The Orchestra Pit

Spring 1999 — Your orchestra pit reporter: Deb Walz

Now that I'm finally experiencing the after-show letdown, I'll reminisce a bit about the view from the Phantom pit:

In early February, I got the call requesting my presence in the pit (Yippee!!!) and shortly thereafter picked up the music. I ordered the CD and began listening to the music. At first, I was really worried. The trumpet part didn't sound too difficult -- no big, brassy dance numbers -- though it had its own unique challenges. But the vocal leads -- these parts sound really challenging -- can we really find that kind of talent locally??

All during February, March and April, I noticed that my mood was lighter. I *love* being involved in a musical. There's just something magical about it. Even though I had little to no contact with the cast, crew or other orchestra members, I was in my own little heaven listening to the music, learning the lyrics, playing along with the recording, etc.

In April, we had our first orchestra rehearsal -- a marathon that went from 2 pm to 5:30 for the orchestra, a 30 minute dinner break, then the 6-10 pm rehearsal with the combined orchestra and cast. At some point during the evening, I had to retrieve my lower jaw from the floor -- I was absolutely amazed at the quality of the voices in the cast. Pat Lawrence ("Christine") was superb -- she made everything sound effortless. Joan Storey ("Carlotta") was one of my favorites -- not only did she play a wonderfully spiteful diva (loved all those rolled Rs), but I sensed that she was enjoying every minute immensely. And never before have I experienced a cast that was so warmly supportive and appreciative of the pit orchestra: Tom Ryder ("Erik"), Jay Lawrence ("Count de Chandon") and Chuck Emmons ("Jean-Claude") merit special recognition for that.

Of the, oh 18 or so musicals that I've performed, this one was the best: the best voices, the acting talent, the effects, the friendliness of the cast. It was a wonderful, wonderful experience that I hope to repeat. Though I think I shall soon run out of superlatives if I'm associated with the group for too much longer.