The LSO – A Force to be Reckoned With
The LaGrange Symphony Orchestra (LSO)’s March 24 concert, Epic Adventures, Myths and Galaxies, conducted by Maestro Richard Prior, was a wonderful adventure to the stars and back. The Force was present—and the orchestra knew exactly how to use it—guiding the audience on a journey filled with music, imagination, and excitement.
As patrons arrived, a sense of anticipation filled the air. Costumes inspired by beloved film characters appeared throughout the lobby and auditorium, adding a playful and welcoming energy. Others displayed subtle nods to the sagas—from logos on clothing to accessories—hinting at the excitement to come. Several comments were overheard from guests wishing they had worn a costume themselves—next time, they promised, they wouldn’t miss the fun. It was an evening where music and imagination intertwined, and the vibrant full-house audience celebrated both with delight.
Fellowship on Stage
The concert opened with the combined forces of the LSO and LaGrange Symphony Youth Orchestra (LSYO), filling the stage with a scene that radiated unity and purpose. The impressive number of students created a visually striking presence and hinted at a bright future for the orchestra. Together, they performed Ronan Hardiman’s Lord of the Dance: Cry of the Celts, with driving rhythms and bold energy that instantly drew the audience in. The combined ensemble delivered intensity, precision, and momentum, creating a thrilling start to the evening. Maestro Richard Prior and the seasoned LSO musicians helped the students shine with confidence. The result was a seamless blend of mentorship and artistry, a testament to the orchestra’s dedication to nurturing the next generation of musicians.
The LSYO students rose to the occasion with focus, confidence, and musicality. Their understanding of the distinctive meter and rhythm required in Celtic music added an authentic, lively energy to the performance. This side-by-side collaboration with seasoned musicians requires both preparation and professionalism, and the students delivered on all fronts. It was a proud moment for the musicians, their families, and the entire LSO community—a celebration of hard work, growth, and the unifying power of music. Watching them perform, it was clear that these young adults are not only the future of the orchestra but also a proud reflection of our community.
A Moment Worth Applauding
Following the Side-by-Side, a significant stage reset became one of those moments that unexpectedly captured attention. A single stage assistant, clearing a remarkable number of chairs and music stands, seemed to tap into an unseen force—equal parts strength, focus, and timing. Before long, the audience began to notice as he carried towering stacks, at times lifted high overhead, with speed and purpose. What started as quiet observation turned into enthusiastic applause. It was a small but unforgettable reminder that every role in a performance matters—and even a stage change can become a moment that deserves appreciation.
Dynamic Relationships
Next, the performance of How to Train Your Dragon by John Powell, arranged by Sean O’Loughlin, captured both the wonder of its story and the orchestra’s masterful interplay—after all, the very idea of training a dragon feels almost unimaginable. Musically, what began with curiosity and cautious exploration in the orchestra’s opening phrases gradually unfolded into a triumphant surge, as the wonderful brass led with bold clarity before the full ensemble echoed and expanded each idea. Every section seamlessly moved between supportive textures and bold statements of the main theme. As the music moved forward with grace, the flute and oboe solos conveyed a natural, heartfelt quality, perfectly reflecting the trust, connection, and friendship at the heart of the story.
Harmonious Middle-earth
Howard Shore’s iconic music from The Lord of the Rings, beautifully arranged by John Whitney, transported the audience straight into the heart of Middle-earth. The LaGrange Symphony Orchestra fully captured the sweeping sense of adventure, mystery, and courage that defines this story. Each theme unfolded like a familiar chapter brought vividly to life. The music moved seamlessly between scenes of quiet reflection and soaring victory, echoing the journeys of hobbits, heroes, and unlikely allies. At times it was grand and expansive, and at other times reflective and personal. It was a captivating and richly layered performance by the LSO that honored the spirit of Tolkien’s world and left the audience fully immersed in its magic.
Regal Performance, Captivating Presence
The program continued with Camille Saint-Saëns’ Violin Concerto No. 3 in B minor, featuring guest artist Lauren Yejin Kang, winner of the 2026 YAC Max Kaplan Award. At just 15 years old, and making her first appearance with a professional orchestra, Kang captivated the audience from the moment she stepped on stage, her elegant royal blue gown setting an immediate sense of occasion.
Performing the first movement, Allegro non troppo, she delivered a performance marked by a polished, professional presence and confident stance. Her tone was warm and focused, and her command of the concerto’s intricate passages was nothing short of mesmerizing. The more forceful, recurring statements of the main theme were played with striking intensity and determination, while her flowing runs and rapid passagework were executed with impressive clarity and control. Each phrase unfolded with intention, drawing the listener deeper into the music—a performance as regal in character as her striking royal blue gown.
The audience in LaGrange, GA responded with a rousing standing ovation, with several enthusiastic “bravos” and audible expressions of admiration echoing through the hall. In a moment of well-earned recognition, Kang received heartfelt congratulations from the maestro along with a presentation of flowers, celebrating both an outstanding performance and a meaningful step into performing with a professional orchestra. Her appearance stood as a shining highlight of the evening—one that signals the beginning of a bright and promising future, and one we hope will remain a fond memory of her time with the LaGrange Symphony Orchestra.
Orchestral Starpower
After a brief intermission, we returned to the Twentieth Century Fox Fanfare, a bold and fitting introduction to the grand finale. The orchestra brilliantly set the stage for John Williams’ Star Wars Suite for Orchestra.
The suite unfolded like a cinematic journey, carrying listeners through I. Main Title, II. Princess Leia’s Theme, III. The Imperial March (Darth Vader’s Theme), IV. Yoda’s Theme, and V. Throne Room and End Title. From the triumphant fanfare of the Main Title to the graceful lyricism of Princess Leia’s Theme, the audience was drawn into the story. Applause followed each movement—not as interruption, but as a genuine expression of enthusiasm. The Imperial March stood out with striking intensity, the strings brilliantly delivering its percussive march tempo with precision and weight, making it a particular highlight of the performance. The LSO, under the direction of Maestro Richard Prior, and leadership of concertmaster Samuel Vargas Teixeira, shaped each phrase and dynamic shift with thoughtful care. The suite closed with the grandeur of the Throne Room and End Title, prompting a rousing standing ovation that left the hall energized.
This performance was played to a vibrant full house, a testament to both the orchestra’s artistry and the devoted community that supports the LaGrange Symphony Orchestra! The combination of music, community, and fandom captured the spirit of the program. The concert was a great success and a lot of fun. We are eagerly looking forward to April’s season finale, 250 Years of Being.
© LaGrange Symphony Orchestra 2025/2026 | All rights reserved | 706.882.0662 | Richard Prior, Music Director & Conductor
