Humboldt County has long prided itself as an artistic community. A shining example of creativity is the Eureka Symphony.
The local group is comprised of musicians from a variety of professions. Started as a small ensemble in 1991 by Patricia Person and conductor Kenneth Hannaford, it has now grown to a full symphony under the conducting of Carol Jacobson. Playing many local venues in the past, the Eureka Symphony now makes its home at the Arkley Center for the Performing Arts. One of the former conductors of the Eureka Symphony is Kenneth Ayoob. Ayoob teaches clarinet and music education courses in the music department at Humboldt State University and is the director of the university's symphonic band and chamber winds. The current conductor of the Eureka Symphony, Carol Jacobson, earned a Bachelor's Degree from Humboldt State and also conducts for the Northern Humboldt School District. In addition to conducting, Jacobson also performs as a cellist with the Helmholtz Trio, which includes violinist Terrie Baune and pianist Deborah Clasquin. Alan Rice is a Humboldt State graduate and co-owner with brother Gregory Rice of Bucksport Sporting Goods in Eureka. "Carol is an inspiration to the community on many levels; her focus on youth is very great," Rice said.
Their youth program features many student artists, some as young as 12. They had a performance Feb. 2 and 3, featuring student musicians Clara Lisle, a senior at Arcata High, Otis Harriel, 16, and Kira Weiss, 12. Weiss's grandparents traveled all the way from the East Coast to see her perform. The Symphony is now accepting applications for the Young Artist Concerto Competition, due in October 2008.
The Eureka Symphony's board of directors serves to represent the players and bring their needs into light. Rice also serves as a member on the Board. "The Board is an important part of the equation, it's there to keep the players content," Rice said.
Donald Forrest has been with the Symphony as the narrator for two seasons. "They set a standard for excellence in a little place with high standards," Forrest Said. He described working with that great talent as an honor and as a lot of fun.
Playing third chair violin for the ensemble is Julie Fulkerson, who has been with the group for four years. Fulkerson Recital Hall on the Humboldt State campus is named for her father. Fulkerson also introduced President Clinton during his recent visit to Eureka. "Playing with Carol for the Symphony has been one of the greatest experiences of my lifetime. She's very talented and inspiring," Fulkerson said.
New as the concertmaster this season is recent Humboldt State graduate Halim Beere. Beere also teaches viola lessons and Chamber Music at Humboldt State. As the concertmaster, Beere plays the lead violin and also leads the entire orchestra in tuning before a concert. Concertmasters also play violin solos specified in a piece.
Upcoming events include a show on April 4 and 5 entitled "Of Kings and Fairy Tales," which will have pieces by Edouard Lalo and Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky.
***Eliz recommends side bar (related to contest mentioned in mid-story) with info. On how to apply to the Young Artist Concerto…if time/space allows
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