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classical music

Discover the Taconic Opera House

November 12, 2021 by Pia Haas

Daughter Of The Regiment photo by Howard Copeland

Some 24 years since its founding in 1997, the Taconic Opera company continues to delight Westchester’s opera lovers with beautifully produced performances of beloved classics as well as more contemporary operas. 

Dan Montez,
General Director, Taconic Opera

Dan Montez is the founder and General Director of Taconic Opera. Under his leadership, the company strives to promote the advantages of resident-opera while offering many singers the opportunity to gain stage and repertoire experience in paid performances. The company employs area artists, most of them live in Westchester, Rockland or Putnam Counties with others coming from Connecticut and New York City. The chorus is comprised entirely of local singers. It is not, however, a typical community choir explains Mr. Montez. “People interested in joining us need some serious music and language skills and a willingness to create a professional level performance. They all train hard and sing both oratorio and opera in several languages. Most have had private voice lessons.” 

Montez’s inspiration to pursue a career in music came from a high school orchestra teacher who helped him fall in love with classical music. “I played with the orchestra for four years and in various traveling ensembles. At first, I was a piano major for three years, thinking I was on track to be a concert pianist.” His first experience with opera was in college. “Someone tricked me into singing for the faculty, which resulted in a surprise scholarship. Within six months, I had the lead in their next opera. After putting on the costume and singing, I was hooked and gave up my piano scholarship to sing.” Montez received a B.Mu. from Brigham Young University in Vocal Pedagogy and his M.A. in Vocal Performance from San Jose State University.

He landed a position with Opera San Jose as their first resident, full-time tenor. During this tenure, he was asked to direct and teach at the opera program of the local university. “I loved directing. That led me to conducting and composing. I composed oratorios for the prophet Enoch, Jonah, Daniel, Job, and King David and recently, finally, Esther.”

As a professional singer he has appeared in principal roles in over 60 productions on stages including Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall, and San Francisco Opera and performed in numerous oratorios and recitals throughout the United States. His flourishing career as a full-time operatic tenor began to take its toll, it meant being on the road 10 months of the year. “I made a difficult decision to end my full-time singing so my wife and I could stay home and raise and homeschool our kids together.” Their kids spent more time studying music and resulted in one becoming a concert pianist and his other two children becoming opera singers. Montez decided it was time to make his dream of creating a resident opera company a reality. 

This company has been a true labor of love for Montez. Collaborating with him, Musical Director, Jun Nakabayashi has, since its inception, contributed to ensuring the reputation of Taconic Opera as a company that can present challenging works in the highest quality. Montez adds, “We are proud of the quality of music that we bring to our audiences. We do oratorios, operas, concertos, chamber and symphonic music, all of which are almost non-existent in Northern Westchester.”  

Each year, oratorios with professional operatic soloists, full orchestra, and a classically trained chorus are performed throughout the county and at various venues. Recent performances have included Puccini’s Manon Lescaut in Italian with supertitles and full orchestra at Yorktown Stage. 

The recent premiere of Montez’s own oratorio, Esther was performed at Congregation Sons of Israel in Briarcliff.  “It is a beautiful venue and they have been so nice to us as we have tried to bring classic singing back after Covid. We hope to be there in the future with other oratorios.” said Montez.

Unlike a fully staged, costumed opera, an oratorio is a choral work performed with soloists and orchestra, usually in a church. “I felt especially drawn to Esther because she is a female heroine. Jews were commanded to celebrate Purim each year in remembrance of her heroism. And yet, Handel, 300 years ago was the last person to try to compose an oratorio about her. I decided it was time to change that.”

To grow and maintain classical music’s audiences, the company strives to nurture and engage the younger listeners. Updating their operas and setting them in modern times as well as having simultaneous English translations above the stage, make them more accessible to younger audiences. They’ve also established school programs and young artist workshops, including a summer training program for young opera singers, just starting their journeys. Montez explains that “Four casts of these young singers present two complete operas to our local community every summer. Schools from all over the county are bussed in to see our fully staged operas. It is a joy to see the faces of the next generation experiencing classical music in this accessible way for the first time.”

His advice to aspiring arts professionals; “I believe in doing what you love. Being an artist full-time takes a lot of work and daily habits. If you have that, you can achieve most anything. Set your goals big. Get up when you fall and make mistakes.” 

