The Vancouver Academy of Music Symphony Orchestra (VAMSO) season closes on an ebullient note with the concert, Gorgeous Gershwin, on May 15 at 2pm at the Orpheum Theatre. Music Director Leslie Dala takes to the piano to conduct and perform the jazz-tinged classical masterpiece, Rhapsody in Blue, while leading VAMSO's young artists through beloved favourites from the composer's catalogue, including An American in Paris and Porgy & Bess Suite.
"Since joining us in 2011, Leslie Dala has delighted audiences conducting some of classical music's greatest masterworks -- from Beethoven's Ninth Symphony to Mozart's Requiem. This is a rare, first opportunity to see the Music Director shine alongside our orchestra as an instrumentalist," says Joseph Elworthy, Executive Director of the Vancouver Academy of Music. "We look forward to introducing another spectacular side of Leslie's artistry as he masters Gershwin's roaring, lyrical evocation of 1920's New York streetscapes." As a highly sought after conductor, Leslie Dala is also Music Director for the Vancouver Bach Choir, and Chorus Director for Vancouver Opera. Leslie's early professional career, however, began as a pianist and répétiteur, performing recitals on CBC radio, and concertos with such prestigious groups as the Prince George Symphony, and Vancouver Philharmonic Orchestra. On May 15, Leslie will channel the late Leonard Bernstein, whose legendary renditions of Rhapsody in Blue as conductor and pianist remain etched in music history.About Vancouver Academy of Music (vam.ca) - Founded in 1969, the Vancouver Academy of Music (VAM) is a non-profit institution that has been spreading a love of learning and musical excellence for generations of aspiring musicians. Located minutes away from downtown, VAM's spacious facility features teaching studios, expansive classrooms, a library, and two recital halls -- all set against the scenic backdrop of Vanier Park.
VAM's fundamental purpose is to explore the transformative power of music through fostering an inclusive learning environment led by a team of devoted faculty with strong professional backgrounds. From Early Childhood Education to adult learning, VAM delivers world-class music education to students of all ages and abilities. In addition to private lessons and class instruction, VAM students engage with world-renowned visiting artists in master classes, cooperate with other national and international music education organizations, and participate in numerous performances and competitions. VAM's Orchestral Training Program is home to four levels of orchestra, which culminates in the Orpheum Series -- four concerts that spotlight the VAM Symphony Orchestra in one of Vancouver's most iconic cultural venues, the Orpheum Theatre.IF YOU GO:
VAMSO presents Gorgeous Gershwin
Sunday, May 15, 2016 at 2pm
Ticket prices: $10 Adults, $5 Students & Seniors
Address: The Orpheum, 601 Smithe St., Vancouver, BC
Box Office: At the door or online at vam.ca
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