On Sunday, May 2, 2010, Lowell House will host its annual open reading of Tchaikovsky’s magnificent 1812 Overture featuring the Lowell House Russian bells, simulated cannon fire in the form of hydrogen balloons, and a last-minute orchestra and chorus under the direction of conductor Channing Yu.

This is the largest annual organized musical free-for-all that takes place at Harvard University, and one of Lowell House's oldest traditions, dating from the 1930s. EVERYONE and anyone can participate in the music-making. We need an orchestra. We need a Russian choir. We need audience. If you can sing, can play any instrument (or a kazoo), you can show up at 2 pm for a crash rehearsal. No previous knowledge of the piece is needed! The performance itself will be at 3 pm. As always, it should be very exciting!

When: Sunday, May 2, 2010; 2 pm rehearsal, 3 pm performance
Where: Lowell House large courtyard (Lowell House dining hall in case of rain), Harvard Square, Cambridge, Massachusetts. Lowell House is best reached by public transportation. Take the MBTA Red Line to Harvard. Lowell House is several blocks away off Mount Auburn Street, on Holyoke Place. If driving, follow directions to Cambridge, Massachusetts to reach Harvard Square. Lowell House is at 10 Holyoke Place, Cambridge, MA 02138. There is a limited number of metered parking spaces close to Lowell House; several parking garages are nearby as well.
For musicians: Music will be provided; please bring folding stands. Kazoos are provided to new and experienced kazooists alike.

Hope to see you there!

Email for more information

Harvard Crimson article from May 3, 2009
Boston Phoenix article from May 6, 2008 **WARNING: contains profanity
Harvard Crimson article from May 2, 2007
The Tech (MIT) article from May 6, 2003>