Last weekend we opened our 2007-2008 Masterworks season.

A few reflections:

1) The orchestra is really good. It's such a pleasure to be reminded of that every time I take the podium. The Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra is a dynamic, exciting, and talented bunch of players, and I am lucky to work with them. We had a fair numbers of substitutes in the orchestra this time. For those new to this concept, the players of the HSO, like most of the orchestras in our region, have a minimum requirement of concerts to play, beyond which they have total flexibility. this allows us to have the caliber of players that we regularly put on the stage. Of course, the only way this can work is if we have subs of the same high level. Luckily, as this opening night proved, we do. The repertoire was difficult, and in the case of Tchaikovsky's 2nd Symphony, somewhat unfamiliar. Rehearsals were upbeat and the results exciting. I will not soon forget the feeling on Sunday afternoon of pushing the accelerando at the end to its furthest limit, and the orchestra seamlessly following. Ah, the pleasure of conducting a responsive group!

2) Karen Gomyo, who played the Dvorak violin concerto with us, is a splendid violinist. She is an intensely gifted musician, but her playing is never self-indulgent. She simply makes every phrase gorgeous, and she is a delightful young woman who is easy to collaborate with. I can't wait for the next time.

3) What a difference 550 new subscribers makes! The orchestra ran two promotions: half-price subscriptions for new subscribers to the entire series, and $27 season tickets (in designated seating areas) for students and their families. Needless to say, they have been rather successful (and continue to be). This is not just a good thing for our balance sheet, although it certainly helps. These extra audience members actually make the concert a better experience, both for the players and for the audience. There is a "critical mass" of audience members (at the Forum I'd say it's about 1300) beyond which it feels like a full house. We are finally there, and the entire ambiance of the concerts is better. I certainly felt it. I imagine everyone there did as well.

4) The "talkback" sessions after the concerts are picking up steam. We had fairly large groups staying after both performances to ask questions of me and Karen, and reflect on the concerts. This is our third year doing these, and they are always enjoyable. For me, it's a chance to unwind, and an opportunity to have face to face time with our audience. For the attendees, it's a chance to get some new insight into the musicians and what makes us tick. Those of you who have never attended them should consider giving it a try.

That's all for now. I again ask that you send comments and questions - let me know what you think.