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Conductor brings youthful spirit to the classics

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Contributed by: Kathy Cable on 7/19/2008

Think about a symphony conductor and a metal image of a gray-haired gentleman is likely come to mind. Aurora Symphony conductor Richard Niezen breaks that stereotype, bringing a youthful spirit to the classics.

Beginning his musical career at 17, his musical aptitude was quickly discovered and soon Niezen was recognized as one of Canada's finest young musicians. In 1995, Niezen studied conducting in Prague. He came to Colorado in 2000 and has since been recognized as a dynamic conductor, educator and orchestra builder throughout the state.

Niezen also volunteers his time to encourage the desire of the arts in young people. He has overseen the establishment of youth orchestra programs in Lafayette and Douglas County, and also serves as music director for the Rocky Mountain Brassworks and the Colorado Youth Symphony Orchestras. He works with the students to help them develop a better appreciation of music and gives them an opportunity and musical experience he didn't have growing up.

Niezen chooses his musical pieces for the season based on how well they fit together, creating a sense of flow and logic. When you attend a performance you may hear your favorites, but don't be surprised if your interest is peaked by the interpretation of new pieces that are not so well known. From show tunes to Bach, the range is wide and varied.

"Aurora is a diverse community and our music appeals to those different audiences," Niezen said. "Appealing to the diversity, you may hear many pieces that you would not hear elsewhere in the Metro area. Our performances have a broad appeal."

Niezen feels the community doesn't realize all there is to offer in their own backyard. Aurora is fast becoming a gathering place for artists and culture. There is no need to travel far to enjoy the symphony, art galleries or theater, all at reasonable prices and free parking. It is all here in Aurora. "The arts are flourishing in Aurora, and it is becoming a cultural magnet to more and more artists," says Niezen.

Niezen feels like the arts are sometimes misinterpreted as seeming "lofty" or "high-brow." Niezen describes it as quite the opposite. It is actually the voice of the people and the way we express our inner selves.

"Classical music offers a cultural experience like none other, a way of reflecting upon the world about you. Hearing and enjoying the beauty of music leaves you a better person," says Niezen.

As Niezen approaches the stage and his musicians ready themselves for another season, there is a feeling of trust between them. "Trust is very important, the musicians trust me that I will ask them to play pieces that do not tax their abilities but will complement their talents and they will be satisfied they have given it their best," says Niezen.

Niezen's work begins long before the orchestra even plays one note. There is planning and choosing the right mix of music, getting the materials ready and finalizing the logistics of the season. Once the musicians start it is a long process to learn the music, fine-tuning it, and learning how to get the emotional content of the music across.

The musicians come from varied backgrounds, ages and talents, with each contributing to the teamwork that is so critical for a good performance. By the time the orchestra is ready, they are very comfortable with the pieces and their abilities. The music has become their own.

"When I put on that tuxedo and prepare to take the stage, I feel at that moment we, the orchestra and I, are one," says Niezen. "We are ready. We try for excellence not perfection. It all comes down to trust we have in each other. Now it is time to show the audience the joy and satisfaction we feel when the music begins."

Website: www.aurorasymphony.org

2008-9 Season tickets are available
Adults $12
Students $9
Seniors $9

For just $40, get your tickets now for all 4 Masterworks Concerts.

Tickets are available at the Gateway Center for the Performing Arts box office beginning 1 hour prior to the performance.

Mailing Address:
Aurora Symphony Orchestra
P.O. Box 441481
Aurora, Colorado 80044

Phone:
303-873-6622

Email:
info@aurorasymphony.org

The ASO Brass Quintet
Friday, August 29, 2008 - 5:30pm - Mission Viejo Park
Fall Masterworks Concert - A Tribute to the Silver Screen
Saturday, October 11, 2008 - 7:30pm - Gateway Center for the Performing Arts

The Chamber Concert - Mostly Mozart
Saturday, October 18, 2008 - 6:30pm - Heather Gardens
A special concert at Heather Gardens featuring the music of Mozart and his Viennese friends, including Haydn, Vanhal, Beethoven and more! More here.

4th Annual International Holiday Masterworks Concert - A Celebration from the British Isles

Friday, December 12, 2008 - 7:30pm - Gateway Center for the Performing Arts
Sunday, December 14, 2008 - 3:00pm - Gateway Center for the Performing Arts
Acclaimed Celtic singer Marta Burton joins the ASO with stunning original holiday arrangements. The Rocky Mountain Ringers will also add to the yuletide spirit in the ASO's annual world tour of international holiday traditions.

Kathy Cable is a senior public information officer with the city of Aurora's communications department.

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