Memorial Day Pops Concert
"Songs That Won The War"
Saturday, May 24, 2008 @ 6:00 pm
 Featured performers at the LaGrange Symphony's Memorial Day Pops concert to honor veterans of WWII join LSO conductor Patricio Cobos, third from right, at center stage at the conclusion of Saturday's concert in Callaway Auditorium. From left are Lynda Brock, John Dreher, Bradley Shaw, Sharon Coffey, Tiffany Drake, conductor Patricio Cobos, Darlene Shaw, and Toni Anderson. |
 Sharon Coffey, Tiffany Drake, Darlene Shaw made the Andrew Sisters proud by singing along with the orchestra to "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy," "Don't Sit Under the Apple Tree," and "Oh Johnny,Oh Johnny, Oh." |
 LaGrange area WWII veteran Lester Welborn, age 84, viewing photos of fellow veterans that were part of a large exhibit of photographs of area veterans who served in WWII on display at Saturday's concert. Welborn, who currently lives on the Salem Road, served as a paratrooper in the 101st Airborne Division of the U.S. Army and fought in numerous battles throughout France, Belgium and Germany from 1943 until his discharge in 1945. | John Dreher John Dreher performs a moving rendition of "The White Cliffs of Dover," the song that kept England's chin up when faced with Nazi bombers. |
The Greatest Generation, The Greatest Music
A review by Jack Bagley
In honor of Memorial Day, the Orchestra performed a Pops Concert called, “Songs That Won the War,” and the selections performed were just as advertised. Under the direction of Conductor Patricio Cobos, the Pops Concert entertained hundreds of people who either remember World War II or just read about it in history books.
The evening began with a stirring rendition of the National Anthem, followed by an evening of Glenn Miller music that brought tears of joy to the eyes of many people seated near me. The first number, “Sing Sing Sing,” was accompanied by excellent swing dancing from Bradley Shaw and Tiffany Drake. For people who enjoy swing music (like me), the drum solo of Paul Vaillancourt alone was worth the price of admission.
Maestro Cobos then led the orchestra through “Pennsylvania 6-5000,” another classic Miller hit. Solos on the trumpet by Jason Pellett and saxophone by Amy Griffiths brought the music to life. Following that, singers John Dreher and Sharon Coffey joined the orchestra for “Chattanooga Choo-Choo,” one of Miller’s greatest numbers. The applause for both was long and loud.
Glenn Miller’s arrangement of the 1910 song, “St. Louis Blues,” followed, and the audience was then treated to “Little Brown Jug,” both of which evoked thoughts of a bygone era in the audience.
The Andrews Sisters may have made their mark back in the 1940s, but at Saturday’s concert, Darlene Shaw, Tiffany Drake, and Sharon Coffey did them proud by singing along with the orchestra to “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy,” “Don’t Sit Under The Apple Tree,” and “Oh, Johnny, Oh, Johnny, Oh.” I saw several people near me singing along with these classic tunes.
Next, the orchestra took us along on “American Patrol,” the stirring music making all patriots in the audience take notice. All five of the evening’s singers – Mr. Shaw, Mr. Dreher, Ms. Drake, Ms. Coffey, and Ms. Shaw – then sang the old war favorite, “When Johnny Comes Marching Home,” bringing forth images of even older conflicts, the men who fought them, and the families who waited for their loved ones to return from war.
John Dreher then gave a moving rendition of “The White Cliffs of Dover,” the song that kept England’s chin up when faced with Nazi bombers. A salute to the Armed Forces followed, and veterans of each branch of the service stood proudly when their anthem was played.
As the orchestra softly played “Moonlight Serenade,” hosts Toni Anderson and Lynda Brock read a letter home from Charles Cowart, a LaGrange man serving as a medic in the Pacific Theatre during the war. Dr. Cowart’s letter described the horrors of war from a first-person perspective that made history seem real to those in attendance.
For the evening’s finale, John Dreher returned to the microphone to sing “God Bless America,” accompanied by the entire audience. Then came a special treat: Glenn Miller’s biggest hit, “In The Mood,” again sung by all five of the evening’s vocalists. Finally, to a video montage of photographs of local men and women who served in World War II, Darlene Shaw and Toni Anderson performed the hauntingly beautiful, “I’ll Be Seeing You.” The audience gave the singers, the orchestra, and Maestro Cobos a well-earned standing ovation.
The evening so perfectly brought forth images of times gone by that, if someone had told me MacArthur or Eisenhower were waiting outside to brief the troops, I’d have believed them. All I had to do was close my eyes and I could picture Glenn Miller himself conducting his Army Air Forces musicians.
It seems a shame that conflicts since World War II have not had such classic musical accompaniment. Of course, it seems a shame that there have been more conflicts since World War II.
The Greatest Generation truly enjoyed the greatest music – and, for one evening, so did we.
Jack Bagley
Jack Bagley is a news anchorman for TV-33 in LaGrange with over thirty years of experience in broadcast journalism and a middle-school history teacher for Meriwether County, Georgia, schools. He has been a resident of LaGrange since 1970.
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LaGrange Symphony Orchestra
News Release
For Immediate Distribution
Prepared by LSO Staff
LSO To Present Patriotic Memorial Day Concert
Representing LaGrange natives who bravely served in WWII and who are being honored at this concert
 | Captain Arnold Whitaker Darden Army/Air Corps Arnold Darden was wounded while en route with his platoon to the Battle of the Bulge to back up Patton’s tanks. He was hit in the jaw by shrapnel which mutilated his face. He was thrown in the “dead pile” and his family received a telegram that he had been killed. When his personal effects were being removed, he grabbed the arm of the soldier who was removing his wrist watch. The last thing he remembered, before waking up in the hospital in England, was hearing his Sergeant scream. Mr. Darden had many plastic surgeries. Although this severe injury left him disfigured for life, he was a cheerful citizen in our community who contributed much throughout his life. |
Veterans of World War II will be admitted free to this special performance consisting of songs popular among “The Greatest Generation.”
The concert honors not only WWII veterans but all the men and women of our armed forces. The LSO requests that all past and current members of the military wear their uniforms to the concert and encourages families to bring their school-aged children.
