LPO Gets National Recognition for Program
The Laredo Philharmonic Orchestra (LPO) has been recognized by the American Symphony Orchestra League for its innovative “Music By Numbers” project.
Brendan Townsend LPO music director, said the initiative is designed to engage LPO listeners and boost their enjoyment and understanding of the music through “real-time” explanation and commentary.
“Through two on-stage displays, we provide an interactive visual guide to the performance that is linked to the day’s published program and includes insight into the performance, the particular instrument in the passage, elements at play or some unique insight. This helps to boost the audiences’ engagement and enjoyment,” he explained.
He noted the League’s recognition places the LPO at the forefront of national innovation.
"Being recognized by the League for our efforts to engage and educate our audience is a tribute to the organization which has brought many interesting comments from colleagues around the country," Townsend said, “I am proud that Laredo is on the cutting edge of innovation in enriching the concert experience for all audiences.”
Townsend said that in the future, he hopes to offer a Spanish-language translation of the program highlights as well as post the guides on the LPO Web site ahead of the concert so that educators and the general public can become familiar with the music.
“This will further increase our audience’s comfort level with the performance and will also provide local music educators with an opportunity to use the presentations in classrooms and encourage their students to attend LPO performances,” he said.
The American Symphony Orchestra League provides leadership and service to American orchestras while communicating the value and importance of orchestras and the music they perform to the public.
The League links a national network of thousands of musicians, conductors, managers, board members, volunteers, staff members, and business partners, providing a wealth of services, information, and educational opportunities to its members.
The “Music By Numbers” project is featured in the League’s “Innovation Forum,” part of its Web site, located at www.symphony.org
The LPO launched its 27th season, “Evolution,” this past week with a performance at Texas A&M International University.
The next LPO performance, “Of Life and Death,” is Sunday, November 19 at 4 p.m. at Laredo Community College’s Guadalupe and Lilia Martínez Fine Arts Building. It will feature works by soloist Suzanna Ramo, and will present a program of Brahms, Rouse, and Strauss.
LCC and TAMIU, through a special collaborative agreement, provide the LPO with financial and in-kind assistance, including access to performance venues, promotional and other specific services. The collaboration also provides LCC and TAMIU students with various performance and study opportunities with the LPO.
For more information about the LPO or the “Evolution” concert season, contact Townsend at 956.326.3039 or 722.5258 or e-mail btownsend@laredophilharmonic.org
Journalists who need additional information or help with media requests and interviews should contact the Office of Public Relations, Marketing and Information Services at prmis@tamiu.edu