"A pop song can endure thousands of different arrangements. But when you get it right, it’s good forever."

Pop performance leaves audience asking symphony to "turn it on again"

Aptly titled A SYMPHONY OF HEROES , the Houston Symphony’s recent concert at the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion on the solemn anniversary of September 11th, was at once both reverent and optimistic.

Fans of the POPS orchestra may remember guest conductor (and total rock star) Stuart Chafetz...He’s back to lead the POPS with this super awesome tribute to a pretty great decade…and he encouraged the audience to sing and dance along. We did. We definitely did.

Seattle Symphony's 'Totally '80s' concert celebrated the 1980's (yes, really!) last weekend with two Broadway stars and it was 'Totally AWESOME'

Stuart Chafetz has his superhero shtick down pat...he reminded me of a cross between a retro lounge singer and the Mayor of Whoville.

The Fort Worth Symphony had a winning pops program of music from superhero movies...Chafetz is an immediate joy to watch at the podium as he conducts with a nonchalant sense of whimsy and constant contented smile on his face.

Chafetz, though, made the night even more magical than it would have been otherwise...

One guest, conductor Stuart Chafetz, was a big part of the dazzle.

This Holiday Pops evening, led by guest conductor Stuart Chafetz, featured a program of familiar, festive tunes in colorful, creative arrangements.

Chafetz kept the concert rolling with his happy, enthusiastic banter

Conductor Stuart Chafetz was a treat on the podium. He was energetic—and unafraid to let moments stretch and play out fully, like he did with “Adventures on Earth” from E.T.

The guest conductor for the two concerts was Stuart Chafetz. Having experience in conducting dozens of orchestras around the country, he proved to have complete command over the PSO. He also had an exciting connection not only with the material but also with his love for John Williams' music, something that was obvious when he spoke to the audience several times. His conducting of the orchestra was controlled but also playful at various times throughout the two hour show.