ROCO Shows Its Serene and Wild Sides In Imaginative Opening To Its New Season — Classical Music Doesn’t Need To Be Traditional

From the serene environs of St. John the Divine Episcopal Church to the wildly imaginative scene at ARTECHOUSE Houston, ROCO launched its new musical season in Houston. Each year, the chamber orchestra is celebrated for its dynamic performances, pioneering spirit and commitment to building community through music.

“The Revelry” themed evening began with the annual concert in the church where the 40-member chamber orchestra, led by artistic partner Delyana Lazarova, showcased a dynamic program featuring two world premiere commissions: The Light Paintings by composer and saxophonist Alison Shearer (incorporating projected artwork from her late father, LIFE photojournalist John Shearer) and VISIONS by Leanna Primiani,  the work commissioned through the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program.

Also featured were Jonathan Peters’ Sonus Colorum and Symphony No. 3 in C Major by Nino Rota, the iconic Academy Award-winning composer of The Godfather. In a memorable moment that delighted guests, the orchestra surprised the audience with a special performance of Rota’s famous theme song from the legendary mob movie.

Concert goers were joined by additional ROCO supporters for the literally colorful dinner where champions of the arts were recognized. Fashion designer Chloe Dao was presented the Wildcatter in the Arts honor, recognized for her creative innovation and spirit.

Corporate Pillar of the Arts Awardee was Munck Wilson Mandala, an intellectual property law firm recognized for its advocacy, community investment and guidance under Houston managing partner John Cain. ROCO’s longtime managing director Amy Gibbs was honored for her dedication to the orchestra as she transitions into her new role as program officer for Arts & Culture at Houston Endowment.

“Revelry is a vibrant reflection of our spirit: a celebration of joy, connection and the incredible community that powers ROCO,” founder and artistic director Alecia Lawyer says. “As we launch our 22nd season, ROCO Odyssey, we were thrilled to gather at ARTECHOUSE to honor three visionaries who embody the creative energy of our city.”

The awards program, dinner and socializing with the musicians were punctuated by ARTECHOUSE environs which were rich with cutting-edge interactive projection art.

PC Seen: Susanne and Randall Evans, Tami Hiraoka, Zachary Horst and Taylor Kidd, Mary Catherine and Bailey Jones, Lona McManus and Gary Wulf, Amanda McMillian and Benjamin Holloway, Anne Park, Amanda Watson, and Karen Sumner.