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pops the orchestra world

norman keeps stormin’

Norman Leyden | Oregon Symphony
Norman Leyden | Oregon Symphony

Last night the Oregon Symphony played a run-out concert in Newberg – a smallish town at the northern end of the Oregon wine country. It was a pops concert, conducted by our Principal pops conductor Jeff Tyzik, who did his usual impeccable job. What was remarkable last night was the guest appearance by none other than our former Pops conductor Norman Leyden, who is still doing shows (including a trip to Carnegie Hall with Pink Martini) at the ripe age of 95. Unbelievable. He’s lost a bit of his bantering ability, but he can still play the clarinet with his smooth signature sound, and has charm to spare. Here’s to you, Norman, bravo!