As an added attraction, an exhibition of photographs and related memorabilia from World War II will be on display at the concert. Included will be many pictures of LaGrange natives in uniform who bravely served our nation in WWII.
There will also be a pre-concert picnic at the Nick Allen Pavilion on Forrest Avenue near the railroad overpass starting at 4:30 p.m. No food, drinks or other picnic supplies will be provided. People attending the concert are invited to bring their own picnic supper and supplies and join others for an enjoyable Memorial Day outing before the concert.
In addition to the eighteen-member LSO Swing Band that will perform each song, there will be solo performances by several singers and dancers, all intended to be reminiscent of a bygone era fondly remembered.
Hosting this event on stage will be Dr. Toni Anderson and Lynda Brock. Singing and dancing in solo roles will be Sharon Coffey, Tiffany Drake, John Dreher, Bradley Shaw and Darlene Shaw.
A highlight of the evening promises to be a program-ending performance of “God Bless America,” transcribed for musicians by LaGrange College student Chris Owenby and sung by LaGrange College graduate John Dreher.
Tickets are $15 for adults and $5 for students sixth grade and older. Children fifth grade and younger are free with an adult, and WWII veterans are also free. All seating is general admission.
Tickets may be purchased from the symphony office prior to the day of the concert or at the Callaway Auditorium box office beginning at 5:00 p.m. the day of the concert.
For ticket information, contact the symphony office at (706) 882.0662 or e-mail symphony@mindspring.com or visit online at www.lagrangesymphony.org.
 LaGrange Symphony conductor Patricio Cobos, right, and featured soloist Callie Hammond take their bows to a standing ovation after Hammond's performance of Bruch's violin concerto at Tuesday's concert. |
April 15, 2008
Grand Finale Concert Review
By: Doug Hooker
LSO Closes Season Masterfully
As with many things in life, how one begins is a good indicator of the quality of what will follow. On Tuesday the LaGrange Symphony Orchestra began its final concert of the subscription series with a wonderful rendition of the Overture to The Magic Flute, by Mozart. The piece opens with somber, somewhat mysterious sound chords. What follows quickly thereafter is the delightful melodies with which many classical music fans are familiar. Despite the potential for familiarity, the LSO rendered the piece with a freshness and excellence mad possible by great phrasing and balance. The flute and bassoon sections were notably stellar. To convey the piece more authentically, Maestro Cobos utilized a smaller compliment of players – fewer strings and brass – structured similar to the orchestras of Mozart’s era. The Magic Flute (and its overture) have been consistent favorite with concertgoers, since the time Mozart first presented it. The LSO’s fine performance and interpretation reminded us why that is so.
Following the Mozart, the orchestra performed the Bruch Violin Concerto in D-minor, featuring Callie Hammond. Ms Hammond is a home grown talent of great capability and potential. Her artistry showed in the mastery of the many complicated solo and credenza sections of this piece. Bruch wrote the concerto during the period commonly known as the “Romantic”, when he was a contemporary Johannes Brahms. (The most famous composer of this musical style was Beethoven.) Ms. Hammond and the LSO played with great passion and devotion, which easily came through to the audience. A couple of the sections lacked a degree of clarity, but this is was probably due more to the violin having to play in the lowest portion of its range, than to the technical competence of the soloist. Overall it was a fine performance. The soloist and orchestra were deservedly awarded with extensive, effusive standing ovation from the audience, and Ms. Hammond received several bouquets of flowers.
The final piece of the evening was the Brahms Second Symphony in G-major: another well known piece of the Romantic period of classical music. One of the secrets to keeping Brahms exciting and interesting for a modern audience is knowing how to appropriately “pace” and phrase the work. Maestro Cobos is a master of this and his ability to communicate his interpretation to the players was well displayed. And so the LSO attacked the piece with a confidence that springs from an understanding the “soul” of the music. They closed the concert magnificently, and the audience responded with thunderous applause and calls for an encore – which unfortunately we could not get.
As with everything in life, how well we complete a task often dictates how others will remember us. By this standard, the LSO and Patrico Cobos have closed this year’s concert season in a masterful way. The audience will not only think well of them, but eagerly look forward to the next season and the delightful music they will bring us then. Bravo!
Doug Hooker
Douglas R. Hooker is Vice President and East Director of PBS&J, a national civil engineering firm with offices in Atlanta. Mr. Hooker is also a composer; the LSO performed Mr. Hooker’s “Sinai Symphony” during its February 5, 2008 American Celebration Concert.
*****
April 11, 2008
LaGrange Symphony Orchestra
Patron Party
Patrons enjoying the event on the terrace of Hills & Dales
Sarah Zaslaw, Host of Midday Music on GPR &
Patricio Cobos, LSO Music Director & Conductor 
Jane Foster & Gary Mayer
Jeff & Shirley Brown * Sue & Julian Duttera
On the evening of Saturday, April 11, at the beautiful Hills and Dales Visitors Center, the patrons of the LaGrange Symphony Orchestra were treated to a wine and hors-de-oeuvres reception. The evening began at 6:00 p.m. with a social gathering. This was followed shortly with a presentation by Sarah Zaslaw, the host of the Midday Music Program on Georgia Public Radio. Ms. Zaslaw was introduced by Mr. Scott Landa, President of the LSO Board, who thanked her for coming and gave a short “bio” of the speaker. The presentation consisted of a most informative discussion of the composers and music of the upcoming “Grand Finale” of the LaGrange Symphony. The concert will be presented the following Tuesday, April 15, at Callaway Auditorium. Ms. Zaslaw illustrated her talk with recorded musical excerpts and a print-out of the opening of the Brahms Symphony.
Following a question and answer session, the guests were treated to a delicious collation generously hosted by Ted & Ann Beason, Julian & Sue Duttera, Eve and Harvey Saunders, Charles & Jane Foster and Taylor & Judy Merrill.
LaGrange Symphony Orchestra
Family Concert Review
Lee Johnson, composer * Katie Kirby, concert reviewer * Fred Newman, Host
Fantastic Journey!
A review by: Katie Kirby
Hi! I’m Katie Kirby and on Friday night I went to the “Many Moods of Music” concert by the LaGrange Symphony Orchestra. There were so many children there that night!
