Orchestral Maneuvers

The Colorado Symphony Orchestra regularly gives back to the community with a slew of free concerts each summer, but the best of them is Symphony on the Rocks, where beautiful music and scenery combine to make sparks more brilliant than any of last night’s fireworks. And not only is this near-perfect union of nature and art fabulous, it’s also free. “You can come and enjoy live classical music at one of the best venues in the country,” boasts the CSO’s Rachel Perez Tetreault, who reminds us that there’s nothing like watching the sunset on a summer evening from this flaming-red natural amphitheater.

Tonight’s program, which begins at 7:30 p.m., boasts a nicely eclectic repertoire that mixes classical favorites, from Bach to Copeland, a smattering of Rossini, some Broadway tunes and a downright Sousa-style patriotic finale, all under the baton of CSO Associate Conductor Scott O’Neil; the audience, which swings from curious first-timers to pilgrims who return to the rocks each year, is an interesting mixture as well. Though admission is gratis, there is a $10 per car parking fee.

If you miss tonight’s show, CSO free concerts continue on July 23 in Cheesman Park and July 25 in Lone Tree’s Sweetwater Park; for more information, visit www.coloradosymphony.org or call 303-623-7876.
Sun., July 5, 7:30 p.m., 2009