The Davenport Pops Orchestra looked across the pond for inspiration for its “Faux Pops” concert, held Sunday in Battell Chapel.
The event — which featured music from operas and popular movies — was organized around a loosely Parisian theme, riffing on the idea of a “romantic date in France,” according to concert organizers. Michael Wang ’17, the orchestra’s conductor, said he hoped this theme could serve as a gesture of solidarity with France and the French people in light of November’s terrorist attacks in the country’s capital.
“This music and theme in particular became relevant to the tragic events in Paris at the time of its performance,” Wang said. “We hoped that, while not dedicated specifically to France, the concert would be an artistic picture of gladder times and a fitting tribute in solidarity with the French people.”
In tune with its theme, the program featured selections from Georges Bizet’s “Carmen” — including famous pieces like “Habanera” and “Toreador” — alongside compositions from “The Hunchback of Notre Dame,” “Ratatouille,” “An American in Paris” and “Les Misérables.” As with all of the Davenport Pops’ concerts, Wang said, the show’s musical selections were arranged by students.
Maggie Moor ’18, who plays bassoon in the ensemble, said she was pleased with the concert’s strong turnout, which filled Battell Chapel with over a hundred audience members.
“I love DPops because we are able to engage the audience with songs they love, and play music like Carmen and Ratatouille in the same concert,” Moor said.
The performance, Wang noted, attempted to connect with audience members by featuring popular, recognizable songs, including selections from famous operas, musicals and films.
Peri Shamlian ’17, who attended the event, said that she enjoyed the performance, adding that she “couldn’t have imagined spending an hour any other way.”
The Davenport Pops Orchestra was established in spring 2005.