Community Concerts are for everyone!

Are you looking for a classy, laid back, musical concert to enjoy?  Do life’s activities prevent you from enjoying the really good things of life?  If so, I believe Community Concerts at the Niswonger is the answer.

The perfect example is this Sunday when pianist Thomas Pandolfi takes the stage at 3 p.m.  This Julliard trained pianist brings a program of Chopin and Gershwin to the Niswonger. Hailed as one of the most promising up and coming piano virtuosos, he has toured all over America and recently completed his second tour of China.  Although equally adept at many styles of piano music, he is especially known as one of the leading interpreters of Gershwin’s music.  The entire second half will be devoted to this, including his interpretation of “Rhapsody in Blue.”

This concert not only concludes this season’s Community Concert Series, but also will be used to announce next season’s exciting line-up.  If you have attended any of this season’s CC performances, you should be receiving the brand new brochure announcing the concerts for 2013-14.  This allows you to come this Sunday prepared to renew for next season.  There are certain deadlines which are listed in the brochure and we will be there to answer any questions you may have.

As a special recognition to those who have been patrons, dponsors. firectors or NPAC members, we are hosting a pre-concert reception with all kinds of surprises, including desserts by Kristi Bidlack, a Perk’s coffee bar, and special gifts. Mr. Pandolfi is even planning on making an appearance before his concert to greet and thank everyone for their extra support to our series and his performance. I will talk about the new season during this reception as well. We especially want to thank our sponsor for this reception, our friends at the Vancrest Health Care Center.

The aspect of our Community Concerts that I have always appreciated is that, although the average person may not be familiar with the performer, they oftentimes are the most talented people we put on stage.  Now, this new season will bring someone nearly everyone knows as our headliner, while the other concerts offer exciting options I know you will enjoy. You will see once you receive the brochure.  Next week, I can explain for everyone else and hope you may want to purchase the series and become a member too.

May 11 concludes our Niswonger season with a spectacular production. “The Music of Queen: A Rock & Symphonic Spectacular”, which features stars from London’s hit musical We Will Rock You! They join forces with the Lima Symphony Orchestra to present one huge finale to our season. Many people don’t think of orchestras with rock music; however, if you really listen to what I call sophisticated rock, you hear strings, woodwinds and brass that really make the music come to life. This is what we will recreate on the Niswonger stage on May 11. Get your tickets now!

Brochures are now available for the Fountain Park Summer Music Series. You can also see us on Facebook and at www.vanwertcountyfoundation.org and www.npacvw.org, as well as Van Wert Parks & Recreation.

Look forward to a fun summer of music in the park. In the meantime, I hope to see you this Sunday at 3 p.m. for Thomas Pandolfi’s concert and pre-concert reception, which will be at 1:30 p.m. in the Upper Lobby of the Niswonger.

FINÉ.