CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa (KCRG) – Orchestra Iowa’s season begins in just over two weeks. On Tuesday, leaders of the nonprofit organization told TV9 that thanks to community support, they have enough money to purchase a key instrument for many of their shows.
The orchestra’s management announced that the celesta was on its way from Germany.
For 60 years, the celesta was an integral part of the Orchestra Iowa’s performances.
Last season, however, the small keyboard instrument stopped working and the non-profit organization was looking for a replacement.
“It’s an obscure but essential instrument, and like many craftsmen, sometimes you’re only as good as your tools,” says Tim Hankewich, music director of the Orchestra Iowa.
Hankewich said the instrument was surprisingly expensive because it was custom-made in Germany. More than $60,000, to be exact.
He said that you may not recognize the instrument when you see it, but you will recognize it when you hear it.
From compositions such as Hedwig’s theme from Harry Potter or the Sugar Plum Fairy from The Nutcracker…
“It adds so much sparkle and color to the orchestra, and that’s exactly what it is. It will make you smile when you hear it,” Hankewich said.
The start of the season is just around the corner, and many of the orchestra’s pieces this year will feature the celesta. Eric Marshall, CEO of Orchestra Iowa, said it’s important to cross the finish line before raising the baton for the first show.
“It’s just going to sound a lot better than our other one. It’s just going to take these performances, The Nutcracker, Home for the Holidays, Holiday Brass, to the next level every time we use it,” Marshall said.
Hankewich added that music is the language of emotions.
And he is ready to bring these emotions to the stage with his brand new celesta.
“I can’t wait for not only the orchestra to hear it for the first time, but also the audience to hear it for the first time. And I can tell you right now, the audience will sigh and gasp when they hear it,” Hankewich said.
The new celesta will be unveiled on the orchestra’s opening night on September 14.
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