SWAMPSCOTT — The North Shore Philharmonic Orchestra will perform its spring concert on April 27 at 3 p.m., located at Swampscott High School.
Conducted by Music Director Robert Lehmann, the orchestra will perform Leonard Bernstein’s “Symphonic Dances from the West Side Story” in the spring concert, which is regarded as one of the world’s most popular symphonic works, according to the press release.
The concert will spotlight Lehmann as a soloist in Joseph de Boulogne’s Violin Concerto in G Major.
President of the North Shore Philharmonic Orchestra Bob Marra shared his excitement for the upcoming concert, with Lehmann running the show.
“I think people will be able to see the real depth of his abilities, and I think many people will instantly recognize the ‘West Side Story,’ because everyone knows the music and movie,” Marra said. “It really runs the gamut of emotions. I think people will really enjoy it.”
“De Boulogne — Chevalier de Saint-George — was an incredible individual,” Lehmann said. “In his short life of just 54 years, he distinguished himself as a virtuoso violinist, composer, elite fencer, military hero, and Revolutionary. He was often referred to as ‘The Black Mozart,’ as he was the first classical composer of African descent to attain praise and plaudits in the world of European music, both for his fearless violin prowess and also for his fencing mastery.”
Lehmann said the concert will open with Symphony No. 2 by American composer Howard Hanson.
“Howard Hanson was a tireless advocate for American music,” Lehmann said. “As a composer, conductor, educator and administrator, he commissioned, championed and performed thousands of works by young American composers. His own Second Symphony has endured as a nostalgic favorite, known for its sweeping, cinematic writing and Romantic temperament.”
Lehmann continued, “Hanson’s most popular work greatly influenced the next generation of composers. One can easily hear this influence in its similarity to the great film composers, including John Williams.”
Bernstein’s music made “West Side Story” one of the most-loved musicals — and movies — of all time, according to Lehmann.
“His ‘Symphonic Dances’ compresses the musical’s soundtrack into 22 minutes of unforgettable tunes that touch emotions ranging from tension, friendship, excitement, love, and, ultimately, to a poignant plea for peace and acceptance in the haunting finale ‘Somewhere,’” the press release said.
Tickets for the concert will be available at the door or can be purchased in advance through the Orchestra’s website, www.nspo.org for $30. Tickets are $25 for seniors and students, and children 12 and under are admitted free.
The North Shore Philharmonic Orchestra will conclude its 76th concert season with a Children’s Concert and Instrument Petting Zoo on May 4 at 2 p.m., located at the First Baptist Church in Beverly in a program supported in part by a grant from the Beverly Cultural Council, which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council (a state agency).
The orchestra is largely staffed by volunteer players, and remains committed to its mission of providing access to quality music at an affordable price to communities north of Boston. The Orchestra strives to develop, train and provide opportunities for young and amateur musicians, while providing a large range of programs covering the full range of symphonic and pops repertoire for a diverse public. For full concert information, visit www.nspo.org or contact [email protected].
