Orchestra brings a world of music to Bloomington

Stimulating is how School of Music professor Yuval Yaron describes his involvement in the Camerata Orchestra, a professional independent ensemble of faculty, students, faculty emeriti and Bloomington residents. \nYaron, a world-renowned violinist, will perform "A Grande Tour of Europe" with the orchestra this weekend. The performance will include a variety of works from Beethoven to Pablo Sarasate. \n"One of the nice things about playing with the group," Yaron said, "is the ability to choose pieces that are not mainstream or popular." He said the orchestra "is a wonderful integration between University life and the city of Bloomington." \nFounded by Lenore Hatfield in 1989, the Camerata Orchestra has become a popular part of Bloomington's musical community, drawing artists and performers from the New York Metropolitan Opera, Cincinnati, Denver, Chicago, Los Angeles and Indianapolis. \nThe orchestra also commissions works from American composers and holds concerts in the honor of those who have made contributions to the field of music. These include the late University Chancellor Herman B Wells and former music school dean Wilfred C. Bain. \nHatfield said the orchestra tries to be different \n"We do bring in professional soloists and conductors, which adds another dimension. Students love it," she said.\nThe closing of the Creative Arts Center -- a primary performance space for the orchestra -- forced it to seek another venue in which to perform. The orchestra performed in the IU Auditorium last year, but this Sunday's concert will be at Bloomington High School South. \nHatfield said she hopes the concert will be of interest to music students at the high school level as well as to the University community.\nThe guest conductor will be John Morris Russell, associate conductor of the Cincinnati symphony and pops orchestras. According the Cincinnati symphony and pops orchestras Web site, Russell is a great force in bringing classical music to the community. His Young People's Concerts and Lollipop Concerts are as well-received as his commitment to music education in schools. \nIn addition to concerts, the orchestra sponsors an annual solo competition, which rotates each year between piano, cello and violin. The winner of the competition is awarded $1,500 and a seat on the orchestra for the year. The joy of performing with their professors is what seems to influence many students to compete for this award. Hatfield said students are "tearing down the door to play."\nCommitment to the musical arts seems to be the main goal and interest of this group of musicians.\n"The quality of this orchestra compares to professional orchestras, (and) gives students a professional opportunity to play opposite their teacher," Hatfield said.\nLooking back at the last 11 years and the amazing concerts of this orchestra, Yaron praises the work of the Camerata Orchestra's founder.\n"This is a remarkable organization and Ms. Hatfield is doing remarkable work," he said.\nThe Camerata Orchestra performs "A Grande Tour of Europe" at 3 p.m. Sunday in Carmichael Hall of Bloomington High School South, 1965 S. Walnut St. Cost is $12 for adults, $4 for students.