Norman Philharmonic Gears Up For Inaugural Concert

Violins, cellos, and French horns aren't the kind of instruments you might associate with an elementary school audience, but they work well as teaching tools.

Friday, January 13th 2012, 7:38 pm

By: News 9


Violins, cellos, and French horns aren't the kind of instruments you might associate with an elementary school audience, but they work well as teaching tools.

The new Norman Philharmonic held two "educational" concerts this week for elementary age students. The concerts were to bring new types of music to students who might not be exposed to it otherwise.

"It's a wonderful opportunity for them," said Sharon Payne. Payne is a music teacher in Norman school system. "To hear this type of music, the quality."

Norman business leaders, gearing up for Sunday's inaugural concert, were pleased with the mini-concert.

Chuck Thompson, CEO of Norman's Republic Bank and Trust, was instrumental in getting the Philharmonic started.

"It was important for us to be able to create new things and break new frontiers," said Thompson. "I think creating a professional symphony orchestra was a way to do that."

Dr. Richard Zielinski spent the last few months getting the musicians together, and getting nationally known composer Libby Larsen to write Norman its own anthem inspired by the elements of Norman's official flag. Zielinski was encouraged by the new Philharmonic's first foray into elementary school.

"If you get into the essence, or the source of the music, I think it breaks down those barriers of high-brow music, or classical music versus jazz or whatever," said Zielinski. "I mean, we're gonna do it all."

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