Southern Tier Symphony Presents an Adventure in Music

Thursday, February 1st, 2024

by Ed. Simone


When the Southern Tier Symphony performs this weekend in Olean and Bradford the
music will surely raise pulses and cause feet to tap, with a program of orchestral favorites
guaranteed to prompt some energetic "air conducting."


"Adventure," is this weekend's concert program and the latest in the STS's "Journey On"
season, features dance music from Russia, France, Germany, Italy and the U.S.
"This is just a great program for anyone new to orchestral concerts," said STS Executive
Director Cyril Bodnar. "These pieces are a perfect introduction to the excitement of orchestral
concert music. Of course, fans of classical concerts will love it too."


"Adventure" showcases waltzes by Johann Strauss (senior and junior), the thrilling "Poet
and Peasant" Overture by Franz von Suppe, Rossini's overture to The Barber of Seville--yes, it's
the one Bugs Bunny uses to give Elmer Fudd a close shave--as well as two selections from
Tchaikovsky's Swan Lake and The Nutcracker. The STS will also play marches from this side of
the pond: John Philip Sousa's Stars and Stripes Forever and The Washington Post March.
American composer Leroy Anderson's Bugler's Holiday will feature a trio of trumpets, including
Cyril Bodnar himself.


Bodnar said he's enjoying his role as both musician and administrator.


"I'm working to be the liaison for the orchestra and the community," he said in an
interview this week. "Helping people in the community discover the joy of orchestral concerts
and encouraging folks to support their orchestra by becoming sponsors, donors and by attending
concerts. It's work that's full of unique challenges but also amazing rewards!"
Bodnar added that he loves working with the STS and their music director Benjamin
Grow.


"It's just plain fun to work with Ben," he said. "He's so committed to the music and the
orchestra and I know the audience can feel his and the orchestra's energy and artistry."
With such commitment and energy, and a roster of classical pops favorites, the Southern
Tier Symphony's "Adventure" should be an orchestral treat for audiences.
Concerts are this weekend: Saturday, February 3rd at 7:30 PM in the Regina Quick
Center for the Arts on the St. Bonaventure campus, and Sunday, February 4th at 3:00 PM in
Blaidsel Hall at U-Pitt Bradford.