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York Symphony Orchestra performs out Haydn's 'The Creation' for 2014-15 season finale


If you go

What: YSO: Classical No. 4 The Creation

When: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, May 9

Where: Strand-Capitol Performing Arts Center, 50 N. George St. in York

Cost: $5, $9, $33, $39

Details: For additional information and tickets, call 717-846-1111 or visit www.yorksymphony.org

Music Director and Conductor Lawrence Golan said he is humbled by his first year in York, as every scheduled concert in the 2014-15 year was sold out, with the exception of a concert that competed with inclement weather. Golan, who is well-known for pulling out artistic talent in orchestras throughout the United States, and most continents worldwide, said this is his first time conducting Haydn's work "The Creation."

"I'm looking forward to the final product, which is going to be spectacular," Golan said.

The hour-and-a-half long performance draws out dramatic juxtaposition in three parts. During Haydn's era, strings carried most of the music load; however, there are moments when wind instruments silently pronounced aspects of the biblical story that emphasizes darkness, and the introduction of light, and the creation of the world, Golan said.

"There are three flutes that pretty much are on their own," Golan said. "It really gives this beautiful heavenly atmosphere and effect. Although the first two flutes play on and off, the third flute is only called for 32 measures in part three. That's all they play. That should be a very wonderful effect."

In addition to the orchestra, there is a full chorus that will be performing as well, Golan said. As the new music director, he said he wanted to make attending a symphony concert more friendly to music goers. There will be large-screened monitors that project text on either side of the stage. In this new ear, under Golan's leadership, he said he wants to help the audience to understand and enjoy the full performance through musical enhancements. He added that he is confident in the chorus and the orchestra.

"In terms of the full orchestra, there is one moment that is particularly stunning," Golan said. "It uses all the forces of the orchestra, and the focus is on the word light. It was all soft and dark, and then on the word light, we are at full strength. All of a sudden they illuminate the concert hall with their sound."

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Golan said he thinks that the symphony is becoming a hot ticket. At the finale concert held at the Strand-Capitol, attendees will be provided with next year's concert schedule.

"It's been a wonderful first year as music director of the orchestra," Golan said. "I have to say that my expectations have been exceeded, particularly in the sense of the response of the community and the audience. They hired me to build the audience. They expect me to build the audience by way of raising artistic standards. I did not expect every concert of the season would be a sell out. I am thrilled about that. I am very appreciative about how responsive and supportive the York community has been."

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