Laredo Philharmonic Orchestra celebrates 33rd season

The Laredo Philharmonic Orchestra (LPO) is celebrating its 33rd season, which marks the beginning of a new journey. 10 years have passed since their first concert was directed under the baton of Brendan Townsend, and this past Sunday, Oct. 28, the orchestra made its appearance at the Texas A&M International University Center for the Fine and Performing Arts.

In order to enrich the community and the TAMIU students, the LPO presented a series of melodies that made this community a better one by building cultural values. Always trying to find a way to expand, the orchestra supports young musical artists that want to pursue this career.

About 60 musicians from TAMIU, which include students, faculty, and graduates, plus LISD, and UISD faculty, form part of this orchestra. They also have the Youth Laredo Philharmonic Orchestra for all those young musicians that want to obtain more experience in this field. Some of the instruments that could be appreciated were the flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, horn, trumpet, trombone, tuba, percussion, harp, piano, first and second violins, viola, cello, and bass.

Brendan Townsend, the music director of the LPO since 2003, and assistant professor and director of the music program at TAMIU, has appeared as a guest artist across Europe and the United States. He was also nominated for the American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers (ASCAP) Award for Innovative Programing by the League of American Orchestras. Coming from a family of musicians, and only being a 5-year-old, he began studying the cello.

Now, with the help of over 150 persons and organization donations, the LPO has been able to innovate in many ways. They have created a new website, www.laredophil.comand a new free App for the iPhone and Android smart phones. Another important fact is that ticket sales account for only 10% of their annual budget; this is why they invite the community to be a part of this worthy cause and make the Laredo Philharmonic a broad orchestra.

For more information, the public may call (956) 236-ARTS or visit www.laredophil.com

(Sandy Lugo may be reached at sandylugoespinoza@dusty.tamiu.edu)