It sounds like something from another dimension. A sleek, silver barge docks quietly along a river bank, and a crowd watches as the roof lifts, revealing a stage equipped with pedestal seats for a full orchestra.
It’s not a UFO (though it has been mistaken for one), and it’s not a dream, though it is fantastical. It is the Point Counterpoint II, a floating arts center that is home to the American Wind Symphony Orchestra, which will perform at the John C. Stennis Lock and Dam June 23.
Local committees have spent weeks meticulously planning every aspect of the international group’s stay, from lodging to meals. The fundraising committee has also been busy trying to raise $40,000 to offset the orchestra’s costs before the performance date.
Committee member Rufus Ward said the group will perform, regardless, but the more money the committee raises, the more features the show can have, like a fireworks finale.
More than a decade has passed since the group last performed its free show in Columbus, but this time, they will stay several days. During that time, they plan to offer several chamber orchestra concerts around town and host a Cuban art exhibit onboard.
They also plan to fulfill their primary mission — educating young people so they might use music to better their lives. Area music students will be selected to receive one-on-one mentorship and tutoring. While in town, each musician will be paired with a local family, preferably in households with a child who plays the same instrument.
“This will be a once in a lifetime event for students who will become a part of a world-renowned orchestra while it’s here,” said Dr. Martha Liddell, interim superintendent of the Columbus Municipal School District. “The most exciting part for me is knowing our students will be able to interact with other young people their age from different countries and cultures.”
Ward said the event will possibly draw as many as 10,000 people from a 100-mile radius, making it attractive for local business owners as well. Because the group typically performs in places like London, Paris and St. Petersburg, their appearance could be used to showcase the rich cultural experiences Columbus offers.
The orchestra had originally planned to travel from Mobile, Ala. to Chattanooga, Tenn., only making a brief stop in Columbus, but Agnes Zaiontz, director of the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway Transportation Museum, convinced them to come to Columbus.
YMCA Community Relations Director Barbara Bigelow said she’s looking forward to the concert. She saw the orchestra perform the last time they were in Columbus, and she loved it. Now she’s volunteering on the food committee to help provide the musicians’ meals during their stay.
“They were absolutely fabulous,” she said of the previous performance. “This big barge pulls up to land, and the top of it opens and it’s a gorgeous orchestra setting. You think you’re in some huge orchestra hall.”
She also likes the locale at the lock and dam, because it allows people to bring lawn chairs and blankets and enjoy a casual, outdoor atmosphere.
Still, there is the expense to be considered, and Ward said his committee is currently soliciting donations. Select donors will be invited aboard the barge for a private concert and wine and cheese party.
“When they were here before, fundraising wasn’t a problem, because the economy was booming,” Ward said. “With the present economy, it does make it more difficult. But every little bit helps. It all adds up.”
Those interested in making a donation can call the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway Transportation Museum at 662-328-8936, or they can mail checks or money orders to: American Wind Symphony Orchestra Committee, P.O. Box 671, Columbus, MS 39703.
Carmen K. Sisson is the former news editor at The Dispatch.
You can help your community
Quality, in-depth journalism is essential to a healthy community. The Dispatch brings you the most complete reporting and insightful commentary in the Golden Triangle, but we need your help to continue our efforts. In the past week, our reporters have posted 36 articles to cdispatch.com. Please consider subscribing to our website for only $2.30 per week to help support local journalism and our community.