One of my less and less frequent outings with the K-5.......
But here's the story -
I was sitting idly at home looking for any musical events and I scanned the local free rag's on-line listing when I came across
"National Arab Orchestra" a Free event at the Woodruff Center - there was a contact e-mail and phone # -
so at about 4pm on the day of the show I phoned that number and was only able to leave a message asking if I could come and take pictures -
I missed the returned call - but the message was enthusiastic saying I could come down and take as many pics as I'd like.
Great!
The venue was vaguely familiar - and even when I mapped it - I didn't think much more -
So I arrived just before the starting time - and saw a whole bunch of people in the lobby in full evening regalia and holding tickets -
and it still hadn't yet dawned on me....
so I asked the attendant where the National Arab Orchestra was playing
- he pointed at the closed glass doors where everyone was waiting to enter - and said -
"in the Symphony Hall".
Of course I am standing there in my jeans, sweat shirt, and sneakers -
so, as an explanation - I told the attendant about my communications with the contact -
and he pointed me to the Will Call.
I explained about the communique - and the person at Will Call said: "You should take this", and handed me a
Press Pass.
I walked to the closed glass doors where they were still not admitting anyone
and asked if I could speak to the person I communicated with - and I was ushered in -
then introduced to her - and she said I could take as many pictures, and from anywhere I wanted
not only that the press badge allowed backstage access.....
Before the event started, I spoke to the two ushers either side of the stage and explained I was there to take photos -
then went along the front row and did the same with members of the audience -
who were to the person really friendly and said it would not disturb them at all - now that's kind and gracious.
Then to top it all -
I find that this was the inaugural concert of the National Arab Orchestra!
So I have shots from Symphony Hall from really privileged audience positions.
front row stage right.
The program was mostly vocals to a rapt and enthusiastic crowd.
front row stage center (from surprisingly an unoccupied seat - considering it was close to a capacity crowd)
There was one long instrumental piece -
the violin solos were amazing almost "psychedelic"
2nd violinist - from front row center.
Arabic Harp -
The Oud -
Percussion (Iqa')
The Conductor/Director - who sang supporting,and played the Nay (Arabic flute)
as well as playing a solo on the Oud -
er-hum! even if I tried to make it up - I don't think I could come up with a better story!
Last edited by UnknownVT; 02-25-2014 at 11:19 AM.