Valley Symphony Orchestra

from SOCIALIFE MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2020

Saving Migratory Birds

THE BEAT GOES ONLINE VALLEY SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

“M usic has been a part of life since the dawn of civilization,” said Maestro Peter Dabrowski.

“Nothing can change that. It has survived plagues and war and all sorts of society-altering moments. Music is a constant, it is a healer, and it is part of what shapes a community’s identity.” Indeed, the resiliency and dedication displayed daily in the Rio Grande Valley during this extraordinary time extends to the Valley Symphony Orchestra, one of the first symphonies in Texas to deliver online and televised classical music performances as an alternative to performing in person during the Covid-19 crisis.

LINDSEY GAMBLE, ASSISTANT CONCERTMASTER VIOLIN

BENJAMIN PONDER PRINCIPAL CELLO

GEOFFREY WONG, CONCERTMASTER VIOLIN

More than 24,000 people saw Virtual VSO, the Symphony’s first streamed concert performed by husband-and-wife duo Brendan and Shoko Kinsella on September 10. “We need to stay safe, but we also need to connect with one another,” said Katy Coy, executive director of the Valley Symphony. “Thankfully, the VSO’s supporters have made a way for both of those things to happen.” Virtual VSO was made possible in part by The Bridges at Edinburg, The Bridges at Mission, and Valley Keyboards, and raised funds to support the organization’s digital production efforts.

The Symphony’s three-concert fall season begins October 23, and will be made available to all through the generosity of donors and sponsors. These dynamic chamber programs, each 30-40 minutes, will premiere on Facebook and be re-broadcast on KRGV – Channel 5 in the days following the premieres. Each concert features a different section of the orchestra, as well as behind-the-scenes remarks from Maestro Dabrowski and the performers. From the comfort of their homes, patrons can enjoy the performance and catch a glimpse of the musicians, the stage, and all the sights and sounds of an evening at the concert hall.

“As Virtual VSO was happening, we were all getting texts and seeing posts from friends and colleagues, photos that they’d taken of their families gathered around the TV, tuning in,” said Coy. “While it doesn’t look the same as a full concert hall on a Friday night, the connection was there. We’re finding a way. And the VSO is so honored to play a part in folks sharing a moment of joy or inspiration. It’s why we are here.”

To receive information about the Symphony’s fall concerts and more, visit valleyorchestra.org

JUAN PABLO ANDRADE PIANO