MUSIC REVIEW : Doctors Symphony: a Game Effort but Hard to Digest

A concert by the Los Angeles Doctors Symphony Orchestra may not be the cultural event of the season, but for at least one listener Tuesday night’s performance at Stephen S. Wise Temple proved memorable.

The group has no pretensions to greatness. Established in 1953, the orchestra roster includes physicians, dentists, nurses and other medical personnel. Concerts are free, charity activities a major function. Musical finesse would not appear to be a huge concern, though no one can fault the effort.

The ensemble’s assistant conductor, Dr. Ivan Shulman, a general surgeon, led the opening work, Verdi’s Overture to “La Forza del Destino.” He gave confident, clear-cut direction. As destiny would have it, the orchestra followed less clearly, though almost as confidently.

Then cellist David Shamban, a local studio and free-lance musician, joined the orchestra for Dvorak’s Cello Concerto. He took his less-than-ideal position on a platform well above and in front of the orchestra, and directly behind the conductor, Joel Lish. From time to time, Shamban could be seen peering over his right shoulder for a passing glimpse at the baton.

Shamban possesses sure technical abilities, with a firm tone and impressive concentration. He performed solidly despite the sometimes shaky, often ill-mannered accompaniment led by Lish.

The game but roughly hewn performance that ensued, after intermission, bore a striking resemblance to the Second Symphony of Jean Sibelius, except it lasted much longer. Or so it seemed.