Read / Growing Together with Music

Growing Together with Music

by Nicholas Hersh

Nicholas Hersh & Pitman High School Orchestra

The 21st-century symphony orchestra should have two fundamental missions: presenting musical experiences for the community at the highest possible artistic caliber, and providing opportunities in music education for as many children as possible. The most cynical amongst us might say we're simply preparing the next generation of music lovers to come to the symphony! Of course, anyone who has taken music lessons, or been in a school or after-school musical ensemble, knows that there’s so much more to the experience than simply “how to music.”

Music educators teach a myriad of skills, like cooperation (“open your ears and play together!”), critical thinking (“who has the important line here?”), problem solving (“try this fingering!”), attention to detail (“don’t rush the eighth notes!”), and discipline (“practice!!!”). And there is nothing so satisfying for a student as mastering a piece of music and performing it in front of gathered friends and family.

Nicholas Hersh & Johansen High School Band

My own years in school orchestra and youth orchestra were formative for my life and career, instilling in me a deep appreciation for the symphonic experience that led me to become a conductor. It’s a core tenet of my vision for the MSO to continue to invest in music education, and to expand its reach as far as possible.


Sound Bite / Discovering the Artistic Voices of Dawson, Boulanger, & Gershwin

Music Director Nicholas Hersh takes us back to experience what it was like to be an artist and composer during the period between World War I and World War II, both at home in America and abroad in Paris. He deep dives into three composers of the time: George Gershwin, Lili Boulanger, and William L. Dawson, and explores the connections between them.

See the MSO perform the works of Gershwin, Boulanger, and Dawson this February 9 & 10, 2024 at the Gallo Center for the Arts.

The Future in Action: Interview with MSYO’s Rylan Post

The Future in Action: Interview with MSYO’s Rylan Post

The MSO is proud to announce that Rylan Post, concertmaster of the MSYO Symphony Orchestra, has been appointed the concertmaster of the Mariposa Yosemite Symphony Orchestra. He will be the fourth concertmaster appointed in the orchestra’s 21-year history, and the youngest at 15 years old. Conductor and Mariposa Yosemite Symphony Orchestra founder, Les Mardsen, announced the appointment in early December 2023, emphasizing Rylan’s artistic maturity, technique, and tone quality. We were able to meet with Rylan and go over his musical past, present, and goals for the future.


MSO: Firstly, we want to talk about you and your musical journey, your time with the MSYO, and any significant influences and inspirations shaping your passion for music?

Rylan Post: I am 15 years old and a junior at El Capitan High School, and was born and raised in Merced. I started taking violin lessons at the age of 3. I’ve also been playing the alto saxophone since I was 9 and am currently playing in both marching band and jazz band at my school.

In 2018 when I was 10 years old, I joined the Modesto Symphony Youth Orchestra, in which I am currently concertmaster. I had already joined the Merced Union High School District orchestra a year before, despite being too young, and was looking for a group that challenged me while staying within my age group. That was when my violin teacher at the time, Caitlin Hunsuck Serpa, informed me of MSYO, which both of her brothers had participated in when they were younger. I enjoyed the opportunity so much that it was worth the drive from Merced every Wednesday.

Modesto Symphony Youth Orchestra 2018

Rylan Post (pictured, front row, second violin from the left) and the Modesto Symphony Youth Orchestra in 2018.

Being honest, I must accredit most of my achievements in music to Ms. Caitlin, as she’s my biggest musical inspiration and musical mentor to this day. She not only taught me everything I know as a violinist, but also instilled in me a deep love for music and those who play it.  

MSO: Being named concertmaster is an amazing achievement! Could you please tell us more about your history with the Mariposa Yosemite Symphony Orchestra (MYSO), and how you became concertmaster?

RP: Last May, MYSO’s conductor Les Marsden reached out and asked me if I was interested in the role of acting concertmaster while the current concertmaster was out of state for work. I felt intimidated to be faced with a “real” orchestra at first, but I knew it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity so I accepted the invitation. When the concertmaster’s move became permanent, I was offered the chance to make my role permanent. I feel very privileged to play alongside the talented, experienced members who I respect and learn so much from.

MSO: What are the differences you’ve experienced between performing with your high school orchestras & bands, Modesto Symphony Youth Orchestra, and Mariposa Yosemite Symphony Orchestra?

RP: Over my 12 years of being a part of the music community and the performing arts, I have played alongside many different groups and interacted with many different types of people. That’s my favorite part of my musical variety. Across my school programs, my district orchestra, MSYO, and MYSO, I’ve been challenged in multiple ways and have needed to adapt to different situations and people in order to make the best music possible.

