Keep Going!

I am eager to share my impressions of the American Contemporary Classical Orchestra - now from viewpoints that did not exist for me, personally, until a short time ago. I am an audience member, a friend of Maestro Dokken’s, (since before the orchestra began), and more recently, a composer whose work he and Jacque Fontaine-Isaac have performed.

Maestro Dokken’s idea – he told me 2 years ago – seemed unique; that is, an orchestra that deliberately focused on living, contemporary American composers. Yes, of course, the classics have their place – we all admire them. But the freshness of new music, from living composers, seemed an “aha” insight waiting for expression.

I attended the Lee Holdridge concert and was stunned (though not surprised) by the quality of the performance, the professionalism of all, and the complete dedication of the artists. And, clearly, everyone was having fun! Mr. Holdridge held an insightful talk-back after the concert. That concert also featured a superb original four-movement piano concerto by Arnold Kirshenbaum, whom I have known for several years.

For her April 9, 2026 “Jacque sings Broadway” concert, Jacque asked to include a song I co-wrote (part of an upcoming musical based on the Book of Ruth). The interpretation was superb, as is all of Jacque’s work. Again, there was the humor (“Hi, I’m Jacque and I’ll be your singer tonight.”) and then her duets with Maestro Dokken, whose stunning tenor voice made Phantom resonate. By the way, the house was packed.

Maestro Dokken, the Orchestra, and performers, a hearty well done to all. Keep going!

Robert Nath