By Virginia Wright

The Northwest Symphony Orchestra, under the baton of conductor Anthony Spain, has been performing the classics to the greater Highline area since 1987, with awards, recognition, and appreciation from local fans and nationally throughout its well-received career. NWSO has received special recognition for its commitment to presenting the works of northwest composers. As of 2012, 125 works by northwest composers had been performed by the orchestra, providing audiences with the rare opportunity to hear music being created for symphonic orchestra by local talent. This combination of the classic repertoire with newer works with a regional connection provides for a rich musical experience, and the Highline area is fortunate to have such high a caliber symphonic orchestra make its home here. More information on the orchestra and its illustrious history can be found on its website.

Locals have an opportunity to see the orchestra this Friday at Highline Performing Arts Center, for its popular Valentine's Day Concert, this year themed "Latin Passion." The program is an exciting one, with "Capriccio Italien," by Piotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, "Carmen Suite No. 1," by Georges Bizet, "El Salon Mexico," by Aaron Copland, and "Bolero," Maurice Ravel.

In addition to these familiar pieces, the orchestra will also perform "Salsa," by Northwest composer Ian Guthrie. Ian Guthrie has spent his entire life immersed in music, composing and playing the piano from a very early age. His career as a composer has gone through an evolution of styles, maturing into a style he prefers to refer to as “Surrealism,” incorporating romantic and modern styles and techniques, with influences from non-western musical sources. His pieces range from piano solo compositions, to vocal works, to full orchestral pieces, and one film score. More information on Guthrie, including recordings of his compositions, can be found on his website.

Northwest Symphony Orchestra: “Latin Passion”
Highline Performing Arts Center
7:30 PM, Friday, February 14, 2014
Tickets $12-$15