Thatiana Gibbs
Assistant Editor
The La Verne Symphony Orchestra presented an evening of musical classics Nov. 24 in Morgan Auditorium.
The orchestra performed a program featuring a variety of great works of classical music.
The performance began at 4 p.m., and the auditorium was full.
The orchestra was composed of students and seasoned musicians, and the concert featured a selection of pieces that spanned genres, moods, and centuries.
It started with an uplifting selection of Antonín Dvořák’s Symphony No. 9, known as the “New World Symphony.”
This piece, with its sweeping melodies, reflects Dvořák’s impressions of American landscapes and the spirit of its people during his time in the United States.
George Osorio was guest conductor of the night. A graduate of California State University, Dominguez Hills, Osorio honed his conducting style by actively participating in various ensembles, including the wind ensemble, symphony orchestra, chamber singers, jazz band and chamber brass ensemble.
Through these experiences, he gained valuable insights into diverse teaching and conducting approaches that influenced his own technique.
“It’s kind of like making soup,” Osorio said. “You have your ingredients, and you’re just going to find a good balance between spices and how you’re going to cook your vegetables and meats. And then it will all just come together. All the music is different, I can’t pinpoint what to watch out for, but just enjoy the music.”
Johann Sebastian Bach’s “Little” Fugue in G Minor, built upon a single theme, is a testament to the timeless appeal of Bach’s music.
The evening also featured the works of Amy Beach, a composer who made history as one of the first American women to achieve recognition in classical music. Mann is committed to showcasing a diverse array of composers and styles ensures that every concert is both educational and moving.
“I work hard to make sure that I am selecting a wide variety of music,” Mann said. “I try to feature composers and conductors who might not have normally been in a standard program. Like featuring a woman composer, that shouldn’t be a special concert. It should be that way all the time.”
No program led by Mann would be complete without including contemporary music. Karl Jenkins’ “Palladio” is a modern classic with harmonic elements inspired by the architecture of the Renaissance.
To round out the evening, the orchestra performed “Dance of the Tumblers” from “The Snow Maiden” by Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov, known for its energy and demands on the orchestra.
Following the performance, a reception offered a chance for attendees to mingle with the musicians and Mann. Posing an opportunity for guests to share ideas of the performance and connect with others who appreciate live orchestra.
“I think they take on challenging pieces and they perform well,” guest Ken Higbee said. “It’s a positive thing that the symphony has grown and it’s having a positive impact on the community.”
Thatiana Gibbs can be reached at thatiana.gibbs@laverne.edu.
Thatiana Gibbs is a senior journalism major with a concentration in print-online journalism. She is a photographer for the Campus Times and La Verne Magazine. Her enthusiasm lies in research, writing, and effectively delivering captivating information to the public eye. She has previously been an assistant editor and staff writer for the Campus Times, and a staff writer for La Verne Magazine.
Mia Byington is a senior photography major with a minor in marketing. She is a staff photographer for the Campus Times and La Verne Magazine.
