Starkville Celebrates Musical Excellence with Symphony Concert

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Orchestra performing at Starkville Symphony Concert

News Summary

On March 23, the Starkville-MSU Symphony Orchestra wrapped up its 56th season with a captivating concert at Lee Hall. Directed by Dr. Andrew Stevens, nearly 60 musicians performed diverse pieces, showcasing talents like student winner Holden Grant and bass-baritone Willian di Silva. The event concluded with a powerful rendition of John Rutter’s ‘Gloria’, performed by a combined chorus, leaving the audience eager for the next performance on May 23.

Starkville Celebrates Musical Excellence with Inspiring Symphony Concert

On a lovely Sunday afternoon, March 23, the vibrant city of Starkville witnessed an unforgettable musical experience as the Starkville-MSU Symphony Orchestra concluded its fifty-sixth season with an engaging concert at the historic Lee Hall on the Mississippi State University campus. The concert, directed by the talented Dr. Andrew Stevens, brought together nearly 60 instrumentalists who showcased a spectacular array of musical works that spanned genres and eras.

Journey Through Musical Diversity

As the audience settled into their seats, the excitement in the air was palpable. The program kicked off with a fascinating piece, Dimitri Shostakovich’s “Suite for Variety Orchestra”, which is known for its lively and entertaining character. This composition features eight unique movements and prominently showcases the saxophone and xylophone, creating an enjoyable and vibrant atmosphere. The orchestra’s performance of this piece set the tone for an evening filled with remarkable music.

Spotlight on Young Talent

The concert had a special highlight as it featured the performances of two gifted student competition winners, adding a personal touch to the experience. Holden Grant took center stage, delivering a breathtaking rendition of Chaminade’s “Concerto for Flute and Orchestra”. His flawless performance resonated throughout the hall, capturing the hearts of attendees and showcasing the remarkable talent emerging from the MSU music program.

The evening continued to shine with the captivating voice of Bass-baritone Willian di Silva. He delivered two impressive pieces; the first being Colline’s farewell aria from Puccini’s “La Boheme”, which wowed the audience with its emotional depth. He then transported everyone further to the opera world with his rendition of the famous Toreador Song from Bizet’s “Carmen”, eliciting roars of applause from the enthusiastic crowd.

A Grand Finale of Sacred Music

John Rutter’s “Gloria”, performed in Latin by a remarkable chorus of nearly eighty singers from both the Starkville Community Chorus and the MSU Singers. This robust performance contrasted beautifully with Antonio Vivaldi’s “Gloria”, a staple of the Baroque repertoire. The harmonious blending of voices and orchestration infused the hall with a sense of reverence and celebration, wrapping up the concert on a high note.

Looking Ahead to the Finale

The audience left with hearts full of music and joy, already anticipating the exciting conclusion of the Starkville-MSU Symphony Orchestra’s fifty-sixth season. Mark your calendars for May 23, when they will host a *patriotic* “pops” concert at Lee Hall, promising to be another delightful evening celebrating musical artistry.

With every note played and every voice heard, the Starkville-MSU Symphony Orchestra continues to uphold its commitment to enriching the cultural life of the community through music. What a remarkable way to end a season, leaving everyone eagerly awaiting what the next set of performances will bring!