2012.6.28. Matrix with Seattle Symphony

Movie Matrix with live orchestra conducted by the composer of its original score: Don Davis. Unfortunately, the movie is so gripping, even though most of us have seen it at least once before, that the presence of the orchestra is often forgotten. People applauded loudly when the intermission sign showed up, as well as the end before the credit, even though music was still playing and the poor conductor was struggling against the drowning noise of the applause. In my opinion, this was very rude. I don't remember if I ever watched the movie credit with such attention. The music accompanied it is quite powerful. Now that the movie was over, at least the audience could enjoy the music for its own sake. Overall, it was fun. But a very expensive way of watching a movie.

2012.6.23. Seattle Men's Chorus "Sing Out"

Seattle Men's Chorus performs at McCaw Hall. Not very funny this concert. A bit too political: trying to urge the audience to vote in November for the new proposition that'll grant marriage to homosexual couples. Eric Lane Barnes' For the Straight Guys has quite funny lyrics. Circle of Life is very well done. I also liked the costumes for Do, Re, Me and Dancing Queen. O Magnum Mysterium by Morten Lauridsen is beautifully done. Seattle Women's Chorus also sang. Both did I Thank You God for Most This Amazing Day music by Eric Whitacre,
lyrics by E.E. Cummings, but it's a bit too somber and complicated. I didn't enjoy it as much. Local voice group Esoterics sang a set of 5 songs based on Simpson characters. A youth group called Diversity Harmony say one song, not nearly as good as the few we heard in the lobby before the concert. Two general public competed on stage solo, selected from 40 some entries. The lady won by 2 votes, which is to my surprise.

2012.6.14. Seattle Symphony

Ludovic Morlot conducts
Stephen Hough on piano

• Bernstein: Overture to Candide
• Ives: Symphony #2
• Rachmaninov: Piano Concerto #3 in D minor

Morlot spoke at the beginning of the concert, honoring Jack Benaroya who passed away in May. An extra piece was played. It's at the end of the first season with Morlot as the music director. I was away most of this season. This is my 3rd concert conducted by Morlot, and he spoke in all 3. He likes the word beautiful. It was used at least 5 times today.

This month program notes mentioned 3 departing members, Luce, Williams, Du. The youngest of these, Du, has served with Seattle Symphony since 1986. I hope they didn't leave out of any discontent during the transition. I truly hope our new music director gets along well with the members of the orchestra. Today's concert was close to full. Outstanding for a noon performance, even though a rush hour discount was offered.