"Wow!"- This seemed to be everyone's reaction to Sunday's Pro Arte concert at Sander's Theatre featuring our own Dudamel Orchestra. Even for the most seasoned Boston concertgoers, this concert was truly exceptional- beautiful and fun tango music, a brilliantly put together concert structure which highlighted both Pro Arte and the Dudamel Orchestra on their own as well as side-by-side, and exceedingly talented solo performers (including our own Adrian Anantawan and bandoneon player Juan José Mosalini). It was a recipe that left virtually everyone in the hall feeling impressed, inspired, and euphoric, and that no one will soon forget. It was that special kind of concert that is just as memorable for the musicians on stage as it is for those fortunate enough to be in the audience.
 

 

The concert began with a performance by the Dudamel Orchestra of the popular tango "La Paloma." The students were conducted by Israeli conductor, Gisele Ben-Dor, whose charismatic leadership brought out the best in the students. Following a performance by the Pro Arte Orchestra musicians, Resident Artist Adrian Anantawan joined them on stage as a soloist, performing Astor Piazzolla's virtuosic "Four Seasons of Buenos Aires." On top of the fact that it was an incredible performance, it provided a special opportunity for the Conservatory Lab students to see their teacher in a new light. After Mr. A's performance, it was Juan José Mosalini's turn to take the stage with hisbandoneon, a type of accordion common in South America. He wowed everyone with his incredibly expressive playing of three tango pieces by Piazzolla, the last of which was joined by the Dudamel musicians. Finally, Gisele Ben-Dor announced an encore piece which included all Pro Arte and Dudamel performers as well as Mr. Anantawan and Mr. Mosalini. With all the musicians on stage at once, it was the perfect way to conclude such a rich concert.
 

This experience has reaffirmed our understanding that these collaborations are mutually beneficial to both of our organizations. Thank you so much Pro Arte for hosting and organizing such a fantastic concert that positively affected so many people, and congratulations to our students for once again showing that they can hang with the pros. More than ever, we look forward to future collaborations!