I am in Gadsden, AL this weekend to premiere Daniel Dorff's delightful Piano Concerto with the ever-resourceful Maestro Mike Gagliardo and his Etowah Youth Symphony. Some know Daniel as a composer of wonderful music, or as Head of Publications at Theodore Presser Inc.

The youngsters play their hearts out, and last night, we were treated to a special concert featuring an Electric Strings ensemble made up of members of the Etowah Youth Symphony. These beautiful instruments are made by the amazing Mark Wood, a founding member and artist with the Trans-Siberian Orchestra. I was amazed! The sounds Mark is able to get from his electric violin was astounding--much more than saying it is like an electric guitar with a bow--it's very special. Youth orchestras should seek him out for a special guest visit. The kids were terrific and he enjoyed working with them immensely.

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