Sunday Evening Concert: The Tempera Ensemble

Almost every Sunday evening the Jerusalem Center, known as the "Mormon University," hosts concerts in the auditorium. Seasoned musicians from all over the world come to perform. Last night's concert was unique in the fact that the music was not classical but contemporary music of 20th century composers. Garth is in charge of setting everything up for each concert: printing the programs; submitting checks to be paid (each performer is paid to perform); getting fresh flowers on stage; setting up the green room for the performers which includes putting out refreshments ; greeting the performers; being the MC for the concert; counting donations (yes, those who attend give gratuities and 100% goes to the performers); tear down after the concert. All of this takes quite a lot of time and preparation so that each concert is successful. This is a photo of the stage around 5 PM. The stage is very impressive but the backdrop of the lights of the city provides a spectacular view for the audience. The Tempera Ensemble's members are four leading Israeli musicians. They have already generated worldwide interest through their unique style of virtuoso. They play music as diverse as Berstein, Bartok, Shostakovich, Cage as well as compositions written especially for them. The musicians are men in their early 40's and when Garth met them he said they seemed just like kids to him. He was so impressed that these musicians held very prestigious positions with the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra and have traveled all over the world to perform. I snapped these photos while they were rehearsing. Yigal (Trumpet); Gan (Sax); Tomer (Percussion); Amit (Piano)

In the meantime, Garth and Neomi were ready to greet and hand out programs to those who attended the concert. The audience really enjoyed their performance and clapped them on for several encores. The musicians who perform in the auditorium say they love to come here and this is their favorite venue. People who attend the concert come back week after week not only because they love them but also because concerts are free and it's a great place to be on a Sunday evening. Our next event is a jazz concert Thursday night and then another one Sunday night. We feel so privileged to be part of this amazing center.