Weekly Feature: Hidden Gems

Photos Courtesy: WKYC Videographer Brian Johnson

Today's Hidden Gem: The Cleveland Orchestra

Though The Cleveland Orchestra may not seem like a 'Hidden Gem' always in the spotlight, traveling the globe lead by world famous Franz Welser Most, it's a wonderful GEM to claim as our own here in Cleveland.

The Cleveland Orchestra has become a part of Cleveland's Fourth of July tradition on Public Square. Last night, almost 100,000 people gathered on Public Square for "A Star-Spangled Spectacular Concert and Festival" which was The Cleveland Orchestra's 19th Annual Free Downtown Concert!

Always a good time! My family has had the good fortune to attend. The roads are blocked off so you can bring your lounge chairs or just a blanket and set right in the middle of the street. One year we even made a weekend of it and stayed in a downtown hotel as if we were really on vacation! A great excursion!

Festivities usually kick off at this event around 4pm with entertainment and fun leading up to the big event: the Cleveland Orchestra Concert. And weather permitting, they try to offer a fireworks presentation!

This year's Public Square Concert was lead by guest conductor Giancarlo Guerrero.

The Cleveland Orchestra not only tours extensively abroad but has their delightful Severance Hall Concerts and Blossom Music Center performances.

The Cleveland Orchestra has a long rich history which began back in 1918. Concerts were held at Gray's Armory and then the Masonic Auditorium. In 1931 they moved into Severance Hall.

Not only does the Orchestra contribute to the musical richness of this area, but they have been giving back to the community and enhancing the area's education for all ages!

Some of the programs they offer include teaching students about music, the different kinds of instruments, and how to play them as well as giving young musicians access to the Youth Orchestra and Children's Chorus. They really offer events and experiences for all ages, all walks of life!

If you get the chance, try and catch a Cleveland Orchestra performance as well as hopping on their website to see all of the programs they have to offer and then you will see why The Cleveland Orchestra is this week's Hidden Gem!

Information Courtesy: The Cleveland Orchestra and their website and below photos Courtesy WKYC Videographer Brian Johnson.