Composer

Furniture or architecture might come to mind when one hears the phrase "mid-century modern," but the creative style also impacted the music of the time. You’ll likely discover a mid-century work you’ve never heard before on this program for a cappella chorus.

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Mid-Century Modern

St. Gregory's Episcopal Church

Church of the Little Flower

All Saints Episcopal Church

Vanderbilt Presbyterian Church

The New Millennium Chamber Orchestra concludes its 11th Concert Season this April with “American Landscapes", a journey through music inspired by the urban and natural landscapes of the United States.

American Landscapes

First Presbyterian Church of Palo Alto

Transfiguration Episcopal Church

Barber’s whimsical Violin Concerto spotlights ESO Concertmaster Robert Uchida with poetic music that will sweep you off your feet. It’s a mystery why Schubert left his eighth symphony unfinished, although one historian claimed, “He could never have finished it because nothing could approach the originality, power, and skill of the first two movements.” On the other hand, Beethoven wrote four different overtures for his one opera, of which the third is the most impressive, and most popular.

Schubert's Unfinished Symphony

Winspear Centre

Elim Chan leads Rimsky-Korsakov’s sumptuous symphonic suite Sheherazade, inspired by the legendary heroine and tales of One Thousand and One Nights. Paul Jacobs, “a virtuoso of dazzling technical acumen” (The New York Times), performs Barber’s Toccata festiva, an exuberant showcase for organ containing echoes of J.S. Bach.

Sheherazade

Symphony Center

Felix Mendelssohn was a child prodigy on the level of Mozart. When he was 16 he composed his Octet, blending youthful exuberance with a maturity and sophistication of style that helped launch his international career due to the sheer charm of the music, including the Faust-inspired scherzo, with its flitting melodies and lighter-than-air sensations, a particular specialty of Mendelssohn’s. Completing the program are American composer Samuel Barber’s hazy wind quintet Summer Music, and music for two pianists by Ligeti, Debussy and Amy Beach featuring FWSO Music Director Robert Spano and Pedja Mužijevic.

 Mendelssohn, Barber, and music for two pianists

Sundance Square

Dvořák’s Ninth Symphony, “From the New World,”blends the traditional folk sounds of the composer’s Czech homeland with melodic influences discovered in African American and Native American music – tunes Dvořák first heard in his “new world,” the United States. Conductor Joseph Young makes his MSO debut in this dynamic program. Barber’s Violin Concerto, now an audience favorite, was once considered too difficult to be played; violinist Alexi Kenney wields “his architect’s eye for structure and space and a tone that ranges from the achingly fragile to full-bodied robustness” (The New York Times).

Dvořák’s New World Symphony

Warner Grand Theater

Chamber III:  Paige Roberts Molloy plays Shostakovich

Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Port Angeles

Trinity United Methodist Church, Sequim

Join us for an unforgettable evening with the Greeley Philharmonic Orchestra as we present "Sounds of Cinema" on Saturday, May 18, 2024, from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM at the Union Colony Civic Center, located at 701 10th Avenue, Greeley, CO, 80631. This family-friendly concert will feature beloved cinematic sounds from over eight different movies, including iconic selections from Star Wars, Fantasia 2000, Pirates of the Caribbean, and more.

This special event marks the final concert of our 2023-2024 season and will be presented with a unique element of narration, a format that is unique to Northern Colorado. In addition to enjoying the mesmerizing orchestral music, attendees will have the opportunity to celebrate the winning composition of the semi-annual Magic Baton Melody Contest from a Greeley-Evans School District 6 high school student. This concert is not just a performance but an experience that showcases how orchestral music impacts stage and film, connecting us all on a deeper level.

The repertoire for the evening includes:
- ROSSINI's La gazza ladra (The Thieving Magpie): Overture
- MOZART's Violin Concerto No.3, III. Rondo
- J.S. BACH's Toccata and Fugue in D Minor
- STRAUSS's Radetzky-March, Op. 228
- ZIMMER's Dead Man’s Chest Theme
- BRAHMS's Hungarian Danse No.5
- STRAUSS's Beim Schlafengehen No.3 from The Four Last Songs
- BARBER's Adagio for Strings, Op. 11
- WILLIAMS's Star Wars, The Force Awakens Theme

Don't miss this magical evening that promises to be a highlight of the season, bringing the magic of cinema to life through the power of orchestral music.

