Congratulations and commendations are in order for the West Valley Symphony and those individuals who have made it happen. The Dec. 8 performance at Abravanel Hall was a worthy achievement for them.
"The Many Moods of Christmas," as it was billed, included the Northern Utah Chorale Society and also the West Valley Symphonic Chorus performing with the symphony. Playing to a nearly packed house, these music groups enchanted those in attendance with their renditions of several holiday favorites. The quality was outstanding and extremely enjoyable even to me, one who is not a usual symphony attender.This volunteer organization, spearheaded by Ralph Baker, a longtime resident of West Valley City, deserves a great deal of thanks for the fine job they have done in the past three years building the West Valley Symphony to what it now is and the positive recognition it brings to our city.
It seemed like conductor Robert Lentz and associate conductor Stephen Baker virtually reached out and pulled the finely coordinated music from the many voices and instruments for the benefit of those in attendance. Guest conductor Lori Lentz was equally effective in her appearance for several numbers.
They did the citizens of West Valley City very proud that evening, as they have in all they have participated in. It certainly has not come easy. A great deal of credit must go to Ralph Baker, the founder, for his commitment, hard work and monetary contributions, in making it all happen.
Bill Barton
West Valley City