Matinee Performances of two intriguing oratorios are upcoming: Giacomo Puccini’s famous Messa di Gloria and the French composer Maurice Duruflé’s beloved Requiem. Performances at Holy Name of Mary Church in Croton-on-Hudson, on Saturday March 19, 2022, and Sunday March 20, 2022, are both at 3:00 p.m.

For more information on Taconic Opera and their upcoming performances visit: TaconicOpera.org or call 1(855) 88-OPERA (67372).

Filed Under: Cover Stories Tagged With: classical music, Dan Montez, Holiday Shows, oratorios, recitals, Taconic Opera Company

How Caramoor’s World Class Performances Resonate with its New President and CEO, Edward J. Lewis III

August 17, 2021 by Pia Haas

Edward J. Lewis III PHOTO BY DONNA MUELLER

A new era for the Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts has been ushered in–from the return of in-person performances to solidifying its mission of promoting classical music and embracing a variety of musical genres. In this newest era, Caramoor’s overall vision and management falls into the capable hands of Edward J. Lewis III. As the newly appointed president & CEO, Lewis has over two decades of experience in performing arts leadership. 

Lewis previously served as Vice Chancellor for Advancement at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts, where he is credited with “surpassing all annual and campaign fundraising goals.” He was the Senior Director of Development at the Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center at the University of Maryland College Park, where he led a comprehensive fundraising program.

Walkway from Venetian Theater and the artist patio looking towards the Pavillion Terrace at Caramoor in Katonah New York on August 25, 2020.
PHOTO by Gabe Palacio

As a professional violist, he is a founding member of Baltimore’s Soulful Symphony and a former member of the Dallas Opera Orchestra, Dallas Chamber Orchestra, Santa Fe Pro Musica, Sphinx Symphony, and Toledo Symphony. 

At the helm of Caramoor’s executive team, Lewis will help chart the course for future growth, addressing emerging issues, long-range planning, organizational structure, policy-making and institutional budgeting. “To ensure that Caramoor is a place that reflects a broad and inclusive sense of community and that delights both artists and audiences.” 

He first heard of Caramoor from radio broadcasts in the 1990s.“I recall the performances being of the highest caliber.” In October of 2020, when approached about the CEO position, he said yes, “Once I realized that everything that Caramoor offers resonates with me; world class music performances, nature and history.” 

The return of live in-person music performances at the historic 80-acre estate highlights its 76th season. The gorgeous gardens and grounds are a spectacular setting for the intimate and world-class musical performances. Indoor offerings in the Spring and Fall are housed in The Rosen House, a beautiful and “acoustically perfect venue, a work of living history, made for music,” which is included in the National Register of Historic Places.

The upcoming music room performances include a recital by renowned pianist Stephen Hough, a Vivaldi program by the British period-instrument ensemble The English Concert led by Harry Bicket, the Isaiah J Thompson Quartet, singer-songwriter Raul Midón, who blends flamenco, jazz, and R&B to create his distinctive sound, and a wonderful Christmas program by the vocal quartet New York Polyphony. And The Holiday Tea Musicales will be back in December. 

The challenges of keeping an Arts organization thriving is ensuring that it responds to the demands of the ever-evolving creativity of artists and changing expectations of audiences. “Maintaining relevancy by developing programming that helps build new audiences while maintaining current audiences will be key,” Lewis remarked. His aim is to “fully engage with the community and culture around our organization and ensure that broader diverse audiences can hear themselves in the music and see themselves reflected back from the stage.”  

Being successful in promoting classical music relies on discovering ways that entice and invite audiences to participate. To that end, he enjoys working collaboratively “with a team of passionate and accomplished creatives with the goal to help make a difference in the world.” 

For Lewis, being successful has meant “being truly happy and fulfilled doing what you love while also making a positive impact for others.” 

He grew up in a family that appreciated music. “I remember my mom having us do household chores while listening to opera, jazz, soul, and R&B.” A sixth-grade school trip to hear the National Symphony Orchestra, helped him realize that “I wanted to make and be part of the orchestral sound, the violin section in particular.” He tried the violin and learned that he had had natural talent and facility. “From then on, I knew that that’s what I wanted to do.”