Sounds of Cinema

Union Colony Civic Center

SSO Presents Titan

Weill Center for the Performing Arts

Join us for an exquisite afternoon of piano music performed by the talented Justin Wang at the Northwestern Bienen School of Music. This captivating recital is scheduled for Saturday, May 25, 2024, at 2:30pm CDT, taking place in the Regenstein Master Class Room. Justin, a Bachelor of Music student under the guidance of Sylvia Wang, will showcase his mastery through a diverse program featuring works by J. S. Bach, Samuel Barber, Alexander Scriabin, and Ludwig van Beethoven, including the renowned "Appassionata" Sonata.

This event is a splendid opportunity for music lovers to experience the depth and breadth of piano literature, from the intricate fugues and suites of Bach to the romantic intensity of Beethoven, all performed by a rising star in the classical music world. Admission is free, and no tickets are required, making this a wonderful and accessible event for all.

For those unable to attend in person, a live stream will be available, ensuring you can enjoy these beautiful performances from anywhere. The Regenstein Master Class Room, located at 60 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston, IL, within the Regenstein Hall of Music, offers a cozy and intimate setting for this musical journey.

Don't miss this opportunity to support young talent and immerse yourself in the transformative power of music.

Justin Wang, piano

Northwestern Bienen School of Music

Rising operatic superstar Nicole Heaston takes on the titular role in this powerful existential drama, set to one of the most beautiful scores of the 20th century. Tucked away in a countryside mansion, Vanessa has waited 20 years for the return of her lover, Anatol. When his deadringer son arrives instead, a love triangle ensues between the conniving young suitor, Vanessa, and her impressionable niece.

American composer Samuel Barber won the Pulitzer Prize for Vanessa’s sweepingly lyrical score, which explores the full depths of the characters’ psyches in what librettist and Spoleto’s founder Gian Carlo Menotti characterized as a universal human dilemma.

Vanessa

Gaillard Center

“Why be a second-rate Ravel when you can be a first-rate Gershwin?”  Thus said the great French composer when the great American song writer asked him for lessons.  Gershwin’s jazzy tone poem about the City of Lights pairs wonderfully with Ravel’s Boléro, a provocation inspired by the rhythms of the  fandango and the factory.  Between these two popular pieces, we welcome back the incredible Joyce Yang to perform Samuel Barber’s titanic Piano Concerto. This cinematic and passionate work is a true American masterpiece.

Boléro Blowout

Paul Shaghoian Memorial Concert Hall

Join us for an enchanting evening of vocal performance as V. Matthew Steinbaum, a talented baritone from the Northwestern Bienen School of Music, presents his Bachelor of Music recital. This special event is scheduled for Tuesday, June 4, 2024, at 8:30pm CDT, in the prestigious Galvin Recital Hall.

Under the tutelage of Theresa Brancaccio, Steinbaum will showcase his remarkable vocal range and emotional depth through a carefully selected repertoire. Accompanied by Karina Kontorovitch on piano, the program will feature Johannes Brahms' "Vier ernste Gesänge," Op. 121, a collection of Aaron Copland's "Old American Songs," Set I, Samuel Barber's poignant "Dover Beach," Op. 3, Dmitri Shostakovich's "Lullaby" from "From Jewish Folk Poetry," Op. 79, and Ilse Weber's touching "Wiegala."

This recital is a free event, open to all who appreciate the power and beauty of the human voice. No tickets are required, and for those unable to attend in person, a live stream will be available to ensure you don't miss this memorable performance.

The Galvin Recital Hall, located at 70 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston, IL 60208, United States, within the Ryan Center for the Musical Arts, offers an intimate setting with stunning views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline. Its acoustics and state-of-the-art sound and video equipment make it an ideal venue for this showcase of vocal talent.

Don't miss this opportunity to support emerging talent and experience the next generation of vocal performance.

V. Matthew Steinbaum, baritone

Mary B. Galvin Recital Hall

If the American Dream includes the hope of a better life in a promised land, then the story we tell must also acknowledge that the dream has not always been equally available to all Americans. This concert gives us both sentiments of this “American Story.”

