Special Guests Join WSO to Continue Franz’s Vision
As the community mourns the loss of Windsor Symphony Orchestra (WSO) Maestro Robert Franz, special guests have stepped-up to ensure Franz’s musical vision is realized.
Franz passed away on September 2 after a battle with Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma.
“Robert created this entire season of music,” says WSO Board Chair, Deborah Severs. “This season is his vision. It is the music and guest artists that he knew Windsor Essex audiences would enjoy.”
As Franz was going through cancer treatment, he knew he would not have the strength to conduct the first part of the new season. He then worked with the WSO team to secure guest conductors to lead the orchestra until the end of the calendar year.
A long-time mentor of Robert’s, Carl Topilow, will be conducting the WSO’s Opening Night with Gershwin concert on Saturday, September 20 and Sunday, September 21. In addition to the talent and enthusiasm that Topilow brings to the stage, pianist extraordinaire, Kevin Cole, will perform Gershwin’s Concerto in F for Piano and Orchestra.