Caramoor is peerless with its Sonic Innovations program of sound art exhibited strategically throughout our campus. Not many other music venues have this combined richness of experiences. – Edward J. Lewis III

He became a violist, earning his Master of Music degree from the University of Michigan. When asked if he and his Viola might be gracing the Caramoor stage this Season, Lewis cited his many responsibilities in leading the strategic direction and fundraising efforts at Caramoor, that would deny him practice time. “However, I look forward to sneaking into the Rosen House Music Room to play a Bach suite or two in those glorious acoustics.” 

At home in Chappaqua: Edward Lewis with his partner Scott Palmer. and their cat, Sandy   PHOTO BY DONNA MUELLER

And how is he settling into his new home in Chappaqua? “So far we have enjoyed meals at Crabtree’s Kittle House and Ibiza; shopping at Whole Foods, the Saturday Farmer’s Market and the occasional breakfast at Bobo’s Cafe; working out at Lifetime, and several trips to Chappaqua Paint and Hardware,” He added that he and his partner, Scott Palmer are “looking forward to exploring all that Chappaqua has to offer.” 

Audiences are invited to explore the lush grounds and magnificent gardens, enjoy a pre-concert picnic, tour the historic Rosen House, and discover beautiful music. In the Fall and Spring concerts are held in the  Music Room of the Rosen House, and in Summer in multiple venues including Friends Field, the lovely Spanish Courtyard, and in the Venetian Theater.

Caramoor is located at, 149 Girdle Ridge Road, Katonah, NY 10536

Call The Box Office at 914.232.1252 or visit: boxoffice@caramoor.org

Entry Circle looking down center walk at Caramoor in Katonah New York on August 25, 2020.
ADDITIONAL PHOTOS by Gabe Palacio
Center walk leading to The Rosen House at Caramoor in Katonah New York on September 13, 2020.

The Burgundian Library in the Rosen House at Caramoor in Katonah New York on April 15, 2018.

Afternoon Tea in the summer dining room of the Rosen House at Caramoor in Katonah New York on June 3, 2016.

Filed Under: Cover Stories Tagged With: Art, Caramooor, Caramoor Center, Chappaqua, classical music, community, culture, Edward J. Lewis III, Inclusive, Katonah, Music Genres, Musical Performances, Sound Art, symphony, Violist, Westchester, World Class

The Chappaqua Orchestra: “High Quality Musical Experience”

November 17, 2019 by Inside Press

Since 1959, the Chappaqua Orchestra has promoted live classical music in the Hudson Valley region by presenting a high-quality musical experience for diverse audiences through community outreach, educational and creative programming. The Chappaqua Orchestra is proud to note its:

  • Together in Music concert which features children from the Special Needs community performing along with the orchestra
  • Nationally recognized concerto competition, highlighted on The Violin Channel, as one of the premier competitions in the nation.
  • Grace Notes prison concert program, bringing music and cultural enrichment to NY prison populations.

The Chappaqua Orchestra brings high quality orchestral and chamber music performances that reach audiences of all types. chappaquaorchestra.org.

Courtesy of the Chappaqua Orchestra.

Chappaqua Orchestra on Community Day, Photo by Grace Bennett

Filed Under: Discover New Castle Tagged With: Chappaqua Orchestra, classical music, Grace Notes Prison Concert, Hudson Valley, Together in Music

A Musical Mid-Week Break

May 28, 2015 by The Inside Press

The gazebo at Recreation Field serves as a bandstand for the Summer Concert Series. Photo © 2015 Marianne A. Campolongo
The gazebo at Recreation Field serves as a bandstand for the Summer Concert Series.
Photo © 2015 Marianne A. Campolongo

By Marianne A. Campolongo

What could be nicer than enjoying a picnic with your friends and family on a warm summer evening? Whether your tastes run to big band, classical music or classic rock, the Summer Concert Series serves up a wide range of talent providing choices for everyone, so bring a blanket or beach chair, pack a hamper and join the fun. While you visit with friends and enjoy an outdoor meal and concert, your children can dance to the tunes or burn off some energy in the bouncy castle and other games in the Fun Zone. 
The evenings are a great excuse to take a break mid-week and relax.

