Experience the cosmos as we weave the iconic Fifth Symphony by Beethoven, launched into space by NASA, with the celestial inspiration of Williams’ Serenade to Music. These two timeless works harmonize with a world premiere performance of A Dream of Artemis, composed by Fabien Waksman. Inspired by the NASA’s Artemis initiative, the next frontier in space exploration, the piece was specially written for our guest artists, the French saxophone quartet Quatuor Ellipsos. Let these extraordinary compositions elevate your senses in a performance that bridges the wonders of the universe with the innovative artistry of today!

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Beethoven and the Heavens

Lake Michigan College

Join the Jackson Symphony Orchestra for a monumental evening as we celebrate the centennial of George Gershwin's iconic "Rhapsody in Blue" on October 19, 2024, at 7:30 PM at the Potter Center. This special concert not only honors a century of this beloved masterpiece but also showcases a blend of French and American musical influences, promising an unforgettable night of symphonic brilliance.

The evening will commence with the French elegance of Claude Debussy’s "Prélude à L’après-midi d’un faune," followed by the world premiere of Fabien Waksman’s Saxophone Quartet Concerto "The Dream of Artemis," featuring the virtuosic talents of the Ellipsos Quartet. The concert's second half will open with Duke Ellington’s "Black, Brown and Beige: Suite," and culminate with the talented pianist Marika Bournaki performing "Rhapsody in Blue," bringing to life the jazz-infused energy and emotion of Gershwin's masterpiece.

Before the concert, attendees are invited to a free, interactive lecture at 6:30 PM, offering deeper insights into the evening's program. The concert itself promises a rich program, including works by Jonathan Bruce Brown, Claude Debussy, Fabien Waksman, Edward Kennedy "Duke" Ellington, and George Gershwin, with a runtime of approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Following the concert, keep the celebration going at an afterparty (location to be determined), where for a $20 ticket, guests can enjoy entry, hors d’oeuvres, and drinks, mingling with musicians, guest artists, composers, and fellow symphony fans.

Tickets for this must-see event go on sale September 1st. Don't miss your chance to be part of this musical journey, celebrating the legacy of "Rhapsody in Blue" and the rich tapestry of French and American music.

Fabien Waksman

Events

Past events

Oct 26, 2024

Beethoven and the Heavens · Southwest Michigan Symphony Orchestra

Oct 19, 2024

Rhapsody in Blue · Jackson Symphony Orchestra

About

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