Over the weekend, McLean kicked off fun-filled celebrations of the season from the performance of the Nutcracker by the McLean Orchestra to WinterFest and the Reindog parade.
The Orchestra, led by Maestro J. Ernest Green, played a program called "Twas the Night" to a packed house in the chapel at Oakcrest School. Selections from the Nutcracker Suite, Hansel and Gretel and a potpourri of holiday favorites highlighted by "Sleigh Ride." The audience hummed and toe-tapped throughout the concert. Here's what some in the audience said afterwards:
Joe Gutierrez, McLean, VA: "It was wonderful. I liked all the music. It was a wonderful selection."
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Emma Hess, 7, Centreville, VA :"I really liked it. Sleigh Ride was the best."
Claudia Wood, Reston, VA: "It's been fantastic - so festive."
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Marcos Villeda, 10, Burke, VA "It was really good. Sleigh Ride was really happy.
Joanna Dabrowska, musician in the audience, Jessup, MD: "I think it's great. Ernie [the conductor] is dynamic."
Alec Green, 16, Annapolis, MD: "The maestro is my father. My dad did a really good job."