Itzhak Perlman and PMP students performing in the annual benefit Celebration Concert

Memberships and Tickets Now Available for Sarasota Winter Residency 2009-2010

The Perlman Music Program/Suncoast now offers expanded opportunities for the community to become involved and engaged with the annual activities of the internationally renowned Perlman Music Program's Sarasota Winter Residency, this year December 20, 2009 - January 2, 2010.

Each year approximately 35 exceptionally talented young musicians arrive in Sarasota to commence serious study with the PMP world-class faculty during their winter holidays from school.  Much of their effort takes place in private practice rooms on the USF Sarasota/Manatee campus, but at least once a day on most days during the last two weeks of December the public is invited to listen in on their rehearsals, enjoy recitals of solo and chamber works in progress, and enjoy the real magic of this musical mentoring process up-close and first hand.           

These free public events take place in a climate-controlled outdoor performance tent placed on the grounds of the USF Sarasota/Manatee campus (8350 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34243).

While the majority of free tickets on a first come first served basis will still be available to the general public who choose to pick up their tickets in person in the rotunda on the USF Sarasota/Manatee campus November 14 - December 14, 2009, there are new ways to fast-track ticket requests and provide access to the programs.              

The new PMP/Suncoast Membership program starts with individual support of $50 up to lifetime memberships of individual support of $500/$1000 for couples. Annual memberships not only provide much needed support for the operations of the program but also a number of benefits including:

• Advanced access to the free ticket schedule and Celebration Concert tickets starting Oct 1.
• Membership vouchers to be picked up at the first performance attended
• 8 tickets per person per season available to your choice of free event dates
• Access to preferred cushioned seating in Membership section at free events up to 15-minutes prior to all programs
• Notification of schedule changes and The Perlman Music Program News
• Invitation to attend special pre and post event activities
• Complimentary invitation to our "members-only" event
• Advanced information and offers by E-mail regularly throughout the season

The benefit Celebration Concert & Gala Dinner at 5 pm, Saturday, January 2, 2010 at the Sarasota Opera House is the culmination of two weeks of rehearsals and master classes for the young musicians.  This event is the single gala fundraising effort of the organization and an important means for the community to support the ongoing existence of The Perlman Music Program Winter Residency in Sarasota. Tickets for the concert only are on sale starting October 15 at the Sarasota Opera House box office.  Call (941) 366-8450 ext 1.