Symphony Review

Congratulations to Mr. Cedel and all the members of the Symphony Orchestra on a job well done in last night's concert.

Bernstein's “Overture to Candide” is a perennial favorite, five or so rollicking minutes that are a workout for the musicians and an effervescent experience for the listener. Given Bernstein's penchant for turning rhythm on its ear, the orchestra, anchored by Cedel's presence on the podium, turned in a performance that exceeded expectations.

Following the Bernstein was one of those hidden gems of American music, Charles Tomlinson Griffes' “The White Peacock.” Griffes remains sadly underprogrammed in the orchestral world, despite being the pre-eminent American composer in the Impressionist style. Fans of Debussy should find Griffes' work familiar and enjoyable.

On this concert, the orchestra turned in a surprisingly nuanced and delicate performance, one at which even professional orchestras should look with approval. Notable here were two wonderful solos by the orchestra's concertmaster and its principal oboe.