Capturing the Magic - Capturing Magic: April MainStage with the Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra

On April 5th, I had the absolute pleasure of photographing the Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra’s April MainStage concert. It was an unforgettable night of music, led by guest conductor Andrew Grams and featuring the remarkable Kate Liu—medalist at the 17th International Fryderyk Chopin Competition—making her Ann Arbor debut.

A candid photo of the Michigan Theater as part of event concert photography for the Ann Arbor symphony orchestra

The Michigan Theater was the perfect backdrop for such a stunning performance. It’s one of my favorite venues to photograph, with its rich textures, vintage charm, and especially the vibrant energy behind the scenes. There’s just something about being backstage that brings the whole experience to life in a different way.

A close up candid photo of a pianist with her hands on the keys - event concert photography for the Ann Arbor symphony orchestra
A wide photo of pianist Kate Liu on stage at the Michigan Theater as part of event concert photography for the Ann Arbor symphony orchestra
A wide photo of pianist Kate Liu on stage at the Michigan Theater as part of event concert photography for the Ann Arbor symphony orchestra

This concert felt especially meaningful to me on a personal level. When I first started freelancing, I reached out to a few local nonprofits to offer my photography services—and the A2SO was one of the very first to take a chance on me. I’ll never forget how excited I was after one phone call landed me two concerts to shoot. That early support truly meant the world.

A close up, candid photo of guest conductor Andrew Grams on stage at the Michigan Theater as part of event concert photography for the Ann Arbor symphony orchestra
A candid photo of the audience taking their seats at the Michigan Theater as part of event concert photography for the Ann Arbor symphony orchestra
A candid photo of pianist Kate Liu on stage at the Michigan Theater as part of event concert photography for the Ann Arbor symphony orchestra
A close up, candid photo of guest conductor Andrew Grams on stage at the Michigan Theater as part of event concert photography for the Ann Arbor symphony orchestra
A close up of a musician on stage at the Michigan Theater as part of event concert photography for the Ann Arbor symphony orchestra
A candid photo of an audience applauding at the Michigan Theater as part of event concert photography for the Ann Arbor symphony orchestra

Huge thanks to Willis and Kemper at A2SO for continuing to trust me with capturing these special moments. I’m so grateful to be part of telling your story through images.

A candid photo of a people with a slow shutter speed outside of the Michigan Theater as part of event concert photography for the Ann Arbor symphony orchestra