This holiday vacation has blessed me in more ways than one, but more importantly, I would like to focus on the musical aspect of this trip. I had the rare opportunity to perform with the Honolulu Symphony in their final benefit concert. Read this NY Times article for the disheartening outcome after many years of financial struggle the orchestra has undergone. I have to admit that even though I was excited to perform with the musicians, I was nervous and skeptical about what I would bring to the table. The first rehearsal was the morning after we arrived late Monday night. That was a little tough to deal with since our flight wore me out immensely. I have also never played Beethoven 9 before and I’ve only played Prokofiev’s Romeo and Juliet once prior to this. In any case, I went to rehearsal pretty apprehensively.
The first rehearsal seemed to last forever, in my opinion. The guest conductor for this concert is JoAnn Falletta, resident conductor of the Buffalo Philharmonic, who had very efficient rehearsal technique, but had a unique conducting style that took me a couple rehearsals to get used to. I noticed instantly that she likes to conduct ahead of the beat in very quick gestures that somehow delineates that shape of phrases, a style that is very appropriate for Beethoven, especially the Ninth. The pressure of randomly sitting in was lessened when I found my seat in the back of the second violin section, but that also has its disadvantages–the large distance from the conductor increases the risk of lagging behind the rest of the section, waiting for the “passing” game of bowings, directions, etc. from the principal, and others. Fortunately, it was a good seat to be in to observe the players in front of me and learn the “language of communication” between the members of the orchestra. Speaking of members, I had a very peculiar stand partner who ended up missing most of the rehearsals (because of her non-musical career). So the only times I saw her were the first rehearsal and the concert! It was the weirdest experience to play next to her because I immediately sensed her awful attitude and lack of congeniality. I mean, she would make small talk but all without eye contact and facial expression. It was like talking to a plain wall, which is not very fun. After some discussion with several other members, I learned that she has had an unfortunate past with music and all I can say is, never be bitter and never live with regrets. She did, however for her sake, apologize to me during intermission for her stinky attitude, but I really hope I never have to deal with this person again. Did I say “never”? You betcha.
The next couple of rehearsals went well and I was beginning to soak in the sounds and little quirks of the orchestra. Prokofiev sounded really good, but Beethoven still lacked the precision and flexibility it needed to be dramatic. Falletta kept telling us to play lighter and have direction in our phrasing. Yes, I completely agree. I just hope my arm doesn’t fall off in the Scherzo.
One could feel the energy and all the hype for this concert because the Blaisdell lanai was covered with people with more an than hour left before the show. Pretty good turnout so far, I have to say… While I was warming up backstage, I made some mental comparisons of various pre-concert moments like for example, to Indian Hill or New Bedford Symphony. Just the enormous amount of free space backstage and the somewhat private warm-up rooms gave Blaisdell a few extra points above the other venues. I also have to say that the seats for the orchestra members are excellent! Brand: Wenger.
Right before the concert started, there were great speeches given by various people including Ms. JoAnn Falletta (Buffalo Symphony). I am truly grateful that she was able to step up and give her time to make this concert happen. Without her patience and energy, would we really deserve to have 5 standing ovations? That’s right… the concert went superbly and I’m glad I was a part of this significant event. Hopefully the donations will trickle in and be put to good use; we shall see within the next year or so.
with Ira Wong (percussionist) for HSO benefit Concert
