Uni-Fab to host Windsor Symphony Orchestra

By Mark Ribble

LEAMINGTON — What does a symphony orchestra sound like in a fabricating plant?

Approximately 300 patrons are about to find out on Friday, April 29 as the Windsor Symphony Orchestra holds a full pops concert at Uni-Fab on Highway 77.

The idea came about when the symphony’s Music Director, Maestro Robert Franz, contacted Leamington Mayor Hilda MacDonald, looking for an indoor venue that would accommodate the whole orchestra.

“We were looking to check two boxes,” said Maestro Franz. “Space and acoustics. This venue checks both.”

The symphony has played small concerts in Leamington on numerous occasions — usually at the Leamington United Mennonite Church – but Maestro Franz says this time they want to bring the whole orchestra.

“This gives us a chance to present the entire orchestra,” he says. “It’s going to be great.”

Once Mayor MacDonald was contacted, she knew who her first choice would be.

“I turned to (CAO) Peter Neufeld and said ‘I’m thinking Abe’,” she laughs. “He’s always been community minded.”

As for Abe Fehr and his daughter Mary, who is the company’s Vice President, they are happy to be able to help.

“I’m honoured to do this,” said Abe. “I’ve actually never been to a symphony, so this is exciting.”

The Fehrs will have their crew halt production at noon on the 29th and start clearing out the main shop, where about 300 chairs will be brought in for patrons.

The 50 orchestra members will be set up near the east end of the plant and Maestro Franz promises a great show.

“It’s all John Willams,” he says. “The acoustics in here will fit his music perfectly. It’s a great industrial feel.”

Williams was the composer for numerous movie soundtracks including E.T., Superman, Harry Potter, Star Wars, Schindler’s List and Hook, among others.

Mayor Hilda MacDonald, Uni-Fab VP Mary Fehr, Uni-Fab President Abe Fehr and WSO Music Director Robert Franz pose near the back of the plant.

SUN photos

The foursome is seen inspecting the space for the concert venue.

SUN photos

The hope, according to Maestro Franz, is to attract a different audience and open up the symphony to the enjoyment of families who may not have attended before.

Mayor MacDonald is hopeful and excited about the prospects presented by the venue.

“This is great,” she says. “People will totally remember this.”

“This will be the most unique concert we’ve done in years, literally,” adds Maestro Franz. “We’re excited to finally be able to share the full orchestra with our friends in Leamington. Performing at Uni-Fab, this huge industrial fabricating plant with its amazing acoustics, is going to bring a new feel to our music for our patrons and musicians alike! John Williams’ music is perfect for this unique venue.”

Visit www.windsorsymphony.com for tickets and more information.