Volunteer orchestra is a Sonoma County treasure

One of Sonoma County's non-wine-related treasures is the American Philharmonic orchestra, an all-volunteer ensemble of 75 talented professional musicians who can give any paid orchestra a run for its money. The group had humble beginnings, first performing in La Plaza Park in Cotati (and then known as the Cotati Philharmonic), more than a decade ago. Today their shows take place at Wells Fargo Center for the Arts in Santa Rosa, a big step up in size and class.

Called "An American Portrait," last night's performance focused on several American composers. That explains the clever reworking of the iconic Grant Wood painting "American Gothic," shown above, which appeared on the program's cover. But I was there mostly for Gershwin's Piano Concerto in F. I'd seen it performed live only once before –– by the London Symphony Orchestra with Andre Previn at the keyboard –– and more years ago than I care to cop to. I have at least three recordings of the concerto on vinyl and CD (that I can lay my hands on quickly), and possibly more stashed in boxes somewhere, by different orchestras, including the Previn version. At last night's concert, our homegrown orchestra nailed this difficult piece of music with aplomb, featuring Marilyn Thompson on the piano. She has oodles of credentials, and is currently on the faculty at Sonoma State University.

One of the best parts about attending these American Philharmonic concerts is the cost: $0. Technically there is no charge to sit and enjoy the music, and you can show your support by applause only. But they do appreciate donations, and in fact remind you several times during the evening to give what you can. It's not for the musicians –– they play for nothing. But renting the Wells Fargo Center is expensive ($18,000 for the Saturday evening performance and a Sunday matinee) and to pay the bills the orchestra depends on wads of paper money being stuffed into those fishbowls in the lobby as you enter and exit the venue.

The orchestra is so good they've been invited to play eight concerts in China, on a tour that begins right after Christmas. To learn more about the orchestra, visit www.apsonoma.org.