‘Feel Good’ on grass with the ASO
Performance in the Park returns this Thursday, July 23
Photo credit: Jeff Roffman
The ASO has been on a tear with concerts appealing to more than just the tuxedo and classics crowd — the Naughton Twins, an exhilarating Philip Glass piece, and a tribute to David Bowie have all been successful olive branches extended to crowds that may not normally attend the ASO. One of their older traditions to bring the music to the people, and one that has no admission fee, is Performance in the Park and it returns this Thursday, July 23.
Assistant Conductor Joseph Young says he loves the idea of playing outside on Oak Hill in Piedmont Park because “we can bring more people to Oak Hill and create an event that has mass appeal.” The pieces selected include Beethoven’s “Symphony No. 5” — which Young calls “an all time favorite, one of the staples and a piece everyone can enjoy” — and a lesser-known piece showing off an underutilized instrument, the bass trombone. Brubeck’s “Concerto for Bass,” written by the son of Dave Brubeck, will feature Brian Hecht on trombone and excites Young because “it has a jazz twist with that bass trombone and a great last movement called ‘James Brown in the Twilight Zone.’” That will lead to a not-well-kept secret, the orchestra transitioning into the James Brown classic “I Feel Good.”
For those nervous about seeing the symphony, or those nervous to see it outside of the confines of Symphony Hall, Young has some easy-to-follow advice. “Bring comfortable blankets and chairs, expect the biggest crowd ever, don’t be afraid to dance, and take plenty of selfies.”
Be ready to #youngconductor on Thursday, June 23. 7:30. Free. All Ages. Oak Hill, located in the Southwest corner of Piedmont Park.