Classical Collinwood

An appreciative audience echoed their approval throughout the March 17th evening performance by CityMusic Cleveland hosted by St. Jerome Church.  Ronald Strauss, MD, President of the Board, as well as an amateur violinist himself, welcomed everyone to the first-ever Collinwood appearance by the orchestra, which is celebrating its 12th season of bringing free concerts to Cleveland neighborhoods.  The orchestra brought 38 skilled musicians and the very talented soprano, Jeanine De Bique for this performance which included selections by Beethoven, Grieg, Bizet, and Puccini.

The response from the concert goers included one by Clurie Bennis, who has only missed one performance in twelve years.  She volunteers to help the orchestra bring “maximum music set in minimum overhead.”  The venues receive no compensation for hosting an event.  Teri Dew, a local resident, who regularly attends CityMusic concerts, was really excited that the performance was held so close to home.  For long-time parishioner Kathy Mrsnik, this was her first CityMusic Cleveland concert and she said, “It was all that was promised and more.  They were fantastic.”  A Pepper Pike resident enthusiastically thought the performance was spectacular, enhanced by the exceptional acoustics of the church, and the gracious hospitality of parishioners and the community.  Before the concert, St. Jerome parishioners served up delicious Guinness Stew and Irish Soda Bread in the school gym and, later, coffee and pastries in church at intermission.

In the words of Dr. Strauss, the mission of CityMusic Cleveland is to make classical music accessible to everyone, with no economic or geographic barriers.  The orchestra highlights its social conscience through music and educational programs.  St. Jerome Church is honored to be a CityMusic Cleveland concert venue and looks forward to May 12 when the orchestra returns to perform another free music program, which will include selections from Mendelssohn and Dvorak featuring violin soloist Tessa Lark, for all Collinwood to enjoy.  Plan to become part of the cheering audience on Thursday, May 12, and warmly welcome CityMusic back to the neighborhood.