Donations still are being sought to help fund the American Wind Symphony Orchestra, which entertained about 2,000 Saturday at the East Bank of the John C. Stennis Lock and Dam in Columbus.
Event organizers expected a larger crowd, but those who attended seemed to enjoy the show, despite the oppressive summer heat, which kept many away.
“It was fabulous,” said Glenn Lautzenhiser, who helped bring the floating orchestra, which performed on the Point Counterpoint II barge, to the area.
“I’ve had so many people call me or stop me on the street and tell me how much they enjoyed it and what a great experience it was and how enriching it was. We’ve just had so much very positive feedback from everyone in the community. The main problem was the weather. That was the only drawback. The band is so unique and special. People really responded to it. It was really great. We’ve not had a negative comment.”
“We were expecting more than that,” he admitted of the crowd size. “People said, ‘I wanted to come, but I just could not fight the heat.’ I understand that. I was out there for about seven hours and it was hot; there’s no question about that. But those who came out were glad they fought the heat and came.”
Other organizers echoed Lautzenhiser’s sentiments.
“Attendance was a little lower than we had thought, but then again, it wasn’t bad for as hot as it was,” said Rufus Ward, who also — along with Lautzenhiser and Agnes Zaiontz of the Tenn-Tom Tourism Council — worked to bring the orchestra to Columbus. “And the performance was beyond my expectations.
“It was just really a wonderful group of talented people,” he added.
The event was free to the public and was funded by donations, which still are needed.
“They reduced, greatly, what they were charging and we’re still trying to raise some money to provide funding for them,” said Ward. “(The Symphony’s director Robert Boudreau) absorbed some of the cost of coming to Columbus. They not only lost money, but wanted to come anyway. We’re still trying to raise money for them, so they can keep doing this. They depend on contributions to keep this going.”
“I think Columbus is the most remarkable city we play,” said Boudreau, confirming the orchestra took a cut in its fee to perform at the Lock and Dam. “Our normal fee is $25,000 and we received $15,000. That’s significant for a non-profit. I was aware of this. They gave us this and they are trying to get us some more financial backing. It’s not a bad thing. Everyone has financial problems. It’s only to pay the kids (performing).”
“They provided such a wonderful experience that we hope we raise enough money to help them break even and we still need to raise some more to help them,” said Ward.
To make a donation, call 662-328-8936.
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 46 articles to cdispatch.com. Please consider subscribing to our website for only $2.30 per week to help support local journalism and our community.
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 46 articles to cdispatch.com. Please consider subscribing to our website for only $2.30 per week to help support local journalism and our community.