Choruses of UC Davis: "Sorrow and Joy: An American Story"

Robert and Margrit Mondavi Center for the Performing Arts

Experience the electrifying fusion of Barber & Rachmaninoff with the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, under the enchanting baton of guest conductor Kevin John Edusei. This mesmerizing concert is set to take place on Thursday, 13 June 2024, at 7:30pm in the prestigious Symphony Hall, Birmingham.

Prepare for an evening where soaring melodies, jangling cymbals, and the unparalleled cello mastery of Alisa Weilerstein come alive. The program promises a starburst of energy and color, featuring Dvořák’s vibrant "Carnival Overture," Barber’s intensely emotional Cello Concerto, and Rachmaninoff’s majestic Third Symphony—a nostalgic ode with unforgettable tunes and a big-band swing.

Tickets are priced between £26 and £59, with a per-ticket commission of £3.50 for tickets over £15, ensuring your seat at this not-to-be-missed event. The concert also offers various ways to save, including multi-buy discounts and reduced prices for students, 18-30s, under-18s, and benefit recipients.

Spanning approximately 2 hours with a 20-minute interval, this concert is a celebration of classical music’s power to evoke deep emotions and vivid landscapes. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness the magic of Barber & Rachmaninoff, brought to life by the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra.

Barber & Rachmaninoff

The International Convention Centre

An astounding child prodigy, Felix Mendelssohn composed the Overture to A Midsummer Night's Dream when he was only 17 years old. This brilliant music captures the essence of Shakespeare's play and stands on its own as an orchestral masterwork.

Stern's Farewell with Sibelius and Barber

Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts

Experience a fresh take on an American classic. Béla Fleck, “arguably the greatest living banjo player in the world” (NPR), marks the centennial of Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue with a dazzling new banjo transcription of this beloved showpiece. Conductor Brett Mitchell rounds out this all-American evening with orchestral gems by Leonard Bernstein, Samuel Barber, and William Grant Still.

Rhapsody in Blue

Blossom Music Center

Join us for an unforgettable evening of music and celebration at the "Watch This Space: Michael Volle & Friends" concert, presented by the Symphonieorchester des Bayerischen Rundfunks. This special event is set to take place on Wednesday, 17th July 2024, at 7:00 pm in the vibrant Werksviertel-Mitte, TonHalle, Munich.

In honor of the BRSO’s 75th anniversary, we're inviting all attendees to a unique pre-concert experience. The container doors will open 75 minutes before the concert begins, offering everyone a chance to partake in exciting anniversary events, complemented by a selection of drinks and snacks. It's a perfect opportunity to celebrate the orchestra's rich history and connect with fellow music enthusiasts.

The evening's program features an exquisite selection of music, including Samuel Barber's "Dover Beach op. 3" for Medium Voice and String Quartet, Gerald Finzi's "By Footpath and Stile" for baritone solo and string quartet, and Hugo Wolf's "Lieder nach Goethe, Eichendorff, Mörike" arranged by Xaver Paul Thoma op. 164 & op.170. These pieces will be brought to life by the talented baritone Michael Volle, alongside accomplished musicians Savitri Grier (violin), Alexander Kisch (violin), Giovanni Menna (viola), and Katharina Jäckle (violoncello).

The Werksviertel-Mitte has become a beloved second home for the BRSO, offering a unique venue where audiences can enjoy moderated concerts in a relaxed atmosphere. These events provide a closer look at the musicians and prominent guests, all at an affordable ticket price.

Ticket presale begins on April 23, 2024. Don't miss your chance to be part of this memorable celebration. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit our online ticket shop at shop.br-ticket.de.

We look forward to welcoming you to an evening of exceptional music and festivity with Michael Volle & friends!

Watch This Space Michael Volle & friends

Werksviertel-Mitte

Like Mozart, Maurice Ravel excelled in every genre he touched, and his single string quartet is considered among the greatest composed. And when speaking of favorite quartets, no one would leave out the famous Adagio from Samuel Barber’s 1936 quartet, performed in this program by rising stars of the classical scene, the Viano String Quartet. Charles Martin Loeffler’s recently-discovered octet also provides a unique, American reflection on Ravel’s Introduction and Allegro, also featuring the harp.

