As a kid, classical music was something that I often felt coerced into enjoying, whether it was from my parents, piano teachers, or adults in general. Sometimes I would enjoy certain songs but for the most part my musical interest was geared towards whatever was popular. Now that I am older, I feel a greater appreciation and understanding for the beauty and complexity of classical. There's something about the harmony of different instruments and the soothing vibe it produces that makes it so special. On Thursday, November 16th I was able to attend a concert at Hart House on U of T campus by the Hart House Orchestra which was held in the Great Hall and was completely free for anyone to attend.

The Great Hall provided superb acoustics and a very intimate feel for an orchestra. Attendance was extremely high, with some people having to stand at the sides to watch and listen. I was particularly surprised at how many students actually showed up, since I thought the concert would have been more of a 30's and older crowd. The orchestra began its performance with Mozart's 'Overture to Don Giovanni', followed by a 'Concerto for Two Trumpets by Vivaldi', and ending with Bruckner's 'Symphony No. 4 in E-flat Major'. The orchestra performed extremely well, and everything came together excellently.

The Hart House Orchestra will have another free concert for the Winter term on February 15, 2008 at 8:00pm in the same venue. For those looking to take it back to beyond the old school, the Hart House Orchestra will not disappoint.