Well, I have officially been blown away! Judging from the response from others, I believe that everyone who attended Thursday night’s concert by the University of Southern Mississippi Symphony Orchestra experienced the same delight as I did.

The presentation of “Romantic Giants” at Margaret Martin Performing Arts Center included music by Wagner, Brahms and Mendelssohn — some of the greatest music ever written. It was a rare opportunity indeed to experience the incredible sound and marvel at the complexity of each movement as it was performed so flawlessly.

Someday I will brag to my granddaughters that I was in attendance when Marta Szlubowska, violin soloist with the orchestra, “played Natchez.” Jaws literally dropped as we watched her fingers fly over the strings at unbelievable speed. Whether your taste in music leans toward “Violin Concerto in E Minor” or “Wabash Cannonball,” you have to admire a talent like Szlubowska’s.

The USM full orchestra is composed of 78 musicians. What a delight to hear and see these beautiful young men and women — from very diverse backgrounds — come together to create such an exceptional evening for us in Natchez. Many thanks go to our own Dr. Jay Dean, artistic director of the Natchez Festival of Music, for bringing his orchestra to us.

Thanks go also to the educators who encourage their students to attend these events either through reduced ticket prices and/or extra credit in their classes. What a wonderful way to broaden their horizons!

The next opportunity will be Saturday, Oct. 27, when USM will present the opera “Die Fledermaus,” a delightful and amusing story.

You say you don’t like opera? Me, either. I do, however, marvel at the abundance of talent available for my enjoyment.

I challenge you to step out of your comfort zone and broaden your thinking. Meet friends or make new ones and be part of the renovation efforts at Margaret Martin.

I hope to see you there, but, in the meantime, know that this old Ragin’ Cajun is giving credit where credit is due: USM rocks!

 

Diana Glaze

Natchez resident