Commentary: Riding a musical magic carpet at Auburn's Symphonic Sorcery

Do you know that feeling when profound music emphasizes a pivotal point in a movie? That visceral joy and euphoria? The audience was gifted that feeling continually during the Auburn Symphony's Symphonic Sorcery earlier this month. I was there, and the consensus was the same. We were all riding a musical magic carpet from one amazing composition to the next. And the children in attendance were enchanting, wide-eyed and engaged, especially when they heard a familiar piece. They studied the musicians, the instruments and the waving of Maestro Ryan Murray's baton. There were moments of astonishment by all and appreciation of the superb talent and accomplishment of the orchestra, masterfully performing pieces from Lord of the Rings, Harry Potter, Frozen, The Wizard of Oz, Igor Stravinsky's The Firebird and Paul Dukas' The Sorcerer's Apprentice. Costumes donned by musicians and patrons highlighted the spirit of the day. As did wonderful friends of the symphony, the Sugar Plump Fairies, with their beautiful witch costumes, gifting treats and their own special brand of energy and excitement. The annual costume parade was lively and fun, with costumed patrons of all ages taking a star-turn crossing the stage with a pause for a bow, all while the orchestra played on. Witches' hats off to the Auburn Symphony, staff, volunteers and patrons! You are all magic! For more information, contact the Auburn Symphony staff at 530-823-6683, by email at AuburnSymphonyOffice@gmail.com, or visit the office at 985 Lincoln Way, Suite 102, Auburn. Visit the Symphony website at AuburnSymphony.com. Carol Guild is a freelance writer, longtime Auburn resident and believer in magic. Reach her at PacificCoastEditor@gmail.com.