After More Than 30 Seasons, Cellist Alvin McCall Takes a Final Bow with the SLSO
By Eric Dundon
For more than three decades, audiences at St. Louis Symphony Orchestra concerts have experienced the artistry of cellist Alvin McCall—whether they realized it or not. From powerful symphonic masterworks to intimate community performances, McCall’s playing has been woven into the musical fabric of St. Louis for 32 seasons.
At the conclusion of the 2025/26 season, McCall will retire from the SLSO, bringing to a close a remarkable career defined not only by exceptional musicianship, but also by a deep commitment to St. Louis.
McCall joined the SLSO in the 1994/95 season after being appointed by then-Music Director Leonard Slatkin. Over the years, he became a familiar and respected presence on stage, contributing to thousands of performances while helping to shape the orchestra’s connection to audiences throughout the region. He was often seen in film and Halloween concert donning a Darth Vader costume or other Star Wars garb.
Throughout his tenure, McCall participated in nearly every type of education and community program offered by the SLSO, sharing music with students, families, and audiences across the St. Louis area. His dedication reflected a belief that great music should be accessible and meaningful to people of all ages and backgrounds.
Before joining the SLSO, McCall performed with ensembles across the US and internationally, including the Springfield Symphony, University City Symphony, Virginia Philharmonic, Moscow Academic Symphony Orchestra. He also appeared as a featured soloist with the SLSO on several occasions, most recently in March 2022, when he performed John Williams’ moving Theme from Schindler’s List.
That performance remains a particularly cherished memory for SLSO Music Director Stéphane Denève.
“All the family of the SLSO is so very grateful for all that Alvin has done for our wonderful orchestra and the St. Louis community throughout his extraordinary career,” Denève said. “It has personally been a great joy to share the stage with Alvin and to discuss music with passion during rehearsals. I will miss him deeply and will always cherish his performance as the soloist in the Theme from Schindler’s List.”
Before arriving in St. Louis, McCall built an impressive résumé that included principal cello positions with several prominent ensembles, including the Orpheus Chamber Orchestra, Prism Chamber Orchestra, Jupiter Orchestra, and Naumberg Orchestra. Since 1986, he has also performed with New York City’s Festival Orchestra of Lincoln Center, formerly known as the Mostly Mozart Festival Orchestra.
Yet for St. Louis audiences, McCall’s legacy is measured not only by his accomplishments, but by the consistency, warmth, and artistry he brought to every performance.
Eric Dundon is the SLSO’s Public Relations Director.
