I Want to Play: A History of the Santa Fe Community Orchestra
James Preus
Reviewed by Terry Studer
I Want To Play: "A History of the Santa Fe Community Orchestra
1982-2007" by James Preus is a great keepsake for those of the music
world and the residents of New Mexico.
The book gives us a detailed history of when the musicians in New
Mexico came together well before the Civil War to help all the peoples
pass the time with some enjoyment. It seems that the culture in New
Mexico has a deep rooted love for music and has fought to keep this
tradition and hobby alive from those early times to the present day.
There are pictures of musicians both young and old, copies of newspaper
articles, programs and awards. Entire Orchestra photos as well as
photos of children practicing playing their instruments and conducting.
It has a listing of musicians, concerts and the music that was played.
The book gives us chapter after chapter of the who's, how's and whens,
the name changes over the years, the strife and long hours dedicated to
making it all happen. To me it seems there has been no detail left
uncovered. It is most certainly a labor of love, dedication,
cooperation and the life blood of its people.