The Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra performing at the Ruby Diamond Concert Hall, captivating the audience with orchestral music.
On January 18, 2024, the Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra presented a captivating concert titled ‘Sea and Sky’ at the Ruby Diamond Concert Hall. Conducted by Wesley Schulz, the evening featured a mix of classical and contemporary pieces, including Nielsen’s ‘Helios’ and Torke’s ‘Sky,’ performed by violinist Tessa Lark. The program concluded with Sibelius’ Symphony No. 2, leaving the audience in awe. This event allowed community engagement through activities like ‘Lunch with the Maestro.’ The TSO continues its search for a new conductor, promising more thrilling performances ahead.
There’s no place like Tallahassee when it comes to the magic of live orchestral music, and on the evening of January 18, 2024, the Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra (TSO) brought a delightful experience to the Ruby Diamond Concert Hall. The concert, aptly titled “Sea and Sky,” was conducted by the talented Wesley Schulz, who is currently in the running to be the orchestra’s next Music Director.
The evening was a musical voyage, transporting the audience across the oceans and skies with a carefully selected program. Schulz conducted with a calm and confident presence, embodying a spirit of partnership with the music that resonated with both musicians and attendees alike.
Opening the concert was Carl Nielsen’s “Helios,” written all the way back in 1903. This stunning overture, inspired by the Greek sun god, crafted an auditory portrayal of the sun’s journey across the sky above the beautiful Aegean Sea. With its distinct horn calls capturing the essence of sunrise, midday, and sunset, the orchestration truly brought the movement of the day to life. As the piece drew to a close, it left the audience with a final horn call, signaling the end of a radiant day.
Following the historical offering, the audience was treated to a modern-day gem: Michael Torke’s bluegrass concerto, “Sky,” performed by the fabulous Grammy-nominated violinist, Tessa Lark. Composed in 2020, Torke’s piece seamlessly blends elements of mid-20th-century vernacular music with nods to greats like Aaron Copland and George Gershwin. It was a refreshing and invigorating turn within the concert, offering a modern twist that filled the hall with a sense of joy and liveliness.
The second half of the program continued to impress with the performance of Jean Sibelius’ Symphony No. 2 in D Major, Op. 43, which was composed in 1902. With a reputation for being a favorite among orchestras, Sibelius’ work evokes a range of emotions and has often been linked to various interpretations. Interestingly, the composer himself urged listeners to appreciate it purely as music, without the need for additional context.
As the evening progressed, it was clear that the orchestra found its groove, with each performance more pronounced and spirited than the last. Schulz’s carefully curated selections created a cohesive experience, showcasing the strengths of the TSO and allowing the talents of the orchestra to shine. The climactic performance of Sibelius’ symphony left an indelible mark, casting a spell over the audience, who were left in awe.
Not only did this performance showcase the high-caliber talent within the TSO, but it also allowed the community to engage more deeply. Attendees were invited to participate in enriching events like “Lunch with the Maestro” and an Open Rehearsal, further bridging the gap between the orchestra and its supporters.
With ticket prices ranging from $35 to $64, this concert proved to be an affordable entry point for community members to experience captivating orchestral music. The TSO continues to embark on its search for a new conductor, with more auditions lined up for the 2024-25 season, featuring promising talents like Kellen Gray on March 29 and Yaniv Dinur on May 3.
As the curtain fell on an enchanting night of music in Tallahassee, the future of the TSO looks bright. With its rich history and a commitment to excellence, it stands ready to honor the legacy of past conductors and embark on a new chapter. For those who missed out, keep an eye on TSO’s website for details on upcoming performances and events. Don’t let the opportunity to experience the bliss of orchestral music pass you by!
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