Bakersfield.com

  On Sunday, February 24, the Tehachapi Community Orchestra provided the polished setting for a gem of the world of classical guitar, Christopher Parkening.  The protege of Andres Segovia attracted a capacity audience to an evening of American music at Country Oaks Baptist Church.

 

Accomodated by seating in an adjoining hall, the overflowing numbers listened through the open doors as Elmer Bernstein's Concerto for Guitar and Orchestra filled the air. Mr. Parkening performed the introductory movement "Guitar"  through the subdued and thoughtful "Reflections" to the the lively "Celebrations" with impeccable agility. The virtuoso was hailed with a standing ovation to which he generously responded with two encores.

 

It was soul-stirring as he tenderly played Americana; My Country Tis of Thee  by Philip Lester, expressing exquisite beauty and national pride.  Next, Mr. Parkening selected Carlo Dominiconi's work Koyunbaba; The Shepherd which showcased the technical mastery for which the soloist is famous.  Both of these encore pieces as well as his concerto are  available on his recordings. Mr. Parkening graciously signed programs and personally met with members of the audience after the concert. 

 

This American Classics concert was an evening that raised Tehachapi's music scene to an even higher level and one that the young people present will be telling their grandchildren about someday! Having attracted such world class talent,  this packed event underscored Tehachapi's need for a permanent building for the performing arts. 

 

In addition to showcasing guitarist Christopher Parkening, the Tehachapi Community Orchestra performed works by American composers George Chadwick and Edward Macdowell.  Chadwick became the first composer of concert music whose works show the wit and independence of the American.   Suite No.1 in D minor by Macdowell  was clearly  representational music from his Haunted Forest to his Forest Spirits: the audience could imagine the flight and songs of birds and the excitement of an autumn day in the delicate wind instrument and percussion touches throughout the movements. Both of these composers works ended in a feeling of optimism, demonstrating the indomitable American spirit.

 

Maestro Dr. David Newby chose as the orchestra's encore : The Magnificent Seven by Elmer Bernstein which was enthusiastically applauded by the hundreds present.  The Tehachapi Community Orchestra continues to delight audiences with unexpected masters and  masterpieces!

 

  The orchestra is grateful to the community for its support of this latest concert and extends the invitation to join them again on Sunday, May 11, 2008 when Young Artist Competition winner 15- year- old  Bryn Rosander will be performing with them Mozart's Violin Concerto 3 in G; Movement I.  A feature article about Bryn is soon to be released, giving her interesting background and emphasizing the talent to be enjoyed here in the Tehachapi Mountains.