Munier Mandolin, Guitar Orchestra performs

DIANA ASHJIAN A&E EDITOR DA725@CABRINI EDU

Pieces of music both soothing and exciting were orchestrated on Sunday, April 3, 2005, in the Widener Center Lecture Hall by the Munier Mandolin and Guitar Orchestra.

Composed by Cris Ianni, the concert began at 3 p.m. and arranged for mandolin guitars to string an audience along an auditory trip that only the mandolin and its music could provide. Depicted sounds included Munier renditions of a moment in Naples with “Napoli [Tarantella],” a scene from the beloved movie “Casablanca,” with “Tango Delle Rose” and a night in Spain with “Torna ASurriento.”

Feet tapped along to rhythms funded for a day by the National Italian American Foundation. According to Dr. Charles McCormick, dean of academics, the grant was trusted to help provide not just a program, but an opportunity for Cabrini to explore and experience Italian heritage.

It was more like endearing awe though, especially when 12year-old Bryce Milano showcased his guitar skills in playing an original piece, simply titled, “Works for Me” that according to the young Milano, took only a day-and-a-half to write.

And guitars weren’t all that could be heard. Voices also graced the auditorium when the crowd was invited to sing enthusiastically along to some Italian classics like “O’Sole Mio” and “O’Marinariello.”

The concert was followed with cookies, cake and lemonade in Jazzman’s Café for all to enjoy while they discussed their thoughts on the Munier Mandolin and Guitar Orchestra’s performance.

“I’ve been playing the guitar for three-and-a-half years,” Milano said with a shrug. “It’s my favorite instrument and it

‘works for me.’”

The concert also worked for an audience that sat abuzz with chit-chat and laughter on a Sunday thanks to Munier’s many sounds of music.

Cabrini student response to the recital was one of joy and admiration. The students that attended the event shared in similar emotion.

In a school with a large population that focuses on the arts, the orchestra served as a huge inspiration for those students striving to enter into the world of music.

“just passing through I heard the beautiful music and had to stay longer. I was amazed at the intricate techniques each musician used. I doubt I will ever be able to play like that,” junior criminal justice major and hungry musician Kyle Foley said. All in all theevent was a complete success. For all those music lovers at Cabrini, keep your eyes open for tthis beautiful orchestra!