[Harp-L] Riverside Philharmonic Review

[Robert Bonfiglio <bon@xxxxxxxxxx>]

RIVERSIDE COUNTY PHILHARMONIC
What: "Unexpectedly Wild," featuring guest artist Robert Bonfiglio on 
harmonica
When: Saturday
Next: "A Joyful Noise," with guest artist Min Ji Kim on cello, 8 p.m. 
Jan. 20
Where: Riverside Municipal Auditorium, 3485 Mission Inn Ave., Riverside
Information: (951) 787-0251;  www.thephilharmonic.org


Next on the program was the featured soloist, Robert Bonfiglio, playing 
the Villa-Lobos "Concerto for Harmonica and Orchestra." Harmonica? No, 
that's not a typo. It can be more than a folk and blues instrument and 
Bonfiglio proved it. His instrument was beautifully played and proved 
to be a chameleon when playing with the orchestra. It blended perfectly 
with the woodwinds and strings and at other times stepped forward and 
took the solo role.

Bonfiglio played with emotional intensity and flawless technique. He is 
a true artist and musician who proved he is worthy of being called "The 
Paganini of the Harmonica." Maestro Flynn and the orchestra also did 
their part in supporting the soloist without overpowering him.

His encore, a blues number, gave us a taste of what was to come in the 
second half of the concert.

Bonfiglio returned with six harmonicas and an amplifier to show us what 
the harmonica could really do in the hands of a master. Giving the 
audience "permission to boogie," he played a medley of Elvis tunes 
called "Elvis Lives!"

The only things missing were a white jumpsuit and shades. He took the 
harmonica through every emotion, from sweet to nasty and everything in 
between. From the tender "Are You Lonesome Tonight?" to the dirty "Blue 
Suede Shoes," he poured his soul out and shared with us his passion for 
music. He did the King proud.

Maestro Flynn and the philharmonic were in top form. They showed us why 
they deserved the $300,000 grant from the James Irvine Foundation.