At 60 years old, Tryon Concert Association may be too young to qualify for Social Security or Medicare, but as an organization that has enjoyed 60 consecutive years of bringing world-class musicians to the Tryon community, it is very much alive. With a generous grant from the Polk County Community Foundation, Tryon Concert Association celebrated its birthday in grand style. A gift from the Mary S. Kessler Fund allowed TCA to host a gala for all subscribers on Sept. 30, 2014, before its first concert of the season, an unforgettable performance by Gabriela Montero.

The 60th Anniversary Gala Committee, composed of committed and creative individuals, was led by Lucy Brannon. She was “very pleased that so many of the people who have participated in the Tryon Concert Association over the years were able to attend our reception and help us celebrate our sixtieth anniversary.” She added that, “We are anticipating a delightful season, and we want to thank the Polk County Community Foundation for helping us make this happen.”

The evening was a perfect Tryon blend of beautiful early autumn weather and concert goers who were delighted to greet friends after a summer hiatus and eager to help the concert association celebrate its sixtieth year. A spirit of buoyant anticipation enlivened the attendees with their anticipation of hearing the evening’s performance of the acclaimed Gabriela Montero.

Gwen Suesse, TCA president, was delighted with the event. “The first concert of TCA’s sixtieth anniversary season was a magical evening in every way, from the opening gala for all subscribers, to renditions of Schubert and Schumann, to Gabriela Montero’s incredible improvisations. To have shared all this with a packed house of enthusiastic music lovers is indeed something to savor and remember. We are indeed grateful to Polk County Community Foundation for its generosity.”

For more information about upcoming performances – a casual Friday evening concert on Oct. 24 with the Mountain Chamber Players and the regular series event with The King’s Singers on Dec. 15 – visit tryonconcerts.org or call 888-501-0297.

 

– article submitted by Gloria Underwood