The Cupertino Courier

Photograph by George Sakkestad

Megan Doty and Timothy Wood take a bow during a rehearsal for the De Anza Symphony.

De Anza Symphony's conductor wants more strings attached

By Pam Marino

Michael Gibson is a man with a musical mission: he has one month to finish putting together the De Anza Symphony for a special December concert.

Right now he's looking for accomplished violinists to round out the orchestra, but Gibson--the new music director of the symphony--has big plans for the group.

"What I would like to turn this orchestra into eventually is an orchestra everyone can be proud of," Gibson said.

To that end, Gibson has been scouring the area for the finest musicians in the community. He started with 14 students in September and now has around 50 musicians. About half the people are community members of a variety of ages, anywhere from high schoolers to people long past their college days.

To be a part of the orchestra, members must enroll in De Anza College. Participation in the orchestra earns two college credits. Gibson said scholarships are available for anyone who has a hardship.

The orchestra needs another 12 violins for the concert, which is set to take place at Flint Center on Dec. 4. Eventually he wants a full-sized community orchestra which would total 70 or 80 musicians.

Gibson, a Cupertino resident, has spent his life as a musician, studying with some of the finest conductors in the country. He played trombone in various symphonies and bands.

But 12 years ago Gibson felt he faced a choice--either music or a paycheck that would cover the rent. He went to work full time, becoming a computer expert in the process. He now runs a business out of his home, which gives him the flexibility to return to his first love.

In addition to the De Anza Symphony, Gibson is music director and conductor of the Bay Area Little Symphony and director of choral music at Foothills Congregational Church in Los Altos.

The De Anza Symphony is rehearsing every Thursday night from 7 to 10 p.m. in preparation for the upcoming concert. Gibson is also putting together a 200-member chorus to sing three pieces from Handel's Messiah at the concert. Anyone who is interested in auditioning for either the symphony or the chorus can contact him at 873-9000, or visit the Web site.

The concert is at 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 4 in Flint Center. The De Anza Wind Ensemble, conducted by Robert Farrington, will also be performing. Tickets are $5.

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