What an amazing year L’Amore della Musica has had! We have bounced back to a season of fifteen concerts. Due to the decrease in the number of concerts we were able to give in 2020-2022 because of COVID, we had more funds available for concerts this year. As a result, we were able to fulfill several requests by senior residences to have us return three and four times. This gave us an opportunity to prepare four unique programs filled with Simeon’s transcriptions of string masterworks by Beethoven, Mozart, and Mendelssohn, and present engaging arrangements and original works from other gifted musicians. Listeners heard Rodgers’ Medley from The King and I, Morton Gould’s Pavanne, Albeniz’s Orientale, Beethoven’s Quartet Op 18, #6 and Funiculi Funicula. Senior residents have connected even more through these multiple performances at 80th St Residence, Amsterdam at Harborside, and Brookdale Senior Living.
This year we also have brought other artists under the auspices of L’Amore in order to widen the variety of musical offerings we give to our audiences. Two programs were given, one with pianists David See and Jack McKeown, Soprano Lily Arbisser and flutist Cecilia Sparacio. And another by oboist Arianna Kalian and violinist Anna Majcherczyk. L’Amore concerts continue to be anticipated events in senior residences and community centers. Following our most recent concert at the Jewish Community Center of Rockland, an attending preschool class was given impromptu presentations by our oboe and horn players. L’Amore reinforces the power of music that continues to have an important place in the lives of people of all ages.
In the area of grants, we have lost one that had supported us over many years because the rules of the grant had changed, and we were no longer eligible. We have written several grants which have been submitted and have promise. The number of performances next season is contingent on the generosity our patrons, new contributors, and our fortune with the grants.
Departing with our best wishes, Nancy Vizza has completed her final season as L’Amore’s horn player. Nancy first came to the group in 2006 having been a colleague at the Amato Opera. During her tenure, she brought a beautiful tone to the ensemble and inspired audiences with her colorful presentations at performances. We welcome our new horn player, Sigrun Kahl, to the ensemble.