| Keith Lockhart, Utah Symphony director conducts the concert at Emery High School in Castle Dale. |
The Utah Symphony came to Emery County to share their love and concern with county residents. In the wake of the Crandall Canyon mine disaster symphony members wondered what they could do to help.
Symphony director, Keith Lockhart said they decided to do what they do best and that is to make music. So, with the help of many volunteers a concert was put together for the communities here in the county.
“Music is a common bond. It is positive and optimistic. Tragedy brings people together,” said Lockhart.
Price Mayor Joe Piccolo said he is officially from North Emery. He shared thoughts and prayers from people around the nation. He said some children in a New York childrens’ hospital sent pictures they had drawn and a prayer. Another group had sent a gift of nine shawls to the nine families of the men who died. Another thing Piccolo was very proud of was the offering of a scholarship at the College of Eastern Utah for any of the miners families.
| Utah Symphony members take their bows as the Emery County audience expresses their appreciation with a standing ovation. |
“We welcome you here and this is a beautiful way to help heal,” said Piccolo.
Lockhart introduced Renese King who sang the National Anthem and was the guest vocalist for the evening. Ms. King is recognized worldwide for her talent as an instrumentalist, choral director and arranger. She has appeared all along the East Coast and toured internationally. She continues to focus on the unifying and uplifting message at the heart of gospel music.
The musical selections played by the symphony included: Fanfare for the Common Man, The Star Spangled Banner, Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring, Adagion for Strings, Steal Away/Deep River arranged by Renese King, Nimrod from Enigma Variations and Symphony number one.