Early Valentine, a night to celebrate love and the Arts!

Northern Dutchess Symphony Orchestra performed their “Early Valentine” concert on February 2, 2019 under the direction of Music Director, Kathleen Beckmann. After a streak of bitter cold, the weather “warmed up” for an evening of classic love songs from the Great American Songbook including favorites from George Gershwin, Rodgers & Hart, and Cole Porter.
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The second half of the concert starred Broadway performers David DeWitt and Erin Stewart. Their Broadway Cabaret showcased a collection of their favorite love songs, telling the story of their own romance and how they met during “Phantom of the Opera.” We were thrilled by the range of emotions from big band 40's style singing to vocal pyrotechnics in Think of Me from The Phantom of the Opera. The dialogue which shared amusing anecdotes in their courtship was fun and entertaining.  

Erin and David enjoyed the experience, saying, “Working with the Northern Dutchess Symphony Orchestra has been a highlight for the both of us! Kathy is a joy to collaborate with. Singing big band music is so gratifying especially with an orchestra where you feel so supported.  We both felt truly embraced by Kathy, the musicians, and everyone connected with NDSO.”

Broadway performers, David DeWitt and Erin Stewart joined the orchestra to sing selections from the Great American Songbook as well as performing a cabaret in the second half of the concert.

The evening also had an inspiring introduction from County Executive, Marc Molinaro who expressed Dutchess County’s love and support for the arts, and how NDSO’s longstanding presence has been such a treasure to the community. In both his and NDSO Vice President, Jennifer Henion’s welcoming messages, audience members were reminded how financial support is what keeps the arts accessible to us all. Ms. Henion extended additional gratitude to the NDSO Friend’s group, an organization developed this year to support the orchestra. The group is open for anyone to join and costs $25 per person to the end of June. ​

County Executive, Marc Molinaro welcomes guests to the concert.

The orchestra teamed up with radio station WHUD to give away 3 pairs of “Make a Night of It” reserved seating packages along with gift cards for each couple to enjoy a complimentary dinner at the Ristorante Caterina de’ Medici. Here Vice President, Jennifer Henion, poses with one of our lucky couples - we hope you enjoyed your early valentine!

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