It’s No Joke: The Kamuela Philharmonic Plays For Free

On April 1, the Kamuela Philharmonic will present a special comically entertaining event that will take the “stuffiness” out of classical music. The Kamuela Philharmonic’s Orchestra Musical Director, Dr. Madeline Schatz, explained that playful renditions and interpretations of Baroque and classical pieces will be in the night’s repertoire.

This April Fool’s concert will feature compilations by entertainer-satirist, Peter Schickele. He has entertained audiences with his retelling of borrowed, or extremely influenced classical pieces and mash-ups.

Intriguing or odd, Schickele creates new sounds and instruments for the old made new classics. His humorous style is more than tongue-in-cheek; it’s ribald and slapstick.

The lineup includes the “Unbegun Symphony,” “Eine Kleine Nichtmusic” and “Beethoven Symphony 5: New Horizons in Music Appreciation.”  Television personality Lyman Medeiros, will narrate that last piece.

Peter Schickele, image courtesy

This free concert will draw a mixed crowd. Classical music enthusiasts may be entertained by identifying the night’s not so subtle influences and well, plagiarism of the great works. Classical music neophytes might find the antics and oddities of the day entertaining while becoming generally acquainted with period pieces.  Schickele’s works under the name P.D.Q Bach has been received and appreciated in venues from Las Vegas to New York.

The afternoon concert begins at 4 p.m. However, the audience is advised to come early as seating is limited. Visit www.kahilutheatre.org, or www.kamuelaphil.com for more information.  Kahilu Theater is located behind the Kamuela Center at 67-1186 Lindsey Road.