The Desert Community Orchestra performs its annual Winter Concert, “My Irish Rose”, on Saturday, March 2, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. at Ridgecrest United Methodist Church. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.
This concert will feature special guest vocalist Amber Petersen, mezzo-soprano, singing the beautiful melody entitled I Dreamt I Dwelt in Marble Halls from the Irish romantic opera Bohemian Girl by M.W. Balfe. Also featured in this concert will be the DCO’s Heidi Miller-Costanzo, performing as a piccolo soloist on Pennywhistle Jig by Henry Mancini.
Other selections will include R. Vaughn Williams’ March Past of the Kitchen Utensils, Leroy Anderson’s Irish Suite, and the Suffolk Suite by Doreen Carwithen, a British composer of classical and film music. Also slated for performance is the well-loved favorite, Irish Tune from County Derry by Percy Grainger. Conductor Robert Martinez will be leading these warm and cherished pieces. He brings joy and energy to the podium that filters through the orchestra and listeners. These classic Irish melodies anticipating St. Patrick’s Day will create a magical musical night.
“I am so pleased to have Amber sing with us again,” comments Mr. Martinez. “The musical breath she brings to the stage is wonderful. We are also blessed to have such talent as our flutist Heidi Miller-Costanzo in our orchestra and to feature her on a piccolo solo for this concert. This certainly is an evening to plan for. Don’t miss it.”
Concert General admission is $10; student/military $5; under seven years; military in uniform free. Tickets will be available on Eventbrite and at the door. Donations are always appreciated and assist in covering the many operating expenses associated with the orchestra. The DCO greatly appreciates the following sponsors: Desert Valleys Federal Credit Union, Pizza Factory, Beansters, Clint Freeman RidgecrestCaHomes, the office of Dr. Ahn, Bernie’s Landscaping, Evan Etoch Memorial Foundation, Cosner-Neipp Corporation, Vincent Avalos Edward Jones, State Farm Gary Charlon, Stafford’s Pest Control, TJ Frisbee Bicycles, The Daily Independent, and The News Review.
Other upcoming performances this season include “A Touch Of Class” on Saturday, May 4, featuring the winners of the Young Artist Competition.
