Imagine sitting on a stage surrounded by a million different uproarious sounds.
Instead of putting hands to ears, “an exhilaration and excitement is felt over your entire being,” says clarinetist and qathet Symphony Orchestra founder Marlene Chamberlain. That’s how the musician described herself the first time she played amongst a group of classical musicians.
A Musical Interlude for a Winter’s Day will be qathet Symphony Orchestra’s first public performance and fundraiser this Sunday, January 22, at the historic Patricia Theatre.
“For most of the musicians, this will be their first time playing in front of a live audience,” said Chamberlain. “I’m both excited and nervous, and I hope things will go well.”
The group of 26 musicians has been practicing diligently once a week or more in preparation for Sunday’s concert. The orchestra was formed two years ago.
“Really, the group has been practicing for only 10 months, as the pandemic put a stop to their regular meetings,” admitted Chamberlain.
Although the orchestra has had to deal with some setbacks such as practice interruptions, losing and regaining members, finding a suitable conductor, and money to pay for sheet music, it has survived and is thriving.
“Most of the students had never played in a group before the orchestra was formed,” explained Chamberlain. “Many were in private lessons, and that’s it.”
qathet Symphony Orchestra has come along way since its first gatherings back in 2021.
“During our first meetings some people were like deer in headlights,” said Chamberlain. “Now orchestra participants have learned to listen to each other, gained confidence, and most importantly, they love coming to practice. Learning as a group encourages them to be accountable for their improvement.”
She hopes the performance this weekend will create some excitement for the symphonic musicians and that the feeling on stage will encourage the players to want to practice and perform more.
Chamberlain will be playing in the orchestra and hosting the event. Kevin Wilson, the orchestra’s music director, will be conducting.
What’s next for the qathet Symphony Orchestra? The founder hopes to build up membership.
“My vision is to have 50 musicians or even more,” said Chamberlain.
A Musical Interlude for a Winter’s Day, with Vox Madrigal (a renaissance musical group), begins at 2 pm. Admission is by donation.
For more information, go to the orchestra’s Facebook page to see the full lineup of the afternoon's entertainment.
