WSO String Orchestra hands baton to audience

By Zander Kelly

Audience members were allowed to conduct the Windsor Symphony Orchestra’s string band regardless of prior skill.

The WSO’s Conduct Us event, held at the University of Windsor on Thursday, allowed any passersby to take up the baton and try their skills at directing the band. The 14-piece string band had pieces ranging from classical numbers to Coldplay’s Viva La Vida, with the rule that when someone picks up the baton sitting on the empty stand, the band would obey.

“We really want to send out the message that we provide a great variety of music. We try to mix pop with classic in a regular symphonic year,” said Peter Wiebe, assistant conductor with the WSO.

The Symphony has Conduct Us events in different areas around Windsor several times a year, including at Devonshire Mall. This event is one of many the symphony does in the community every year to reach out and develop an interest in music in younger generations.

“I would say that we do a single theatre concert for every 10 or so community events,” said Wiebe. “Some people have certain impressions of a symphony orchestra, and we love to break that down.”

Liam Khalaff is a biology student at University of Windsor who participated in the event.

“It was fun, the band was cheerful and nice and everything,” said Khalaff with a broad smile after conducting a folk song.

“If more people knew about this event, it would be fun.”

Tracey Atin, founder of KordaZone theatre, was asked to read poetry between certain pieces of music.

“It’s incredible having the orchestra behind you playing such beautiful music,” said Atin.

All of the poetry was selected from local poets such as Peter Hrastovec.

The Windsor Symphony expects to do this event again in the community.