M. Stern (l) Receives Congratulations from N. Gamboa

ORCHESTRA SHOWPIECES CLOSE SO CO PHIL'S SEASON

Closing a long season April 1 the Sonoma County Philharmonic, the North Coast’s premiere nonprofessional orchestra, performed just two large-scale works that demanded committed instrumental playing.

Before 200 in the Jackson Theater conductor Norman Gamboa had his hands full with the eight-part Fantastic Toy Shop, a Respighi adaptation of a group of Rossini’s music. Originally ballet music from 1919, the 22-minute Suite spotlighted just about every So Co Phil section, and the playing had the requisite verve and momentum.

Five percussion players were needed to get the splendid effects from the oft-familiar Rossini music, especially the references to that composer’s “Sins of My Old Age” piano works that this reviewer enjoyed in youth. Outstanding solos were heard from Emily Reynolds (flute and piccolo), three each in trumpets and trombones, and in the string pizzicato section “Can Can” that omitted the two contrabass instruments.

Following intermission was Berlioz’ popular Harold In Italy, with viola soloist Matthew Stern. Through the four-movement symphonic form the viola part is more of an instrumental obligato that a virtuoso line dueling with the orchestra. Pitch problems in violin and cello parts tended to lessen the impact of many of the attacks, but releases were accurate, and Mr. Gamboa was everywhere in the score, controlling the many sonic contrasts.

Mr. Stern often played repeats of the charming theme differently, often in the repeats in a dialogue with harpist Aja Gianola-Norris. His double stop playing was effective and though his projection throughout the evening was not large, the orchestra never covered his sound, even in unison phrases. Quick up-down bow phrases were equal in character and volume.

The second movement Procession of the Pilgrims Singing was performed at a judicious tempo, with fine Kris Krive oboe playing and English hornist Eli Ramos announcing the lovely Serenade that starts the third movement. There were short duos from violinist Pam Otsuka and cellist Anne Fassler.

Mr. Gamboa’s control of balances never failed him, even in the rousing finale where the viola solo tails quietly off and stormy sonic brightness concludes the 42-minute journey. A loud ovation ensued.

Four concerts will comprise the Philharmonic’s 2023-24 season, shortly to be listed in an article and on Classical Sonoma’s Calendar.

Mention should be made here of this season’s outstanding intermission food from Olivers Markets and local barristers and bakers. No bar but none is needed.