100 Years of American Music (Sept 27 & 28, 2024)

Embark on a captivating journey through American music with "100 Years of American Music!" The first half of the program features two iconic works. We open with the deeply moving Adagio for Strings by Samuel Barber, a piece known for its profound emotional depth. This introspective mood transitions seamlessly into the electrifying energy of Gershwin's Rhapsody in Blue, celebrating its 100th anniversary with a dazzling performance by the acclaimed pianist and BYU professor, Jihea Hong-Park. The evening concludes on a high note with Leonard Bernstein's Symphonic Dances from West Side Story. This vibrant suite showcases the full virtuosity of the orchestra and captures the unforgettable spirit of the legendary musical, leaving you with a lasting impression of the power and passion of American music.

Included on the program:

• Gershwin, Rhapsody in Blue, Jihea Hong-Park, piano
• Bernstein, Symphonic Dances from West Side Story
• Barber, Adagio for Strings
• Copland, Hoedown from Rodeo
• Still, "Afro-American" Symphony, mvt 3