“The Washington Idaho Symphony has a small budget, like the community orchestra I conducted in Minnesota,” said Wallin, assistant professor of music. “However, the music is exceptional, head and shoulders above other small orchestras. We are unique because of the talented and experienced players who are basically volunteering theirtime.”
The symphony at www.washingtonidahosymphony.org) is a nonprofit organization established in 1972. Barbara Nakata, a retired WSU employee living in Pullman, drafted the articles of incorporation and has been a member of the orchestra since the first concert. She plays bass and is the principal of the section.
“The impetus was from WSU people,” Nakata recalled. “We were a small group, offering informal orchestra performances. We started to draw musicians from all over the region. Then, Martin-Beatus Meier, the conductor at the university, inspired us to organize the symphony.”
“Hearing symphonic masterpieces live enriches us as human beings,” Wallin said. As the symphony completes its 36th year in March and April, Wallin is preparing more enriching music for year 37, beginning in the fall.
“There Was a Star Danced,” by Philip Wharton
“An American in Paris,” by George Gershwin
“Symphonie Fantastique,” by Hector Berlioz
• April 12, 1 p.m., Gladish auditorium:
Free family concert, “Sounds of Science.”
For tickets or for more information, contact the symphony office at 332-3408 or symphony@pullman.com.
