Music in Mid-Ohio returns to Classical 101 at 1 p.m. this Sunday, June 18. Through the end of September, the program will showcase performances in and around Columbus, "often by your friends and neighbors."
Chamber Music Columbus, Early Music in Columbus, the Jefferson Academy of Music and Opera Columbus bring internationally acclaimed artists to our area, and they all become part of the Music in Mid-Ohio family.
But I'm proudest of the locally based artists who call Classical 101 their broadcast home. The New Albany Symphony Orchestra, McConnell Arts Center Chamber Orchestra, Columbus Children's Choir, Columbus International Children's Choir, Capriccio Columbus and Opera Project Columbus are part of the family!
Additionally, we are delighted to present outstanding local church music programs, from First Congregational Church, First Community Church and St. Joseph Cathedral.
The season premiere of Music in Mid-Ohio this Sunday features Percy Grainger's Lincolnshire Posy and Ingolf Dahl's Sinfonietta for Concert Band. Donald McGinnis conducts the Ohio State University Concert Band in these performances from 1972.
I met McGinnis a few years ago through the wonderful Katherine Borst Jones, when he was a youthful 95. McGinnis was a professor emeritus in the OSU School of Music and director emeritus of bands. He was also principal clarinetist of the Columbus Symphony for two years, and principal flute for another 10.
McGinnis died last October at the age of 99. In 2012, friends, colleagues and former students of McGinnis established the Donald E. McGinnis School of Music New Day Fund to revitalize the School of Music facilities.
Based on my one afternoon in his company, it's easy to understand why McGinnis was dearly loved by generations of musicians.
I am honored to present the 1972 performances in his memory, as Classical 101 begins a new season of Music in Mid-Ohio.
