A Message from the Maestro

It is with sincere appreciation that I begin this message with a “shout-out” to our many loyal patrons who are making this season the largest attendance in the WSO’s 57-year history! Unlike many heavily subsidized arts organizations, the Warminster Symphony Orchestra is largely dependent on ticket sales and individual donations for our existence. Your enthusiasm for our concerts, and your willingness to spread the word about us is allowing the orchestra to thrive and grow!

Elegant … spectacular … extravagant … these words describe the splendor of Italian opera as well as the sonorous and expressive instrumental side of the Italian music tradition when we present our season-concluding concert entitled “Roman Holiday,” on Saturday, May 18, 7:30 p.m.

The operatic combination of intrigue, infidelity, and treachery, with pure love and family devotion, create an irresistible storyline for the stage. Soprano Holly Gash, and baritone John Tenaglia, will bring the drama of these human emotions to life as they take center stage in singing arias from operas by Verdi, Puccini, and Leoncavallo. You can read about their extensive vocal accomplishments in the concert section of this website.

We are also thrilled to perform Respighi’s blockbuster orchestra work “Pines of Rome.” From ancient times to the present, the ‘Glory of Rome’ has been an irresistible magnet for world travelers. Respighi employs nature, in this case, the centuries-old pine trees that so characteristically dominate the Roman landscape, as a point of departure for this four-movement work, which recalls memories and visions of two millennia of Roman life.

And, just as no Italian meal is complete without a few sweet desserts, our “Roman Holiday” will also include a few of the “Neapolitan Songs” made famous by Luciano Pavarotti, Maria Callas, and others.

If music is indeed the food of the soul, then our May concert will be a sumptuous banquet not to be missed. I look forward to seeing you May 18!

Joseph Lovecchio
Music Director / Conductor
Warminster Symphony Orchestra