Monday (4/2) on the WQXR online, Brian Wise writes about a new “start-up” orchestra in New Jersey. “Gary Schneider, a conductor who led the now-defunct Hoboken Chamber Orchestra in the 1980s, is set to inaugurate the Orchestra for a New Century on Wednesday night. Despite a sluggish economy and plenty of evidence that times are tough for regional orchestras, Schneider believes there is room for a classical ensemble that trains its focus on younger, inquisitive audiences. … For the past several months, Schneider has been planning the orchestra’s inaugural concert, which will take place at Drew University in Madison, NJ. The program will feature Beethoven’s Symphony No. 7, Copland’s Appalachian Spring, as well as the U.S. premiere of a violin concerto by Daniel Schnyder, a composer who writes in a jazz-tinged aesthetic. The orchestra’s concertmaster, Francesca Anderegg, will be the soloist. … The ensemble is comprised mostly of New York freelance musicians in their 20s and 30s, some of whom play in groups like the Orchestra of St. Luke’s, Metropolis Ensemble and Ensemble ACJW. Despite the relatively traditional opening program, Schneider envisions concerts that will feature video screens, Internet streaming and generous helpings of rock- and jazz-influenced pieces.”
Posted April 3, 2012
