"It is absolutely essential for people to get to know the other, to understand what the other thinks and feels, without necessarily agreeing with it."
Daniel Barenboim, on forming the West-Eastern Divan Orchestra

Saturday, September 14, 2013

Resurrecting a blog

Nearly two years ago I began a blog--this blog, to be exact.  What I hoped would include a series of interesting, informative and insightful posts came to a dead stop after only two!  After a series of events, including an increase in my grad school course load, intensive work involving Camp Allegro Wichita (the nonprofit that I direct), and a serious medical issue, I have chosen to revive the blog.

In the spirit of renewal, I will share another new beginning: the start of a new season for the Wichita Symphony.  The musicians kick off their new concert series with a fun multimedia extravaganza featuring Bugs Bunny at the Symphony. Little did I know I was hearing great music when I watched Looney Tunes as a kid.  And we will hear some of the great classics again on September 28 and 29 as the symphony plays works by Rossini, Strauss and Wagner (no doubt excerpts from that great Wagnerian opera Kill the Wabbit will be included).  The orchestra will provide live accompaniment while cartoons will be projected on a large screen.

Perhaps this seems rather silly, writing about a concert featuring cartoons.  Naturally, the WSO concert season is more serious minded.  In fact, some major works in the classical music repertoire will be performed this season.  I am particularly excited about the first concert as a favorite work will be performed: Stravinksy's The Rite of Spring.  For more info on the excellent programming for this year, see the WSO website.  

What began as a reintroduction to my blog became a plug for the Wichita Symphony.  I realize this may be of interest only to readers living in or near Wichita; however, I felt that one of the larger arts organizations in our area deserved a post dedicated to its programs.  Why? Perhaps readers who do not already attend concerts or buy season tickets might consider doing so.  By becoming a concert-goer you will support an excellent arts organization, hear great works performed LIVE by accomplished musicians, and enjoy an evening socializing with friends and new acquaintances. 

Just for fun, I leave you with the following clip featuring the immortal Elmer Fudd and the Wabbit.
See you at the symphony!