Ok, so we had our first rehearsal. First off, I am encouraged that there is so much talent throughout the orchestra. Even though the intent was a straight read (which obviously contained lots of errors left unaddressed), already there is sense of core sound on which to build. My hope is that each individual’s performance will be more technically refined by Wednesday so that we can get to the heart of the matter and begin to “feel” the music on an emotional and personal level.
I am hoping that each of you take seriously the responsibility to work out the challenges within your own part so that we can begin working on sculpting the aesthetic experience of the listener- take them on a emotional journey that a symphony like Tchaikovsky’s 5th elicits. At the risk of sounding completely idealistic, we truly have the opportunity to make an impact on our broken world. The music that Tchaikovsky gave us is completely universal, and while we live in a time with tremendous division, there are some things in which anyone can identify. We are faced with trials and circumstances that seem unsurmountable; We feel as if we are drowning in our own sorrows and unable to overcome the struggle within (1st mvt). But then, we are awestruck by tremendous hope and beauty even though our troubles are always ready to present themselves as a force to be reckoned with (2nd mvt). We distract ourself with whims and fancies that the world might provide (3rd mvt), but in the end we must face our fears, conquer and transform our plight into something positive and affirming (Finale). This is a powerful message that we are charged to articulate to our audience. Let there be no doubt, there is lots of work to do in order to articulate the message clearly. But, so long as we take our artistic responsiblilties seriously, we have a chance to do something great! I can’t wait to see what we can accomplish.
Please be fully prepared for Wednesday’s rehearsal. Strings are with me, woodwinds are with Dr. Vacchi, and brass are with Prof. Grose. Let’s finish working out technical details so that we can get to work on what REALLY matters.
Sincerely,
Dr. Jacobs
uosymphony 