Concert Program III: Quartets and Harps

Menlo School Campus

Concert Program Iii Quartets And Harps (Livestream)

Taking place outdoors beneath the Domo, the quartet collective Owls will be joined by flutist Claire Chase for a performance like no other. Each an artistic force in their own right, Owls is comprised of violinist Alexi Kenney, violist Ayane Kozasa, cellist Gabriel Cabezas, and cellist-composer Paul Wiancko. All share an uncommonly fierce creative spirit which drives the quartet to challenge the way meaningful concert experiences are conceived. Claire Chase, described by The New York Times as “the most important flutist of our time,” is a musician, interdisciplinary artist, and educator. She is a MacArthur Fellow, a Professor of the Practice at Harvard University, and was the Debs Creative Chair at Carnegie Hall in the 2022-23 season.

Owls, Claire Chase, flute

Tippet Rise Art Center

As part of Tippet Rise’s Wander series, this concert will take place among works of art located on the art center’s Cottonwood Campus, including Iron Tree by Ai Weiwei and Daydreams and Cursive Takes a Holiday by Patrick Dougherty. Performing together as a group, returning flutist Jessica Sindell will be joined by debuting artists including oboist Tamer Edlebi, clarinetist Afendi Yusuf, bassoonist Jake Thonis, and horn player Nathaniel Silberschlag, offering a unique opportunity to hear these talented musicians outside their orchestral settings. The group will take the audience on a trip to Hungary, Argentina, and back to the United States with music by György Ligeti, Endre Szervánszky, Astor Piazzolla, and Samuel Barber.

Wander series: Jessica Sindell, flute, Tamer Edlebi, oboe, Afendi Yusuf, clarinet, Jake Thonis, bassoon, Nathaniel Silberschlag, horn

Music inspired by particular locales and times are featured in this concert:  Sibelius – Finlanda, Barber – Knoxville: Summer 1915 with soprano Molly Fillmore, Smetana – the Moldau, and Rimsky Korsakov – Capriccio Español are on the itinerary.

A Time and a Place

Coughlin-Saunders Performing Arts Center

Forbidden love is in the air as Andrés Orozco-Estrada takes listeners from the streets of Bernstein’s New York to Tchaikovsky’s fantasy on Shakespearean Verona. The Argentine Pampas region is the setting of Ginastera’s vibrant ballet about a city boy who wins the heart of a rancher’s daughter. Barber’s lush and virtuosic Violin Concerto features superstar Hilary Hahn.

Andrés Orozco-Estrada & Hilary Hahn

Chicago Symphony Orchestra

Judith Ingolfsson makes her TC debut with the heartachingly beautiful, fiendishly difficult Barber Violin Concerto. The story goes that the “initial” intended performer wanted something more “flashy” for the last movement. Barber delivered and it was so difficult that the violinist never played it! Ms. Ingolfsson has performed it many times to great acclaim. Maestro Rhodes first led the orchestra in October 2000 with Tchaikovsky’s 5th Symphony during his interview concert. It’s his favorite of the Tchaikovsky Symphonies, with its unparalleled drama and beauty.

Lyricism Made Manifest

Interlochen Center for the Arts

Join the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra for a mesmerizing evening as Roderick Cox takes the helm to conduct an unforgettable program featuring works by Barber, Rachmaninoff, and a piece from John Adams's opera, Doctor Atomic. This event marks the return of Georgia native Roderick Cox, who previously captivated audiences and critics alike with his dynamic and daring conducting. The concert series promises to be a highlight of the season, showcasing the rich sounds of the ASO string section with Barber’s soul-stirring Adagio, the haunting narrative of Doctor Atomic, and concluding with Rachmaninoff’s seductive Symphonic Dances.

**Event Details:**
- **Dates:** October 24 and October 26, 2024
- **Time:** 8:00 PM
- **Venue:** Atlanta Symphony Hall
- **Tickets:** Available now. Secure your spot for this not-to-be-missed musical journey.

