By: Dr. Mary Jo Almeida-Shore
On Sunday, February 12, MISO held its highly anticipated outdoor concert, MISO in the Park on the front lawn of the Bass Museum in Miami Beach. Nearly one thousand music lovers of all ages (and breeds) gathered for the free open-air concert on a picture-perfect afternoon. To add to the revelry and romance, guests went all out with picnic spreads, many themed, replete with delicacies and libations from all parts of the world. During the enchanting event, world-famous photographer and luminary, Iran Issa-Khan, celebrated her birthday at the incredible affair. Iran’s friends-who-are family prepared an international feast for the woman who is a mother and friend to all who are blessed to be in her ever-growing circle. A staunch supporter of the MISO, who has worked tirelessly to promote the amazing orchestra, Iran has yet to miss one concert. In fact, one of the many joys of attending a MISO performance is seeing Iran, perched in her box, with the look of sheer delight across her face that can truly only grace someone who experiences Heaven in the music. Maestro Marturet, close friend of Iran’s conducted an original rendering of “Happy Birthday” complete with a Reggaeton serenade- much to her delight.
The program featured music by Zaquiñha de Abreu, Johann Strauss, Johannes Brahms, Dmitri Shostakovich, Karen LeFrak, Luis Prima, and Moises Simons. “Three Ways, One Feeling” by Giancarlo Castro D’Addona gave a special touch with the spontaneous and mischievous participation of the three conductors Marco Real-d’Arbelles, Daniel Andai, and Eduardo Marturet. Ensemble 7/4, added a touch of local rhythm and little Valeria once again confidently conducted “her” orchestra. Lena Burke sang Frenesí by Alberto Dominguez, Amapola by José María Lacalle, El Día que me quieras by Carlos Gardel and Quizás Quizás Quizás by Oswaldo Farrés (arranged by Rudy Pérez and Gary Lindsay). Music lovers lingered at the gorgeous affair long after day-turned-to-night. Often overheard: “Now this is why we live in Miami.”
*Photo credit: Sam Robin
