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Cultural Scene and Heard: Maestro, If You Please – The Las Vegas Philharmonic
By Lisha Ross
We got slots that jingle, jangle, jingle, but we wouldn’t exactly call it music. And until the Las Vegas Philharmonic delighted audiences with their first virtuoso performance on Independence Day 1998, few musical institutions existed to transcend the tinny sounds of the city. In the Phil’s humble beginnings they performed at a premier party for “Star Wars: The Phantom Menace” hosted by 20th Century Fox and provided background music for the CineVegas International Film Festival screening of “Nosferatu”, but it was in May of 1999 when they officially established artistic credibility with a stunning performance of Gustav Mahler’s second Resurrection Symphony. In the years that followed they would solidify their presence performing alongside international stars such as Sarah Brightman, Placido Domingo and Andrea Bocelli. Now in its 12th year, the LV Phil has grown into an internationally recognized ensemble, bringing culture to the community through moving classical soundscapes.
Billed as the most ambitious season yet, the 2010-2011 line-up will continue the Phil’s legacy of brilliant musicality with Maestro David Itkin in his fourth season at the helm. These must-see events will include five Masterworks Series performances, three Pops Concerts, the Youth Concert Series and a special Valentine’s Day performance.
Ever the crowd pleaser, the Pops Series returns with a jazzy bang on October 2nd with “A Tribute to Frank Sinatra” featuring local favorite Clint Homes, followed by the intensely popular “A Christmas Celebration” on December 11th featuring “Phantom: The Las Vegas Spectacular” stars Kristen Hertzenberg and Bruce Ewing with the Las Vegas Mastersingers. “An Evening with Rogers and Hammerstein” rounds out the series March 26, 2011 with four fabulous soloists–Lynette Chambers, Derrick Davis, Larry Morbitt and Joan Sobel.
Internationally acclaimed guest artists from the world over join the Phil in the Masterworks Series. On November 20th, Masterworks II presents Laura Liu, violinist, performing Maz Bruch’s Violin Concerto, along with the Philharmonic performing Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 4. Ringing in the new year on January 15th, the Phil is pleased to present Brahms Symphony No. 4 along with Aram Khachaturian’s Piano Concerto performed by Fabio Bidini. Cellist Zuill Bailey performs Dvorak’s Cello Concerto April 16th. The Master Series comes to a close May 21st with two faces, Mozart and Mahler. Those interested in learning more about the artists and music are invited to join Maestro Itkin before each performance at 7:15 p.m. for a pre-concert discussion.
As if Masterworks and Pops Series weren’t enough music for your ears, the LV Phil will also host additional events throughout the season, including two new Connoisseur Chef events and an entirely unique Cabaret Series complete with hors d’oeuvres, drinks and dessert. Details about these events are forthcoming and will be available soon.
While music makes the Philharmonic shine, it’s their commitment to youth music programs that makes them one of the brightest cultural treasures in Las Vegas. On November 13th, the Phil invites young musicians to compete for the opportunity to perform on stage with the Philharmonic during the Youth Concert Series. They’ve also welcomed Alexander Prior, a 17-year-old British conductor, who will present an evening of romantic music on February 12th. Through youth programs such as these, the Philharmonic seeks to enrich and inspire school-age children with the power of music.
Looking to get involved? The Las Vegas Philharmonic Guild is in its 8th year supporting the orchestra through volunteer service and fundraising events. Providing members with a culturally conscious community, the guild is involved in all of the Philharmonic events and is always looking for more members. Contact 258-5438 ext. 225 to learn more about becoming a member.
All performances will be held at the Artemus Ham Concert Hall at UNLV, 4505 Maryland Pkwy. For tickets, showtimes and info on upcoming performances, visit www.lvphil.com or call 895-ARTS. See you at the Phil!
