DR is a Brilliant Polymath

ROBERTSON is a BRILLIANT POLYMATH

“Robertson is a brilliant polymath who can casually toss a connecting reference to a painting or a work of literature into a musical discussion. He’s got a great ear for talent, a gift for gab, a well-tuned sense of humor and a friendly way with audiences… Over 13 seasons, Robertson introduced dozens of pieces new to the repertoire, including some commissions. He and the SLSO played the soundtracks to Charlie Chaplin’s silent films and brought in new audiences. He started a series of contemporary chamber music with the Pulitzer Arts Foundation, with concerts that sold out almost instantly…He’s put his mark on the orchestra in other ways, too, hiring 44 of the SLSO’s current 91 musicians, including 10 principal players. Under Robertson’s leadership, the St. Louisans have been in the forefront of American orchestras…Robertson made the orchestra synonymous with the work of composer John Adams and made three recordings of his music for the Nonesuch label. That paid off: In 2015, the SLSO’s recording of “City Noir” won the Grammy Award for best orchestral performance. It was the orchestra’s first Grammy since 1991… In 2012, Robertson took the orchestra back to Europe for the first time since 1998 [including] an unforgettable debut for the SLSO at the BBC Proms in Royal Albert Hall. There were also four trips to Robertson’s native California, including university residencies. Visits to New York’s Carnegie Hall were once again a regular event…”