A chance discovery led to the revival of Florence Price’s music, including her Ethiopia’s Shadow in America, a full-bodied orchestral work which depicts the plight of Africans, from enslavement to resignation, faith and adaptation. A new Cincinnati co-commission, performed by Víkingur Ólafsson in its U.S. premiere, Mark Simpson’s piano concerto is full of boisterous rhythms and memorable tunes. The exploration of Brahms’ compositions continues under Music Director Cristian Măcelaru. Marked by moments of conflict and instability, introspection and clarity, the Third Symphony makes an argument for it being a truly autobiographical, honest and profound statement from the Viennese composer.
Program
Florence Price Ethiopia’s Shadow in America
Mark Simpson Piano Concerto (US Premiere; Co-commission)
Johannes Brahms Symphony No. 3
Artists
Cristian MÓ‘celaru conductor
Víkingur Ólafsson piano
