Capturing serenity at the Symphony Pops' on the Green

Capturing serenity for 26 years now, the Symphony ‘Pops’ on the Green concert was again enjoyed by hundreds who either sat on lawn chairs, or at tables, on the lovely manicured grounds of the Grand Tradition estate.

The annual event is presented by the Fallbrook Music Society, led by Brenda Montiel, president. Some elements of the experience remain the same, year after year, elements like the glow of candles from lakeside tables, or the reflection of the orchestra on the lake surface, or the echo of clinking wine glasses. These constants have become something to count on – like a close friend. Of course, the most evident constant is the music. It is always inspired, always delightful.

This year, on Aug. 18, the San Diego Symphony, under the direction of conductor Matthew Garbutt, presented the “The Best of Broadway.” Garbutt has been with the symphony for over 25 years and began conducting at age 16. The San Diego Symphony celebrated its 100th anniversary last year and is the first California orchestra to do so.

Songs by composers Rodgers and Hammerstein, and Lerner and Loewe among others, struck a familiar chord with the audience. There was barely a ripple on the lake when the first strains of music drifted across to the lawn. Guests nodded their heads or tapped feet and some even sang softly. When, “Wouldn’t It Be Loverly” was played, I found it a bit difficult to stifle a song.

The featured soloist was Melissa Chaty, Miss California 2007, who began with, “I Could Have Danced All Night,” from My Fair Lady. With a clear and strong voice she sang with an English accent and, as she reached some amazingly high notes, made it look simple.

The Fallbrook Music Society has worked its pricing structure so that this annual event can be affordable. Guests may purchase admission only and then bring their own meal and low-backed lawn chairs. The next price level is a concert ticket and a table.

One year I sat at a lakeside table, which, in my opinion, enhanced the experience – with the candles reflecting on the lake and the pleasant watery scent enveloping the table. Lakeside tables go quickly, so they need to be reserved early. This year I sat at a table on the lawn, because I didn’t take my own advice and reserve early, but the view was also stunning. There is no unlovely view at the Grand Tradition.

Tablecloths are not provided, a practice which creates a colorful scenario, as the lawn is dotted with a variety of table-coverings. Guests take their Symphony on the Green table-adorning tasks quite seriously with their unique tablecloths, flowers, candles and elaborate centerpieces. This year, my table took on a Victorian flair partially due to my Grandma Knudsen’s linen and hand-crocheted tablecloth.

If hauling coolers and picnic baskets doesn’t appeal to you, boxed dinners are available for purchase (ahead of time). This year the boxed meal consisted of a sandwich (three choices), pasta salad, two cookies and a drink. Dominick’s Deli provided the meal, which was delicious – at least the roast beef sandwich version was!

The concert, once again, evoked a serene atmosphere; and the consensus seemed to be, “It gets better every year.” This thought was verbalized verbatim by both Sharon Koehler and Len Campbell, who were sitting at opposite ends of the venue.

For information on future Fallbrook Music Society concerts please access the website:

http://www.fallbrookmusic society.org.

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