Symphonic Treat

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Imagine a professional-level Symphony orchestra in Delta Junction!

Enthusiasts were treated on Thursday evening to a magnificent evening of classical music and virtuoso instrumental performance by the Arctic Chamber Orchestra.

The chamber orchestra (smaller than a full-scale symphony orchestra) of 37 including the renowned oboist Joseph Robinson, and conducted by the vibrant and dynamic Edward Zilberkent—together held one hundred and fifty or so listeners enthralled for over an hour and a half at Rika’s.

The orchestra delivered 3 works: Beethoven’s Overture to The Creatures of Prometheus, Strauss’ Concerto for Oboe in D Major, and Hadyn "London" symphony, and an intermission allowed meeting and relating with the marvelous performers.

The concert by the Arctic Chamber Orchestra was made possible by means of several grants, but you may not know that the 3 dozen touring musicians are all volunteers, sharing their personal time, professional-level skillsets and dollars with us. This is volunteerism at its very best—young and not so young, these musicians are members of the Fairbanks Symphony and their day jobs represent a full spectrum of occupations—graduate students, retired professionals and a range of others.

This concert, offered since 1970 is a rare treat and opportunity. If you failed to take advantage, put it on your calendar for next year.

Thanx to Rika’s for providing the facility. The hall is an ideal venue, and the fresh-baked pastries and coffee were, as is ALWAYS the case at Rika’s, delicious.

And , of course a HUGE thank you to the stellar musicians, support staff, and grant-makers, who gave us such a stunning and rewarding evening.

Article and photos submitted by Ken Farrow