MC's 'Peter and the Wolf' makes audiences howl with delight

It may still be winter, but on Saturday, February 27th, the liveliness and charisma of spring was palpable in the Moorpark College Performing Arts Center.  The first of a two part performance done in conjunction with Moorpark's annual theme (this year being "The Year of Service"), the Orchestra exceeded expectations featuring a performance of Sergei Prokofiev's classic, Peter and the Wolf, as well as a selected performance by Moorpark's acclaimed Jordan Charnofsky.

Led by director of the music department, James J. Song, the night began with a lively rendition of Johann Bach's Brandenburg Concerto No.2, showcasing the talents of decorated performers Michael Bernard, Sharon Cooper, Rhondda Dayton and Roger Mason. The night moved at a pace that was both comforting and whimsical, sparing no minute unaccounted for, the performance floated into the aptly featured, "Peter and the Wolf", narrated by David Ralphe, general manager of the Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center and an experienced thespian.  The classic tale was well received, with the element of Ralphe's personality and voice adding a charming and humorous accent to an outstanding performance by the orchestra.

After a brief intermission, the vivaciousness and vigor of the orchestra was realized with a lucid rendition Johann Strauss' "Frühlingsstimmen" (literally: "Voices of Spring").  As the translation implies, the performance truly exudes the sound and feel that encompasses spring, with the confidence and energy that would make even the shyest of flowers burst into full bloom.

The night's final performance featured Moorpark's guitar authority, Jordan Charnofsky, with an absolutely flawless performance of Guitar Concerto No. 1, originally by Mauro Giuliani. The talent was a feat to behold, as Charnofsky's fingers danced along the fret board, the orchestra swooned in conjunction, making the experience an unforgettable crescendo in an evening of remarkable talent.

The Moorpark Symphony Orchestra will be performing again with a performance inspired by the New York Times Bestseller and feature motion picture, "The Soloist", with select compositions from the book being performed. The night will feature the book's author, Steve Lopez, reading dramatic excerpts from the book in between performances.

For more information on performances and tickets, call the Moorpark PAC Box Office at (805) 378-1485.