The “journey” began in Hogwarts with the “Theme from Harry Potter” by John Williams. This piece sounded very interesting with all of the instruments combined together, but I could really hear the strings and they did a good job! The audience responded very well.
The next place we went on our “journey” was to visit the gypsies. The piece was called “Gypsy Airs” and the violin soloist was very good. Her name is Ninel Jabotinsky, but people call her Nelli. The fast part of the piece was excellent and the audience thought it was great! (Oh and Nelli, if you are reading, congrats- you did great!)
The next stop on our “journey” was a typical day in the universe in a story called “Once Upon Some Time”. The music was written by famous composer, Lee Johnson and the story was written by Fred Newman, who, by the way, is on plenty of television shows! This was a really TALL tale about how chaos is kept quiet while the juggler, the night weaver and the star thrower all work together making the universe run smoothly, but when those three start goofing off, chaos lets loose! The music fit the story just right and Fred’s “mouth sounds” were great! The bite out of the moon startled me! Fred and Lee must have worked together really well because it was fantastic! I think the audience loved it.
For the last piece, we “journeyed” back to the jazz days with “It Don’t Mean a Thing If It Ain’t Got That Swing” by Duke Ellington. My favorite part was the cool beat performed by the drum set player. This piece was perfect for the orchestra. It was great!
All in all, the Family Concert was delightful. Carol Cain was great on the introducing and Mr. Cobos kept everyone on cue with his conducting. Thank you LSO, Lee Johnson, and Fred Newman for the great “journey”! I think all kids should check out a symphony concert sometime.
Katie Kirby
10 years old
Katie is a 4th grade student at Long Cane Elementary School. Her parents are Robert and Kathy Kirby.
LaGrange Symphony Orchestra
Family Concert
Many Moods of Music
 | Fred Newman Concert Host |
| Ninel Jabotinsky violin |  |
LaGrange Symphony Orchestra
News Release
For Immediate Distribution
Orchestra To Present Friday Family Concert
Prepared by LSO Staff
The LaGrange Symphony and conductor Patricio Cobos will present “Many Moods of Muisic,” an LSO family concert, at 6:00 p.m. Friday, March 28, in Callaway Auditorium on the LaGrange College campus.
This performance, which will feature LaGrange native Fred Newman as guest host, will include music to interest both children and adults. Families are encouraged to bring their school-aged children.
As an added attraction, Dairy Queen mascot Curly Cone will be present in the lobby to greet young concertgoers and present coupons for a free small Blizzard to children fifth grade and under.
The program will open with the “Theme from Harry Potter.” Pablo de Sarasate’s “Gypsy Airs,” with violin soloist Ninel Jabotinsky, will follow. Ms. Jabotinsky currently studies with Sergiu Schwartz at Columbuis State University, where she recently won that school’s concerto competition.
A highlight of the evening promises to be the performance of an original story by Fred Newman titled “The Juggler, The Weaver, and The Star Thrower: A Folk Fable,” set to music by LaGrange College Callaway Associate Professor of Music and Emmy Award winning composer/conductor Lee Johnson.
The concert will conclude with a Duke Ellington selection, “It Don’t Mean a Thing, If It Ain’t Got That Swing.”
This event is sponsored by donations from Junior Service League of LaGrange and The West Point Fund of the Community Foundation of the Chattahoochee Valley, Inc.
Tickets are $5 for adults and $2 for students sixth grade and older. Children fifth grade and younger are free with an adult. All seating is general admission.
Tickets may be purchased from the symphony office prior to the day of the concert or at the Callaway Auditorium box office beginning at 5:30 p.m. the night of the concert.
For ticket information, contact the symphony office at (706) 882.0662 or e-mail symphony@mindspring.com or visit online at www.lagrangesymphony.org.
 | High resolution photos available at bottom of page | |
LaGrange Symphony Orchestra American Celebration LaGrange Daily News Editorial Tuesday’s LaGrange Symphony Orchestra concert was billed as an “American Celebration.” It was more than that. It was America at its best. Conductor Patricio Cobos, a native of Chile, introduced the national anthem by noting the coincidence that the concert, planned long ago, was held on “Super Tuesday.” In his charming accent, he praised his adopted country for the wonderful life it has afforded him. Numerous others on the program could have said the same thing. The orchestra includes Columbus State students from Europe, Africa and Israel. Composer Douglas R. Hooker, a Georgia Tech-trained engineer, had the joy of hearing his first orchestral piece, Sinai Symphony, expertly performed between compositions by American masters Leonard Bernstein and Aaron Copland. Hooker, who is African-American, was joined in the audience by dozens of relatives and friends, some of them from LaGrange. It was a proud moment for all. LaGrange’s own Emily Landa, a gifted mezzo-soprano, performed Copland’s difficult songs of Emily Dickinson poems with a confidence born on the LaGrange High stage and nurtured through extensive professional training. After a stunning, surprise duet with her fiancé, she accepted flowers from her proud father, symphony board president Scott Landa. The emotional wallop of the moment elevated the evening. “American Celebration” provided convincing proof that LaGrange should truly celebrate its symphony. Ours is not the only small town in the USA with a symphony, but it is rare and revealing that our small city has a symphony with global reach and world class outreach. This year, the LSO launched a children’s string music project in collaboration with its Lafayette Youth Orchestra and LaGrange College. Next month, the symphony will host entertainer Fred Newman as narrator for both a family concert and their annual children’s concerts for hundreds of students in Troup and Valley, Ala. schools. The LaGrange Symphony Orchestra prides itself on producing classical sounds with a Southern flair.
Celebrate symphony
Published: Friday, February 8, 2008 3:50 PM EST LaGrange Daily News
From the opening “Star Spangled Banner” until the final note of the final encore, the performance showcased a rich diversity of talent and music that would have been impressive on any stage and was truly astonishing for a small Georgia city.
The orchestra stirred the audience with Gould’s “American Salute,” a series of variations on “Johnny Comes Marching Home” that was both dramatic and toe-tapping. And the violin duet encore, featuring two young musicians from Israel performing a Spanish composition, put an international exclamation point on an all-American event.
This week, the American celebration concert brought the world to LaGrange.
What could be more American than that.
