By Eileen Wingard
SAN DIEGO — The Tifereth Israel Community Orchestra tackled two very ambitious selections for their June 7 and 9 program, Prokofiev’s Symphony #5 and Brahms’ Piano Concerto #1. Before the program began, the orchestra member who had been with TICO the longest, Jeanne Shenkman, was honored. She came forth from her position in the violin section to accept a plaque from Conductor David Amos, commemorating her years of service. Jean was retiring after playing in the orchestra since its founding at the College Avenue JCC, 42 years ago. She spoke about the rewards of playing in TICO all those years.
Although Shenkman may be the longest tenured member, there are a number of other long-time members whose loyalty to TICO and devotion to its conductor span decades. True fellowship as well as musical bonding take place in the orchestra’s ranks.
The Prokofiev Symphony, considered one of the masterpieces of the 20th century, demonstrated the composer’s lyricism as well as his sardonic use of dissonance and incessant rhythms. TICO did particularly well with the second and last movements, with precise and energetic playing. The musicians projected the joyous spirit that seems to morph into frenetic hysteria. The clarinet solos were particularly impressive.
Following intermission, Pianist David Korevaar was soloist in Brahms’ dramatic Piano Concerto No 1 in D Minor. Although the powerful opening theme might have benefited by stronger upper strings, Korevaar’s, secure technique and emotionally-charged playing managed to captivate his listeners. He treated the audience to a Chopin encore.
Korevaar is a professor of piano at the University of Colorado, Boulder and has made 26 commercial recordings.
TICO’s final concert of the season, their POPS concert, will be on July 19 at 3:00 p.m. at Tifereth Israel Synagogue and feature lighter fare. That concert is always a delight.
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Wingard is a freelance writer and retired violinist with the San Diego Symphony Orchestra. You may comment to her at eileen.wingard@sdjewishworld.com, or post your comment on this website provided that the rules below are observed.
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