For example, my school programs tend to perform simpler music than my orchestral groups, but are much more competitive due to the nature of band reviews and CMEA competitions. I would consider MYSO my greatest challenge, as we not only play very difficult music, but it is also a group of mostly adults, which adds to the pressure of being concertmaster. Nonetheless, across all of my groups there is a level of respect and camaraderie maintained that is unlike any other.

MSO: Now that you’ve performed in all various ensembles and solo, which do you prefer?

RP: I consider myself a very extroverted person and I like to do things with others in general, so naturally I prefer to play in ensembles than in solo. Since I was little I’ve always been fascinated by the way instruments harmonize with one another, despite differences in appearance, pitch, or method of playing. Seeing a piece come together after weeks of hard work is so satisfying to me, and MSYO has given me that satisfaction countless times over the years. Being able to share this joy with the students and musicians around me is a priceless feeling.

MSO: What have you enjoyed about your experience with the MSYO and what do you look forward to this upcoming season?

RP: I’ve grown up not only as a musician, but as a person as well over the years I’ve been in MSYO. The memories, experiences, and friendships we’ve built here at MSYO are something so unique and precious, and I’m sure I’ll cherish them as long as I play music. As my senior year creeps closer and closer, I’d just like to focus on enjoying every moment, every song, and every concert.

This upcoming concert, I’m so excited to finally be able to perform under the direction of MSO Principal Pops Conductor Ryan Murray. Lastly, I’d like to express my gratitude to all of the parents, music educators, and MSO/MSYO staff for supporting our musical journey. I can’t wait to share our beautiful selections with those who love the music as much as we do.


See rylan and the msyo perform!

Come watch the MSYO perform Mozart, Rimsky-Korsakov, and Tchaikovsky this February 10th at the Gallo Center for the Arts!


Get to Know MSO's New Music Director Nicholas Hersh!

Get to know Nicholas Hersh!

We are so excited for Nicholas Hersh’s to join our Modesto community, and we can’t wait for you to meet him. We asked him to share a bit about himself from what instrument he plays to his favorite pizza topping. Keep reading to learn more about Nicholas!

If you weren’t a conductor/musician, what would you want to be?

Probably an astronomer—I’m fascinated by space and celestial bodies!

Star Wars or Star Trek? Lifelong Star Wars nerd, reporting in

What instrument do you play?

Cello.

What was the first concert you went to? The first I really remember is The Magic Flute at the Chicago Lyric Opera when I was about 6 or 7.

Besides music, what was your favorite subject in school?
My high school had a fantastic curriculum called Chem-Phys, where you took Chemistry and Physics jointly. I wasn’t great with the Chem, but absolutely loved the Phys!

Dogs or cats?
Love them all, but seeing as I have two cats at home...

Describe yourself in three words. Curious. Creative. Committed.

Do you have a secret talent?
Not too secret (see Instagram), but I make sourdough bread.

What is your favorite pizza topping?
Cheese, cheese and more cheese!

What would be the theme music to your life?
John Williams’ “Adventures on Earth” from E.T.: The Extra Terrestrial

Go to the beach, or go to the mountains?
First one, then the other! But I just went skiing for the first time, and I LOVED it.


Nicholas on joining the MSOA:

“I am beyond thrilled that my first music directorship will be in such a vibrant, music-loving city as Modesto. There was a certain electricity in the Gallo Center when the MSO musicians and I collaborated last year, shared not only onstage but with the audience as well; together we’ll grow that energy, creating bespoke artistic experiences for the entire Modesto community and cementing the role of music education for all ages as a driver of social good.

Orchestral music has endured, and I believe symphonies will continue to serve as a vehicle for great music. You have gathered onstage a group of virtuoso musicians working together toward a unified musical vision, and an audience gathered in the house to take it in. It’s a bit of an odd ritual—this mysterious congregation! But it’s the sense of community the orchestra creates, with every musician and concertgoer participating, that gives an orchestra concert its staying power: when the lights go down and the sound of some eighty acoustic instruments envelops you and those around you...well, there are few words to describe that sensation.”

Click to enlarge.

Click to enlarge.

Sound Bite /Celebrate 30 Years of Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas with the MSO!

Principal Pops Conductor Ryan Murray invites you on a journey to Halloween Town when the Modesto Symphony Orchestra performs Danny Elfman's iconic score for Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas, live to film!

See the MSO perform Tim Burton's The Nightmare before Christmas in Concert Live to Film this November 3 & 4, 2023 at the Gallo Center for the Arts.