**Program:**
- Barber: Adagio for Strings
- John Adams: Doctor Atomic Symphony
- Rachmaninoff: Symphonic Dances

**Featured Artists:**
- Roderick Cox, Conductor
- Atlanta Symphony Orchestra

This event is part of the Delta Classical Series, offering a unique opportunity to experience the power and beauty of classical music performed by one of the nation's premier orchestras under the baton of an extraordinary conductor. Don't miss your chance to witness this spectacular blend of music and storytelling. Buy your tickets today and save with a subscription for the full Delta Classical Series experience.

Roderick Cox Conducts Barber Rachmaninoff

Atlanta Symphony Hall

Launching his tenure as the CSO’s Artist-in-Residence, Daniil Trifonov shows why he’s “arguably the mightiest of the under-40 generation of superstar pianists” (The New York Times). Trifonov’s virtuosity is given free rein in Tchaikovsky’s spellbinding works, the brooding, poetic waltzes of Chopin and the propulsive brilliance of Barber’s Sonata.

Daniil Trifonov

Join us for an unforgettable evening with the Greenwich Symphony on November 23 & 24, 2024, at the Performing Arts Center at Greenwich High School, located at 10 Hillside Road, Greenwich, CT. Experience the magic of live classical music under the baton of esteemed conductor Stuart Malina, featuring the extraordinary talent of Bulgarian-American violinist Bella Hristova.

The concerts will take place on Saturday at 7:30 pm and Sunday at 3:00 pm, offering a program that promises to captivate and inspire. The highlight of the evening will be performances of Avner Dorman's "Tanyaderas," Samuel Barber's emotive "Violin Concerto," and Antonín Dvořák's iconic "Symphony No. 9 From the New World." Bella Hristova, celebrated for her expressive nuance, rich tone, and impressive power, will lead as the soloist, bringing these compositions to life with her remarkable skill and passion.

Bella Hristova, an Avery Fisher Career Grant recipient and winner of numerous prestigious competitions, has garnered international acclaim for her performances. Known for her collaborations with orchestras across the globe and her dedication to music by living composers, Hristova's appearance with the Greenwich Symphony is a highlight of the season not to be missed.

Don't miss this opportunity to witness the synergy of Stuart Malina's dynamic conducting, Bella Hristova's virtuosic violin artistry, and the Greenwich Symphony's musical excellence. Reserve your tickets now for a weekend of breathtaking performances that promise to be a highlight of the musical calendar.

GSO November Concert 2024

Greenwich High School

Join the Detroit Symphony Orchestra for an unforgettable evening of music and celebration, featuring the world-renowned violinist Ray Chen. This special performance, set against the backdrop of the iconic Orchestra Hall, promises to be a highlight of the musical season, taking place from Friday, December 6, to Sunday, December 8, 2024.

Under the baton of Music Director Jader Bignamini, the orchestra will bring to life a diverse and vibrant program. The evening will open with Carlos Simon's "Four Black American Dances," followed by Samuel Barber's poignant "Violin Concerto," performed by the exceptional Ray Chen. The concert will also feature selections from Tchaikovsky's beloved "The Nutcracker Suite," before taking a unique turn with Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn's jazz-infused arrangement of the same, promising a blend of classical grace and swing-era cool that's not to be missed.

Jader Bignamini, celebrated for his infectious passion and artistic excellence, leads the orchestra with a deep connection to both the music and the musicians, ensuring a performance that resonates with energy and emotion. Ray Chen, known for redefining what it means to be a classical musician in the 21st century, brings his remarkable musicianship and dynamic presence to the stage, guaranteeing a rendition of Barber's Violin Concerto that will be both palpable and memorable.

This event is not just a concert but a celebration of music's power to unite and inspire. It's an invitation to experience the joy and depth of classical music, brought to life by some of the most talented artists of our time. Whether you're a lifelong classical music fan or looking for an introduction to the genre, this performance is sure to leave you moved and exhilarated.

Tickets are available now, with prices starting at a range accessible to all. Don't miss this opportunity to witness the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and Ray Chen in what promises to be a spectacular set of performances at Orchestra Hall, a venue renowned for its acoustics and historic charm. Join us for a night of exquisite music, and let the melodies of Carlos Simon, Samuel Barber, Tchaikovsky, Duke Ellington, and Billy Strayhorn transport you.

