Immerse yourself in the vibrant rhythms and melodies of the Americas at the Skaneateles Festival's "Music of the Americas" concert. This special event is scheduled for Saturday, August 3, 2024, from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm, promising an unforgettable evening of diverse musical expressions.

The festival is proud to present its largest-ever Festival Orchestra, under the baton of the talented conductor Nicholas Hersch. The evening's program is a colorful journey through the music of North and South America, featuring a variety of works that celebrate the rich cultural tapestry of the continent. Highlights include Alberto Ginastera’s Harp Concerto with the harp virtuoso Bridget Kibbey, Gabriela Lena Frank’s "Escaramuza," a tribute to Inca warriors, and George Gershwin’s iconic "Rhapsody in Blue," with pianist Aaron Wunsch taking the lead. Additional pieces include James P. Johnson's arrangement of "Charleston" by Rimelis/Hersh, adding to the evening's eclectic mix.

The concert will take place at the Skaneateles Festival, a venue known for its intimate setting and exceptional acoustics, providing the perfect backdrop for the powerful performances of Rhiannon Giddens and the Dover Quartet, among others.

Tickets for this must-see event go on sale May 1, offering various purchasing options to ensure accessibility for all music lovers. Whether you prefer to order online, by phone, in person at the Skaneateles Festival Office, or even at the door on the night of the concert (subject to availability), securing your spot for this musical celebration is easy.

Mark your calendars for August 3 and prepare to be swept away by the "Music of the Americas" at the Skaneateles Festival. It's an evening that promises not only to entertain but to inspire, showcasing the incredible talent and diversity of music from across the Americas.

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Music of the Americas

Celebrate the 100th anniversary of Gershwin’s iconic Rhapsody in Blue with legendary jazz pianist Marcus Roberts and his trio alongside the Orchestra. The program continues with one of the Orchestra’s signature pieces, Rachmaninoff’s Symphonic Dances, written for and premiered by The Philadelphia Orchestra.

Rhapsody in Blue Celebrates 100

Saratoga Spa State Park

Celebrate a century of George Gershwin's masterpiece at the "Rhapsody in Blue Celebrates 100" event, featuring the legendary jazz pianist Marcus Roberts and his trio alongside The Philadelphia Orchestra. This momentous occasion is set to take place at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center on Thursday, August 1, 2024, at 7:30 pm. The evening promises an unforgettable performance of Gershwin's iconic "Rhapsody in Blue," along with Rachmaninoff’s "Symphonic Dances," a piece written for and premiered by The Philadelphia Orchestra in the early 1940s. Under the baton of conductor David Robertson, known for his adventurous programming and support of contemporary composers, this event is a must-attend for classical music enthusiasts and jazz lovers alike. Join us in the amphitheater to experience the fusion of jazz and classical music in a celebration of musical innovation and history. Tickets are available now for this landmark event.

Saratoga Performing Arts Center

Join the Minnesota Orchestra as they fly around the world through music by composers from many different corners of the Earth. Starting here at home in the United States, we will hear movements from James Price Johnson’s atmospheric Harlem Symphony. We will then head to the Andes mountains in Peru with Lena Gabriela Frank’s Leyendas: An Andean Walkabout.

Here, There, Everywhere

Minnesota Orchestra

Join us for an unforgettable evening of music as the Channel Islands Chamber Orchestra presents "American Masterworks," featuring a selection of iconic pieces that have shaped the American musical landscape. This concert series will take place on March 15, 2024, at 7:00 PM at the Rancho Campana High School Performing Arts Center, and on March 17, 2024, at 3:00 PM at the First United Methodist Church Ventura. 

