Metrowest Symphony Concert

We went to the Gala Fund Raiser Dinner for the Metrowest Symphony on Saturday night. The Program Overture to Der Freischutz --- Weber March to the Scaffold from Symphonie Fantastique --- Berlioz Night on Bald Mountain --- Mussorgsky Ballet Music from Faust --- Gounod Ride of the Valkyries from Die Walkure --- Wagner Sorcerers Apprentice --- Dukas Carolyn plays the viola and joined the group back in March. She enjoys playing with them. It is a "real" orchestra and she is learning so much. The conductor, Peter Cokkinias, is a class act. It is a delight watching him lead the group. He is energetic, real, fun-loving, a wonderful musician and leader. Each piece of the program was introduced by a member of the orchestra. They were able to provide some insight into the piece, how it came to be, what it was about, what to listen for... Nice introductions from folks we would not normally hear from. By this simple device, he got the orchestra more involved and likewise, the audiance more involved in each piece. When he stepped to the podium to raise his baton for the Sorcerers Apprentice, it was not a surprise to see him bend down and put on the Sorcerers hat. It was a totally fitting moment. And for all the times I have heard this piece (several times in Fantasia alone), this I believe is the first time I heard it played live. One I will remember for many years.