On Thursday, February 27, 2020, the BABCPHL partnered with the Philadelphia Orchestra for a magnificent concert held at Verizon Hall at the Kimmel Center. Nearly 30 BABCPHL members and friends gathered for a special behind the scenes tour; meet and greet with musicians; and reserved seats for a concert, featuring special guest, British conductor, Edward Gardner.
Rebecca Simpson, Associate Director of Group Sales and Audience Development, and Danielle Quigley, Director of Marketing, welcomed our group, and led BABCPHL guests on a special behind the scenes tour of the Kimmel Center. At one point during the tour, the group had the opportunity to stand on the stage of Verizon Hall to experience the same perspective as the artists who perform. We even had a sneak peak of organist, Paul Jacobs, rehearsing for the show. Additionally, we were also able to see the library, where music from every concert is stored.
After the tour we returned to the Green Room, where BABCPHL Secretary and immediate past President, Michael Pedrick made opening remarks and introduced us to Orchestra President and CEO, Matías Tarnopolsky. Matías then introduced us to Edward Gardner, the special guest Conductor. Edward energetically talked to the group about the music we would hear that evening. The Philadelphia Orchestra performed three pieces: Britten’s “Sinfonia da Requiem, Op. 20”; Daugherty’s “Once Upon a Castle, symphonie concertante for organ and orchestra”; and Elgar’s “Variations on an Original Theme, Op. 36 (“Enigma”).” Paul Jacobs, the only organist to win a Grammy, was featured in the Organ Concerto.
Before the concert, BABCPHL guests had the unique opportunity to meet Amy Oshiro, Second Violin; Ricardo Morales, Principal Clarinet; Don Liuzzi, Principal Clarinet; Juliette Kang, First Associate Concertmaster; David Fay, Double Bass; and Chris Deviney, Principal Percussion. After networking with the musicians, Michael thanked them, Matías, Rebecca and Danielle, for hosting and taking the time to speak with us. BABCPHL attendees then had some time to purchase food and drinks before the concert began.
British conductor, Edward Gardner, made his Philadelphia Orchestra debut with these eloquent performances. Edward is the Chief conductor of the Bergen Philharmonic since October 2015, and was recently appointed Principal Conductor Designate of the London Philharmonic Orchestra.
The BABCPHL was honored to partner with the Philadelphia Orchestra for an outstanding night of incredible music. Special thanks to EisnerAmper LLP for sponsoring the evening and to the Orchestra for working with us to provide this wonderful opportunity to our members and friends.
Click here for photos.
