Word: hro
(lookup in dictionary)
(lookup stats)
Dates: all
Sort By: most recent first
(reverse)
THERE IS something magical about the Harvard-Radcliffe Orchestra, the way it seems to rise, Phoenix-like, out of its own ashes. The first chairs may graduate, the woodwinds resign, the bloodless old men on the Faculty Council hold back academic credit, but the HRO goes on, always attempting more ambitious projects...
...interpretation of Mikado is thoroughly inspired. The musicians, the singers, the staging, all capture the essence of Gilbert's wit and Sullivan's score as few local productions ever have. The producers have pooled some of the finest talents on the Harvard campus-members of the Band and the HRO as well as seasoned G and S personnel...
...outside (sometimes when playing in Sanders it is difficult to compete with the Cambridge fire-station). The acoustics were beautiful. By the end of a rehearsal in Paine most people's cars are blown out. The hall is too small and live for such a large or chestra as HRO. And playing in Sanders is like playing in a barn. Harvard, with its lovely visual studies building. Fogg Museum, and Loeb Drama Center does not have adequate concert facilities. And Harvard might note that Johns Hopkins with its beautiful new hall is not turning into a conservatory...
...perennial problem with the orchestra is lack of money. The University does not support the orchestra. In fact, in order to play in Sanders Theatre the orchestra must pay the University for policemen, light, and heat. HRO has to pay for posters, tickets, rental of instruments, and publicity. The orchestra cannot afford to have its own percussion instruments and therefore must rent from Jack's Drum Shop or borrow from the band. For every rehearsal the percussionist runs back and forth from Sanders carrying timpani, xylophones and miscellaneous other equipment. At best, the orchestra breaks even financially after a concert...
Another new development for the HRO is the music department's revolutionary decision to grant academic credit to the orchestra. Next year HRO will be listed in the catalogue as a half course extending throughout the year. The course can be taken for credit only for two years. And naturally it will accept an unlimited number of auditors. In one way this will recognize the five hours per week that members give to the orchestra and will attract more people. In another way this is recognizing the value of practical musical experience and the fact that music was written...