
In Saturday’s (10/21) Tewksbury Town Crier (Massachusetts), Rosalyn Impink writes, “Performances by the Boston Symphony Orchestra and the Boston Pops are unforgettable experiences … But did you know that there are several community-based orchestras around Massachusetts and New England? Many community philharmonic and symphony orchestras are made up of professional, semi-professional, amateur, and student volunteer musicians, several of whom have studied musical performance and theory and have performed around the world. Others who may have careers unrelated to music use the orchestras as a way to stay connected to the hobby and to keep performing even after graduating from school-organized groups. Community orchestras are a great way to support the arts and enjoy a high-quality performance without the hassle of getting into the city or worrying about driving … Several orchestras are doing great work in getting young people involved in music and the arts; many provide after-school and in-school programs in their communities, as well as specialized performances and educational events geared toward youth…. Local orchestras in the region include Lexington Symphony Orchestra, Melrose Symphony Orchestra, Wellesley Symphony Orchestra, North Shore Philharmonic Orchestra, and Lowell Philharmonic Orchestra. The New Hampshire Philharmonic travels to different venues in New England.”