TITLE: Congratulating the Brazosport Symphony Orchestra on its 30th anniversary.

SUMMARY: Congratulating the Brazosport Symphony Orchestra on its 30th anniversary.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, Community orchestras contribute greatly to the cultural richness of the Lone Star State, and in 2012, the Brazosport Symphony Orchestra celebrated its 30th anniversary; and WHEREAS, In the spring of 1982, Clayton Gilpin of the Brazosport Music Theater and local musicians Jeralyn Friedli and Margaret Davis met with Rice University conducting student Jim Hagberg to discuss starting a community orchestra; and WHEREAS, That summer, a group of student and local players formed a small string ensemble and performed a well-received concert under the direction of former high school orchestra director Bill Atkerson; in the fall of 1982, Mr. Hagberg was hired as the new group's conductor, to hold one rehearsal a week and three concerts during the 1982-83 season, and in 1983, Ms. Friedli and Linda Claiborne formed the symphony board of directors and the Symphony League; and WHEREAS, Composed of volunteer musicians from Brazosport and nearby towns, the BSO today performs under the baton of Dr. John Antonio Ricarte, who has been music director and conductor for seven years; affiliated now with the Brazosport Center Stages, the group performs six major concerts each year, including a family concert, a pops concert, a holiday concert, and three subscription concerts; and WHEREAS, The BSO's repertoire varies from classical works to Broadway favorites, and its performances have featured appearances by both professional soloists and talented community soloists as well as local choirs; since 2006, the orchestra has sponsored a Young Artists Competition, the winner of which receives a scholarship and a chance to play with the orchestra; and WHEREAS, The citizens of Brazosport are indeed fortunate to have this vibrant cultural institution in their midst to provide entertainment and inspiration, and this special anniversary represents a fitting opportunity to celebrate the contributions of this superb orchestra; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 83rd Texas Legislature hereby congratulate the Brazosport Symphony Orchestra on its 30th anniversary and extend to the symphony's conductor, musicians, and board of directors sincere best wishes for continued success; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for the orchestra as an expression of high regard by the Texas House of Representatives. Bonnen of Brazoria Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 1213 was adopted by the House on April 17, 2013, by a non-record vote. Chief Clerk of the House