With the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra unable to host shows as usual amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, the group called on musicians for The Great ASO Play-a-Long.
Nearly 800 artists submitted themselves playing Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy.”
“Come one, come all instruments! This project is not just for orchestral instruments,” the initial announcement said. “We want to see an eclectic mix that reflects the diverse music landscape of Atlanta. We hope to see violins, bassoons, kazoos, mandolins, electric violas, melodicas and more.”
It wasn’t only the music that was diverse, however. Unlike a previous ASO virtual performance in which strictly featured the orchestra’s musicians, this one gathered members of the Atlanta community — including babies and children along with older adults — who played everything from the keyboard to a recorder, to an accordion and some creative, uncommon instruments.
“We had nearly 800 video submissions and we watched each one,” the ASO said on Facebook when the footage premiered. “To everyone who sent in a video, thank you for your talent and creativity.
“We loved performing with you,” it added.
Upon watching the performance, which the ASO posted on Facebook earlier this month, fans marveled over the creativity of Atlanta instrumentalists.
“Greatest piece of music ever written. Universal appeal. Love this presentation,” one person said.
“So creative! Loved how the many different musicians and instruments,” another remarked.
ASO announced reimagined programming for the fall amid the pandemic. A series of seven scaled-back, virtual concerts began in September and despite the ASO Chorus celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, gathering on stage to celebrate couldn’t happen this year as fall choral performances were canceled.
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