InConcert Sierra: Your source for music in Grass Valley

MUCH LIKE THE AUBURN SYMPHONY, InConcert Sierra was born thanks to the initiative of Chamber of Commerce leaders and local music enthusiasts — in this instance, 68 years ago.

After organizing at the historic Bret Harte Hotel in Grass Valley, the group’s first concert was held at the Veterans Memorial Building in 1946. It featured Charles Kullman, tenor of the San Francisco Metropolitan Opera.

In its decades-long history, InConcert Sierra has achieved many milestones — from presenting small chamber ensembles, to a name change from Twin Cities Concert Association (in 2010), to hosting concert programs featuring the Vienna Boys Choir and other world-class talent.

The 2013-14 season has been one of the most imaginative and impressive yet.

This winter, the group presented Emanuel Ax, one of the best classical pianists of the 21st century. Ax called the audience “amazing,” he loved the piano and said he’d come back anytime. It was a sold-out performance.

“For me, to see Emanuel Ax in this setting was a dream come true,” said InConcert Sierra’s Artistic Director Ken Hardin, who has shown a knack for landing world-class talent in the foothills.

This year’s program also has featured the harvard Glee Club, founded in 1858. The group’s West Coast tour was focused on much larger venues, including San Francisco’s Grace Cathedral, so bringing the group to the foothills was a coup.

InConcert Sierra’s program continues this winter and spring, with a combination of emerging and established talent:

SAN FRANCISCO OPERA CENTER ADLER FELLOWS, February 16
Each year, a select group of gifted singers. This winter, the group presented from the S.F. Opera “Merola Program” is invited to continue their education as Adler of the 21st century. The young artists are destined to appear on celebrated opera house stages.

CHAMBER FAVORITES BY LOCAL FAVORITES, March 16
Hardin is joined by Sierra Master Choral concertmaster and violinist Richard Altenbach, flutist Kirsti Powell and others, presenting such quintessential works as Copeland’s Appalachian Spring.

”MUSICALITEA,” March 23
Sierra Master Chorale members will sing and serve you a delicious high tea with finger sandwiches, scones and spreads and desserts.

BOSTON BRASS, April 20
Known for their exciting classical arrangements and original repertoire, this brass quintet is an established one-of-a-kind musical experience. Boston Brass has been featured on The CBS Early Show, National Public Radio’s Performance Today, and has recorded several diverse albums.

(Photo: BostonBrass.com)

Speak Your Mind

Tell us what you're thinking...
and oh, if you want a pic to show with your comment, go get a gravatar!

You must be logged in to post a comment.

  • Follow us on PinterestFollow us on Pinterest