The joy of movies and music and the glorious Phoenix Symphony

I took my 6-year-old to see “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” in concert at The Phoenix Symphony this past weekend.

I was blown away!

When we got there, we ran up and down the stairs, looked over the balcony, stood by the stage, and tried to identify instruments.

“What is that big guitar?” she asked, pointing at a bass viol.

It was exciting to watch the movie with a live orchestra and chorus. The music was so rich.

I appreciated it as never before, the different themes for characters and the art of matching up music to action. (He must compose after the scenes are edited, right?)

I wouldn’t mind having visuals during

every symphony concert! I also enjoyed the chorus. They were thrilling and atmospheric and indispensable.

Their skill, especially with the difficult note clusters, shone out at every moment.

I wept during the mirror scene, as it evokes my desire to see my mother again.

My daughter hugged my neck and climbed into my lap. She covered her ears a lot during loud parts, but sat rapt for most of the show.

I am grateful for the chance to bring her to a show that is an easy entry into the magic of symphony music. I hope she will remember the joy, and also the power of music and art to move her mama to tears. — Rebecca Barry, Phoenix