Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra performing a Yuletide Celebration at the
Columbia Theatre as part of their Beethoven in blue jeans series.
The Lion's Roar / McKenzie DeSandro
 

People from all over the North Shore filled the seats of the Columbia Theatre to see the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra perform. 

On Friday, Dec. 5, the orchestra performed their Yuletide Celebration to help raise Christmas spirits in Hammond.

The show kicked off with the all-familiar “Sleigh Ride” written by Leroy Anderson in 1946, engaging all ages.

“My favorite song so far was the first one, ‘Sleigh Ride.’ I like the original Christmas music,” said Michelle Becnel of Hammond. “It just has a sense of familiarity to it that really makes you feel good.”

The show quickly took a turn into some lesser known pieces, such as “Les Patineurs,” otherwise known as “Skater’s Waltz,” and “Hansel and Gretel: Evening Prayer and Dream Pantomime.” 

Both songs showcased the talent of the orchestra, particularly the violins which caused at least one audience member to recall fond memories of her father. 

“I keep thinking how much my dad would have loved watching all these violins,” said Susan Cook of Hammond. “He played the violin. It’s just amazing to me, since I don’t play anything, what people can do when they’re behind these instruments.”

While some enjoyed the comfort of the familiar songs or the memories and feelings the music brought back, others held onto the overall spirit of the show.

“I don’t think it’s any particular song, I just think it’s the spirit. It’s done in such a light-hearted way,” said Paul Hailes of Hammond. “I think the conductor particularly has got a nice sense of humor. The way he’s sort of introducing pieces is fantastic. It helps people who may not know the pieces as well settle into them, and I think his enthusiasm really comes out through those pieces.”

The aforementioned conductor, Robert Bernhardt, has worked since 1981 as the assistant conductor to “bring his unique combination of easy style, infectious enthusiasm and wonderful musicianship to the city and orchestra he loves,” according to the program given at the show. 

The Yuletide Celebration ended with a Christmas Sing-along with the help of Kenner guest choirs from St. Martin’s Episcopal School and Kehoe-France School, Slidell guest choirs from Clearwood Junior High School and Little Oak Middle School and Southeastern’s own Choir.

The Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra will have their next performance on Dec. 18 at 7:30p.m. at First Baptist Church, New Orleans. They will be performing “Outside the Bachs, Baroque Christmas.” For more information on upcoming performances and show times, visit lpomusic.com.