Maestro Wilson, Redlands Symphony Performs Mozart Concert

REDLANDS>> With a packed house, many local residents and people from the community attended the Redlands Symphony Saturday, Jan. 21 featuring the symphony’s new music director and conductor, Ransom Wilson. The January concert was held at the Memorial Chapel at the University of Redlands and featured music from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, one of Wilson’s favorite composers. The concert consisted of four works that were written at different periods of Mozart’s life. Impresario Overture was the first work that was played and was followed by Serenata notturna, K. 239; Flute Concerto in G, K. 313 and concluded with Symphony No. 35 “Haffner,” K. 385. Although Wilson conducted the concert, he also played the flute during some of the performances. Before the concert, Wilson explained his flute was not working properly and was not able to hit one of the notes. He said he had received a replacement flute from his flute company who happened to be in Anaheim that day. Wilson received the flute moments before the concert and as the concert began, Wilson said the new flute he had just received was not working properly, as well. Sara Andon, principal flute player and former student of Wilson, lent him her flute for the remainder of the concert. Despite the difficulties Wilson was facing, his performance was absolutely enjoyable. Wilson would tell the stories of the settings in which the songs were composed. With a passion for music, Wilson and the entire symphony gave an exciting performance. “It’s such a special night to come together and enjoy the music that is so uplifting, transcending and awe-inspiring, especially in time when we need as much happiness and good feelings as possible,” Andon said. “I’m so glad to be a part of this great orchestra and to work with Ransom, it’s a true blessing that he is here and we are so fortunate.” Wilson also serves as the Artistic Director of New York’s Le Train Bleu ensemble and Music Director of the Lar Lubovitch Dance Company. Previously, he has served as the music director and soloist for New York Orchestra, the OK Mozart International Festival and the Idyllwild Arts Academy Orchestra. Wilson has appeared as a guest conductor with many major orchestras and has appeared as a flute soloist with the Chicago Symphony Philadelphia Orchestra, San Francisco Symphony and the London Symphony. To add to his long musical resume, Wilson has also released 22 albums as a flute soloist, 11 as a conductor and has won three Grammy nominations. The next concert will take place Feb. 11 as Wilson conducts Beethoven’s Seventh and will feature Miguel Aguirre, the winner of the University of Redlands’ annual Concerto Competition. For more information, visit redlandssymphony.com or call (909)587-5565 to order tickets.