Louisiana Philharmonic plays on during COVID-19

Mackenzie Bookamer, Arcade Editor

orchestra is playing on a stage with conductor up front
The LPO is able to play on despite COVID-19 restrictions. (Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra)

The Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra is based out of New Orleans, and although they cannot perform in the Orpheum Theater anymore, they have developed an extensive offering of virtual and altered in-person events to experience the beauty of their music. Highlighted below are some of these events offered by the philharmonic.

Music at the Museum

Every Thursday, 6 p.m.

Every Thursday, the LPO is hosting a performance at a different museum in the city throughout the month, all outdoors and following COVID-19 safety guidelines. Each week, in addition to changing up the museum that the performance takes place at, the type of ensemble performing changes, ranging from a string trio to harpist. Some museums where performances are taking place are the Marigny Opera House and Sydney & Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden. Each event is “bring your own chairs,” so grab your most comfortable seat to enjoy this delightful performance. 

Suite Sunday 

Viola Duos – March 21, 2:30 p.m.

Piano Trio – April 18, 2:30 p.m.

In this exclusive online event, you’ll get to experience enchanting music while also munching on some catered snacks, all for only $50 per household. The “Viola Duos” event on March 21 features violists Tyler Sieh and Ila Rondeau, playing the likes of composers Scott Slapin and Paul Coletti. Upon registration, you will receive a box of bonbons curated by Piety + Desire Chocolate. The “Piano Trio” event on April 18 highlights musicians Jeanne Jaubert, Zorica Dimova and Lillia, playing works by César Franck and Felix Mendelssohn. NOLA Charcuterie is supplying charcuterie boxes for this event. 

Orpheum Sessions

Fridays, 7 p.m.

For a more upscale music experience, the Orpheum Sessions — named after the concert venue of the philharmonic — mimics the traditional feeling of classical music performances by well-known soloists and ensembles. After buying a ticket, you will be emailed a link to the high-quality performance at 7 p.m. on Friday, and are able to view the performance at your convenience. Some performances worth noting are Jennifer Koh’s performance of the “Syzygy” violin concerto on March 12, named by the New York Times as one of the ten classical concerts to stream in March. On April 9, the LPO will be teaming up with New Orleans Opera to perform the greatest hits in opera, all led by guest conductor Thomas Wilkins

LPO Radio Hour

Tuesdays, 6 p.m. 

Assistant principal cellist of the LPO, Daniel Lelchuk, leads weekly radio sessions highlighting past and present LPO performances. This is a great way to listen to classical music on the go, and hear commentary from current LPO musicians and LPO Music Director Carlos Miguel Prieto.

You can listen to the LPO’s Spotify playlist here, and find a list of more events here

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