Experience the exhilarating "Strike Up The Band" by George Gershwin, a rousing march that promises to set the stage for an evening of spectacular performances. Delve into the world of film music with John Williams' "Escapades for Alto Saxophone and Orchestra," a piece that captures the essence of the 1960s with its progressive jazz elements. Journey through the vibrant streets of Harlem with James Price Johnson's "Harlem Symphony," a musical tour that brings to life the Harlem Renaissance. The adventure continues with the thrilling "Pirates of the Caribbean" medley, followed by the iconic "Star Wars Suite" by John Williams, bringing the most memorable themes from the beloved film series to the concert stage.

Featuring solo performances by Steve Marsh on saxophone, Dean Hinkley on vibraphone, and Larry Tuttle on jazz bass, this concert is a celebration of American music's rich history and its enduring impact on the world stage. 

Tickets are available for advanced purchase online for $20, with suggested donations at the door. Students and kids are free, making this a family-friendly event not to be missed. Cash, cards, and digital forms of payment are accepted, ensuring a seamless experience for all attendees.

Don't miss this opportunity to witness the Channel Islands Chamber Orchestra's tribute to American Masterworks. Reserve your seats now and be part of a musical journey that celebrates the spirit and innovation of American composers.

American Masterworks: Strike Up The Band

Rancho Campana Performing Arts Center

First United Methodist Church Ventura

The program commemorates 60 years since the passing of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibited discrimination based on race, religion, sex, or national origin. The composers and themes represent those groups whose rights were affirmed by this historic legislation, including works by African American, women, and immigrant composers. One highlight of the program is Can You See? by The Cleveland Orchestra’s Daniel R. Lewis Composer Fellow Allison Loggins-Hull, which received its first performances in May 2023.

Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Concert

Severance Music Center

### Event Description: Juneteenth - Minnesota Orchestra

**Event Title:** Juneteenth with the Minnesota Orchestra

**Date & Time:** Thursday, June 19, 2025

**Venue:** Orchestra Hall, 1111 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN 55403

**Duration:** 2 hours, including intermission

**Event Overview:**
In celebration and remembrance of Juneteenth, the annual commemoration of the emancipation of enslaved African Americans, the Minnesota Orchestra, alongside guests and members of the Twin Cities community, will perform a program featuring music by African American composers. This special event aims to honor the historical significance of Juneteenth through a rich and diverse musical experience.

**Program:**
- **JOHNSON:** Victory Stride
- **WATKINS:** Soul of Remembrance, from Five Movements in Color
- **ABELS:** Delights and Dances
- **LEE:** Freedom’s Genuine Dawn
- **COLEMAN:** Umoja
- **SIMON:** Ring Shout, from Four Black American Dances

**Artists:**
- **Minnesota Orchestra:** The Grammy Award-winning Minnesota Orchestra, now in its second century, ranks among America’s top symphonic ensembles. The orchestra is known for its acclaimed performances, award-winning recordings, broadcasts, educational engagement programs, and a commitment to featuring works by composers of color.
- **Jonathan Taylor Rush, Conductor:** An accomplished and visionary conductor, Jonathan Taylor Rush's musical journey is rooted in his upbringing within the church, incorporating elements of gospel and soul music. He is a passionate advocate for living and underrepresented composers.

**Ticket Information:**
Tickets for this concert are available now when you purchase a package. Save up to 15% and receive subscriber perks when you buy 3 or more concerts. Individual tickets go on sale on July 29.

**Accessibility Services:**
- Armless & Bariatric Chairs
- Assistive Listening Devices
- Noise-Cancelling Headphones
- Service Animals
- Wheelchair & Accessible Seating
- Additional services are available upon request.

**Additional Information:**
Plan your visit to Orchestra Hall and subscribe for more updates and events. 

**Sponsored by:** [Sponsor Information]

Join us for an evening of powerful music and community as we celebrate Juneteenth with the Minnesota Orchestra.

James P. Johnson

Events

Upcoming events

Jun 19, 2025

Juneteenth · Minnesota Orchestra

Past events

Aug 3, 2024

Music of the Americas · Skaneateles Festival

Aug 1, 2024

Rhapsody in Blue Celebrates 100 · Philadelphia Orchestra

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