May 2019 Orchestra Concert

This concert was a milestone for me because it was my first time playing principal cello for the Loveland Orchestra. Not because I got promoted--I got bumped up to that seat because Heather Cowan, who usually sits principal, had a scheduling conflict. But it was still an exciting new experience. You play differently when you are supposed to lead the section . . . you want to give the right cues and help everyone stay together. You need a tighter connection with the maestro as you watch every flick of his baton and work with him to execute clean entrances and cut-offs. 

The program was mostly movie music, but also featured the winner of our 2019 Young Artist Competition, which was organized by yours truly. Emma Johnson blew everyone away with her piece, "The Lark Ascending," by Vaughan Williams. She actually made one of the judges (Maestro Louie) cry at the competition because her playing was so pure and beautiful.

This show's movie music theme inspired a few fun costumes. Our second bassoon player's husband dressed up as a T-Rex (nod to Jurassic Park), and Mika dressed up as Rey from Star Wars.

After the show with my stand partner and dear friend, Anita Kufeld:

So long, Star Wars. Goodbye, Imperial March, with your relentless bass line. Adieu, Princess Leia Theme and Jurassic Park Theme--thanks for sharing your soaring melodies with the cellos. Will I ever see you again?