Concert Preview: Boston University Symphony Orchestra

This program weaves together themes of fate, nature, and cultural identity. It begins with Verdi’s La Forza del Destino Overture (1862), capturing the inexorable force of destiny with its dramatic intensity. Experience the East Coast premiere of Takemitsu’s Fantasma/Cantos II (1994), featuring Concerto Competition winner trombonist Kevin A. Virgilio (CFA’24), offers a reflective journey, blending Eastern and Western influences to explore the mystery of sound. Living Canadian composer Kelly-Marie Murphy’s Dark Night, Bright Stars, Vast Universe (2015) takes us on a cosmic voyage, delving into the expansiveness of the universe.

Respighi’s Fountains of Rome (1916) vividly depicts the eternal city’s iconic fountains at different times of day, while Ginastera’s Dances from Estancia (1941) brings the program to an exciting close with a celebration of Argentina’s cultural identity, infused with the rhythms of the pampas. Each piece, in its way, reflects on the forces—whether destiny, nature, or culture—that shape our world from different perspectives.

Concert Preview: Symphony Tacoma “Classics I: Cultural Crossroads” 

A captivating evening filled with a lively blend of American jazz influences, South American rhythms, and vivid orchestral storytelling.

Terrence Wilson brings his enchanting stage presence and dynamic interpretations to the Pantages for Gershwin’s jazzy and sophisticated Piano Concerto in F. Respighi vividly portrays Rome’s majestic and iconic fountains using the lush orchestrations and evocative musical imagery he is known for. ADDITION: Jungle Jaunt is a lively and rhythmic orchestral piece influenced by Frank’s multicultural background and inspired by the vibrant sounds of the rainforest. It blends elements of Latin American folk music with contemporary classical techniques. Ginastera’s Four Dances captures the spirit and life of Argentina, bursting with energetic rhythms and vibrant melodies.

Concert Preview: Boston University Symphony Orchestra

The program, embracing diversity and excellence, opens with Joan Tower’s powerful “Fanfare for the Uncommon Woman No.1” (1986), followed by two symphonic poems that reflect the importance of cultural identity and the beauty of nature: Bedřich Smetana’s The Moldau (1874) and Florence Price’s Ethiopia’s Shadow in America (1932). The night also features recent alum Minyung Suh (CFA‘24), winner of the 2023 Concerto Competition, performing the first movement of Dvořák’s Cello Concerto (1894-1895), followed by Gershwin’s vibrant An American in Paris (1928).

News: Boston University College of Fine Arts Welcomes Four New Professors

Boston University College of Fine Arts (CFA) is proud to announce the appointments of full-time professors joining the arts faculty at Boston University for the coming academic year. Boston University School of Music welcomes Sarah Ioannides as Associate Professor of Music, Orchestral Conducting and Boston University’s new Director of Orchestral Activities.

“Our community of exceptional educators and accomplished artists is growing. I am thrilled to welcome these gifted faculty to CFA” – Harvey Young, Dean of BU College of Fine Arts.

Concert Wrap-Up: Symphony Tacoma’s “Portraits”

Symphony Tacoma’s final concert of the season “Portraits,” was a delightful and enriching experience. Under the adept direction of Music Director Sarah Ioannides, the evening showcased classical masterpieces, each performed with a nuanced touch that highlighted the distinct character and emotion of the works.

Just as the audience was settling into the gorgeous theater, it was time to open the evening with Coleridge-Taylor’s Ballade in A minor. The musicians of Symphony Tacoma brought out the lush harmonies and sweeping melodies with precision and heartfelt expression, drawing the audience into the evocative soundscape crafted by Coleridge-Taylor. Next on the program was Brahms’ Violin Concerto in D Major, featuring the virtuoso Kristin Lee. Her technical prowess and deep musicality brought Brahms’ intricate passages and soaring themes to life. The audience was left in awe, responding with a standing ovation that echoed the admiration felt throughout the theater.

After intermission, the evening concluded with  Elgar’s Enigma Variations, a piece renowned for its emotional depth and intricate orchestration. Ioannides gave an in-depth explanation of Elgar’s poignant piece before leading the orchestra through each variation with keen insight, drawing out each section’s unique character and mood. The famous Nimrod variation was particularly moving, performed with a tenderness that filled the hall with a profound sense of reflection and serenity. The performance was a fitting end to the concert and season, leaving the audience with a lingering sense of wonder and appreciation for the evening’s musical journey.

As we have come to expect, Sarah and the musicians of Symphony Tacoma closed a phenomenal season with a masterfully curated performance. It was an evening that celebrated the power of music to paint vivid portraits of the human experience.

Concert Wrap-Up: Symphony Tacoma’s “Dreams & Dances”