THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Thursday, April 6, 1995 TAG: 9504060122
SECTION: DAILY BREAK PAGE: E1 EDITION: FINAL
SOURCE: By MARK MOBLEY, MUSIC CRITIC
LENGTH: Short : 38 lines
THE VIRGINIA Symphony is accustomed to moving from concert hall to concert hall. But last May, the players found themselves at Churchland Hardware, Lynnhaven Mall the Norfolk International Airport.
During the orchestra's first Music on the Move marathon, the ensemble was joined by performers ranging from Tammy Wynette to kazoo players. This weekend, the musicians will again fan out through Hampton Roads to meet audiences and raise money.
Last year's marathon drew more than $70,000 in donations, but after expenses, the profit was only $12,000. However, the orchestra still managed to balance its annual budget.
Executive director Daniel J. Hart says the marathon ``served a great purpose in terms of enthusiasm, a sense of teamwork and spirit and getting the symphony story out there.'' This year, expenses have been cut, sponsorship is strong and Hart hopes to make a profit of $40,000.
The centerpiece of the weekend is the Diamond Anniversary Ball, celebrating the orchestra's 75th birthday. Instead of a pops show with an expensive guest star, the orchestra is playing a free concert at Portsmouth's Willett Hall with local competition winners as soloists.
And one of the most popular of last season's events will be reprised - a play-along shopping-mall performance of Beethoven's Fifth Symphony with music director JoAnn Falletta. Hart, a former bassist who may join in, said, ``I haven't practiced much since last year, I have to warn you.'' ILLUSTRATION: Color photo
BILL TIERNAN/Staff
by CNB