Aug. 5, 2011

The Los Angeles Lawyers Philharmonic, along with its newly introduced 100-member chorus, Legal Voices, performed “Concert Extraordinaire” on July 30, at Disney Hall. There were more than 2,200 audience members in attendance, and 25 percent of ticket proceeds were donated to the LA County and Beverly Hills bar foundations to help those who can’t afford legal services. The orchestra, which is considered to be “LA’s only legal orchestra,” was founded in 2009 by Gary S. Greene, an attorney, violinist and conductor, in an attempt to unite attorneys and judges who are also talented musicians. But in the debut of Legal Voices, performers included not only lawyers and judges, but also law students and legal staff members. The event featured such performances as Gershwin’s “Porgy & Bess,” “Marche Slave” by Tchaikovsky and selections from the Broadway musical “Chicago.” For the finale, the LA Lawyers Philharmonic performed Beethoven’s 9th Symphony, earning the performers a five-minute standing ovation. Notable appearances at the event were Alan Rachins, who starred as attorney Douglas Brackman in the TV series “LA Law,” and actress June Lockhart, who were co-master of ceremonies. Officer Byrd (Judge Judy’s bailiff) and LA County Sheriff Lee Baca were also part of the show. “What a thrilling experience to direct lawyers and judges in front of a capacity house at Walt Disney Concert Hall,” said founder and conductor Gary S. Greene, Esq, “I felt a surge of energy coming from the performers and audience when we concluded Beethoven’s 9th Symphony. It was an experience all present will never forget. The theme of ‘All Men Are Brothers’ was solidified.” — David McAfee