Crowd-Pleasers, Hidden Gems, and the Art of the Concert Menu

🎙 Classical Gassing: Conversations About Culture & Community — Episode 1"Behind the Curtain: How an Orchestra Builds a Season"What goes into planning a symphony orchestra’s concert season?Spoiler: it’s a lot more than picking a few favorite pieces and calling it a day.In this debut episode of Classical Gassing, host Bernadette Stockwell sits down with Paul Surapine, Executive & Artistic Director of the Claflin Hill Symphony Orchestra, for a candid conversation about the art — and logistics — of programming a season that’s both audience-friendly and artistically adventurous.From Beethoven’s Fifth to bold new discoveries, Paul shares how he balances “crowd-pleasers” with works audiences might not yet know they’ll love. It’s like designing a restaurant menu: some familiar comfort food, some seasonal specials, and just enough surprise to keep everyone coming back.We talk about:Season strategy — how repertoire is chosen and sequenced.Tradition vs. innovation — why Holiday Pops remains a cherished anchor.Audience building — how “fusion programming” can introduce listeners to new favorites.The musician’s experience — why Claflin Hill feels more like a family than just a gig.Community impact — how a local orchestra becomes a cultural cornerstone.You’ll also hear some great stories:🎻 When audiences came for Phantom of the Opera but left raving about Scheherazade.🥁 The 5-minute Russian piece that won over even the most traditional listeners.🎶 How a percussionist’s 25-year tenure with the orchestra became “life-saving.”Paul’s insights pull back the curtain on the decisions, challenges, and joys that go into every Claflin Hill season. Whether you’re a classical music lover, a casual listener, or simply curious about how cultural institutions thrive, you’ll walk away with a deeper appreciation for the people and the passion that make it all happen.Listen now and subscribe so you don’t miss future episodes.Learn more at claflinhill.orgLinks mentioned in this episode:🎥 Milford TV performance of The Iron Foundry in the season finale: Silver Anniversary Triumph🎼 Claflin Hill Symphony Orchestra 26th Season detailsThe heritage is not the celebration of ashes, but keeping the fire burning. — Gustav Mahler