It was a spectacular evening of music under a golden sky as the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra treated more than 1,500 adults and children to popular and patriotic tunes such as the Star-Spangled Banner, America the Beautiful and selections from West Side Story. But one of the most poignant moments was when every person on the lawn looked up to see the bright rainbow that happened to appear at the same time the orchestra played Somewhere Over the Rainbow.
“I love to see the community come together for an event like this. Some have been coming each year for many years, and some are starting a new tradition," says Tom Werder, executive director of Morris Arts, which is celebrating its 40th year. "There were so many families with young children who seem mesmerized by the music. For many, this was their very first introduction to classical music. What a wonderful introduction!"
The event included an art show/sale and activities for children. "We had more art vendors than ever before," Werder adds. "It was great to watch our guests visit the artists and purchase their work. The 2013 edition of the Giralda Music & Art Festival was a huge success.”
Prizes were awarded for the most inventive picnic spreads, and this year a "luau" themed soiree took the title. Another highlight was a 50/50 raffle that helped support the Morris Arts scholarship program.
See you there next June!