Finlandia!

Unfortunately the photo cut off some of the people at the left, including 1st violinist and our conductor and his wife.

Our little community orchestra gave a concert at the old Episcopalian church downtown. Sunlight streamed in through the stained glass.

It was so fun. Making music together in a group is a real joy.

In the middle of the night before, I woke up, suddenly realizing I was in over my head, had bitten off more than I could chew, and might well embarrass myself and the entire group. I wish  weren't sitting right up front! But I managed, with encouragement, and everyone else did so well!  We sounded great! Better than in the rehearsals.
The music was festive European music from the Classic / Romantic period. Started with 'Pomp and Circumstance', then two Elegical Melodies by Grieg, ('The Wounded Heart' and 'Last Spring'); then 'Peer Gynt Suite', and at the end, 'Finlandia' (which is one of John's favorites).

Celina had a wonderful time. She loves orchestra.

Special thanks to our conductor, Shawn Robinson, and his wife Stephanie. She sang 'Last Spring' in her beautiful mezzo-soprano. I confess I got tears a few times in rehearsal, it sounded so gorgeous.
Thanks also to John and to friends Jean B, and Jim and Alayne, and Pat and Rich for coming!