THE HILTON HEAD SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA WILL perform three concerts at Shelter Cove Community Park in July. The recent purchase of a performance shell will enable orchestra members to perform under an inflatable tent outdoors while the audience enjoys a concert in the park for the first time in orchestra history.
HHSO Executive Director Mary Briggs, along with board chair Peggy Arrington and board member Ken Anderson were the impetus behind the purchase of the inflatable acoustical shell. It was used for the first time on May 16 at Rose Hill Plantation, where the orchestra performed its inaugural Picnic & Pops program. The Picnic & Pops theme continues at Shelter Cove Community Park on July 1, 15 and 29 with three distinct shows: “A Star Spangled Salute!” “Bravo Brass!” and “Broadway Tonight!” respectively.
“We are very pleased to begin this new program in the community and we hope to make this a yearly event,” said Briggs.
Additionally, the shell is available for use by other art and cultural organizations for outdoor performances.
Since its inception, the symphony has continued to grow and add new musical experiences for residents and visitors alike. It all began in 1982 when a group of new Hilton Head islanders wanted to get together and play classical music. “Chamber Music Anyone” said the flyer. Fourteen musicians responded.
That small group of musicians has developed into an outstanding orchestra with 70 musicians under contract and renowned soloists appearing at nearly every concert, bringing world-class music to the Lowcountry. Today, with Mary Woodmansee Green as music director and conductor, the orchestra is said to be “a vision that stays ahead of the curve,” and is satisfying its diverse audience with classical music as well as pops and jazz. The orchestra, with widespread financial support and many hours of volunteer time, has attracted thousands of devoted followers.
In addition, Arrington, Briggs and the orchestra are reaching out to other musical and art organizations in a spirit of cooperation. Working together with the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce, the Arts Center, musical and choral groups and local schools, they hope to foster new relationships.
