Oregon Symphony Kicks Off Season with Cannons and Fireworks

Portland, September 3rd, 2015. Tom McCall Waterfront Park was filled with the sound of music for the Oregon Symphony’s annual concert. Closing festivities included the traditional grand finale—Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture with an elaborate fireworks show, complete with military cannons from the Oregon Army National Guard 218th Field Artillery. A host of warm-up performances preceded the concert. Waterfront Concert Leads a Spectacular List of September Concerts as Oregon Symphony Opens the 2015/16 Season The concert signals the opening of the music season in Portland and the 2015/16 Symphony season.

Hillsboro School District Mariachi Una Voz — at Tom McCall Waterfront Park.

Hillsboro School District Mariachi Una Voz entertained the crowd.

Others included: OSU Steel Drum Choir, Metropolitan Youth Symphony, Kevin Burke, Irish fiddler, Metropolitan Youth Symphony, Bravo Youth Orchestra, Stephanie Schneiderman/ Tony Furtado, vocals and guitar, Portland Taiko Drums, Portland Youth Philharmonic, Bloco Alegria Portland/Rio-style samba band.

It’s a season kick-off with plenty of panache!

Carlos Kalmar poses by the All Classical Crusier

Carlos Kalmar poses by the All Classical Cruiser at the family friendly event.

Mayor Charlie Hales, OSO President Scott Showalter, and Commissioner Amanda Fritz.

Fans said, “What a fantastic concert, a tour de force, a triumph!”

There were food options for everyone, Salt and Straw was a favorite.

From the Oregon Symphony:
Since the was established more than 100 years ago, it has been recognized for its internationally acclaimed music directors, skilled performers, diverse programs and outstanding community services in education and regional touring. The Oregon Symphony now ranks among the largest orchestras in the nation and as one of the largest arts organizations in the Northwest, with an attendance of more than 225,000 people annually and 76 full-time musicians.

Elisa Klein

I’ve been a professional journalist and writer since 1987, (and long-time reporter for KOIN-TV.) As a nationally published reporter, with a Master’s Degree in Journalism, I love to report positive news and information. Journalism has also connected me with another non-profit where I served as a leader; the Northwest’s biggest writer’s organization: The Willamette Writers.