The orchestra’s Chamber Music Series III held on March 27 was a night filled with music and joy when four great ensembles took the stage and performed a variety of compositions for audience members to appreciate.
Music Director professor James Song, gave a brief introduction of the night and invited guests to sit down and enjoy the music presented.
“I thought the performance went well that evening,” said Song via email. “I expect our musicians to perform to their best ability at all times, which they did that evening.”
It was clear that audience members were quite impressed with the different ensembles. With groups of seven people on average, the Piano Quartet, Pipe Dreams Flutes and Friends, Moorpark College String Ensemble, and Moorpark College Percussion Ensemble left the building with endless applause and enthusiasm. The Percussion Ensemble even received a standing ovation from the audience.
“I felt the audience appreciated the performances and the atmosphere was very energetic and supporting of each other,” said Song.
To begin the evening, the Piano Quartet performed two songs. Energy of intense excitement almost foreshadowed how the rest of the night would play out.
Next, the Pipe Dreams Flutes and Friends group played five songs, each with a catchy jazz twist. The instruments being played were flutes that most people have never seen. Because of the rarity, one of the flute members took the mic and went through and explained what each flute was called and how it sounded.
Dominic Preston, a second semester vocal major, was very mesmerized with the variety of flutes shown.
“What really stuck out to me was the flute ensemble,” said Preston. “That was the best. [I loved] the jazz feel to it and it’s not something you hear often. It was new to me and that’s what really caught my ear I guess.”
Following the flutes, the Moorpark College String Ensemble played four songs. A harmonious flow echoed from the stage and danced to listeners ears.
“Musically, I would say the Brandenburg Concerto was the one I enjoyed the most,” said Song.
Lastly, the Moorpark College Percussion Ensemble stole the show with a playful feel of three songs. Their quirky instruments and fun beats left the audience with a standing ovation and a strong desire to hear more.
“The percussion ensemble was certainly more entertaining and showy,” said Song.
The music department has several shows coming up in the next few months. The Jazz Band will perform “All About Jazz” on May 2 and the Wind Ensemble will perform “Music for a Sunday Afternoon” on May 3, all in the Performing Arts Building.
