“Music for Royalty” was the theme for the April 2 concert by the Columbus Indiana Philharmonic, featuring the orchestra and The Philharmonic Chorus, both conducted by Dr. David Bowden. Also included were the Columbus Indiana Children’s Choir, led by artistic director Ruth Dwyer and descant choir director Camilla Gehring; and the Indianapolis Children’s Choir, led by artistic director Henry Leck.
The glories of music filled the halls and auditorium of Columbus North as more than 200 students quietly surrounded the audience to the strains of “Pomp and Circumstance” played magnificently by our philharmonic orchestra. The students then filled our hearts singing the final words of this very meaningful piece of music that moves anyone who has attended a graduation ceremony. The audience then erupted in applause and emotion in response to this marvel of music.
The entire evening was a salute to royalty with an array of pieces by Handel, Purcell, Elton John and others, with the audience chiming in with the students and adult choir singing “Can you Feel the Love Tonight,” from Lion King.
We all were embraced by the love that filled the auditorium that evening. Ruth Dwyer was honored for 20 years of musical development and the education in performance that she has provided for one of the most acclaimed children’s choir in central Indiana.
Registration now is available for next year’s phenomenal season, celebrating 30 years of music by the philharmonic.
Generous benefactors
The philharmonic now has a permanent home at 315 Franklin St. thanks to the generosity and benevolence of Bob and Helen Haddad. Columbus is so very fortunate for the many wonderful and generous citizens that have contributed in so many ways through the years to the betterment of our town.The Haddads have added to the prosperity of the business profile in Columbus and recently investing their time, talent and resources to enable Harrison Lake Country Club to continue. Their support has been given to many artistic endeavors, along with childhood development, education, health care and disaster relief and anywhere there is a need.
Interesting stories
There is one thing in Indiana that stands out to me as the living, breathing beauty of Indiana and that is some of the beautiful old farm homes and stately barns across the state. Some have survived generations of family along with the dedication to and love of farming.The Farm Indiana publication of The Republic is a favorite of mine, and the stories in it never cease to amaze me. Some are new entrepreneurs, while others are second- and third-generation families that work together.
Farewell, Becker’s
We bid adieu to another cherished landmark on 25th Street with the closing of Becker’s A&W Root Beer stand, where the root beer was served in glass mugs, with priceless little ones for the kiddies. There was just nothing quite like the hot dogs, coney dogs or hamburgers, hanging on the side car window for a fun dinner out with the family.To the Becker family, as Bob Hope would say, thanks for the memories!
Learn abo
ut candidatesThe recent Lincoln Day Dinner was one opportunity to meet some of the candidates running for office in the May 3 primary. Be sure to take the opportunity to attend any and all candidate forums this month and do vote in the primary.
Worth attending
The third annual Crooners for CASA event is 6:30 p.m. today at The Commons. We need to support this worthwhile cause for Advocates for Children. Call 812-372-2808 for more information.The Columbus Symphony Orchestra will present “Death and Transfiguration” at 3:30 p.m. Sunday in the Columbus North High School auditorium.
