Concert Sun, June 27, 3pm PT; related talks June 24, 6pm PT & June 26, 7pm PT
This virtual festival, curated by Music and Artistic Director Michael Christie, embraces New West Symphony's belief that the arts have a critical role to play in capturing the most important stories of our times, expressing the lived experiences of all members of our society, and ultimately leading the way toward a more equitable, inclusive, and just world for all. America the Melting Pot culminates with a feature symphony concert program, streaming on Sunday, June 27 at 3pm PT, that promotes unity through music by presenting the works of Eubie Blake, Margaret Bonds, Valerie Coleman, Duke Ellington, Florence Price, Hazel Scott, William Grant Still, as well as featured guest artist, composer and double bass virtuoso, Xavier Foley. Additional guest artists for this performance include pianist and NPR series host Lara Downes, tenor Ashley Faatoalia, and violinist Eunice Kim.
Program Information: America the Melting Pot - Symphony Concert and Cultural Festival
Premieres Sunday, June 27, 2021 at 3pm PT
Michael Christie, Conductor
The Glywn and Ruth Chase Music Director
Valerie Coleman | Umoja
Florence Price | from Piano Concerto in One Movement
Hazel Scott | Peace of Mind
William Grant Still | Mother and Child for Strings
Margaret Bonds | He's Got the Whole World in His Hands
Edward Kennedy "Duke" Ellington (arr. Rabson) | Echoes of Harlem
Eubie Blake (arr. Arroyo) | Love Will Find a Way
Xavier Foley | For Justice and Peace
Foley | Cranberry Juice
Ellington (arr. Rabson) | I'm Just a Lucky So and So
Guest Artists:
Xavier Foley, composer, double bass
Eunice Kim, violin
Lara Downes, piano
Ashley Faatoalia, tenor
Additional Cultural Programs Included with a Concert Passport:
Pre-Concert Talk with David Ravetch
Presented Thursday, June 24, 2021 at 6pm PT (not available on-demand)
Meet the Artists
Premieres Saturday, June 26, 2021 at 7pm PT
$25.