The Kansas City Chamber Orchestra is bringing back the music in a series of outdoor performances starting this Sunday at 7 p.m. to celebrate Memorial Day Weekend. Grab your picnic baskets and get ready to hear the gorgeous sounds of KC’s best string players at historic South Park in Lawrence.
The festive performance will feature the Baroque tunes of Respighi; a joyous concerto by Vivaldi; the contemplative sounds of American composer John Corigliano; and rousing dances by George Palmer.
Gates will open at 6:00 p.m. with vendors and entertainment. At 7 p.m. the KCCO strings will take the new South Park outdoor stage with KU favorites, oboe soloist Margaret Marco and conductor Carolyn Watson. “We want to invite families and friends to grab a blanket and a picnic basket and join us to experience the beauty and joy of the Chamber Orchestra’s signature sound in lovely outdoor spaces until we can join in the concert hall again,” says Bruce Sorrell, music director for KCCO. “This is the perfect way to start the summer and celebrate the return of live musical performances—and so many other things we missed during the last year.”
With ample room to spread out, the concert is free for all ages, but donations are greatly appreciated. The public is encouraged to register in advance by visiting KCChamberOrchestra.org to make a small donation.
The Kansas City Chamber Orchestra, now in its 34th season, is the region’s only professional resident chamber orchestra. The orchestra features talented professional musicians who live and work in the metropolitan area including members of the Kansas City Symphony, music faculties of the University of Kansas and the Conservatory at University of Missouri – Kansas City, and freelance professionals.