Bach And Beyond

Bach and Beyond will take you on a musical journey around and through the genius of Johann Sebastian Bach. First, soak in the serene exultation of Trumpet Concerto No. 2 by Tomaso Albinoni and gain an understanding of why this popular composer was so intriguing to Bach. Next, venture onward to Bach’s vibrantly fast-paced Orchestral Suite No. 2, followed by his succinct and intense Prelude and Fugue in E minor for organ soloist. You will then meander forward in time to Mozart’s exquisite Clarinet and String Quintet, in which Bach’s influence runs through like a golden thread. Complete the journey by returning to Bach and his gloriously virtuostic and brilliant Brandenburg Concerto No. 2.

Experience a thoughtful and engaging connection between music before during and after the legacy of Johann Sebastian Bach, while enjoying some of the finest soloistic musicians in the Boston area. The Orchestra On The Hill Chamber Players under the direction of Thomas Palance will take you on a musical journey you will not forget.

About the Orchestra on the Hill

The Orchestra On The Hill carries the logo “Building culture where we live”. That is exactly what this Ipswich orchestra has been doing since 2007. The ensemble is led by Thomas M. Palance, a renowned trumpet performer and educator who moved to Ipswich with his family in 2005. The group’s mission is to enrich the culture of Ipswich and the surrounding communities through exceptional concerts of orchestral music and collaborations with other local artists. Though made up of all professional musicians, The Orchestra also provides opportunities for non-professional adult musicians to rehearse together, coached by professional conductors and players. It also plans to partner with the wonderful music program in town with the purpose of inspiring the students to reach new heights. Director Tom Palance believes that not only can music bring joy, but it can bring people together. The Orchestra on the Hill sponsors community outreach programs to provide a place for adults (in professions other than music) who want to continue to play their instruments. For example, The Orchestra has sponsored reading sessions, which have given amateur musicians the opportunity to rehearse and play music under professional leadership. In May of 2016, The Orchestra On The Hill, in cooperation with other local visual artists, animators, composers, dancers and photographers, featured a unique collaborative concert at the Ipswich Performing Arts Center called “Images 16.” The purpose of this effort was to collaboratively explore the commonalities between different artists’ creative processes. The development of this show helped to strengthen the participant’s artistic relationship, and thus the overall cultural health of the community. The performance resulted in a new appreciation and understanding of Ipswich’s rich artistic culture, and provided a multifaceted experience for the audience. The project also gave local university students (specifically poets and animators) a chance to showcase their skills. The goal in offering and facilitating such unique opportunities is to inspire in participants a desire to continue to grow and share their musical abilities, while realizing their full potential as musicians and active supporters of the Arts. While the Orchestra supports the work of professional music performances and adult performers, it also encourages and motivates many young people to make music as well! The Orchestra On The Hill enhances the community through performances and projects designed to increase awareness and appreciation of the area’s eclectic art scene. More unique cultural events are sure to come from The Orchestra on the Hill in the new year!

— quoted from an article written by Margaret Leahy for Ipswich Neighbors Magazine

Program