New Jersey Symphony Orchestra at Marine Park. July 1, 2018.

Marine Park, Red Bank.  Lawn seating (free).

Program

The program was announced from the stage, including the following:

Intermezzo from Manon Lescaut

Overture from William Tell

Meditation from Thais – Brennen Sweet, solo

Carousel Waltz by Rodgers

Imperial March from Star Wars by John Williams

Tribute to the Branches of the Military (army, coast guard, marines, navy, and air force)

It is my understanding that for several years now the NJSO gives a series of concerts at various (mostly) outdoor locations throughout the state.  July 1 was the last one, and Marine Park is where our boat is moored.  So we asked a few friends to come to the boat for dinner (sandwiches, chips, and fruit) and we also met some others at the park.

There was quite a crowd, and many stayed after the intermission, which is a good thing.  I think it numbered about 500, a friend said it was a couple of thousand.  So much for my (or her) ability to estimate crowd sizes.  In any case, it was a good showing of support.  Only thing missing were food trucks – I think they would have done some business.

It was hot today, the temperature was in the mid 90s at concert start.  There was a covered stage set up for the event, so at least there was some protection from the sun for the members.  The sun sets around 8:30 pm this time of the year, and we had a clear sky and a beautiful sunset.

 This was the temperature at 3 pm.  It was still in the mid- to high-90s when the concert started.

 The crowd at the beginning of the concert.  Most people stayed after the intermission.

I couldn't find the name of the conductor.  He has a strong resemblance to NJSO's Youth Orchestra music director Jose Luis Dominguez.

While I do not want to critique the performance – it was supposed to be just plain fun – I must say I enjoyed the waay Sweet played.  Meditation is not particularly difficult, but to make it sound as good as he did, in such an environment (sweating profusely, for one) was a great accomplishment.

The concert lasted about 1:30 hours, so we had time for a snack at McDonald’s after we cleaned up.