Berklee Contemporary Symphony Orchestra: Music of Revolution

Join us for an extraordinary musical journey as the Berklee Contemporary Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Julius P. Williams, presents a concert inspired by the 250th anniversary of Paul Revere's legendary ride from Lexington to Boston. This event promises to be a compelling exploration of music inspired by themes of revolution and change.

The program opens with Morton Gould’s "Yankee Doodle," a piece that reimagines the well-known folk tune with vibrant orchestration and rhythmic ingenuity. Gould's composition pays homage to the spirit of the American Revolution, capturing the essence of a nation in the throes of transformation. His ability to weave traditional melodies with contemporary harmonies sets the stage for a concert that celebrates both historical and musical revolutions.

Following this, the orchestra will perform Vítězslava Kaprálová’’s "Military Sinfonietta," a work that reflects the composer's unique voice and her response to the political upheavals in the years leading up to World War II. Kaprálová, a pioneering female composer in the early 20th century, infuses the piece with a sense of urgency and resilience, making it a fitting tribute to the theme of revolution. Her music is characterized by bold brass fanfares and intricate woodwind passages, creating a dynamic and compelling narrative.

The concert continues with Adolphus Hailstork’s "Epitaph for a Man Who Dreamed," a poignant tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The composition is a meditation on the ideals of equality and justice, themes that resonate deeply with the revolutionary spirit. Through lush harmonies and quiet growth, the piece invites the audience to reflect on the enduring impact of King's dream and the ongoing struggle for civil rights.

A highlight of the afternoon will be George Gershwin’s iconic "Rhapsody in Blue," featuring Berklee student pianist Shogo Mizumura. This quintessentially American composition blends elements of classical music with jazz influences, capturing the vibrant energy of the early 20th century. Mizumura's performance promises to bring a fresh interpretation to this beloved masterpiece, showcasing the intersection of tradition and innovation.

The program culminates with Dmitri Shostakovich’s complete Symphony No. 11, a powerful musical reflection on the Russian Revolution of 1905. This symphony is a dramatic and intense work that conveys the tumultuous events of the revolution through its sweeping orchestral textures and popular revolutionary melodies of the time. Shostakovich's ability to convey deep emotion and historical narrative through music makes this symphony a fitting conclusion to a concert dedicated to revolutionary themes.

This concert not only commemorates a pivotal moment in American history but also highlights the universal themes of struggle, hope, and transformation that resonate across cultures and eras. The Berklee Contemporary Symphony Orchestra invites you to experience this unique blend of historical reflection and musical innovation as we celebrate the enduring power of music to inspire change and connect us to our shared human experience.

Don't miss this opportunity to witness a diverse and thought-provoking program that promises to both engage and inspire.

The event will be live-streamed(Opens in a new window) (use password BERKLEEBCSO).

About the Berklee Contemporary Symphony Orchestra

The BCSO is the premier symphony at Berklee College of Music, offering students, faculty, and guest artists the opportunity to come together and perform some of the most influential music ever written. Focused on the regular and intentional inclusion of composers who represent the broad spectrum of our humanity, the BCSO performs both traditional and contemporary genres side-by-side, because all orchestral music was once contemporary. The ensemble is dedicated to creating the musical change we seek to see in professional orchestral music, with a commitment to including compositions by women and people of color at every concert. The BCSO is led by Artistic Director Julius P. Williams and Managing Director Jamie Davis-Ponce.

For more information about the orchestra visit: berklee.edu/bcso. To audition for the orchestra visit: https://college.berklee.edu/professional-performance/bcso-auditions