Catskill Symphony Orchestra Raised A Record Amount!

Saturday night was a big night for the Catskill Symphony Orchestra. More than $46,000 was raised in one night to benefit the orchestra. The CSO Concert Gala was a huge hit. The Alumni Field House was packed with music lovers who enjoyed a night of eclectic sounds. Big Chuck once again was the emcee and he began the evening asking the audience to join him in a rousing ovation to the late Joe Campbell, WDOS's "Grand Old Man of Radio," who passed away this week. Nobody loved fine music more than Joe.

The award-winning Sultans of Swing came down from Canada to entertain the crowd with their foot stomping string harmonies and lilting Canadian folk tunes.

The highlight of the night is alway the competition for the guest conductor. Three well-known locals, Cindy Donaldson, Libby Cudmore and Al Rubin, strutted their stuff in imaginary ways to try and win over donors. They all did a fantastic job, and the results of the voting were very tight. But...congratulations to Al Rubin, owner of A&D Transportation, for winning this year's competition.

It was an extra special treat to have Broadway musical conductor Paul Masse here to lead the CSO this year. Paul is a Class of 2000 OHS graduate and we all were delighted to have this talented young man back in his hometown.

Big Chuck welcomed Paul Masse, OHS Class of 2000, back to the City of the Hills. Paul conducted the orchestra.

Al Rubin competes for the Golden Baton

Libby Cudmore gives the baton a try out

Libby appeared to be channeling Hello Dolly during her speech

Cindy Donaldson showed her professional background with her commanding performance conducting the CSO

Canada's hit group The Sultans of Strings were a real crowd favorite

Congratulations Al Rubin the winner of our Guest Conductor competition!