An evening of memorable melodies

Wednesday evening proved to be a magnificent occasion with the performance of the Academy of Arts & Minds own string orchestra, jazz combo and concert band at the Area Stage (formerly the Riviera Theater). Under the astute leadership of A&M’s impressive and acclaimed instrumental musical director Dr. Sam Lussier, the group opened the program with an evocative expression of “Fanfare/The Star Spangled Banner” followed by arrangements of “Armed Forces Medley,” and “Popo.”



In addition, Dr. Lussier’s own arrangement of “Irish Tune from County Derry” was artistically adventurous and dedicated to Margaret Dianne Machado, wife of A&M Director William Machado (both are shown at left). Tenth grader Alejandro Veiga displayed his command of the piano in his rendition of “Claire De Lune”. The first part of the program closed with “Hungarian Dance #5” and a hardy appreciative clapping from the energetic audience.

The second half of An Evening of Memorable Melodies, saw a brilliant performance of “Bruch Violin Concerto” by Concert Mistress Hayley Marks. Leroy Anderson’s “Plink, Plank, Plunk” was artfully amusing and enjoyed tremendously by the audience and Michael Rodiles’ piano and vocal presentation was delivered with classy technique. The program closed with Dr. Lussier’s arrangement of “America Medley.”

By Robin L. Sarantos