Book Description

In Harmony: The Complementary Musical Tales of the Brockton Symphony Orchestra, Sharon Civic Orchestra, and Sharon Community Chamber Orchestra is a stirring, historical account of these three Massachusetts ensembles. Each chapter documents the orchestras' operations ranging from their founders to the conductors, repertoire, players, soloists, volunteers, fundraisers, behind-the-scenes realities, and special features. While details of each organization are presented in depth, a seasoning of interesting, humorous, and at times tragic human-interest stories make these tales come alive. Musicians, audience members, supporters, and readers with a passion for history will find connections to the events told here. Welcome to the inside world of these venerable ensembles which take their places in the history of orchestras with pride. In Harmony is the most extensive and intriguing exploration into community orchestras in the literature. Musical portraits are enlivened by real-life adventure stories such as survival by WWII refugees, the guarding of Stradivari violins, performing during power failures, and the dodging of puddles caused by leaking concert hall ceilings. Most notable are the contributions made by core players whose passion for orchestral music-making inspires them to share their talent, time, and commitment with the community, often as part of their life's work. Over time, thousands of audience members have enjoyed their concerts, scores of youth musicians have been awarded performance opportunities and scholarships, and players have felt great satisfaction in their calling to perform. Significant details illuminate the history of the Brockton Symphony Orchestra dating back to 1925 and the central roles that women played in the establishment of the Sharon Civic Orchestra and Sharon Community Chamber Orchestra. The orchestras have been led by conductors from both the local and national stage. Famous performers such as Charles Castleman, Midori, and Gil Shaham were guest soloists with the Brockton Symphony during the early days of their careers. The overall cavalcade of esteemed stars included Karl Ulrich Schnabel, Leonard Rose, Samuel Mayes, Boston Symphony Orchestra members and many others! The conductors, soloists, volunteers, and most importantly, the players, have devoted their lives to the making of symphonic music for all to enjoy. Their tales are masterpieces.