Runyan Program Notes is a large collection of program annotations of the standard repertoire for symphony orchestra written by an experienced musicologist, and now made available for use by the orchestras of educational and community arts organizations absolutely free of charge. They have previously been included in the the concert programs of three outstanding professional symphony orchestras, and have met with enthusiastic appreciation by lay members of the audiences, conductors, and members of the orchestras, alike. Please consult "About the Author" for details of Dr. Runyan's professional qualifications.
The only requirements for access and use are that bona fide representatives of those interested organizations is to use the author's byline and copyright notice (in a small font, if you like) with the downloaded annotation published in the program. In some cases, judicious shortening of the annotation may be necessary to meet space demands, and that is permitted--but, of course, rewriting and editing is not.
Inclusion of every major work in the standard repertoire is obviously not possible, but with hundreds of frequently-performed compositions available here, by over one hundred and fifty composers, smaller organizations will find much in this collection that is of use. It is made available gratis to support the arts in America.
Use the index to browse by composer, and then title. Then view over 400 program notes for informative reading, or downloading for use in a printed program. Inserting a connecting link on your orchestra website is equally encouraged.
William E. Runyan, PhD