By Vanessa Hewitt
St. Cecilia Music Center will be opening their doors to showcase The Kent Philharmonic Orchestra on Friday, Feb.16 at 7:30 p.m
The orchestra will perform pieces from the 19th, 20th and 21st century, and will feature two viola concertos, in one concert. Libor Ondras, the director of the orchestras at Grand Rapids Community College says “Violet,” one of the two viola concertos, is one of the many pieces he is excited to showcase.
“Violet” is an original composition written by David Lockington, the conductor of the Grand Rapids Symphony.
“I am so fortunate to have such a good friendship with David and great professional relationship and for him to write this piece for me is a tremendous honor,” Ondras said “And to have him conduct while I play, it’s kind of a dream come true.”
The orchestra is hoping to inspire the audience with the array of music they are planning to play.
“My hope is that they walk away with (the) feeling of maybe discovering something that piques their interest in either the orchestra music, a particular composer, our ensemble, or how to participate,” Ondras said.
The Kent Philharmonic Orchestra is a community-based orchestra that welcomes musicians from all different types of backgrounds.
Ondras believes that students taking part in the orchestra broadens their college experience.
“I challenge them to give it a try, they might be surprised by how accessible and rewarding this experience could be for them,” Ondras said.
Tickets are $14 for adults, $7 for seniors (55 & older), veterans, and children over 12 Children who are under 12 will get in free as well as GRCC and GRPS students with a valid ID.
Tickets are available online or at the door of the music center.
