Concertmaster Connections

Concertmaster Connections is a special series of articles that share some of the places I find interesting while in Chattanooga and how they might relate to the Chattanooga Symphony & Opera and classical music in general; everything from dining, art galleries, the zoo and aquarium to hiking and biking.

~ Holly Mulcahy
Concertmaster; Chattanooga Symphony & Opera

The Three B’s: Bach, Bacon, and Biscuits

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Comfort food. Just saying the words Comfort Food conjures up images of simple joys, comforting flavors, memories of smells and tastes that may have traveled centuries within a family. In planning for the upcoming Chattanooga Symphony & Opera chamber concert which will feature the Bach Concerto for Oboe and Violin (November 8th at 3PM at the Read House), it occurred to me that this is a form of comfort food for the soul. Ideas about pairing this musical delicacy with an edible creation by Zeke Arter, owner of Maple Street Biscuit Company, … Continue Reading

It's a Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood

It’s a Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood

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One of the things that makes Chattanooga and the Chattanooga Symphony & Opera special is the connections one feels. There are connections to music, community, nature, friendships, education, and businesses. Connections happen at breakfast On regular occasions CSO musicians make their way to Maple Street Biscuit Company to take in a breakfast before a day hike. One particular morning after saying hello to the owner, Zeke, we bumped into a board member and symphony supporter, Harriet Whittaker, who happened to be hosting a few musicians during opening week. [twocol_one][/twocol_one] [twocol_one_last][/twocol_one_last] While enjoying … Continue Reading

A New Discovery

A New Discovery

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[box] One of the cool things about the cultural arts scene in Chattanooga is that both artists and audiences alike actively seek out new works. While there is a definite appreciation for the classics, there is a healthy appetite for something new, something dangerous, and something that pushes the core of the human soul to the edge and brings it back safely. Chatting with my stand partner Josh Holritz, Associate Concertmaster of The Chattanooga Symphony & Opera, I couldn’t help but feel this kind enthusiasm and excitement for a newer piece for … Continue Reading

Worlds-Collide-Businesses-Thrive

Worlds Collide, Businesses Thrive

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The month of October got off to an exciting start with the Chattanooga Symphony & Opera. First up was the sold out performance with Yo-Yo Ma. The excitement was palpable for everyone: audience, staff, board, orchestra, and even random people on the street who’d never thought of the symphony until seeing the marquee with Yo-Yo’s name on it. There is an awesome effect that happens to an orchestra and its audience when Yo-Yo Ma comes to play. Everyone plays at levels above and beyond what they felt possible as Yo-Yo invites everyone … Continue Reading

We Know How to Symphony Here!

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Introductions and Tacos This past week was the opening concert of the Chattanooga Symphony & Opera, and it was a nice homecoming after a busy summer away. The first rehearsal back was packed with catching up with as many people as possible and introducing new members as well. This season, the CSO added a number of new violins. While people can socialize somewhat before rehearsal starts, and somewhat at the break, it can be hard to really meet people and say hello before rushing off. So I thought a fun way to … Continue Reading