CLASSIX CONVERSATIONS
JOIN US FOR a deeper look at the classix series!
The Reno Phil invites you to join us for a dynamic, three-part lecture series designed for curious minds and lifelong learners. Each session opens the door to a new facet of music—from the lives and works of great composers and the moments from which they draw inspiration, to the lifelong impact of music education and the powerful role of music in health and well-being. Led by expert musicians, guest scholars, and community leaders, this series offers fresh perspectives and engaging discussions to deepen your understanding of music’s place in our world. Whether you’re a devoted concertgoer or simply eager to learn, these lectures provide an inspiring opportunity to connect, discover, and explore.
TICKET PRICING
Classix Subscribers:
Enjoy a special rate — just $20 per lecture.
Non-Subscribers:
Tickets are $35 per lecture.
Youth (26 & under):
Discounted rates are available. Please contact the Reno Phil Box Office at (775) 323-6393 or visit in-person to purchase.
SCHEDULE
Coffee, tea, & breakfast pastries included with cost of admission.
10:30AM – 11:00AM: Coffee, mix & mingle
11:00AM – 12:00PM: Lecture
the writing of boom/Bust
Friday, November 13, 2026 | 10:30AM
McKinley Arts & Culture Center – Auditorium
Go behind-the-scenes with Reno local, composer Max Deger, as he discusses the artistic journey and inspiration for his new work, boom/BUST.
Max Deger is a conductor, composer, producer, and educator. He is an artistic partner and conductor with reNEW Music, and has worked as a conductor with groups such as the Denver Philharmonic Orchestra, Nevada Wind Ensemble, and Brooklyn Wind Symphony, where he also performed on trumpet. He has conducted ensembles at the Music Center in Downtown Los Angeles, Power Station NYC, and SoFi Stadium, performing with artists such as the Black Eyed Peas and Joe Lovano. As a composer, Max has had his works performed by reNEW Music and premiered at the Shadows Contemporary Art Festival, and his piece boom/BUST will premiere this November with the Reno Philharmonic Orchestra under the baton of Laura Jackson.
Muses, myths, and music
Thursday, January 21, 2027 | 10:30 AM
McKinley Arts & Culture Center - Auditorium
Go behind the music of Stacy Garrop’s Goddess Triptych and discover how three powerful Hindu goddesses inspired a vibrant musical journey. In this engaging lecture, Garrop shares the artistic process behind the work—from her research into ancient stories and imagery to translating Durga’s battle, Lakshmi’s serenity, and Ganga’s cascading journey into sound. Gain a deeper understanding of the ideas, discoveries, and creative choices that shaped this compelling orchestral triptych.
the intersection of science & music
Thursday, April 22, 2027 | 10:30AM
McKinley Arts & Culture Center – Auditorium
What happens when planetary science becomes the inspiration for orchestral music? Composer Amanda Lee Falkenberg’s The Moons Symphony transforms decades of space exploration and scientific discovery into a cinematic musical journey through the outer solar system. In this lecture, Falkenberg will explore the fascinating process behind the work—from her initial inspiration and collaboration with NASA planetary scientists and astronauts to translating real scientific phenomena into musical storytelling. Discover how science, music, art, and imagination intersect to create a new way of experiencing the cosmos—and the extraordinary journey that brings The Moons Symphony to Reno for its world premiere.