New Bedford Symphony Orchestra musicians EmmaLee Holmes-Hicks and Peter Zay had no idea what to expect as they set up for their “Trail Music” concert at Slocum’s River Reserve on October 10.

The free concert, which had been planned by the Dartmouth Natural Resources Trust and the NBSO, was billed as an informal performance. With over 50 people attending the event, the popularity exceeded expectations, Zay and Holmes-Hicks noted.

“It was a fantastic turnout,” Holmes-Hicks said. “It turned out to be a great idea.”

DNRT Executive Director Dexter Mead was also impressed with the turnout. He explained that he was approached by NBSO President David Prentiss over the summer about hosting an outdoor concert at one of the organization’s properties. Mead thought the idea was perfect, and decided on the Columbus Day holiday to host it.

“It was a great turnout,” Mead said. “When [Prentiss] talked about this, we wanted to keep it informal. The turnout exceeded expectations and the music was really wonderful.”

Zay and Holmes-Hicks explained that they designed the arrangement to appeal to an audience they knew would have varied tastes. The concert featured Disney tunes from "Pinocchio" and "Frozen," as well as classical, pop folk and fiddle music to entertain guests of all ages and musical tastes.

Prentiss said that given the success of the first “Trail Music” concert, he already hopes to organize another concert on DNRT property.