By: Anne Hall

The Center Chorale and Chamber Orchestra will be gracing the Center Theater of Escondido Center for the Arts this spring, as they will be performing Ludwig Van Beethoven’s Mass in C major and Choral Fantasy.

The performance will be conducted by Dr. Joe Stanford (of Palomar College) and guest conductor, John LoPiccolo (of Poway Symphony Orchestra). Our very own professor of music, Dr. Ching-Ming Cheng, was asked to join these talented conductors as a guest pianist.

As the classic works for Beethoven are well known by many, I stopped to consider the value in performing the particular pieces for the public and asked Dr. Cheng if she felt there might be a disconnect between the music and present day society.

“I actually don’t think there is a disconnect,” said Dr. Cheng. “People are still supportive of concerts and performances. I feel that, our North County community especially, that they are still very supportive.  For younger generations, however, there might be a little less interest. But I think it’s because of the modern media that make music so accessible that there is a lack of need to attend live concerts.”

Seeing a performer who mastered such pieces execute the work is far more dynamic than just listening to the music on an iPod or watching a recording on YouTube. Dr. Ching-Ming Cheng presented examples of her divine skill while working and performing on campus.

This event is one of the few chances of this season that spectators will be able to witness and partake in the splendor of the melodies carried out through her hands.

The performance will take place at 3 p.m. on Sunday, March 1. For tickets visit art center.org or call 800-988-4253.