Orchestra Iowa

May 14, 2012
Four years ago as this community was pulling itself out of the rubble posed by the flood, so many lives were tossed upside down and there was a great deal of uncertainty what the future would bring. There were days when it was not clear whether the orchestra would survive the ensuing years as we awaited the return of our concert hall. Indeed, this current season was the most in jeopardy as the full financial implications of the flood crested to full force. As I mentioned in concert, this community has distinguished itself these past few years by collectively making a concerted effort to reach out a helping hand to their neighbor so that all could rise above the tide. It has not been easy or perfect, but it revealed an admirable character and mettle that most around the country would find enviable. To this end, I am forever grateful to Coe College who, in the midst of their own flood related challenges, opened their hearts and home to us. Without the use of Sinclair Auditorium, there definitely would not be an orchestra today. We would not have had the opportunity to raise the roof and blow the rafters this past weekend with a thrilling Shostakovich 5. We would not have had the opportunity to touch the divine with a sublime performance of the St. John Passion. Our comedic collaboration with Hancher during our pops programs last season would not have happened, nor would Follies have been able to retain a semblance of a presence in the area. Some of the best partnerships and music making of my career happened during these past few years, so as we turn our sights to the Paramount Theatre, let us say farewell to Sinclair Auditorium with gratitude and pride.



Commentary

Laura B.
on 05/14/12
Great program, great performance Saturday. Third time I’ve heard Shost. 5 this season (others on the radio). Worth being in the hall, for sure. And thanks for the Bartok—have always loved the piece and how he makes careful form also beautiful.
cm
on 05/14/12
No questions... just a BRAVO to all the OI players and Maestro Hankevich. Please pass on. If you're lucky in life, you get to have an all-consuming experience or two... seeing a favorite Van Gogh within inches of your eyes, witnessing the perfection of a Michealango, or a rarefied moment with a deep friend that sticks in your mind over the years. Most of us can't afford aristocratic luxuries, but we can experience a peak experience through your recreation of timeless music. Bravo on all of your artistic work on the Dvorak-Bartok-Shostakovich brain/heart overload and your whole season! You bring peak experience to people right here in your community. I know it touches hearts. Now to work on the in-concert hot dog and beers issue. THANKS ALL!


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