Passion, Perseverance, and Music: An Interview with Alexandra Arrieche
Meet Alexandra Arrieche, the Brazilian-born conductor who is making waves in the classical music scene in Las Vegas. Alexandra’s passion for classical music started at a young age, inspired by movie soundtracks and the grandeur of orchestras. Today, she is the music director and conductor of the Henderson Symphony Orchestra, where she has been making a name for herself since 2016. In this interview, Alexandra shares her journey as a conductor and her insights on the changing landscape of classical music in Las Vegas.
Photo Credit: Guerin Blask
What drew you to the classical music world and how did it help prepare you for your position as a conductor?
I was born in Brazil, where classical music isn’t prevalent, but I was drawn to the big sounds of orchestras through movie soundtracks. I started taking piano lessons at age 11 and eventually began composing music for my friends to play. Through this experience, I discovered my passion for conducting. I was especially inspired by John Williams and his film music, as well as composers like Brahms, Beethoven, Debussy, and more recently, Philip Glass, John Adams, James McMillan, and Jennifer Higdon.
What led you to become a conductor?
I started conducting my friends and my teachers recognized my leadership skills. They encouraged me to invest in this talent, and I realized I had a voice and could be a role model for other women. When I researched the field, the first name that came up was Marin Alsop, and I was fascinated by her story. I got the chance to work with her and since then, she’s been a big influence in my life. We have a fellowship for women, which I’m proud to be a part of.
Photo Credit: Freya Goossens
Photo Credit: Boris Korpak
What was your first season with the Henderson Symphony Orchestra like?
When I first moved to Las Vegas in 2016, my first season with the Henderson Symphony Orchestra was about getting to know the community. We had longer concerts with intermissions at the Pavilion, but we eventually transformed the program to better serve the community and audiences. We now have a shorter program with no intermission, which is more in line with the types of shows people see on the Strip.
What are some accomplishments you’re excited about in your role as a conductor?
One of my passions is working with young artists, and that started with my first season in Henderson. I’ve been working directly with them and getting their teachers involved. They were phenomenal. I still keep in touch with most of the Young Artists. We’ve also had to adapt to changing venues, which has been a challenge.
Photo Credit: Guerin Blask
Photo Credit: Guerin Blask
Can you tell us about the new season?
This season, we’re doing a program called “Heroes” which features music from movies like “Batman” and “Superman.” It’s a fun program that showcases the power of orchestral music to evoke emotions and tell stories. We’re excited to share this with our audiences and to continue to grow and evolve as an orchestra.
Attention all music lovers! Don’t miss out on the chance to attend an incredible live concert on June 2nd at the Dollar Loan Center, WHAM! You’ll be able to enjoy amazing performances by talented musicians and experience an unforgettable evening of entertainment.
So gather your friends and family, and come join us for a night of great music, fun, and memories.
We can’t wait to see you there.
The website for the Henderson Symphony Orchestra is: https://www.hendersonsymphonynv.org/concerts-events.
Here is also a list of all the concerts of the season:
STAR WARS DAY THURSDAY – MAY 4, 2023 FEATURING PHANTOM STRIKES BACK AS THE MOVIE PLAYS https://thedollarloancenter.com WHAM!
FEATURING MICHAEL SHEPPARD (PIANO) AS “THE IVORY CRUSADER” FRIDAY – JUNE 2, 2023 | 7:30PM AT THE DOLLAR LOAN CENTER
BANG!
FEATURING DE ANN LETOURNEAU AS “SUPER-STRINGS LETOURNEAU” FRIDAY – SEPTEMBER 23, 2022 AT THE DOLLAR LOAN CENTER
MOVIE NIGHT FRIDAY – OCTOBER 7, 2022 WATER STREET PLAZA
MASQUERADE BALL SATURDAY – OCTOBER 29, 2022 LAKE LAS VEGAS
VETERANS DAY CONCERT SATURDAY – NOVEMBER 5, 2022 WATER STREET AMPHITHEATER
HOLIDAY JUKEBOX FEATURING CORONADO HIGH SCHOOL CHOIR FRIDAY – DECEMBER 9, 2022 | 7:30PM CORONADO HIGH SCHOOL
WOW!
FEATURING YVONNE COX AS “THE HARP GIRL” FRIDAY – FEBRUARY 24, 2023 | 7:30PM PINECREST SLOAN CANYON ACADEMY
YOUNG ARTISTS CONCERT FEATURING YOUNG ARTISTS WINNERS OF THE COMPETITION FRIDAY – MARCH 31, 2023 | 7:30PM PINECREST SLOAN CANYON ACADEMY
CONCERT 4KIDS FEATURING GREGORY SMITH’S THE ORCHESTRA GAMES NARRATOR: NATE TANNENBAUM THURSDAY – APRIL 13 2023 | 10:30AM AT THE DOLLAR LOAN CENTER
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