On Sunday, January 23rd the Avon Lake Concert and Symphonic Band were invited to play at Severance Hall. Playing at Severance is quite an honor, that’s where the Cleveland Orchestra Performs. Besides us there were three other bands, Bay Village, North Royalton and Orrville. The Case Western Reserve Symphonic Winds, a college band also participated.
Preparing for the concert was a lot of work. We were practicing Jackson Lake Overture and Valley Forge for almost three months. We wanted to make sure that we had a perfect performance. As the time grew nearer everyone was excited and very nervous. Finally Sunday had arrived. All of us had to meet at the High School by 11:00 AM even though we didn't perform until 3 PM. We had to arrive early so that we could hear the other bands. We were the third band to perform after Bay Village.
Walking into Severance Hall was quite an experience. Looking at all the designs and intricate details along the walls was very impressive. The staircase had a gold railing that went all the way up to the balcony on the second level. Besides the beautiful blue velvet chairs on the second floor, there were also private boxes that were purchased individually, by company’s or families. These boxes were something else. Each box had two rows of velvet chairs and a larger chair in the back row. I was lucky enough to get a peek at it. The boxes were closed off by curtains for more privacy.
Now we were ready to play. As we looked above we could see the beautiful ceiling that sparkled and reflected a beautiful leaf pattern. The entire interior of the hall is art deco with aluminum lights that ran along the stage. It was an awesome experience as we sat in the pit and began to perform.
We played very well and we were all so proud. The audience clapped so loud I couldn't believe it. We even got a standing ovation.
When we got back on the buses and headed home we were all so exhausted that most of us fell asleep. I will always remember that wonderful experience of a lifetime.
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