both classic and contemporary repertoire. A top prize winner in the 2023 Gerda Lissner Foundation International Vocal Competition and the Orpheus Vocal Competition, she continues to build momentum with appearances across Europe and the United States. Her recent and upcoming engagements — including performances with the Netherlands Philharmonic and Opera Philadelphia —highlight a singer equally at home in opera and concert settings, making her an ideal presence for the soaring soprano lines of Beethoven’s Ninth.

Mezzo-soprano Sophia Maekawa offers a richly textured voice described as “supple and buttery” by critics, paired with an impressive résumé that spans leading opera houses and festivals. A former Ryan Opera Center ensemble member at the Lyric Opera of Chicago, Maekawa has taken on a wide range of roles from Mozart to contemporary works, demonstrating both versatility and emotional nuance. Her accolades — including top prizes in international competitions in both the United States and Japan —underscore her global appeal, while recent appearances at Wolf Trap Opera and the Aspen Music Festival position her as one of the most exciting mezzo-sopranos of her generation.

Tenor Ethan Burck represents a new wave of American vocal talent, with training from the Yale School of Music and the Curtis Institute of Music. Known for his clarity, musical intelligence, and adaptability, Burck has already built an impressive list of orchestral and operatic credits. From stepping in on short notice for Opera Philadelphia to performing across major symphonic institutions, he has demonstrated both professionalism and artistry at a high level. His experience with contemporary opera, including involvement in the premiere of Missy Mazzoli’s The Listeners, adds another dimension to his musicianship, enriching his interpretation of Beethoven’s demanding tenor passages.

Baritone Erik Tofte brings a strong regional connection to the performance, hailing from nearby Owego, New York. A graduate of the Curtis Institute, Mannes School of Music, and SUNY Binghamton, Tofte’s career has already included appearances with organizations such as the Chautauqua Opera Company and Opera Saratoga. His recent work spans both operatic roles and concert performances, including solo appearances with the Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra. With a voice grounded in both technical training and expressive depth, Tofte embodies the blend of local pride and national caliber that defines this anniversary event.

A Chorus and Community United

Central to the impact of Beethoven’s Ninth is its choral finale, and this performance brings together a formidable ensemble of voices from across the region. The collaboration between university and community ensembles reflects the Philharmonic’s ongoing commitment to education and outreach —values that have been integral since its founding in 1955.

Guiding these forces is choirmaster William Culverhouse, whose extensive experience as an educator, conductor, and Fulbright scholar informs his approach to choral leadership. His work, particularly in exploring global choral traditions, brings added depth to a piece that itself celebrates universal brotherhood.

Seventy Years of Symphonic Excellence

Since its founding by Fritz and Marianne Wallenberg, the Binghamton Philharmonic Orchestra has grown into a cornerstone of the Southern Tier’s cultural life. Now under the direction of Music Director Daniel Hege, the orchestra continues to evolve while honoring its roots — presenting a diverse array of programming that spans classical masterworks, pops concerts, and community collaborations.

With ticket prices ranging from $29 to $73 — and free admission for those 17 and under, thanks to M&T Bank — the Philharmonic ensures that this landmark performance remains accessible to audiences of all ages. Presented through a special gift from Dr. Doug Green, the evening stands as both a celebration and an invitation: to experience music that has inspired audiences for centuries, performed by artists shaping its future.

As the final notes of “Ode to Joy” resound through the Broome County Forum Theatre, the moment will capture more than just the close of a concert—it will mark 70 years of music, community, and the enduring belief that great art has the power to unite us all.