San Jose Chamber Orchestra: The San José Chamber Orchestra (SJCO) continues its 33rd concert season with a mystical performance set to enchant on Sunday, November 12. This captivating program, led by conductor Barbara Day Turner and featuring the talented cellist Evan Kahn, promises an evening of musical wonder.
Stacy Garrop’s “Inner Demons” takes listeners on a journey into the mind of a man unraveling, with the haunting Appalachian folk hymn “The Wayfaring Stranger” serving as the soundtrack to his obsession. John Tavener’s “The Protecting Veil” draws inspiration from the Orthodox Feast of the Protecting Veil of the Mother of God. Through the expansive range of the cello, this composition captures, in the words of the composer himself, “the cosmic power of the Mother of God.”
Evan Kahn, a distinguished cellist who serves as principal cellist of the San José and New Century Chamber Orchestras and the San Francisco Opera, graces the stage as the cello soloist for this transcendent performance.
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The San José Chamber Orchestra, a professional ensemble boasting over 19 string players, offers a diverse series of 79 programs each season. Many of these performances feature world premieres by acclaimed composers, alongside critically acclaimed guest artists taking the spotlight. The SJCO proudly holds five ASCAP/League of American Orchestras Adventurous Programming Awards, has released seven CDs of American music, and has commissioned or premiered over 200 new works in its remarkable 32-season journey.
Founded in 1991, the San José Chamber Orchestra came to life thanks to the determination of local musicians who yearned to explore chamber orchestra repertoire and embrace contemporary compositions. The spark for its formation came from a challenge in the METRO newspaper by the late drummer Sammy Cohen to music director Barbara Day Turner, urging her to overcome inertia and get started. The San José Chamber Music Society generously sponsored the orchestra’s first concert, and a dedicated board was soon established. This journey of music and creativity has continued to enchant and inspire audiences for over three decades.
Our Reader’s Queries
What is the difference between a chamber orchestra and a normal orchestra?
A chamber orchestra is a small group of roughly 25 musicians, typically playing string instruments and performing in palace chambers for royalty. On the other hand, a symphony orchestra is much larger, often consisting of over 100 members, and is designed to play symphonies in concert halls.
What level is chamber orchestra?
The Chamber Orchestra is a string ensemble that requires an audition to join. Typically, its members are at an upper-intermediate level of musicianship. The orchestra’s repertoire emphasizes position work, advanced rhythms, bowing techniques, and expression. This allows the students to develop their skills and showcase their talents in a challenging yet rewarding environment.
Who is considered the best orchestra in the world?
For 140 years, the Berlin Philharmonic has been a force to be reckoned with. They have consistently attracted top-tier musicians and have achieved a level of perfection that most orchestras can only aspire to. Their track record speaks for itself, and they continue to be a powerhouse in the world of classical music.
What is the difference between a philharmonic and an orchestra?
Many people wonder about the difference between a symphony orchestra and a philharmonic orchestra. Some speculate that it has to do with composition or size, but the truth is that there is no difference at all. Both terms refer to a large ensemble of musicians playing classical music. So, whether you attend a symphony or a philharmonic performance, you can expect to hear beautiful music played by a talented group of musicians.