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And Away They Go…….. California Philharmonic’s Finale at Arboretum is Bittersweet
Arcadia Weekly Aug 22, 2011
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Maestro Vener and his wife thank their fans at the finale at the Arboretum - Photo by Terry Miller
And Away They Go……..
California Philharmonic’s Finale at Arboretum is Bittersweet
By Terry Miller
Cali Phil’s final gig at the Arboretum Saturday night was, in a word, bittersweet for the popular Philharmonic and its colorful Maestro, Victor Vener.
After 15 years of classical, popular and innovative as well as diverse concerts at the Arboretum, the orchestra is moving next season’s concerts to Santa Anita Park’s infield. 2012…Away they Go…..
Complete with the thoroughbred horse who starred in the film Seabiscuit and the oversize horse mascots from Santa Anita roaming the Arboretum prior to the concert, the pre-event took on a sort of surreal nature as the sun set and the San Gabriel Mountains turned a purple shade of pale.
Referring to the move of Cal Phil to Santa Anita as “the Disneyland of concert venues” Maestro Vener told his doting fans that the move will bring considerable improvements over the Arboretum ,particularly with, indoor plumbing, full liquor license and much improved parking.
Maestro Vener took a few affable jabs at their old host, due in no small part to the animosity the organization feels about being pushed out of their home after so many years,
Prior to the concert, Victor and Patty Vener strolled the grounds, signing autographs and posing with indulgent fans for that Kodak moment.
Apparently the Veners’ never strolled among the audience in all the 15 years of performances at the Los Angeles County venue – so it was a particular thrill for concertgoers.
Virtuoso Lindsay Deutsch stole the show Saturday - Photo by Terry Miller
The philharmonic’s finale was all about musicals, movies and featured a extraordinary performance by violinist Lindsay Deutsch. “That’s Entertainment” started out with popular musical masterpieces “Pirates of the Caribbean” as well as “My Fair Lady” and Mahler’s Titan. Brilliant, powerful and flawless.
Closing with Caiifornia Philharmonic’s stunning interpretation of the British rock band Queen’s “We Are the Champions”, the audience couldn’t help itself but become Freddie Mercury for a few minutes.