Sound Bite / A Celebration of Music with Music Director Nicholas Hersh

Conductor Nicholas Hersh is excited for his debut as the MSO’s new Music Director! He has put together a program that celebrates not only the partnership of MSO and himself, but also this new era for the MSO and our community.

Hear the MSO perform the works of Mozart, Tchaikovsky, and Copland live this October 13 & 14, 2023!

Hear What's Next: MSO's 2023/24 Classics Series with Nicholas Hersh!

Music Director Nicholas Hersh invites you to Hear What's Next in this Modesto Symphony Orchestra's 2023/24 Classics Season!

Our 2023/24 Classics Series:

Capathia Jenkins pays tribute to Aretha Franklin at Picnic at the Pops!

Broadway star, Capathia Jenkins invites you to see her at this one-night-only unforgettable event! Pack your picnic and get ready to see Capathia perform the hits of Aretha Franklin and more!

Hear the music of Aretha Franklin and more performed live by the MSO this September 9, 2023!

Sound Bite / Picnic with Principal Pops Conductor Ryan Murray & The Queen of Soul!

Principal Pops Conductor Ryan Murray is ready to invite you back for another fun-filled night at Picnic at the Pops paying tribute to the Queen of Soul: Aretha Franklin!

Hear the music of Aretha Franklin and more performed live by the MSO this September 9, 2023!

Announcing Our New Music Director, Nicholas Hersh!

Announcing Our New Music Director, Nicholas Hersh!

The Modesto Symphony Orchestra Association is excited to announce that our Board of Directors has named Nicholas Hersh as our next music director! Nick will be the ninth music director in our 93-year history, and we are eager to see how Nick’s artistic vision and passion for music education will raise the MSOA and our programs to new heights!

Plan Your Picnic-Perfect Evening!

Plan Your Picnic-Perfect Evening!

Whether you’re a seasoned Picnic veteran, or this is your first time enjoying Picnic, we know a lot goes into planning your picnic-perfect evening. The MSO has put together a Picnic Planner to ensure that you have an unforgettable night with us!

1. pack for success!

  • Bring a comfy blanket, or low sand chairs to sit and enjoy the show (seats lower than 9”, and backs must be lower than 32” from the ground)

  • Water, don’t forget to hydrate!

  • A cooler for your non-alcoholic beverages, your favorite snacks, or picnic meal.

2. Skip the Line!

We will have an Express Bag Check for anyone with a clear bag or no bags.

3. leave these at home.

  • No outside alcohol please!

  • Video and audio recording equipment.

  • Grills, cooking devices, or anything with an open flame.

  • Pets (Service animals are welcome).

  • Please, no fireworks, noisemakers, or items that may disturb the peace.

4. Save a tank of gas!

  • Worried about finding parking? We highly encourage you to use a RideApp service (like Uber or Lyft), especially if you plan to enjoy our wine offerings at Picnic.

  • There is a designated pickup and drop-off spot for services located in the GREEN Premier Parking Lot 4. Use address 100 Administration Circle and follow the signs to the right for RideApps drop-off and pick-up.

5. pack a picnic!

  • Guests are welcome to bring their own picnics, as simple or complex as they like, to Picnic at the Pops!

  • Don’t want to worry about the hassle? We got you covered! Pre-order a picnic dinner from The Village Butcher to have ready on-site for you to enjoy.

6. Add-on to your Picnic Fun!

  • Wine generously donated by the E. & J. Gallo Winery will be available to purchase on-site. 100% of wine sales proceeds benefit the Modesto Symphony Orchestra. For the full wine & beverage list, click here.

  • Purchase delicious food from the Sinaloense Food Truck and dessert from Yogurt Mill’s Froyo Truck.

  • Modesto Symphony Youth Orchestra will be selling Glow Products to help you light up your night. 100% of proceeds go towards MSYO scholarships. (Glow product sales are cash only.)

7. Where can you buy tickets?

If you want to get your tickets today, visit in-person or call the Gallo Center for the Arts at 209-338-2100. Tickets are also now available to purchase from our ticket outlets below:

  • Modesto Symphony Orchestra Office:
    911 Thirteenth Street, Modesto, 95354
    Monday – Friday
    10 am to 4:30 pm

  • The Village Butcher:
    1700 McHenry Ave #65, Modesto, CA 95350
    Tuesday – Friday: 10 am to 7 pm
    Saturday: 9 am to 4 pm
    www.thevillagebutcher209.com

  • Carnegie Arts Center:
    250 N. Broadway, Turlock, CA 95380
    Tuesday – Saturday: 10 am to 5 pm
    www.carnegieartsturlock.org

Groups of 10 or more can save 20% off General Lawn Seating tickets! Call the Gallo Center ticket office at 209-338-2100 for more information.

