The Moorpark College Symphony Orchestra and the Choral & Vocal Program collaborated to put on the “Hope of Loving” concert on Nov. 22 at 7:30 p.m.
This concert was the final collaboration between the two groups because the Choral & Vocal program will be collaborating with a different symphony in the future. To honor the end of the partnership, the two groups performed the “Hope of Loving”,“Schicksalslied, Op. 54” and “Symphony No. 9 in D minor, Op.” to a sold out room for one night only.
Conductor of the Symphony Orchestra, James J. Song put immense work into helping his students prepare for the performance.
“It takes a great deal of effort from everybody, they have to learn their music, practice,” said Song. “It is not an easy piece to perform and I don’t know if there is another community college that can do something like this in the state of California.”
100 student volunteers and 30 community members have prepared for the performance since beginning of the semester, when auditions for the orchestra were held. Auditions were open to students as well as locals who were interested in participating.
Rodney Collins, a member of the Symphony Orchestra, played the oboe but expressed how he has benefited from participating in the group beyond his specific skill set.
“The program has encouraged me to give life my all and to push myself further and to constantly be working hard,” Collins said.
This years show was named the “Hope of Loving” because all the songs revolved around celebrating the love of music, and songs of faith and hope are incorporated into the set list.
Students and family members of the orchestra and vocalists filled the entire building as they watched the performance.
Alex Dakarmenjian, a second year Moorpark student in the audience enjoyed the quality of the performance.
“This is my first time seeing something like this where there is an orchestra and choir. I definitely enjoyed it because every thing was really organized and because the director and group was so enthusiastic about the music,” Dakarmenjian said.
Luis Tuyub and Christopher Consaga preform 'Symphony No. 9 in D minor, Op. 125' in the "Hope of Loving" concert at Moorpark College on Friday, Nov. 22. Photo credit: Ryan Bough
David Katz, a prior orchestra member, saw flyers around campus and decided to stop by the show.
“I did not think it would be packed at all,” said Katz. “I underestimated student support. The groups were fantastic.”
Those who enjoyed the show can catch the the Vocal Showcase on April 17, hosted by the Choral and Vocal program.
