Hilary Hahn Withdraws from Upcoming Appearance with Houston Symphony

Award-winning violinist Hilary Hahn, originally scheduled to perform with the Houston Symphony in Fall 2015, has notified the Houston Symphony of her plans to take a short leave to care for her newborn baby due this summer, a decision that would force her to withdraw from her performances at Jones Hall on September 25-27, 2015.

A statement from Hahn's management agency, IMG Artists, explains her decision further: "Ms. Hahn and her husband are eagerly awaiting the birth of their first child this summer, after which Ms. Hahn will be taking a few short months' leave. As such, she will not perform with the Houston Symphony this fall. She will spring back into action in mid-November and the rest of the season will continue as originally planned. Ms. Hahn thanks the fans and the orchestras for their understanding and support during this exciting time. She wishes the performers wonderful concerts and looks forward to seeing everyone when she's back in Houston."

In Hahn's place, the Houston Symphony will present Simone Porter, an emerging violinist of impassioned energy, musical integrity and vibrant sound. At 18 years of age, Porter has already appeared with the New York Philharmonic, the Philadelphia Orchestra, and the Los Angeles Philharmonic, and with many renowned conductors, including Yannick Nezet-Seguin, Nicolas McGegan, Ludovic Morlot and Donald Runnicles. Porter will be performing Barber's Violin Concerto. This will be Porter's debut with the Houston Symphony led by Music Director Andrés Orozco-Estrada.

Customers who have purchased tickets for this performance will be notified by the Houston Symphony with further details. For more information, patrons may call the Houston Symphony Patron Services Center at (713) 224-7575, Monday-Saturday, 10 am-6pm.