American Story: Zelman Symphony Orchestra

This concert will feature some of the best known American music of the 20th Century from the serious to the whimsical. We will pay homage to some of America’s most iconic composers, Copland, Bernstein and Gershwin, who, as American music came of age, were influenced both by the country’s unique history and the infectious popularity of jazz.

Copland’s Concerto for Clarinet was composed for Benny Goodman who gave the premiere in 1950 – what a star to be following! To play this evocative work, we welcome Philip Arkinstall, Associate Principal Clarinet with the MSO.

George Gershwin composed his Cuban Overture in 1932 after holidaying there. You will recognise many Caribbean rhythms and native Cuban percussion themes featured in this overture.

And of course, we all know and love Porgy and Bess and West Side Story. We will revel in the American dream, a culture of great Musicals and music that we can now enjoy outside the theatre.

Mark Shiell will present a pre-concert talk in the auditorium commencing 7.30pm.

Program:

Copland – Fanfare for the Common Man
Gershwin arr Bennett – Porgy and Bess:Symphonic Picture
Copland – Concerto for Clarinet
Gershwin – Cuban Overture
Bernstein – West Side Story: Symphonic Dances