CLINTON - The invitation asked a simple question—Are You Afraid of Classical Music?—but inside Edmunds Hall on April 23, there was nothing intimidating about it. Instead, the Presbyterian College Orchestra delivered a night that felt welcoming, engaging, and easy to enjoy.
Under the direction of Dr. Giovani Briguente, the group played with confidence and clarity. The program featured well-known composers—Beethoven, Mozart, Casadesus in the style of Bach, and Haydn—but the performance never felt heavy or hard to follow. It was clear, expressive, and approachable from start to finish.
One of the standout moments came when Dr. Briguente stepped forward to play the flute himself. A true virtuoso, he brought energy and personality to Mozart’s Allegro from Flute Quartet in D major, K. 285. His playing felt smooth and natural, drawing the audience in and giving the piece a lively, easygoing feel.
The student highlight of the night belonged to Alexander Williams. Performing the Concerto in C minor for Viola (Casadesus/Bach), Williams showed both control and confidence. The viola took center stage, and he made the most of it, delivering a performance that was steady, expressive, and memorable. With family in attendance, the moment carried even more meaning, adding a personal touch to an already strong performance.
The orchestra supported him well, staying balanced and in sync throughout the piece.
The concert closed with Haydn’s Symphony No. 35 in B-flat major, bringing the evening to a strong and polished finish.
By the end of the night, the answer to the program’s question was clear—there’s nothing to fear about classical music. In fact, when performed like this, it’s something anyone can enjoy.
