CLICK  HERE to see the YouTube video of the Orlando Philharmonic performing at the opening of the “Wizarding World of Harry Potter,” under the baton of legendary composer John Williams.

Harry Potter gala was thrill for Orlando Philharmonic
Posted: 18 Jun 2010 11:02 AM PDT | by Matt Palm – Arts & Music/Orlando Sentinel

How to explain to nonmusicians what it must have been like for the members of the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra to perform at the opening gala of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter with legendary composer/conductor John Williams?

John Williams conducts the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra at Wednesday night's gala celebrating the opening of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. (photo by JOSHUA C. CRUEY/ORLANDO SENTINEL)

It would be like a swim team racing with Michael Phelps? Like a theater company acting with Meryl Streep?

For the Orlando Philharmonic’s executive director, David Schillhammer, the words can’t come fast enough: “It was the thrill of a lifetime,” “It was an honor and a privilege,” “It’s something that will stay with us forever.”

And this was the level of excitement a day after the gala event. The Philharmonic performed Wednesday night at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter gala, at Universal Orlando’s Islands of Adventure. Among those in attendance were Potter film stars Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint and Harry Potter’s creator, J.K. Rowling.

“We were playing right at the base of this beautiful castle,” Schillhammer said, recalling the scene. “It was incredible. People were screaming and cheering.”

The Philharmonic played a medley of Harry Potter music called “Harry’s Wondrous World” and — a special thrill — a unique piece Williams composed just for the event , choreographed to a video used at the gala and the fireworks.

The Orlando Philharmonic also underscored other parts of the gala with music from the Harry Potter films.

“His music is not easy,” Schillhammer said. “That’s why he’s so brilliant.”

Williams has won Emmys, Oscars and Golden Globes for his many well-known scores. Among them: Jaws, Star Wars, Indiana Jones, E.T., Superman and Schindler’s List.

“When Mr. Williams took the podium, he electrified the orchestra,” Schillhammer said. “I just can’t tell you the goosebumps we had. It was overwhelmingly powerful.”

Williams had praise for the 76 Orlando Philharmonic musicians who performed, saying the Phil had a rich and full sound. “He was so gracious and generous to the orchestra,” Schillhammer said.

The Philharmonic worked for 8-9 months on the project, sworn to secrecy by Universal Orlando. Schillhammer saluted the theme park for calling on the Phil to help make the Harry Potter gala more magical.

“I congratulate Universal for choosing a local orchestra for this event,” he said. “They chose to commit to Orlando and the Orlando Philharmonic. I am so grateful.”

CLICK HERE to read a letter from John Williams to the Orlando Philharmonic

CLICK  HERE to see the YouTube video of the Orlando Philharmonic performing at the opening of the “Wizarding World of Harry Potter,” under the baton of legendary composer John Williams.

CLICK  HERE to read the Press Release for  the Harry Potter event

CLICK HERE to read Orlando Sentinel/Matt Palm’s post of JUNE 16 – “Orlando Philharmonic welcomes Harry Potter with John Williams”

CLICK HERE to read Orlando Attractions Magazine article  posted June 17, “Harry Potter stars help start opening ceremonies for the Wizarding World”

CLICK HERE to read J. Joshua Garrick’s column in the Winter Park/Maitland Observer of June 24 – Under “Culture worthy of your calendar” – “More honors for the Philharmonic”