Wind damage prompts Henderson symphony to switch venues

By Tiffany Gibson

Friday, May 14, 2010 | 1:12 p.m.

The saying, “the show must go on,” was one the Henderson Symphony Orchestra adopted this week after hearing that its upcoming concert venue was damaged by strong winds Monday night.

Molly Murphy, executive director of the orchestra, said the group was scheduled to perform at the Henderson Pavilion, 200 S. Green Valley Parkway, for a May 21 concert but was forced to move to Basic High School because of the damage.

The Henderson Symphony Orchestra spent six weeks preparing for the "Master Series IV: Season Finale" concert with guest pianist Pavel Gintov. Murphy said the orchestra performs six concerts at the pavilion each year.

“That’s our home,” she said. “All concerts for the summer are having to be rescheduled.”

She said harsh winds ripped through the pavilion’s tent, which is fixed over the seating area. The fabric of the roof is said to contribute to high frequency sound for amplified performances, officials say. It is expected to be out of commission for a few months to repair the damage.

The concert is now scheduled for the Basic High School auditorium at 8 p.m. May 21. The orchestra will perform Prokofiev Piano Concerto No. 3 and Sibelius, Symphony No. 2. Murphy said a pre-concert discussion will take place at 7:15 p.m. to discuss the pieces chosen and their history.

“The culture in Henderson is so important,” Murphy said. “It’s a great city.”