Role

:

Ensemble

Period

:

Romantic

Genre

:

Opera

 

 

Orchestral

 

The American Promenade Orchestra is a classical music ensemble that was founded in 1985 by conductor and pianist Peter Nero. The orchestra is based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and is known for its performances of American popular music and classical repertoire. Peter Nero, who was born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1934, began his career as a pianist and conductor in the 1950s. He became the music director of the Philly Pops in 1979 and founded the American Promenade Orchestra six years later. The orchestra's name was inspired by the tradition of promenade concerts, which were popular in the 19th century and featured outdoor performances of light classical music. The American Promenade Orchestra's main members include Peter Nero as conductor and pianist, as well as a group of talented musicians who specialize in classical and popular music. The orchestra has performed with a number of notable guest artists, including Tony Bennett, Mel Tormé, and Marvin Hamlisch. One of the highlights of the American Promenade Orchestra's career was its performance at the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul, South Korea. The orchestra was chosen to represent the United States at the cultural festival that accompanied the games, and performed a program of American popular music and classical favorites. The American Promenade Orchestra has also been recognized for its contributions to the world of classical music. In 1990, the orchestra received a Grammy Award for Best Classical Crossover Album for its recording of "By Request: The Best of Peter Nero." The album features Nero's arrangements of popular songs, as well as classical pieces by composers such as Gershwin and Rachmaninoff. In addition to its Grammy Award, the American Promenade Orchestra has received numerous other accolades throughout its career. The orchestra has been praised for its innovative programming and its commitment to preserving and promoting American popular music. It has also been recognized for its contributions to music education, and has performed at a number of schools and universities throughout the United States. Today, the American Promenade Orchestra continues to perform and record music that celebrates the rich tradition of American popular music and classical repertoire. The orchestra's performances are known for their energy, passion, and commitment to excellence, and its members are dedicated to sharing their love of music with audiences around the world.

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