We hope this quick guideline helps you out and we can’t wait to see you all this September!


Light up the night with the mso!

Come watch Capathia Jenkins and Darryl J. Williams, conducted by Ryan Murray, perform Aretha: A Tribute alongside the Modesto Symphony Orchestra this September 9th at the E. & J. Gallo Winery Grounds!


Aretha Franklin, Queen of Soul

Aretha Franklin, Queen of Soul

Aretha Franklin, 1968

Aretha Franklin (born March 25, 1942, died August 16, 2018) was an American singer who was a pioneer of music, and defined the golden age of soul in the 1960s. Her mother was a gospel singer, and her father was a minister, allowing Aretha to perform gospel programs around the country as a young teenager. At age 18, she began recording secular music. While stunningly taleneted, she intially struggled to reach audiences until her 1967 single “I Never Loved a Man (the Way I Love You)” became her first million-seller. Success continued to follow with her albums "Aretha Arrives" (1967) and "Soul '69" (1969), to name a few. She was a highly awarded artist: receiving a Hollywood Star in 1979, being the first woman inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987, a Kennedy Center Honor in 1994, a National Medal of Arts in 1999, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2005. Aretha was a dedicated activist, using her platform to promote civil and women's rights, often covering payroll for activist groups, and performing at various benefits. Aretha Franklin was a pioneer in music for Black women, an icon in soul music, and had a major impact on social justice. Her legacy has and will continue to impact the world of music and the arts.

In celebration for our Picnic theme this year and Aretha Franklin’s impact on music, the MSO has selected our top 5 Aretha Franklin songs:

Chain of Fools

Aretha Franklin’s soulful lyrics and the high rock tempo provide the perfect storm for this R&B classic about being unable to leave an unfaithful lover.

I say a Little Prayer

Already an iconic Dionne Warwick song, Aretha’s version is a transformative version that stands out as not only a classic for her music, but considered one of the top 500 songs of all time, according to Rolling Stones.

Respect

While the original song was written by Otis Redding, Aretha’s cover is a staple of music and pop culture. Her version revamps the original song into a strong declaration from a confident woman that she deserves respect from her man. Show some R ● E● S ● P ● E ● C ● T!

(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman

A legendary song from a legendary performer, which is the expression of finding someone who makes you feel like you can be yourself.

Think

Allegedly written about Franklin’s troubled marriage to Ted White, the song rapidly became a protest song for civil rights and women’s liberation movements, and is known today as a feminist anthem.

Listen to our picnic playlist!


Listen to Aretha’s Legacy Live!

Come hear your favorite Aretha Franklin hits this September 9th at the E. & J. Gallo Winery Grounds!


Learn more about Aretha Franklin (Reference):

Behind The Podium / The Force Is Strong With The MSO

Behind the Podium / The force is strong with the mso

This May 31st & June 1st, the Modesto Symphony Orchestra returns to a galaxy far, far away when we perform Star Wars: Return of the Jedi live to film!

Principal Pops Conductor Ryan Murray conducted many of the MSO’s film concerts, including last year’s Star Wars: The Empire A New Hope and in 2022, Star Wars: A New Hope in Concert. This year, he will be leading 84 musicians in perfect time as Star Wars: Return of the Jedi plays on a 26’ x 16’ screen (the equivalent of 36 60” TVs!). An impressive feat that is a result of only 5 total hours of rehearsal time together!

Read on for an exclusive look behind the stage to see what goes into preparing for a unique concert like this with an interview with Ryan Murray we did last May 2023! 

MSO: How long does it take for you to prepare for a movie concert and is there any difference compared to preparing for a standard classics or other pops concerts?

Ryan Murray, conductor: It takes anywhere between four to six months to prepare for a movie concert and there are some major differences in how you prepare for these concerts compared to a standard classics or pops concert. The major difference in getting ready for one of these concerts is memorizing and internalizing the tempos of the original movie. Unlike in a traditional concert where the interpretation can vary from orchestra to orchestra and conductor to conductor, in the movie concerts you must play exactly in time with the film! And while I have a special screen in front of me with something called punches and streamers on it to help me line up with the film, the orchestra does not have that information, so it’s my job to really know the score inside and out so that we can make sure everything lines up just right!

Conductor Ryan Murray at the podium, with screen that provides film information in real-time.

MSO: Could you explain the how you use the screen in front of you to help line the orchestra up with what is on the big screen?
RM: Sure, while I’m conducting I have a click track and a special screen in front of me that I use to line everything up with the film. The orchestra does not have that information, so it is really the conductor’s job to make sure that all the tempos line up exactly with the film. Once the movie starts there is no margin for error, and we all must work very hard to make everything match! It is actually a very fun challenge and keeps you on your toes as a conductor!

