The first concert is Music of France, Oct. 18. What is special about this concert?
To kick off the 70th season, we have a look at the Music of France. Harpist Emily Granger helped determine the country as she wanted Saint-Saëns’ Morceau de Concert and Debussy’s Danses sacrée et profane. I wanted to feature the harp as it is not often seen in the solo world. It will be a treat for the audience. It worked that Emily wanted the French pieces because I then wove in Bizet, Gounod and Ravels’ Pavane for a Dead Princes. Gounod’s musicfrom Faust is one of my favorites.
How did the 70th season come about?
With the 70th season, we kept much of the tradition, especially with the approaching holiday concert. We are calling it Music of Christmas Dec. 13. On February 21, we will have the Music of Russia. Susie Yang, cellist, will be the soloist. The Music of England May 2 will include the Young Artist winner. This will be our fourth competition and fits with the idea that education is and has always been an important part of the mission. We have added a fifth show, a bonus celebrating the Music of America June 13 on the steps of the Truman Library in Independence. Guest conductors will be Conductor Laureate Jack Ergo and Principal Guest Conductor Bryan Busby. We are hoping to pick a piece of music from each decade the Philharmonic has been around … it will be a fun challenge for the musicians and me and a gift to the community. Remember, all our concerts are free.
What is your definition of a community orchestra?
A community orchestra is a mix of professional, community and student players. The five string musicians and I comprise the professional make-up. The other big difference is that we rehearse in the evening. I am so grateful that the quality of schools in the area produces great players who want to play. We are a place that gives community members a locale to continue their love of music. It’s the communal nature of music, be it choral or orchestral, which proves we are more than the sum of our parts. When I think of the word community, I also think about the community within the orchestra and what can be attained.
What does it mean to you to help lead the Heritage Philharmonic? Where will the philharmonic be in the next 70 years?
For me, I have many hats, and one of those is to continue on that community ideal. My greatest role is to be a collaborator and that begins with the entire orchestra and those five professional players. It’s a team effort. Then I collaborate with the board who are community members and some musicians. My role as a leader means helping the orchestra get better. This could mean picking music that is a bit tougher or diversifying the programming. In the 70 years of this group and in all the organizations I am honored to work with, we have to remember that we stand on the shoulders of those before us. We have to honor that legacy and solid foundation.
Share a funny or poignant story that best represents the Heritage Philharmonic.
For me, one of the best and funniest moments comes right after summer break and the first fall rehearsal. It’s hard to get the members started as they are all catching up with friends. There is such a strong connectedness and that allows us to have fun and support each other when it is needed.
