Pixar In Concert

Pixar In Concert
Colorado Symphony
Boettcher Concert Hall
Denver, CO
January 15-16, 2015

Each year, the Colorado Symphony presents at least one concert with an animated theme. This year's offering Pixar In Concert was especially intriguing. This concert appeared to have wide appear. In attendance were families with children of all ages, but just as many adults without kids were there as well.

The concert was aided with three giant screens hung which showed parts of the film while each suite was played. In some cases it was selective scenes which focused on a small portion of the story. In others it was closer to a summary. Considering the audience is expected to be familiar with the movies, that wasn't an issue.

The brilliance of the presentation was that the focus was still on the music, despite the video screens. Without the dialogue, the scores shone. The first act included the most emotional music including Finding Nemo, A Bug's Life, Up and Wall E. The second act was more dynamic. Opening up with The Incredibles and including both Monsters Inc movies, Cars 2 and Toy Story 3.

The audience roared with approval throughout and at the conclusion rewarded with musicians with a standing ovation. While there is a place for Classical Masterpieces, clearly the Symphony has an appreciation for the music of today. Concerts like this should only broaden their appeal and solidify the need for an orchestra in Denver.