Last night's concert

Hi there,

Last night, the Landmarks Festival at the Shell was moved from the Hatch Shell to Jordan Hall at New England Conservatory because of the weather. Thanks to all of you who made the transition to join us at this location...Jordan Hall was filled to capacity.

From a completely selfish standpoint, I have to say that I was thrilled with the result! The acoustics in Jordan Hall are second to none....and we were able to hear every single note, every single nuance to the music...it was quite a treat.

The Youth Orchestra of the Americas, 75 young musicians from the western hemisphere...was just sensational. It was exciting to see young people in an orchestra....swinging, swaying, feeling the passion of the music. It really brought Dvorak's New World Symphony to life for me. The double bass players were a sight to behold!

Gabriela Montero, the pianist for Rachmaninov's Piano Concerto #2 was just amazing. She felt and expressed every imaginable nuance....one could think....just as intended by Rachmaninov himself. She then treated us to her musical talent in an encore....she asked the audience to name a couple of songs everyone knew, and she would improvise on them for us. So, we heard a brilliant classical approach to The Sound of Music...and to Take Me Out To The Ball Game! What fun!

I cannot think of a better teacher for these young musicians than Benjamin Zander. I believe his passion for music is contagious. He is one of those fine conductors that not only expresses himself so that the musicians know what he wants....when he conducts, he actually helps the audience to understand what's happening on the stage. It's a true gift.

OK. I realize I sound like I'm gushing a bit....I just wanted to share some of my impressions of the night with you....in hopes that perhaps you will come and join us for our next free concert....the Landmarks Orchestra at the Shell continues with another free concert next Wednesday night at 7 at the Hatch Shell...we hope to see you there!

Mark