A famed harmonica soloist, a musical tour of Rome, and not just one but TWO bicentennial celebrations are among the highlights of a special concert season by the Dexter Community Orchestra.
Popular local bluesman Peter “Madcat” Ruth will take the stage with the DCO in March for a jazz-infused concert featuring the music of Chris Brubeck. That program will also include the winner of the DCO’s annual youth artist competition, to be held later this year.
For the opening concert on Nov. 5, Music Director David Schultz has put together a festival inspired by the many beautiful aspects of Rome, including music by Berlioz, Haydn and Respighi. This concert is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, with lots of orchestral fireworks.
The Dexter High School Chamber Orchestra will join the DCOO for the annual holiday concert Dec. 10, featuring traditional Christmas and Hanukkah favorites, old and new. As a bonus, one lucky silent auction winner conduct the orchestra in a performance of “Sleigh Ride.” This would be a great holiday gift for your favorite music lover! (Details on how to bid for the conducting gig will be provided soon.)
The year 2024 marks the City of Dexter’s bicentennial, and the DCO will celebrate the occasion with the premiere performance of an as-yet-unnamed composition by local composer Evan Chambers, commissioned by the orchestra to honor Dexter’s history and heritage.
The May concert also marks the 200th anniversary of the premiere of Beethoven’s epic Symphony No. 9. The DCO, along with singers from the Ann Arbor Civic Chorus and the Dexter Community Choir, will perform this “Choral Symphony” in its entirety.
On Flag Day (June 14), the DCO will hold its annual Gazebo Concert in Monument Park. This is always a fun event, featuring patriotic marches and popular favorites from Hollywood and Broadway. A week later, the DCO will help kick off the opening ceremonies of the Dexter Bicentennial, with a performance of the commissioned bicentennial composition.
“It is rare for a community the size of Dexter to be home to such an accomplished orchestra, and to bring forward such ambitious programming,” notes Andrew Thomas, DCO Treasurer and violist, and member of Dexter’s Arts, Culture and Heritage Committee. “There is something here for everyone – familiar orchestral masterpieces, jazz and blues, outstanding soloists, and a once-in-200-years celebration of our local heritage.”
All concerts are free to the public, no ticket required. Performances will take place at Deter High School’s Center for the Performing Arts. A full schedule is provided below, so mark your calendars!
Sunday, Nov. 5, 4 pm “When In Rome”
Sunday, Dec. 10, 4 pm. “Together For the Holidays”
Sunday, March 3, 4 pm. “Madcat and the DCO”
Sunday, May 5, 4 pm. “Bicentennial Celebrations”
Friday, June 14, 7 pm. Gazebo Concert (Monument Park)
Thursday, June 20, time TBD Dexter Bicentennial Opening Ceremony
