Dandy Chorus, Sad Orchestra
by Sheckyboy on 2/6/18Howard L. Schrott Center for the Arts - IndianapolisHaving enjoyed the Indianapolis Symphonic Choir over the years in a number of venues with various collaborations, seeing that they had programmed the Stravinsky Symphony of Psalms prompted eager anticipation. Sure enough, Dr. Stark had again prepared the Choir thoroughly, ready for the demands of both works on the program. However, the Choir's fine efforts were undercut. Upon arriving and settling into our seats, I did a cursory browse of the program. Notably, I did not see the orchestra personnel credited. This I took as an oversight, not a red flag. I was mistaken. When the Choir collaborates with the ISO or ICO, they are credited as such, with personnel listed. I don't know if I am correct in assuming Saturday night's orchestra was a pick up affair. Whether it was or not, from the first movement of the Stravinsky, I felt the performance to be on thin ice. Multiple wind instrument players did a disservice to exposed solo parts. These type of parts are part and parcel for Stravinsky and require keen attention to contracting capable musicians. I suppose one of the percussionists, in the Williams, was executing his part properly, but I'm uncertain what orchestra he was phrasing with. Certainly not the one with which he was playing. Really unfortunate. I find the Indianapolis Symphonic Choir to be an organization worthy of my patronage, especially when the programming piques my interest. However, after this performance in which the fine work of the Choir was utterly compromised, and the inherent implied lack of care in hiring the orchestra, I must give pause to continued attendance.