Symphony Hall, Springfield, MA
December 4, 2016
by Eric Sutter
It was a wonderful concert... the Springfield Symphony
Orchestra under direction of guest conductor Nick Palmer brought out a sense of
wonder in the season with the Springfield Symphony Chorus and the Children's
Chorus of Springfield. "We Need A Little Christmas" set the tone for
great musical beginnings and warm moods of connection in good cheer.
Cantor Morton Levson sang "There Are Stars" in an
amazing voice that resonated a heartfelt joy. SSO accompanied him on "A
Heart of Wisdom" with loving sentiments and a powerful message of
cherished beauty of life. This is what makes it a wonderful life... teach us to
number our days and love the moment.
Gifted chorus director Nikki Stoia led the Symphony Chorus
in "Oh, Christmas Tree" which flooded the audience with fond memories
of joy. Audience participation ensued with a clapping beat of joy urged on by
Stoia. Santa Claus appeared to announce WMASS newsman Dave Madsen to the stage
for a reading of "Twas the Night Before Christmas" with the strings
moving the story wonderfully while the percussion accented with fun sound
effects at appropriate times. The Children's Chorus sang selections from
"Frozen" in endearing harmonic voices. The Orchestra's "Carol of
the Bells" worked a magical spell of delight. Symphony Hall was decorated
with a large wreath above the stage and a garland of smaller wreaths strung
around the balcony posts. This is certainly a large venue, yet at the same time
it seemed cozy.
"It's A Wonderful Life" completed the hometown atmosphere.
"Minor Alterations" featured woodwinds and strings mixing classics
with Klezmer to a rousing finish. "Stille Nacht" with the simple
beauty of piano to start combined added instruments and voices for glorious
effect. "Sleigh Ride" made for fun musical moments with percussive
horse hooves, whip, and sleigh bell sounds. Humorous seasonal dialogue between
Santa and the conductors led to a warm and fuzzy audience sing-long. “The
Hallelujah Chorus” from The Messiah brought the house down for a wonderful finale!
