Philosopher Alan Watts wrote: “This is the real secret of life — to be completely engaged with what you are doing in the here and now. And instead of calling it work, realize it is play.”
In the spirit of dedication and hard work turned good fun, the Dearborn Symphony Orchestra under the seriously yet playful direction of Conductor and Music Director Kypros Markou side by side with the Dearborn Youth Symphony, and guest pianist Philip Huang, and guest violinist Landon Oja closed its 2014-15 season with masterful, exuberant exchanges.
May 8 at the Ford Community & Performing Arts Center, seasoned musicians in harmony with the new players to the game, along with featured guest Youth Artist Solo Competition winners, Huang and Oja, under Markou’s buoyant baton took to the stage with a notable enthusiasm.
“There, orchestra and I have developed a good relationship, more of a special bond,” Markou said. “They understand my passion for emotional interpretation (of the music) to inspire and move the audience.”
Inspired and moved, the audience welcomed each part of the show with equally weighted enthusiasm, for both beloved scores, seasoned performers and for the new generation of musicians, all eager to deliver.
The games began with Johannes Brahms’ “Hungarian Dance in G Minor.” Meticulous execution and thoughtful design set the tone for this season’s closer concert titled “Brahms’ Sunny Symphony!”
Brahms “Symphony No. 2 in D Major” followed and gave principal French horn Caroline Steiger a chance to bedazzle and shine.
Giuseppe Verdi’s “Nabucco Overture,” played side by side with the Dearborn Youth Symphony, offered young musicians an exciting opportunity to take the stage. The blend of both groups was beautiful and entertaining.
Next in line was Edward Grieg’s “Piano Concerto in A Minor, Op. 16” featuring Huang on piano. Huang’s thoughtful delivery far exceeded his years. Simply impressive.
The night’s performance continued with Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s “Violin Concerto in D Major, Op. 35.” Oja unleashed powerful, raw articulations tamed with a captivating artistry that resonated with a blend of brilliant sound.
Notable strong performances by principal trumpet Michael McGowen and trumpeter John Hartwick helped bring the evening’s performance to a close with Franz von Suppe’s “Light Cavalry Overture.”
Tickets are on sale for the 2015-16 season, opening Oct. 9 at the Ford Center. The first concert will feature guest violinist Ben Beilman as well as the music of Torke, Sibelius and Tchaikovsky.
Tickets range from $10 to $30 and can be purchased in advance or at the door. For information about next year’s season,go to dearbornsymphony.org or call 313-565-2424.