Sympiphany is where the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra gets a little curious. Hosted by voices from the BSO family, this podcast invites musicians, creators, and listeners into honest, joyful conversations about the moments when music truly clicks. From unexpected musical epiphanies to pairing Beethoven with a bold red, we celebrate the stories, quirks, and questions that bring our community closer to music and to each other.
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Sympiphany is where the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra gets a little curious. Hosted by voices from the BSO family, this podcast invites musicians, creators, and listeners into honest, joyful conversations about the moments when music truly clicks. From unexpected musical epiphanies to pairing Beethoven with a bold red, we celebrate the stories, quirks, and questions that bring our community closer to music and to each other.
In this episode of Sympiphany, host Jennifer Barton sits down with Mark Hanson, President & CEO of the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, for a deep dive into the art—and heart—of concert going.
Mark shares how childhood trips to the Boston Symphony shaped a lifelong connection to orchestral music, and how that early spark informs his 25+ years as an orchestra leader. Together, Jennifer and Mark explore what it means to walk into a concert hall for the first time, how audience habits have evolved, and why a more relaxed culture around concert going opens the door for more people to feel at home.
They discuss the subtle (and not-so-subtle) ways audiences shape performances, why the energy of a full hall matters, and how the BSO carefully considers everything from lighting to programming to create welcoming, meaningful experiences across both the Meyerhoff and Strathmore.
Whether you’re a seasoned symphony-goer or have never set foot in a concert hall, Mark’s insights remind us that music isn’t just something we should consume—it’s a daily necessity, like eating your vegetables or getting enough sleep. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about community, connection, and why showing up for live music always proves worth it.
Don’t miss the chance to share your own stories and be featured in upcoming episodes at bsomusic.org/podcast!
We want to hear from you!
Send us your answer to our upcoming episode questions to enrich the conversation. Your insight adds so much to our discussion.
About the Host
Jennifer Barton has spent her career at the intersection of music, strategy, and community, helping orchestras build deeper connections with the people they serve. A lifelong pianist who found her spark in collaboration and ensemble work, she now leads the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra’s efforts to connect audiences and music in ways that feel personal, joyful, and lasting. Through the BSO’s podcast Sympiphany, she explores the moments when music transforms how we feel, think, and connect—and reminds us that every shared note can spark something bigger.
