Kieran Hanlon
Being invited to play with the acclaimed Cleveland Orchestra fulfilled a goal long held by Associate Professor Kieran Hanlon.
That goal arose for Mr. Hanlon, then high school, when he first heard the orchestra.
“This was a very special opportunity,” Mr. Hanlon said, not only to appear with the orchestra known for musical excellence and devotion to the community, “but also because of an experience I had in high school.”
That experience was 17 years ago, when Hanlon and his parents, while on a college visit to the Cleveland Institute of Music, were able to hear the orchestra rehearse in Severance Hall.
“Ever since that magical moment, I have always hoped to someday have the chance to play in that building.” Hanlon recalled.
The Cleveland Orchestra has achieved high praise from The New York Times, referring to it as “America’s finest, still,” Hanlon noted. “The group and the city are known as one of America's major traditions of total excellence as it relates to orchestral music,” he added.
Hanlon can point to several takeaways from his playing experience with the orchestra in the opening of its 2024-2025 concert series in Severance Hall. He relates the entire operation to running like a Swiss watch – “so incredibly organized and communicative.”
The sound of the Cleveland, OH, venue is part of the identity of the group's musical approach in such an obvious way, Hanlon noted. “I was absolutely knocked out by the sonic response. And lastly, I felt so totally welcomed by everyone, which really made the experience extra special.”
