CLASSICAL MUSIC

performed in Boylston, MA see website

All American Celebration Concert — a vibrant showcase of American musical brilliance featuring pianist Michael Lewin. The program opens with Copland's spirited An Outdoor Overture, a joyful and optimistic work that captures the boundless energy and open-air spirit of America. Gershwin's iconic Rhapsody in Blue follows, beginning with its unforgettable clarinet glissando and weaving together classical sophistication with the rhythms and soul of jazz — it's one of the most beloved works in American music, and Michael Lewin's artistry will bring its dazzling piano part to life. Gottschalk's Grande Tarantelle adds 19th-century virtuosic flair, a brilliant showpiece for piano and orchestra by one of America's earliest classical composers. The concert concludes with Grofé's majestic Grand Canyon Suite, a five-movement musical journey through one of America's natural wonders. From the glowing Sunriseto the playful clip-clop of donkeys in On the Trail, the shimmering colors of Painted Desert, the serene Sunset, and the dramatic Cloudburst finale, this vivid orchestral portrait brings the grandeur of the American landscape to breathtaking life. It's a purely American program that celebrates the creativity and spirit of our nation's musical heritage.

boldly to the future. The concert opens with the world premiere of a new work by acclaimed local composer Robert Bradshaw, written especially for the Cape Ann Symphony's 75th anniversary. This commission celebrates our deep roots in the community and the continuing tradition of creating new music for future generations. The evening culminates with Beethoven's transcendent Symphony No. 9 — the "Choral Symphony" and one of the most celebrated masterworks in all of classical music. Beethoven's final complete symphony breaks all boundaries, calling for vocal soloists and chorus to join the orchestra in the legendary final movement. Set to Schiller's immortal poem, the "Ode to Joy" is a universal anthem of brotherhood, hope, and shared humanity that has moved audiences for two centuries. From its mysterious opening to the electrifying choral finale, the Ninth Symphony represents the pinnacle of Beethoven's genius and the ultimate expression of joy through music. It's the perfect triumphant ending to our historic 75th season — a work that reminds us why orchestral music matters and why we've been bringing it to Cape Ann for three-quarters of a century.