Surely the Macon Symphony Orchestra has a cannon tucked away somewhere for use in the "1812 Overture." Well, if they've got any ordnance, I urge the MSO to drag it out and fire it off.
At long last, the MSO board has hired a new music director: Gerald Steichen, who conducted "Symphonic Tricks & Orchestral Treats" in October and who brings a dazzling resume.
To name a few highlights, Steichen conducted the New York Opera for 10 seasons, toured nationally with "The Phantom of the Opera," "The Secret Garden" and "Peter Pan," conducted the New York production of "Cats" for two years and played the role of Manny in Tony-winner "Master Class."
Since the retirement of the much-loved Adrian Gnam, the MSO has been relying on a series of guest conductors. As the orchestra prepares for its 40th season, it will again be led by someone with the talent and charisma to restore it to its place as the flagship of our arts and cultural community. Fire that cannon.
MORNING MUSIC CLUB SCHOLARSHIPS
Another worthy organization, one that since 1912 has kept the musical fires in the community stoked, is the Morning Music Club. In the spirit of "pass it on," the MMC awards Joseph Maerz scholarships to college-bound youth. This year's winner of the $2,000 award was Kathryn Buchanan of Veterans High School. Two runners up, each awarded $250, were Tyler Frye of Veterans High School and Erica Calhoun, a home schooled student from Macon.
NOBLE CAUSE, BOOKS GALORE
It's not as venerable as the Morning Music Club, but the Friends of the Library may well be the most indispensable volunteer organization in our city. Where would we be without the support the FOL brings to our library system?
If you haven't yet visited the 48th annual Old Book Sale at Central City Park, it's time to catapult into action: The sale ends Sunday. Not a member of this group? Join while you're there. There are no elves running this event, just fine folks like yourself. If you're new to town, this is great way to meet some wonderful people.
THANKS, MARIAN
If you missed the Mercer University production of Ibsen's "Hedda Gabler," you also missed the news that designer Marian Zielinski, after 34 years of stage design and lighting, has decided it's time to take a curtain call. Both community and students owe her enormous thanks.
Contact Larry Fennelly at LarryFennelly@avantguild.com.
Correction: A previous version of this column misspelled the name of the Joseph Maerz scholarship. The story also has been corrected to reflect the correct winners.
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