AHS Symphony Orchestra Inspires at Vertical Concert

The Arcadia High School Symphony Orchestra raised the musical performance standard another notch on March 26th at the Annual Vertical Concert in Pasadena High School Auditorium. During the school year, each of the represented schools has become more sophisticated and nuanced in their interpretation and presentation of old standards and new arrangements. The evening’s performances began with the Dana Middle School Orchestra with some help from their band. First Avenue started their session with a tribute to their beloved, but departing principal. The final middle school, Foothills, delivered a moving performance also. However, AHS’s Symphony Orchestra, approximately 150 strong, including supplemental band members on horns and woodwinds, gave another of their inspiring and almost professional sounding performances.

Director Rick England led the Orchestra in that all time favorite: Symphony No. 1 in C Major, Op. 21, 1st Movement, by Beethoven. At the end of that number, the student musicians were relieved to see the feeling of almost euphoria that Mr. England shows when a performance has risen to almost to the heights of perfection, or at least close to his satisfaction.

Director Thomas Forbes conducted the unusual, very distinct, and some times eerie sounding, “The Winds of Poseidon” by Robert W. Smith that was inspired by the 3,000+ year old epic “The Odyssey” by Homer. Through the clever utilization of the Ocean Drum and esoteric Whirl Tube, one could hear the water lapping the shore line, feel the wind on their face, and believe they were about to look into the “…purple wine-colored Aegean [sea]”. Mr. Forbes encouraged all those interested in classical literature to read the book.

Thank you, Khee Chan (Starfire Imaging), for taking these photos.