For one of my articles, I previously volunteered to review the upcoming orchestra that occurred on November 21st, 2024, 7:30 in Edmunds Hall. I thought it would be an easy write, especially since I am familiar with classical music, and it seemed like a simple topic to write about.
As soon as I came into the auditorium, two things immediately came to mind as I took my seat. First, how packed the room was with everyone coming in from all around Clinton. Second, how, as soon as the conductor, Dr. Giovanni Briguente began directing the first note, the room went silent as we were all taken in by the wonder of the music playing.
It is safe to say that the musical selection was a superb choice indeed, as they managed to make the audience feel every emotion they know when listening to music. From the lovely strings detailing the brightness of Verdi’s “Falstaff”, the playful tambourine symbolizing the youthful joy of Korsakov “Capriccio Espagnol”, the mournful organ telling the tragedy of Albinoni’s “Adagio”, to my personal favorite, the mysterious taps of xylophone and triangle representing the fearful and peculiar sounds of Balmages “The Abandoned Funhouse”, and many more wonderful set pieces. It was a feast for both the eyes on seeing the setup of the stage and the ears on all the beautiful sounds coming out of the instruments.
It’s safe to say that this concert was a hit. There was a cheer after every performance, with one particular audience member shouting “WOW!!” as the final note of Adagio came into play. His joyous proclamation perfectly summarized everything we felt about this performance.
However, there was one particular aspect that made this concert as powerful as it is. It’s when Dr. Briguente detailed the purpose of this concert and classical music in general, on how it isn’t just meant for a particular group of people to enjoy. It is meant to have a reflecting power over all of us, on how it can give us a sense of healing that no other pieces of media can accomplish, as it is an art, and as stated, “art is the human representation of eternal beauty”. That line just says it all.
All I can really say now is that, hopefully, I can encounter other pieces of art that are just like this one, and when I do, I’ll make sure to write all about it. Until then, enjoy yourself and Reflect.
