The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra performs at South Park Amphitheater, July 2021.
“Just in time to celebrate America’s independence day, the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra returned in full force to present a pair of patriotic performances on Saturday and Sunday at the South Park Amphitheater and Hartwood Acres, respectively,” led by Associate Conductor Earl Lee, writes Jeremy Reynolds in Tuesday’s (7/6) Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. “Thousands of listeners flocked to the outdoor performances, setting up blankets and lawn chairs to catch the full orchestra’s first [concert] in more than a year due to COVID-19 lockdowns… Listeners experienced the full orchestral might of the PSO in classics such as Tchaikovsky’s ‘1812 Overture,’ famous film scores by John Williams including music from ‘E.T. (The Extra Terrestrial)’ and ‘Superman’ as well as the ‘Armed Forces Salute.’ Both performances were celebratory, heralding a return to normalcy for the orchestra as it heads toward a return to Heinz Hall in September. Until then, the orchestra will offer a range of outdoor programming at Hartwood Acres … Offerings include a mix of classical and pops offerings, and the orchestra will also continue to provide digital content. The fall classical season begins with the ‘Opening Weekend Celebration’ on Sept. 24.”
