Transporting 89 musicians — and their instruments — from Breckenridge to Denver for a one-night gig is no easy feat.
It’s a juggling act and a bit of a hassle, but no one complains because the music they make at the black-tie affair held in a beautifully decorated hotel ballroom is what makes the ‘s Summer Gala so special.
The musicians, of course, are the NRO — a group of very talented young adults who were chosen, after a series of auditions conducted at top conservatories and music schools throughout the U.S. and Canada, to spend the summer in Breckenridge preparing for orchestral music careers.
Their time with the NRO is considered a “critical resume-builder,” says executive director Douglas Adams.
Over the course of eight weeks, they sharpen their musical skills by rehearsing for, and putting on, 29 concerts. Also, they receive instruction in such subjects as community engagement, music therapy, negotiating a contract and acing an audition.
The NRO’s 2012 Summer Gala, Dancing Under the Stars, was chaired by Kate Taucher and Kathy Terry and held at the Sheraton Denver Downtown. Taucher is president of the NRO board.
In celebration of its 53rd season — the NRO began as the Blue Jeans Symphony in Estes Park in 1960 — the orchestra engaged Dana McClure-Barone to step up its branding effort. Results include a new logo, a fresh tagline (Nurturing the Future of Music) and a redesigned website.
The logo was introduced at the Summer Gala, an event that also included the signature live-auction item: an opportunity to conduct the orchestra for one number that night. This year’s high bidder was Barbara Calvin.
Others enjoying this festive occasion were Sharon Magness Blake and Ernie Blake; Terry and Dr. Elaine Scholes; Tom and Nancy French; Bob and Nancy Follett; John and Gretchen Swift; NRO music director Carl Topilow; and CBS4 weather anchor Ed Greene, who served as master of ceremonies.
Dancing Under the Stars was the first of three social functions that will be held to raise additional funds for the orchestra.
Next up is Dancing on the Peaks, a Western-themed hoedown set for July 6 at The Village at Breckenridge. The $60 admission includes dance lessons by Roger and Theresa Moen, music by the NRO and light refreshments. Breckenridge Brewery will be offering $1 beers.
On July 21, there’s a $30-per-person High Country Tea at Daley Ranch in Silverthorne. Women are encouraged to wear their favorite little black dress to enjoy beverages from and a fashion show presented by Jane Venable.
Tickets for both events can be purchased by calling 970-453-5825.
Joanne Davidson: 303-809-1314 or jdavidson@denverpost.com; also, blogs.denverpost.com/style and @GetItWrite on Twitter
See additional photos from the National Repertory Orchestra’s Summer Gala denverpost.com/seengallery