Copyright © 2008 - LaGrange Daily News
Mezzo-suprano Emily Landa, featured soloist at Tuesday nights concert, and her fiance, baritone Randall Levin of Cleveland, Ohio, singing a duet. 'Il core vi dono' from Mozart's Cosi fan tutte' as an encore following Landa's performance of Aaron Copland's 'Eight Poems of Emily Dickinson.'
LaGrange Symphony Orchestra conductor Patricio Cobos, left, congratulates composer Douglas Hooker as Hooker receives a standing ovation after the performance of his 'Sinai Symphony.' 
Mezzo-soprano Emily Landa, second from right, stands with her parents, Scott and Sue Landa (left) and Patricio Cobos. Douglas Hooker, whose 'Sinai Symphony' was performed at Tuesday night's concert, accepts a presentation on behalf of the city of LaGrange from City Council member Norma Tucker, as symphony conductor Patricio Cobos looks on. Hooker, an amature composer and longtime resident of Atlanta who has a career as an engineer and civic leader, worked 16 years on his symphony, which was inspired by a visit to the Holy Land in 1990.
LaGrange Symphony Orchestra
American Celebration
Concert Review
By: Tonya Frank
Tuesday evening was a night filled with beautiful music as the LaGrange Symphony Orchestra, under the direction of Patricio Cobos, filled Callaway Auditorium with the melodic sounds of Leonard Bernstein, Douglas Hooker, Aaron Copland and Morton Gould as they presented “American Celebration.” Patriotism coursed through my veins as the audience stood and sang the Star Spangled Banner to begin the evening. The audience was captivated from beginning to end as each piece received a standing ovation. The orchestra delighted the audience with the familiar sounds of Leonard Bernstein’s “Candide Overture.” Douglas Hooker’s “Sinai Symphony” was a real crowd pleaser. After the intermission, Emily Landa took the stage with an extraordinary performance of “Eight Poems of Emily Dickinson” and the orchestra ended the night with “American Salute” by Morton Gould.
“Candide Overture” was a high-spirited curtain raiser with its opening burst of brass. Douglas Hooker’s “Sinai Symphony” won the hearts of the audience from the first movement. Having lived in Israel as a child, the piece brought to mind the familiar sounds of the Middle East. Beginning with, “The Land,” one could feel the constant rhythmic movement of the music. “The Mediations” moved to a more mellow realm while in the third movement, “Al Souk(The Grand Market)”, one could feel the excitement and the cacophony of sounds reverberating in the music. Hooker’s finale, “Ocean Flight” depicts the joy of returning home. I was especially moved by the flowing rhythm of the final movement and was left wanting more. Whether or not one has visited the region, it was a magnificent musical journey. Having Mr. Hooker present was an added treat as he was well received by the audience with a lengthy standing ovation.
Emily Landa followed the intermission with an extraordinary performance singing “Eight Poems of Emily Dickinson” by Aaron Copland. The songs were quite challenging for any singer, but Ms. Landa sang the pieces with flawless ease. Although the orchestra is a joy in which to listen, this concertgoer would rather have heard more of Landa’s rich lower tones than the sometimes overpowering sounds of the instruments. Again the audience rose to their feet with thunderous applause as Ms. Landa completed her piece. The unexpected encore performance by Landa and Randall Levin was the highlight of her performance. The duet “Il core vi dono” from Mozart’s “Cosi fan tutte” left the audience wanting more.
As the concert came to a close with Morton Gould’s “American Salute”, the audience was once again entertained with an easily recognizable melody, “When Johnny Comes Marching Home,” that boldly caught everyone’s attention. The audience exploded with shouts of encore as they rose quickly to their feet for another standing ovation. The encore performance featuring the Columbus State University students from Israel, dubbed the Dynamic Duo by Conductor Cobos, was packed with enthusiasm and musical genius. The students played with such energy and passion while the orchestra again shined with their outstanding ability to wow the audience. Congratulations to Conductor Patricio Cobos and the LaGrange Symphony Orchestra for an outstanding performance. Anyone who has not attended a performance of the LaGrange Symphony Orchestra should make plans to be entertained. How fortunate this community is to have such a talented group of musicians.
The review of the concert prepared by Tonya Frank. Ms Frank teaches 3rd grade Extension at Berta Weathersbee Elementary. Every year she prepares her students for the Children's Concert in March by using the Georgia Performance Standards to tie into the musical selections. This year’s Children’s Concerts will take place in Valley, Alabama on March 27 and again on March 28 at LaGrange College’s Callaway Auditorium.
LaGrange Symphony Orchestra
News Release
American Celebration
February 5, 2008 @ 7:30 pm
Callaway Auditorium
LSO Concert To Feature Homegrown Talent
Prepared by LSO Staff
Mezzo-soprano Emily Landa will be the featured soloist when the LaGrange Symphony Orchestra presents its “American Celebration” concert at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, February 5, in Callaway Auditorium on the campus of LaGrange College.
Ms. Landa will perform “Eight Poems of Emily Dickinson,” arranged and orchestrated by Aaron Copland.
Emily Landa, a 1998 graduate of LaGrange High School, completed her graduate studies at the Manhattan School of Music in 2004. She returns to Georgia in her first local performance since 2003, when she sang excerpts from Handel’s Messiah with the symphony and also appeared the same year as Tessa in the LaGrange Opera Theater’s production of The Gondoliers.
Ms. Landa is a former music student of Marty Davis and of Anne Duraski. In 1998 and again in 2000 Landa won the Barbara Malis Music Award, originated by the LaGrange Woman’s Club and administered by the LaGrange Symphony.
Also on the program will be the second-ever performance of the Sinai Symphony, composed by Douglas Hooker of Atlanta, Georgia. Inspired by his trip in 1990 to the Middle East and the Holy Land, this work took Hooker sixteen years to complete. It was first performed by the Dekalb Symphony on April 4, 2006.
Leonard Bernstein’s Candide Overture and Morton Gould’s American Salute will also be performed.
Immediately after the concert there will be a free reception at Kazan, located at 134 Main Street in downtown LaGrange. All concertgoers are invited.
Doors will open at 7:00 p.m., and concertgoers are encouraged to arrive early.
Tickets are $25 and $15 for adults and $5 for students sixth grade and older. Children fifth grade and younger are always free with an adult.
