The Columbus Symphony Orchestra has delayed its new season until at least January when organizers hope it will be safer to rehearse. But leaders of the mostly volunteer ensemble are organizing a variety of livestream events they hope can begin by the end of the month to stay connected with supporters.
Rehearsals generally involve 40 to 50 musicians gathered at Central Middle School’s band room.
“Things still will have to change significantly by January for us to be able to rehearse safely,” said Josh Aerie, music director and conductor. “And concerts would be another story, since we would have to be careful to safely distance the audience. It could be a challenge logistically.”
The orchestra had to cancel concerts April 19 and June 7 that wrapped up the 2019-1020 season. The orchestra originally planned its first concert of next year for February.
But Aerie said he is optimistic that something can be worked out toward a return to live music.
For the time being, part of the video series on the Facebook page for the Columbus Symphony Orchestra of Indiana will take an interactive, educational/master class focus on music in general and various instruments featuring people such as concertmaster Phil Palermo and second violinist Laura Andrews. Aerie himself plans to do a presentation or two on musical repertoire and conducting.
Plus, other videos will include recitals of various orchestra musicians, including the symphony’s brass quintet, which often performs at community events. Plans currently call for that group to perform an Oktoberfest program. Other recitals may include individual orchestra members. The originating locations for those performances has not yet been finalized.
“This is one way to keep our audience engaged, and also a way to reach a new and even potentially a broader audience and bring musical enrichment to the Columbus community and beyond,” Aerie said.
The conductor mentioned that concert cancellations hurt any orchestra’s financial health. But he added that symphony board president Rachel Wilkin recently landed some financial help for the ensemble.
Wilkin said the livestreaming plans are a way to “remain relevant within our community.”
“So that’s very helpful,” Aerie said. “Once we can all safely gather again, I really think that people will be ready to come out and hear live music.”
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For more information about the Columbus Symphony Orchestra:
- See the Facebook page for Columbus Symphony Orchestra of Indiana
- See the website for csoindiana.org
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