If you do not have time to pack a picnic yourself, no worries. “We’ve gotten a lot of support from the local merchants,” said Superintendent of Parks and Recreation Robert Snyder. A variety of local and area restaurants will be on site, with options from simple treats to gourmet offerings.With so many choices, give yourself the night off and let someone else do the cooking. If you do bring your own, no alcohol or glass. And, no dogs.

Jointly sponsored by the Town of New Castle Department of Recreation and Parks and the Chappaqua-Millwood Chamber of Commerce, with major support underwritten by Breezemont Day Camp, this summer’s concert series gets underway on Wednesday, July 8th at the Recreation Field in Chappaqua by the gazebo, and runs for four consecutive Wednesdays; each beginning at 7 p.m. A town tradition since 1989, the summer concert series draws crowds of anywhere from 300 to 1000 people per concert from all over Westchester, according to Snyder. “It’s a wonderful night,” he said.

The Schedule:

“We open with a local favorite, The Don DuPont Big Band,” said Snyder. 
Veteran bandleader and trombonist Don DuPont Sr. brings the Big Band era of the 1930s and 40s to life with a mix of swing, jive and Latin music featuring vocalists Don DuPont, Jr. and Michele DuPont Eames.

On July 15th, another local gem, The Chappaqua Orchestra, under the guest baton of Davis Knobloch, “a fine chamber musician and a great teacher,” who retires from Horace Greeley High School later this June, will perform a program of Sousa marches, film scores and show tunes celebrating American music, said Orchestra Music Director Michael Shapiro.

On July 22nd, local resident Mark Salore and his Bruce Springsteen tribute band, Tramps Like Us will get you rockin’. Seasoned musicians and vocalists who have been bringing the Boss’ music to appreciative crowds since 1990, they are sure to have you enjoying the glory days of summer.

For the final concert on July 29th, it’s back to the future with more rock and roll performed by The Ronald Reagans Big ’80s Show. Big hair may have gone the way of VCRs, but the music never goes out of style. This tribute band’s male and female vocalists have both Broadway and national touring experience. Dressed in “bodacious” costumes, they put on a show covering favorite tunes from Don Henley, Michael Jackson, Pat Benatar, Van Halen, The Go-Gos, and many more.

Besides the usual festivities, closing night will feature additional games and fun. There will be “more of a party atmosphere though it always feels like a party out there anyway,” said Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Dawn Greenberg.

Rock out again with Mark Salore and his Tramps Like Us at this year’s summer concerts. Photo by Carolyn Simpson
Rock out again with Mark Salore and his Tramps Like Us at this year’s summer concerts. Photo by Carolyn Simpson

The added festivities are a special tribute to Making Headway Foundation, a charity dedicated to the care, comfort and cure of children with brain and spinal cord tumors “to help them kick off their 20th Anniversary year,” she said. There will be a special emphasis on children and Chamber members whose focus is on children. Making Headway was founded in 1996 by parents whose own children had undergone treatment for brain tumors, including Chappaqua residents Maya and Edward Manley.

Rain? No Worries!

“A lot of people think that if it rains it’s over, but it’s not,” said Snyder. If rain seems likely, the concerts move indoors to the Wallace Theater at Readers Digest. “Indoors is a little different,” said Snyder, “but last year Don DuPont packed the place, which is a credit to his reputation.”

If rain is in the forecast, check the town website to see if there has been a change in venue www.mynewcastle.org or sign up for town alerts.

Fun Facts

The current gazebo, financed entirely by donations, was dedicated in 2011. After the town did the site work and the concrete and stone foundation, a team of Amish builders erected it in just three or four days, said Snyder with a smile.

Movie Night

Across town at Millwood Park, 
235 Saw Mill River Road in Millwood, the Recreation Department and the Chappaqua-Millwood Chamber of Commerce are also sponsoring Friday Night Movies in June at 8 p.m. At press time, this year’s selections, Toy Story, Mighty Ducks, Tangled and Jungle Book were chosen but check the town website for the specific 
dates of each film. Movie nights 
are June 5th, June 12th, June 19th 
and June 26th.

Marianne A. Campolongo is a freelance writer and photographer from Chappaqua, New York. Her website is www.campyphotos.com.

Filed Under: Cover Stories Tagged With: classical music, picnic, Summer Concert Series

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