Zee Zee, piano
Joseph Young, conductor

YOUR PROGRAM EXPERIENCE
Samuel Coleridge-Taylor – Ballade in A Minor for Orchestra
The Experience: entrancing, grand, elaborate
Ballade in A Minor was one of Samuel Coleridge-Taylor’s early works following his studies at the Royal College of Music.  It premiered in 1898 at the Three Choirs Festival and helped launch his career. He incorporated African folk melodies and rhythms to add a unique and vibrant layer, creating a blend of familiar and refreshingly new sounds.

Franz Liszt – Piano Concerto No. 1
The Experience: poetic, unique, majestic
Franz Liszt was a monumental pianist who often composed and arranged his works to challenge his abilities as a performer. This piece was unusual for its time, being one large movement with themes within the piece: fast, slow, scherzo, and finale. In addition to flashing piano performances, you will hear flute, clarinet, and viola solos.

William Dawson – Negro Folk Symphony
The Experience: meaningful, spirited, resonating
William Dawson wrote the Negro Folk Symphony in 1934, and it was inspired by African-American spirituals, or “folk songs,” that Dawson learned from his mother in childhood. He also included uniquely written themes in the piece to create a truly breathtaking musical work.