The Unique Missouri Harpist Who Played For Metallica… And the Queen

Guys, I am a fan of live music. And I'm also a fan of the stories behind the music, you know?  So here's a great opportunity to hear some amazing music, and possibly to hear some insane stories. I know it's going to sound odd, but stick with me.

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The Marshall Philharmonic Orchestra is hosting the big Charles Ferguson Memorial Chamber Recital. It's gonna be on Saturday, March 29, at Covenant Presbyterian Church, 710 East Yerby, in Marshall. The evening will get underway at 7:00 p.m. in the sanctuary and will feature retired Principal Harpist of the San Francisco Symphony, Douglas Rioth, assisted by MPO musicians Fr. Ryan Koster and Mr. Zeb Yoko on violin and cello respectively. This event is free and open to the public.

So now that we've got the housework out of the way, let me tell you a little about this harpist. I know, you're probably thinking, "What on earth? I've heard of a guitar player shredding it up having great stories, but... a harp?"

via GIPHY

Douglas Rioth is his name, and he was born in in Marceline (small town, think northern Missouri). He's studied in Fayette, Michigan, and Cleveland. Clearly he's been killing it for ages, because he became a PRINCIPAL in his first orchestra job at the age of 21. That's insane.  He first started out in Indianapolis, and then moved on to San Francisco. During his time with the SFS, he taught at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music and has performed for widely diverse audiences around the world including Queen Elizabeth II of England and the rock band, Metallica.

Yes, Metallica. You remember the S&M album, the live one back in 1999? You remember the harp player that flashed the rock sign? That's him!

Mr. Rioth has chosen an program for the recital, so he's probably picked a few things that are not just fun to play, but fun to hear.  They'll have stuff by Bach, Faure, Debussy, Massenet and Saint-Saens. This is a rare and very special opportunity for you to hear a full recital by a critically acclaimed professional harpist from one of the major symphony orchestras of the United States.....AND IT'S FREE.

And did I mention it's free? Cos it is.  It's free as hale.  Don't miss out - I'd hate to have to....harp on you about it.

Sorry.  I'll see myself out.

Harpingly yours,

Behka