I just returned from a energy-filled concert by the Cape Ann Symphony at the Fuller Auditorium in Gloucester, Massachusetts. It was titled "Mother's Night Out" and was also a celebration of the close of the 60th anniversary year for the symphony. What a night!
Sadly, it was the last time the CAS will play at the Fuller Auditorium. The next season will be at Manchester-Essex High School. I wish the City of Gloucester would pour money into the Fuller Auditorium to repair the roof and to make cosmetic changes to the hall. It is acoustically fit and is a lovely hall in a traffic-friendly location. Cape Ann has enough clout to build or renovate a performing arts center. Especially with the construction of two new hotels (one very nearby Fuller at Gloucester Crossing), the city can accommodate and needs a state-of-the-art arts center.
Music Director, Yoichi Udagawa, led a spirited concert that featured the Semiramide Overture by Rossini. This was performed so well that I thought it might be the best piece, but it just got better.
Violin Soloist Elita Kang regaled us with a mesmerizing performance of Bruch's Violin Concerto #1. She stole the show with her powerfully passionate talent. We were stunned by her poise while playing such a demanding piece.
Before the Brahms Symphony #4, Mr. Udagawa explained the music we were about to hear. It was a highly intellectual piece and we benefited from the explanation. It directed our ears to listen to the complexity while also appreciating the beauty of the symphony.
We were thoroughly entertained and it was a fitting celebration for Mother's Day and for the finale at Fuller, but Gloucester would do itself proud to find a way to keep its musical heritage in the city.
It is a wonderful experience to sing in a chorale. I love reading your posts about it. Thank you. I hope you can keep singing in Amman.
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