While it is recommended that tickets be purchased from the symphony office prior to the day of the concert, tickets will also be sold based on availability at the Callaway Auditorium box office beginning at 7:00 p.m. the night of the concert.
For tickets or more information, contact the symphony office at (706) 882.0662 or e-mail symphony@mindspring.com or visit online at http://www.lagrangesymphony.org
01-18-2008
Student audiance anticipating the beginning of the Lafayette Youth Orchestra and Brass 5 concert at Callaway Auditorium on January 18, 2008 sponsored by the LaGrane Symphony Orchestra.
01-17-2008
The above photo shows Gerald Pope (left) as Louie Armstrong and trombonist Ed Griffin (right), both of Brass 5, with members of the Lafayette Youth Orchestra in the background, performing a tribute to Louie Armstrong at Thursday night's concert in Callaway Auditorium. Pope's rendition of "Satchmo" was a highlight of the evening. Brass 5 was joined by the Lafayette Youth Orchestra for a portion of the program.
LaGrange Youth Orchestra and Guests “Brass 5”
“A Swinging Evening of Musical Fun”
Concert Review
Deanna Marshall
Director of Bands, Long Cane Middle School
The Lafayette Youth Orchestra started the evening off with an interesting arrangement of the American folksong classic, “The Arkansas Traveler”. Callie Hammond, artistic director of the Youth Symphony, has done an outstanding job with these young musicians. The Youth Symphony has a bright and promising future ahead with Ms. Hammond on the podium. As a middle school band director, nothing thrills me more than to see so many young people actively involved in music making.
Guest artists for this concert were the amazing “Brass 5” who followed the symphony’s opening number with Leroy Anderson’s famed “Burglar’s Holiday.” This show of virtuosic playing captivated the audience with its energy and enthusiasm. The melody literally danced from one player to the next revealing each member’s ability and individual musicality. The joy of performing such a work was evident amongst all the members and transferred itself to the members of the receptive audience.
This ensemble has been an active part of the mid-Atlantic arts scene for more than twenty five years. The “5” maintain a vast performing repertoire including classical, swing, rock and even country western. They are equally at home on the European stage as well as in venues such as our very own stunning Callaway Hall at LaGrange College. From Vivaldi to Goodman, this was a “swinging evening” for one and all.
The performance was made even more memorable by their comfortable rapport with the audience. The inclusion of storytelling contributed to the unique format of the concert and made the music considerably more meaningful and interesting. The tribute to Glenn Miller was especially well presented and appreciated by those in attendance. Their stylistic interpretation of his music haunted me for hours after the concert had closed.
Concluding the concert was an exuberant joint effort between both ensembles as they performed a rousing tribute saluting the legendary Louie Armstrong. Trumpeter Gerald Pope was brilliant in his vocal performance of “Hello Dolly!” I was enthralled by his ability to catch both that very unique vocal timbre and spirit belonging to the one and only “Satchimo!” Just when we thought things could not get any better; the two groups topped off this amazing musical evening with a joyful arrangement of “When the Saints Go Marching In” followed by an encore of swing tunes that brought this superb concert to a close and the audience to its feet.
The “Brass 5” was equally brilliant today as they performed for students from both the Troup County Schools and Springwood Academy. Music students had a rare and unique experience as they were treated to the sounds of this professional brass ensemble. “Awesome,” “spectacular,” “funny,” “surprising” and “super cool” were just some of the adjectives that my students used to describe the performance. With the support of Harvey and Edna Saunders, this special school concert was a rare treat for all those who attended. What a great way to start the long holiday weekend…swing, swing, swing!!!
*****
LaGrange Symphony Orchestra
News Release
LYO and Brass 5 Family Concert
January 17, 2008 @ 7:30 pm
Callaway Auditorium
Contact person for Brass 5 Events: Dr. Sue Duttera
Telephone: 706.884.2137 E-mail address: sduttera@lagrange.edu
Based in Roanoke, Virginia, the Brass 5 Quintet will perform in LaGrange’s Callaway Auditorium at three events on January 17 and 18, 2008. These events will be sponsored bythe LaGrange Symphony Orchestra and underwritten by a generous grant from Dr.Harvey and Eve Saunders.Scott Landa, President of the LaGrange Symphony Orchestra Board, expressedappreciation to the Saunders for their gift to the community which willmake possible these exciting musical events for families and students.
Brass 5 will present a family concert “for all ages” at 7:30 pm, Thursday, January 17 at Callaway Auditorium on the first evening of the group’s visit to LaGrange.This lively and entertainingperformance group has been an active part of the Mid-Atlantic arts scene for 22 years. The group is made up of five brass players on trumpet, horn, trombone, and tuba. A sixth player plays percussion. Their music is for everyone and includes an astonishingrepertoire of jazz, country, classical, rock and more. They have beenfeatured on National Public Radio and have played in concert halls and schools acrossthe United Statesand in Europe. The Lafayette Youth Orchestra will also
One reviewer quoted on their web-site (Brass5.com) said of their performance “WOW! That was fun!” This response is one the LaGrange Symphony Orchestra hopes Brass 5 will have in LaGrange. Tickets for the concert are available in the LaGrange Symphony Office at SunTrust Bank and at the Callaway Auditorium box office on the night of the performance on January 17. Ticket cost is $5 for adults and $2 for student’s sixth grade through college. Children in fifth grade and younger will be admitted free of charge when accompanied by an adult.
On the afternoon of January 17 from 4-5 pm the Brass 5 players will conduct a workshop for Troup County students who play brass instruments. Arrangements are being made through the school system’s band program so that all brass players in middle schools and high schools can participate in this educational experience. Brass 5 is known for making this experience not only inspiring but also great fun.
Finally, on the morning of January 18 at 9:30 AM over seven hundred middle and high school band students will attend a concert at Callaway Auditorium. This jazz concert ties into the school system’s focus on black history month and the celebration of Martin Luther King’s birthday. Performers include: Gerald Pope and Chris Magee on trumpet, Russell Nelson on horn, Ed Griffin on trombone; Rob Chernault; and Sam Nash, percussion.
See attached photograph.
For media information, please visit www.lagrangesymphony.org
For tickets, please, call the Symphony office at 706- 882-0662 or purchase at the Symphony office on the main floor of Sun Trust Bank on Church Street.
