Classical concerts catch on in Brentwood

Nexus performance includes Celtic music, images
5:31 PM, Feb. 18, 2011
Written by Vicky Travis

BRENTWOOD — The Brentwood-based Nexus Chamber Orchestra features local musician John Mock at its free concert at 4 p.m. today at the Brentwood United Methodist Church's chapel.

Mock's photos from his travels to coastal areas of Ireland and Scotland will run in a slideshow while he and the strings orchestra play his original Celtic-flavored compositions. Mock also plays the concertina, penny whistle and mandolin. Mock will tell anecdotes about his photos during the hour-long concert, which will be followed by a meet-and-greet with the musicians.

"On a Sunday afternoon, it's perfect," said violinist Cathy Umstead, who along with her husband, Alan, founded the orchestra last summer.

The orchestra is made up of full-time musicians who make their living in the studio. Some play in the Nashville Symphony. But, they come together once a month to give a free concert at BUMC.
Last summer, the Umstead’s and their associates created the orchestra as an outlet. "We're all classically trained, and no one got to hear us," she said. "It was a great opportunity for us to get out of studios and play concerts."

BUMC, the Umsteads' church, offered the chapel as a venue. The group didn't expect many at its first concert last June, but were surprised when about 75 attended.

"It's catching on like wildfire," said Umstead. "Every month it's grown."

The group will give free interactive children's concerts at two libraries next month. A string trio will play at 1 p.m. March 5 at the Fairview Public Library and at 1 p.m. March 12 at the Nolensville Public Library.

These concerts, called Catch the Beat, are a little more instructional. "Kids get to get up there and join in," Umstead said. "It's a fun, instructional 45 minutes, and should appeal to all ages."

A quartet concert will be at 7 p.m. March 7 at the Williamson County Public Library in Franklin. The theme will be Dances through the Ages with demonstrations by professional ballroom dancers.

For more information, visit www.nexuschamberorchestra.org or search Nexus Chamber Orchestra on Facebook.

Contact Vicky Travis at vtravis@tennessean.com.