Moscow orchestra wows Irvine crowd

Friday nights at Penn usually consist of partying, studying or heading home to New Jersey. But this past Friday, something quite different drew students out of their dorms -- the Moscow Chamber Orchestra. Over 800 Philadelphia community members, professors and students attended the MCO performance in Irvine Auditorium. "I just came on a whim," said College junior Chad Drummond, who learned of the event from a friend. "I've heard they're pretty good." As the lights dimmed, the chattering subsided and total silence filled the room. The musicians entered the stage, followed by the conductor. Almost immediately, music erupted throughout the auditorium, capturing all ears and eyes. MCO is renowned as one of the world's best chamber ensembles. Conductor Constantine Orbelian, who has been with MCO since 1991, took the audience through a program that ranged from Bach to Schnittke. Orbelian studied at the prestigious Julliard School of Music, making his living as a concert pianist before achieving his position with MCO. A Penn freshman remarked on Orbelian's minimal gestures. "He barely moved his hands, and the orchestra still was able to follow him perfectly," said the student, who wished to remain anonymous. "Now, that is impressive." Polish contralto Ewa Podles added to the evening, singing arias from Handel's opera Rinaldo. Drummond said he was pleased with the performance. "I liked it," the newcomer said. "I would see them again." Jim Miles, a Philadelphia resident who earned a Penn Master's degree in 1986, showered praises on the Chamber Orchestra. "I am a music afficionado, and I thought they were great," Miles said. And Penn faculty members offered their own accolades. Vladimir Muzykantov, a Pharmacology Professor in the School of Medicine, noted that the concert was "terrific." Muzykantov's taste in classical music may have to do with his name. "My last name translates to 'Son of Musicians,'" he explained. The almost 45-year-old MCO also played at Penn during a 1999-2000 U.S. tour. Friday's performance was part of Penn Presents' Classical Music Series.