Tickets also available on January 17 at Callaway Auditorium after 6:30 PM.
12-11-2007
 | Loren Pinkerman and Patricio Cobos acknowledge a standing ovation from the near capacity crowd at the symphony's annual Christmas concert in Callaway Auditorium. |
| Maestro Cobos congratulates bassoon soloist Constantin Barcov following his outstanding performance of the Hummel bassoon concerto. |  |
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LaGrange Symphony Orchestra and Sons of Lafayette Male Choir
Christmas with the LSO and the Sons of Lafayette
Concert Review
A bassoon concerto was therefore included! In their first offering, the LaGrange Symphony Orchestra set the tone for the evening with a rousing rendition of "Sleigh Ride" by Leroy Anderson, best known for his unconventional piece, "The Typewriter". Next came Hummel's "Grand Concerto for Bassoon and Orchestra in F". The bassoon was a favorite with nearly all of the great masters but rarely used as a lead in a concerto or symphony. In that regard, Johaan Nopomuk Hummel, a student of Mozart and Haydn and friend of Beethoven, was almost unique in giving the bassoon the lead in his concerto. Next to the strings, no instrument gives greater scope to the artist than the bassoon.
This was beautifully illustrated by the young and very talented Romanian-born Constantin Barcov. Using exquisite phrasing, Mr. Barcov was equally at home from the lowest to the highest registers of this versatile woodwind. A superlative performance indeed, recognized with a standing ovation.
Following on from the Lafayette Ballet Company's performance of the “Nutcracker” earlier this month choreographed to Peter Ilych Tchaikovsky's original score, last evening the Lagrange Symphony Orchestra delighted the audience with Duke Ellington's modern and more light-hearted interpretation thereof, featuring the strong beat and dominant brass of the big bands of the 30's and 40's much loved by this writer. Of particular interest was "The Sugar Rum Cherry", the Duke's mischievous name for “The Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy”. The Duke stated he had dressed up this well-known piece in contemporary style "to appeal to the people who are about us today." The Duke would have been well pleased with the way the adaptable Dr. Patricio Cobos and the Orchestra performed his score.
Following the intermission, Loren Pinkerman took over the podium and led the Sons of Lafayette Male Choir and the LaGrange Symphony Orchestra, who, for the very first time, joined forces on one stage. The choir and orchestra began in a classical vein with Antonio Vivaldi's "Gloria in Excelsis" from the Gloria. Then followed the "Hallelujah Chorus" from George Frederic Handel's 'Messiah' wherein all rose to their feet, consistent with the long-established tradition observed on both sides of the Atlantic.
Both were very moving performances.
The Sons of Lafayette and the LaGrange Symphony then transitioned to a lighter vein with the well-known favorites 'See Amid the Winter's Snow'; 'Winter Wonderland'; and 'Deck the Halls'.
The evening culminated with a Christmas carol sing-along created by John Finnigan, in which audience, choir and orchestra enthusiastically took part. The whole program was innovatively created and superbly executed to the obvious delight of the large audience.
The program, with some variations, will be repeated on Saturday, December 15th at 3.00pm, but this time under the baton of guest conductor Manuel Diaz.
Michael Lock
Dr. Lock is a retired executive and scientist with Milliken.
12-11-2007
Choir & Symphony Join Forces Loren L. Pinkerman, conductor of Sons of Lafayette Male Choir, and symphony conductor Patricio Cobos discuss plans for the annual Christmas concert, to feature the men's choir and symphony performing together in Callaway Auditorium on Tuesday evening, December 11, and again on Saturday afternoon, December 15.
LaGrange Symphony Orchestra
News Release
For Immediate Distribution
Male Choir Joins LaGrange Symphony for Two Christmas Performances
Prepared by LSO Staff
The LaGrange Symphony will be joined by the Sons of Lafayette Male Choir, conducted by Loren L. Pinkerman, for two Christmas concerts this holiday season.
On Tuesday, December 11, at 7:30 p.m. in Callaway Auditorium the LSO, led by Patricio Cobos, will present “Christmas with the LSO and Sons of Lafayette.” Sponsored by Batson-Cook Construction, this will be the third concert in the symphony’s 2007-2008 subscription series.
On Saturday, December 15, at 3:00 p.m. in Callaway Auditorium the symphony, led by guest conductor Manuel Diaz, will rejoin the Sons of Lafayette and conductor Loren Pinkerman for a second Christmas music program.
Tickets for each concert will be sold separately, with reserved seating at the first concert and general admission seating for the second concert. Tickets are not interchangeable at these two events.
The symphony will open Tuesday evening’s performance with a jazzy Duke Ellington arrangement of the Nutcracker Suite, followed by Johaan Hummel’s bassoon concerto, featuring soloist Constantin Barcov, and Leroy Anderson’s Sleigh Ride. The male choir and symphony will then perform Vivaldi’s “Gloria in excelsis,” the “Hallelujah Chorus” from Handel’s Messiah, and a trio of other seasonal songs. The program will conclude with an audience sing-along.
Saturday afternoon’s concert will include all music from the December 11 concert except the bassoon concerto. There will be five additional chorus selections on the December 15 program, including an Austrian carol transcribed for strings by LaGrange College music major Chris Owenby, and an arrangement of “Winter Wonderland” transcribed for strings by LaGrange Police detective Rob Kirby.
Reserved tickets for Tuesday may be purchased from the symphony office prior to the day of the concert by calling (706) 882-0662. Tickets for this event are $25 and $15 for adults and $5 for students sixth grade and older, with children fifth grade and younger admitted free with an adult.
General Admission tickets for Saturday’s concert may be purchased from any member of the Sons of Lafayette or at Hill Street House or by calling the symphony office at (706) 882-0662. All tickets for this afternoon concert are $15, and seating is not reserved.
While it is recommended that tickets be purchased in advance, tickets will also be sold based on availability at the box office at Callaway Auditorium forty-five minutes prior to each event.
Doors will open forty-five minutes before each performance, and concertgoers are encouraged to arrive early.
