Curtis Symphony Orchestra Concert Featured in the Philadelphia Inquirer

The Philadelphia Inquirer‘s Peter Dobrin highlights the Curtis Symphony Orchestra‘s December 18 concert with superstar alumnus Ray Chen (Violin ’10) as one of the classical music highlights in the Fall Arts Guide. In that concert, Mr. Chen returns to his alma mater to perform Samuel Barber’s (’34) monumental Violin Concerto under the baton of acclaimed artist and fellow Curtis alumnus Teddy Abrams (’08).

“Most of the program features Curtis grads—TJ Cole, George Walker, and Samuel Barber. But it’s Aaron Copland’s Symphony No. 3 that promises a most exquisitely timed arrival,” notes Mr. Dobrin.  “Regardless of the outcome of the election and political climate, an extended essay on the American spirit—its ambition, optimism, humanity, and the rooting in the common good—can only help to heal an ailing zeitgeist.”

The program opens with composer and producer TJ Cole’s (’17) moving work Death of the Poet, conducted by Yoann Combémorel, Rita E. Hauser Conducting Fellow, followed by George Walker’s (Piano and Composition ’45) landmark 1996 Pulitzer Prize-winning song cycle for vocal soloist and orchestra, Lilacs, featuring soprano Kylie Kreucher. Barber’s concerto follows and the program concludes with Aaron Copland’s ambitious and patriotic Symphony No. 3.

Learn more about the program HERE and read Mr. Dobrin’s article in the Philadelphia Inquirer.

Photo Credits: 1.) Ray Chen (John Mac). 2.) Teddy Abrams (Chris Witzke). 3.) Kylie Kreucher (Nichole MCH Photography).