
The Bellingham Symphony Orchestra and Music Director Yaniv Attar in a May 2024 rehearsal. Photo courtesy of Bellingham Symphony Orchestra.
In Wednesday’s (8/14) Whatcom Talk (Washington State), Margaret Bikman writes, “The Bellingham Symphony Orchestra … boasts top-tier local musicians tackling challenging repertoire, draws celebrated national and international soloists, and enjoys devoted community support…. For longtime symphony-goers to curious first-time audience members, the Bellingham Symphony Orchestra offers traditional works by well-known composers and adventurous pieces by contemporary artists, all performed by incredibly talented local musicians…. The Bellingham Symphony Orchestra kicks off its 2024/2025 season this September—its eleventh with Maestro Yaniv Attar…. This season marks the 10th anniversary of BSO launching its ‘Harmony From Discord’ series—a celebration of music that has survived oppression that strives to bring lost compositions back into the light. Attar, a native of Israel and trained at Juilliard, has watched BSO’s progression with excitement and pride…. Gail Ridenour, BSO’s executive director … who’s been co-principal oboe for nine years, loves the blend of compositions throughout the upcoming season. ‘It combines traditional works by composers like Mozart and Beethoven with contemporary composers creating powerful pieces,’ she says…. ‘The orchestra continues to grow and strive through adventurous programming,’ Attar says with a smile, ‘and our audience recognizes it and loves it!’ ”