For more information, contact the orchestra at (706) 882-0662 or e-mail symphony@mindspring.com or visit online at www.lagrangesymphony.org
11-06-2007
Music Director and Conductor Patricio Cobos congratulates Andre Chiang, baritone
A Romantic Evening with the LSO
I had the pleasure of attending the LaGrange Symphony Orchestra’s latest concert, A Romantic Evening, on November 6, 2007. This concert, conducted by Maestro Patricio Cobos, Music Director of LSO since 2001, featured baritone Andre Chiang, winner of the 2007 LSO Young Artists Competition. Cobos has taken LSO to new heights of excellence this season, as he has consistently done since taking the helm of this musical vessel six years ago.
LSO began the concert with Franz Lehar’s Merry Widow Overture, composed in 1940. The work is comprised of numerous contrasting sections, riddled with abrupt changes in dynamics, tempo, and meter. In many musical ensembles, transitions between such sections create problems, as sixty individuals attempt to “apply the brakes” or to accelerate as one. However, transitions did not create a problem for LSO under the baton of Cobos. The orchestra moved from sweeping melodies to waltz-like passages to march-like sections without flaw. During the piece, the flutes, oboes, and harp were the shining stars, supported by a cast of strings, brass, and percussion.
Andre Chiang then took center stage, presenting several songs and arias. The young baritone began his portion of the concert with Long Time Ago, from a collection of songs written by American composer Aaron Copland. In typical Copland style, the piece is written in the simplest of terms. The woodwinds and strings tossed about melodies and countermelodies in a thin orchestration while Chiang performed the text and flowing melody. At times, Chiang’s voice seemed to be covered by the orchestra, and I suspect that Callaway Auditorium, an excellent hall for instrumental performances, may have contributed to this problem. Next, Chiang performed Come Paride Vezzoso, an aria from Gaetano Donizetti’s opera, The Elixir of Love. Confidence radiated from Chiang as he performed this aria, playing the part of a pompous soldier who is attempting to win the hand of a beautiful woman by telling her how wonderful he is. Chiang seemed to generate more resonance and power during this piece, balancing the orchestra more successfully. Chiang then performed the well-known aria Madamina, il catalogo e questo from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s Don Giovanni. Again, the orchestra excelled, performing instrumental gymnastics without error, but occasionally overpowering Chiang’s voice during quiet passages. Chiang ended his segment of the concert with It is Enough from Felix Mendelssohn’s oratorio, Elijah. Chiang’s voice was filled with longing, supported by dark passages performed by the strings. The cellos joined in with Chiang in a call and answer as the piece built to a furious tempo and then slowly died away, ending the piece.
After a brief intermission, LSO returned to the stage with Mendelssohn’s Symphony No. 3 in a minor, Op. 56, “Scottish.” Throughout the four movement masterpiece, each and every instrument has a chance to shine as the orchestra moves through intense, fiery passages and beautiful, fluid melodies. It is the French horns who become the true celebrities of the piece, however, performing with immense passion and providing the solid backbone of the work. However, lots of “team playing” from all sections made the piece a true success.
I have followed the musical journey of the LaGrange Symphony Orchestra over the past ten years and I have seen a fledgling musical group transform into a premier performing ensemble. I can’t wait to see what surprises the next LSO concert will bring, and I hope to see you there!
Robert Kirby,
Detective for City of LaGrange Police Department and a former music teacher in the Troup County schools. Detective Kirby composes music for local groups.
11-06-2007
Symphony To Continue 2007-2008 Season with A Romantic Evening
Prepared by LSO Staff
The LaGrange Symphony Orchestra continues its seventh season under the baton of Patricio Cobos with “A Romantic Evening” on Tuesday, November 6, at 7:30 p.m. in Callaway Auditorium, on the campus of LaGrange College.
The program for this second concert in the symphony’s 2007-2008 series of “Classical Sounds with a Southern Flair” will include the “Merry Widow Overture” by Franz Lehar and Mendelssohn’s Symphony No. 3, the “Scottish Symphony.”
Also on the program will be a selection of operatic arias from Copland, Donizetti, Mozart, and Mendelssohn sung by featured baritone soloist Andre Chiang.
Chiang is the winner of the LaGrange Symphony’s 2007 Young Artists Competition held last February at Callaway Auditorium. A senior studying vocal performance at the University of South Alabama in Mobile, Alabama, Chiang has performed with Opera Birmingham, the Mobile Opera and the University of Alabama Opera Theatre.
The LSO will be conducting its third annual food drive to benefit the LaGrange Interfaith Food Closet in the lobby prior to the start of this concert. Concertgoers are invited to bring non-perishable food items to assist those less fortunate in our community.
All seats for symphony concerts in Callaway Auditorium are reserved. Tickets may be purchased from the symphony office prior to the day of the concert or at the Callaway Auditorium box office beginning at 7:00 p.m. the night of the concert.
Doors will open at 7:00 p.m. and concertgoers are encouraged to arrive early.
Tickets are $25 and $15 for adults and $5 for students sixth grade and older. Children fifth grade and younger are always free with an adult.
Immediately after the concert, there will be a free reception at Kazan, located at 134 Main Street in downtown LaGrange. All concertgoers are invited.
The LaGrange Symphony’s concert season extends from October through April and features a variety of classical and near-classical selections. Patrons may obtain reserved seating for the remaining four subscription series concerts by purchasing season tickets now through the symphony office.
For tickets or more information, contact the LSO at 706.882.0662 or e-mail symphony@mindspring.com or visit online at www.lagrangesymphony.org.
10-10-2007
Patricio Cobos, Conductor, congratulates Lorna Wood, Concertmaster and Callie Hammond, Assistant Concertmaster, as others look on LSO President Scott Landa with Anastasia Agapova, violinist Violinst Anastasia Agapova with young concertgoers following the concert
LaGrange Symphony Orchestra Begins the 2007-2008 Season
“Classical Sounds with a Southern Flair”
My review began with a rousing performance of the “Star Spangled Banner” in combination with a beautiful concert hall filled with community members of all ages. The Callaway Auditorium is a most fitting home for the Lagrange Symphony Orchestra.
Dr. Patricio Cobos in his seventh year as Musical Director and Conductor of the LaGrange Symphony Orchestra. Dr. Cobos put together an outstanding program which displayed enormous technical difficulty resulting in a wonderfully passionate performance. His superb conducting style, musical taste and commitment to presenting the best performance possible resulted in an evening of great music and hailed the opening of the orchestra’s fall concert season.
