Well, another opening weekend is over, and I have to say I am very pleased with the outcome.

First of all, I thought the orchestra played beautifully. I cannot remember an opening concert that went as smoothly and pleasantly from first rehearsal to final performance. The orchestra came ready to work, was in a good collective mood, and everyone played their hearts out.

Second, as always, I enjoyed working with Jeffrey Biegel. This was our eighth collaboration and he never disappoints. We gave the Billy Joel "Symphonic Fantasies for Piano and Orchestra" a very good reading. Many in our audience thoroughly enjoyed the piece, some did not at all - this is to be expected with un-tried and true repertoire - but at the very least, they heard an excellent rendition on which to base their judgement.

Third, the crowds were good. There is a certain number of audience members - I would guess about 1100 - at which point the Forum feels full. Below this point, it doesn't feel empty, but certainly un-full. Both performances this past weekend felt nicely full. It makes a big difference to us on the stage. (Of course, I'd be thrilled to see no empty seats....)

I feel we are off to a very good start. It definitely helps that the repertoire was well-known to the players. This adds a certain comfort level to the preparation. I'm interested in seeing how things go from here. Next month, we tackle the magnificent "Inextinguishable" Symphony #4 of Nielsen. I would not be surprised if the majority of the players have never played it before. Our audience is in for a sonic treat, plus I know that everyone will love Vivaldi's Four Seasons with our concertmaster, Odin Rathnam, playing the solo - and yours truly playing the harpsichord.

Anyhow....onward and upward!