A Night To Remember
Last month, when the scent of summer was lingering in the air, I turned down an invitation to attend the Proms in the Park concert on Glasgow Green. Instead I listened to it on the radio, sitting in my car in a supermarket car park imagining the crowds and the atmosphere and wishing I was there.
Last week I was invited to the launch of the ±«Óãtv Scottish Symphony Orchestra's new Thursday night series of concerts at the City Halls. I was determined not to make the same mistake again, so I rearranged my diary so that I could be in Glasgow on Thursday night. Thank goodness I did.
Watching Donald Runnicles conduct the SSO was one of those experiences that I know I'll remember for the rest of my life. Inspiring, was the word I used, but that doesn't come close to describing the sheer emotional impact of that night. As those fabulous musicians worked their magic on the masterpiece of Mahler's 1st symphony, it was simply thrilling to watch a world-class orchestra in full flight. I was, literally, on the edge of my seat and it was all I could do to stop myself from toppling front the front row of the balcony.
As the music finished the audience applauded and then we whooped and whistled and cheered. The new conductor had to return to the stage three times to allow the performers to take their bows.
Afterwards, in the foyer, I met Mary Ann Kennedy. She had been hosting the live TV broadcast of the event and admitted to me that she was almost too overcome to read the intended script. We both agreed that we had been witness to something very special. Inspiring, yes, and intoxicating too.
If only Donald Runnicles and the SSO could bottle that stuff. Then we could all give up alcohol.
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