The performance began with the overture from Carl Maria von Weber’s famous opera “Der Freischutz” (The Freeshooter). This dark story was exquisitely presented utilizing a wide variety of instruments producing both strong and delicate melodies through a variety of timbres. The musical battle of good and evil was well communicated by a vast dynamic range and emotion performed by all members of the orchestra.
The showcase performance of the evening was featured violinist Anastasia Agapova of Columbus State University. Agapova performed Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto in D. This twenty year old music student was poised, artistic and superbly secure in her delivery of a most demanding three movement concerto. Agapova’s cadenzas were breathtaking and highlighted her extraordinary musical abilities. She was well supported by the orchestra, creating a fascinating interplay between one and the other. Before this young twenty year old artist could lower her bow after the last notes were played, the audience rose to their feet in a standing ovation.
The symphony closed the concert with Ludwig van Beethoven’s epic Symphony No. 3, “The “Eroica Symphony”. The powerfully glorious first statement of the melody in the horn section was indicative of great things to come. This was an obvious favorite of the orchestra. The performance was passionate with an energy and enthusiasm that is only found in the music of Beethoven. Timpanist Paul Vaillancourt underscored the power and intensity with great flair and understanding. The second movement (funeral march) was in direct contrast to the vitality of the first. Cobos evoked fascinating orchestral colors in this section of the piece.
The third and fourth movements were invigorated with interesting horn solis supported by a robust string section. These movements were full of grand statements and delicate motifs and truly made the audience understand why this piece is entitled “The Heroic Symphony!”
Bravo to all of the LaGrange Symphony Orchestra members and Conductor Patricio Cobos on a job well done. As a band director, I was especially impressed with the clarity and artistry of the woodwind section. We are fortunate to have such an arts organization available to us. I commend all of those whose hard work and commitment make this accessible to our community. See you at the next concert!
Deanna Marshall
Band Director, Long Cane Middle School
10-09-2007
LSO to Launch New Season
Dr. Patricio Cobos
Music Director & Conductor
The LaGrange Symphony Orchestra will begin its seventh season under the baton of Patricio Cobos at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, October 9, in Callaway Auditorium.
The program for this opening performance of the 2007-2008 concert series, “Classical Sounds with a Southern Flair,” will be the “Der Freischutz Overture” by Carl Maria von Weber, Tchaikovsky’s “Violin Concerto in D” and Beethoven’s Symphony No. 3, the “Eroica Symphony.”
The always exciting Tchaikovsky violin concerto will feature Russian violin soloist Anastasia Agapova. A student at the Schwob School of Music at Columbus State University, Ms. Agapova has captured several awards in international violin competitions.
Tickets may be purchased in advance from the symphony office by calling 706.882.0662 prior to the day of the concert. Tickets will also be sold at the Callaway Auditorium box office beginning at 7:00 p.m. the night of the concert. Doors will open at 7:00 p.m. and concertgoers are encouraged to arrive early.
Season tickets are also available now for $112.50 and $67.50, a savings of ten percent off the price of individual tickets. If you haven't already purchased your season tickets for the 2007-2008 season, please consider doing so now at these reduced rates, and enjoy the convenience of reserving the seats of your choice for all five of our upcoming Subscription Series concerts in a single transaction.
For tickets or more information, please contact the LSO office at 706.882.0662 or e-mail symphony@mindspring.com
09-18-2007
LSO Announces Classical Sounds with a Southern Flair
Prepared by LSO Staff
The LaGrange Symphony Orchestra announces its 2007-2008 concert season of “Classical Sounds with a Southern Flair.” Opening night is Tuesday, October 9,
and will feature Romantic masterworks from Beethoven, Tchaikovsky and
Weber.
This Subscription Concert Series extends from October through April and offers a varied repertoire that includes the Tchaikovsky “Violin Concerto,” Mendelssohn’s “Scottish Symphony,” Mozart’s Overture from the “Magic Flute” and a Hummel bassoon concerto.
Featured in the coming season will be solo performances by two LaGrange
natives, whose local roots span several generations, and the performance of a
native Georgian’s recent symphony.
In February mezzo-soprano Emily Landa will sing “Eight Poems of Emily
Dickinson,” by Aaron Copland. Sharing the evening will be a performance of
Georgia native Douglas Hooker’s “Sinai Symphony.”
In April, violinist Callie Knight Hammond will help close the season with a performance of Max Bruch’s “Violin Concerto No. 1 in G minor.”
The 2007-2008 season will also include a Christmas concert that will bring together for the first time the LSO and Sons of Lafayette Male Choir. Adult tickets are $25 for Mezzanine seating and $15 for seats in the Orchestra and Gallery. Tickets for students sixth grade and older are $5. Children fifth grade and younger are admitted free with an adult.
*****
All seats for symphony concerts in Callaway Auditorium are reserved. Tickets may be purchased from the symphony office prior to the day of the concert or at the Callaway Auditorium box office beginning at 7:00 p.m. the night of the concert. Doors will open at 7:00 p.m., and concertgoers are encouraged to arrive early.
Tickets are $25 and $15 for adults and $5 for students sixth grade and older. Children fifth grade and younger are always free with an adult.
For tickets or more information, please contact the LSO office at 706.882.0662 or e-mail symphony@mindspring.com
News Archives
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| PR 10-09-2007 | R 11-06-2007 | ||
| PR 11-06-2007 | R 12-11-2007 | ||
| PR 12-11-2007 | R 02-05 2008 |
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| PR 05-24-2008 | R 03-28-2008 | ||
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| R 05-24-2008 |
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LaGrange Symphony Orchestra
LaGrange daily News Editorial, Feb. 05, 2008
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LaGrange Symphony Orchestra
LSO @ Callaway Auditorium - 8 in
Callaway Auditorium overview - 6 in
October 9, 2007 Concert
November 6, 2007 Concert
December 11 & 15 Concerts
Loren Pinkerman & Patricio Cobos - 6 in
Maestro Cobos congratulates Constantin Barcov - 4 in
January 17, 2008 Concert
February 5, 2008 Concert
Hooker accepts presentation - 6 in
April 15, 2008 Concert
May 25, 2008 Pops Concert