The Santa Cruz Symphony Open Rehearsals at the Civic are the part of our education program that allows music lovers to see for themselves how a symphonic performance is constructed and prepared for. Having free open rehearsals was one of Danny Stewart’s top priorities when he became our maestro – he even discussed their value in his initial job interview.
“The Open Rehearsals give our community a window into our world as we bring the music to life,” says Danny. “It allows people to see and hear musicians as they put the music together so they can understand the inner workings of our craft – how we practice, listen, learn and communicate on a very high level.”
Originally open only to music students, Open Rehearsals are now open to everyone. That means people who cannot get to a regular performance can still enjoy the music our orchestra produces. It has also meant that Open Rehearsals have become the focal point for a social scene that serves to build and strengthen our music community.
Tim Blakeslee, his wife Tanya Nauenberg and their children Sanneke (11) and Finn (10), regularly attend and enjoy the social and educational aspects of the Open rehearsals. Busy school and family schedules mean that the family often cannot attend final performances, but they get to hear the performances as they are prepared at Open Rehearsals.
“I just love listening to the music,” says Sanneke. The family also learns about the music and the performance. Music students Sanneke (violin) and Finn (cello) learn how individual musicians fit into an orchestra and why rehearsals are so important. “I hear them make mistakes,” says Finn, “and then I get to see how they conquer them.”
Tim says that Open Rehearsals are easier for families. “They are more casual than the final performances which lets kids move around a bit and get more comfortable.” Tanya likes seeing other families they know because it creates a sense of music creating community. Tim adds, “Besides, it gives us a Friday night dinner in town with the kids.”
“You sometimes get to experience some drama between the conductor and players,” says Tanya. “You see the sweat and tears that go into preparing the music.” People at a performance often don’t realize just how essential the role of the conductor is but Tim notes that at Open Rehearsals, “You get to see what an integral part Danny plays in preparing for a performance—even when he needs to get tough and not be his usual warm and fuzzy self.”
Open Rehearsals also offer an opportunity to meet the musicians. At one Open Rehearsal Finn had a conversation with Principal Cellist Jonah Kim who was delighted to be talking to a young, aspiring cellist, and the conversation about learning music and the magic of the cello went on for some time as his proud parents and other audience members looked on.
All of this pleases Maestro Stewart. “I’m very gratified that my dream of offering free open rehearsals has gained such an avid following – the audience strengthens its relationship to the stories being told, and gains a deep understanding of the mechanics and discipline required to tell it.”