We recently we attended a St. Olaf Orchestra concert. The college finally opened the campus to visitors, so we could be on campus. The orchestra concert was especially inviting since it is one of Steve Amundson’s (the conductor of St. Olaf’s orchestra) last concerts. He will be retiring at the end of the school year, after forty years at the college.
I enjoy attending St. Olaf orchestra concerts. The audience is guaranteed an amazing, and varied, performance. The students create beautiful music and sound fantastic. At this concert, besides being one of Steve’s last concerts, two out-of-the-ordinary things happened.
First, this concert was performed a few days after the invasion of Ukraine. Steve added a special piece to the program, “Nimrod”, a beautiful, calming piece, and he called for a moment of silence to remember the people of Ukraine. It was poignant.
Then, in addition to featuring two outstanding soloists, a cellist and a clarinet player, another special and distinct piece of music was performed. The husband of a friend of mine, commissioned Steve Amundson to write a piece in honor of his wife and her retirement from thirty-plus years of working at St. Olaf College. The composition was débuted at this concert. It was titled “Gratia Viva” and the piece was remarkable….marvelous…wonderful… it’s hard to find words to describe it. It was such a sweet piece of music, and it was exciting to know the people and story behind the song. How one composes music, especially for multiple instruments, is beyond my imagination.
We will continue to monitor the college’s music calendars for more events, now that the campuses are open to the public. Both colleges offer many gifts to our community, and I am grateful.
Val,
I am always amazed at your ability to so skillfully and beautifully recount the specific details and sensory qualities in your descriptions. Your posts are always a pleasure to read. You made the 2 pieces in the concert come alive.
Ah, thanks Sue. I’m so glad you enjoy the posts.
Valerie, thank you for this reminder of all the two Northfield colleges offer. I read an article in the local paper about the current exhibit at the Flaten Art Museum. I need to see it. I would love to hear a St. Olaf concert. Can you text me the next time you plan to attend one? I’d love to go if it fits my schedule and interests. Your description of that recent concert draws me in to hear this talented group of musicians. Thank you.
I will try to remember to let you know. There may be another orchestra concert at the end of the school year.
There is a St. Olaf band concert this weekend – and those students are exceptional too.
You can also check St. Olaf’s music calendar, now that campus is open.
Thank you. Good idea to occasionally check the calendar.
There may be more events happening as the end of the school year is coming soon.
Sounds like an incredible experience my friend! I was fortunate a few years ago to attend a Christmas concert at St. Olaf with a friend and her Mother. It is a special memory. You do such an amazing job of expressing your thoughts and reactions and it makes others able to share your joy. Thank you!
The St. Olaf Christmas Festival is a wonderful event to attend. I’m glad you got a chance to experience it.
What a lovely commentary on the St. Olaf Orchestra. They do create magical music. I am so glad you were able to go and enjoy the concert! Thanks for sharing it with us.
The concerts are all amazing, but this one was extra special. 😉