Over the summer, the RI Philharmonic will perform a series of four free concerts.
Motif spoke with Jamie Allen, RI Philharmonic interim director of artistic operations, about the upcoming concerts.
What makes the concerts different from the Philharmonic’s regular season?
“It’s outside. It’s free.” Allen said, and the repertoire is selected to create, “A great vibe. And it’s OK to dance along to. … People go all out, they create a nice meal and they tailgate.”
⦿ Who decides the lineup of music?
Allen said the selections are made collaboratively by the conductor, the executive director, and the director of artistic operations, with an emphasis on, “What people will respond to.”
⦿ What’s new and different this year?
The pops haven’t been to Newport in 30 years and are returning this summer, August 9. “It’s a big thing to come back. We are looking forward to that.”
⦿ What are the challenges of playing outdoors?
Logistics requires the orchestra to rent some of the larger percussion instruments and amplifiers, rather than use their own. The members of the orchestra use clips to keep the sheet music from blowing away although some musicians just put their music on tablets.
⦿ What are your tips for people coming to the show?
“Get there early. You get to hear the rehearsal and it’s quite fascinating. You get to find the best spot and it’s very important on the beach because it gets very crowded.”
⦿ In an age of downloads and live streaming why fight the traffic and parking to see music in person?
“The feel is completely different. It is a real person sharing their art with you. It hits your heart in a way a recording never can.”
For more information and schedules visit : riphil.org/summer-pops