Ellington & The Nutcracker

Orchestra Hall

Dive into the heart of American music with the Orchestre symphonique de Québec's captivating concert, "Aux portes de l’Amérique du XXe siècle," taking place on January 22, 2025, at 20:00 in the prestigious Palais Montcalm. Starting at just $55, this event promises an unforgettable journey through the evolution of American music, featuring the talented Clemens Schuldt as conductor and the remarkable Julia Hagen on cello.

The evening will commence with an enriching prelude at 19:00, hosted by Clemens Schuldt, offering insights into the creative process and historical context of the pieces to be performed. This prelude session is a unique opportunity to deepen your understanding of the music and its significance before the main concert begins.

The concert lineup includes a selection of works that pay homage to American music, starting with Copland's "Fanfare for the Common Man," a majestic tribute to the soldiers of World War II. The program also features "The Chairman Dances" by Adams, Haydn's "Cello Concerto No. 1," and Barber's deeply moving "Adagio," among others. Each piece has been carefully selected to showcase the diversity and richness of American music, from its folk roots to its classical heights.

Julia Hagen, a young protegee of Gauthier Capuçon, will enchant the audience with her cello performance, bringing to life the lightness of Haydn's work contrasted with the profound depth of Barber's compositions. The concert will conclude with Copland's "Appalachian Spring," a ballet music piece that celebrates the spirit of American pioneers with its folk-inspired themes.

Don't miss this extraordinary evening with the Orchestre symphonique de Québec, where music and history intertwine to create a memorable experience. Tickets are available for purchase online or by phone at 1 877 641-6040. Join us at the Palais Montcalm for a night that honors the legacy and future of American music.

AtThe Gates Of 20th Century America

Palais Montcalm – Maison de la musique

The ISO flexes its musical muscles with three show-stopping concertos. Paul Huang joins us for Barber’s gorgeous Violin Concerto, and composer Gabriela Lena Frank takes us to her hometown in the Peruvian Mountains in a “little concerto” for orchestra. Music Director Jun Märkl leads the ISO in Bartók’s virtuosic Concerto for Orchestra, a piece that challenges every member of the ensemble!

The Concerto: Barber, Bartók, And Frank

Hilbert Circle Theatre

The 2022 Gramophone Orchestra of the Year nominee, Czech National Symphony Orchestra (CNSO) makes its Hylton Center debut with a masterful program of fiery, powerhouse works under the direction of Music Director Steven Mercurio. Featuring rising violinist Sandy Cameron, who will perform Barber’s Violin Concerto Op. 14, Cameron debuted as a performer at age 12 and has made waves as a unique artist with a diverse range of musical styles and performance prowess. “Acrobatic, athletic, and commanding, Cameron’s powerful violin playing approach[es] the realm of performance art” (DC Metro Theater Arts). Enjoy additional works including Liszt’s Piano Concerto No. 1 performed by Maxim Lando and Dvorák’s Symphony No. 8. The CNSO ranks among the most highly sought after orchestras in Europe and the United States and is consistently praised for its versatile programs that include classical, film scores, jazz, musicals, and more. Don’t miss this compelling collaboration between orchestra and instrumentalist!

Czech National Symphony Orchestra

Hylton Performing Arts Center

Hear why Ravel is a classical music master, whether capturing the sensuous allure of Spain in Rapsodie espagnole or summoning “the Greece of [his] dreams” in his ravishing suite from Daphnis and Chloe. Barber’s Second Essay reflects the turbulent emotions of wartime. CSO Principal Clarinet Stephen Williamson solos in the world premiere of Indigo Heaven, a work written for him by American composer Christopher Theofanidis.

Samuel Barber

Composer

Events

25 - 28 Apr, 2024

Mid-Century Modern · Seraphic Fire

27 - 28 Apr, 2024

American Landscapes · The New Millennium Chamber Orchestra

2 - 4 May, 2024

Schubert's Unfinished Symphony · Winspear Centre

2 - 4 May, 2024

Sheherazade · Chicago Symphony Orchestra

May 4, 2024

Mendelssohn, Barber, and music for two pianists · Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra

About

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