Intimacy in music.
The Philharmonic’s small chamber concert
was a decidedly anti-social media experience. Up-close and personal -- without a computer or a screen of any type separating the musicians from the audience.
No pausing, or fast-forwarding took place here. Just pure, live music filled
the small, perfectly proportioned recital hall at the Williams Performing Arts
Center at ACU.
High-caliber, dedicated professionals played together two to four at a time, and the compositions - the feeling of the music though
classical, was more casual.
Plus, a personalized introduction to each piece was verbally
shared by an oboeist, a violinist or a bassoonist. The brief prologue was
interactive and gave listeners an idea of why the composers created what;
their historical and cultural influences; and why the group or individual had
chosen each piece.
The musicians had to sense one another or signal with a sort
of nod/bow while seated, to play each individual part and combine them into a
whole, without a conductor.
Afterwards a reception with punch and cookies, led
to further face-to-face interaction.
Tickets were $15 each – a bargain for such
an event, when you consider the cost of a movie in a theater (another screen) with
popcorn.
The event was incorrectly listed online as beginning at 8 o’clock and
also at 7 o’clock – when it actually began at 7:30. If there are further of these
smaller “chamber” concerts hopefully that mistake will be corrected, especially
because most young people find out most of their data online. These types of
concerts could be great for students, and in fact one of the reasons listed for
having them on the Philharmonic’s website is “to attract a younger demographic.”
It's nice if possible, for you to dress up a little for these kinds of things, as a sign of respect for the artists and the work they put in.
Bravo and Enjoy!