MSO: Now that you've done a couple Star Wars in Concert performances, what did you learn from that experience and were there any surprises or challenges that come to mind?

RM: I think that the most interesting thing about performing the Star Wars movies in concert is how much freedom you have as a conductor. The score is written in such a symphonic way that you have the room to be slightly flexible with each performance- each performance is unique and exciting! Obviously, there are key moments where you have to make sure everything lines up exactly, but there are other places where you can let the orchestra be a little bit free and that makes for a really incredible musical experience.

MSO: John Williams’ scores are so iconic and each film he works on is distinctive, even when included in a franchise like Star Wars. Are there any differences to the overall musical tone for this movie, The Empire Strikes Back compared to A New Hope?

RM: There are a lot of similarities in the soundtrack including the overall size of the orchestra, the way the music is scored and the iconic opening credits music, but there is a little bit of a darker tone to this movie. The music is a bit more introspective, and I think emotionally a little bit deeper as well. We get introduced to some new characters in this film including Yoda, and the wonderful music that makes up Yoda’s theme. We also see a great character development arch happening with the main players from the first film and the music reflects that beautifully.

MSO: So, who is your favorite character from the franchise and what is your favorite theme to listen to and which is your favorite to conduct?

RM: It would be hard to pick a favorite character from the franchise, probably Yoda or Darth Vader –  talk about opposite ends of the spectrum! They both have such great music!

I really enjoy conducting the opening theme – that classic Star Wars melody. The opening ten minutes of every Star Wars movie features the entire orchestra and some really challenging music– it’s always a lot of fun! I always enjoy listening to the Imperial March – there is such intensity to that music – and such great brass writing!


The Force is Strong with the MSO

Come join Ryan Murray & the MSO on a trip to a galaxy far, far away in Star Wars: The Return of the Jedi in Concert this May 31 & June 1 at the Gallo Center for the Arts!

This article was updated May 20, 2024.

In Remembrance of Elizabeth Kidwell (1940-2023)

In Remembrance of Elizabeth Kidwell (1940-2023)

Elizabeth Kidwell was born in Fargo, ND and spent her early years in Evanston, IL where she began studying violin. When graduating high school, she was awarded a coveted scholarship to study in France at Fontainebleau with premier music teacher Nadia Boulanger. After completing her BA in music, Elizabeth moved to California and performed with the Peninsula Symphony where she eventually met her husband, Wayne. Elizabeth first performed with the Modesto Symphony in 1964 and won the MSO’s Young Artist competition in the 1965-66 season. Wayne’s higher education pursuits led them to Illinois for a time and upon returning to California, she regularly performed with the Modesto, Stockton, and Merced symphonies and the Fresno Philharmonic. Elizabeth was in the first violin section of the Modesto Symphony Orchestra and was a cherished member for nearly 50 years and will be greatly missed.  

The Modesto Symphony Orchestra is dedicating this weekend’s performances to the memory of Elizabeth Kidwell.

Sound Bite / The Mysterious Power of Mozart's Requiem

The mysterious history behind Mozart's Requiem is actually quite a simple story. MSO Chorus Director, Dr. Daniel R. Afonso Jr. helps demystify the Requiem's enigmatic past and uncovers the true power behind the music. Hear the works of Mozart and Price performed live by the MSO this May 12 & 13, 2023!

The MSO Chorus Makes a Classics Comeback!

Chorus chat with Daniel Afonso / May 12 & 13: Mozart Requiem

The MSO Chorus Makes a Classics Comeback

Since returning to in-person rehearsals and concerts last season, the MSO Chorus has been steadily working on returning to its full power. We’ve enjoyed their performances at our Holiday Pops! and Holiday Candlelight Concerts, but this May will mark the first time they’ve performed in a Classics Series concert since 2019.

We chatted with chorus director, Dr. Daniel R. Afonso Jr. to gain more insight into our beloved chorus and their return to stage with Mozart’s Requiem.

MSO: Can you give our audiences a brief background of Mozart’s Requiem?

Daniel Afonso, chorus director: Mozart’s Requiem is certainly one of the composer’s best known works—and there are certainly plenty of reasons for it. The music itself is beautiful and full of expressive elements that have made the work very popular for centuries, but the Requiem has also been shrouded in mystery and the subject of folk tales and much gossip. Everything started with Mozart receiving a commission from a mysterious Viennese patron to write a Requiem for his wife—the patron wanted to remain anonymous, sent a messenger to talk to Mozart. To complicate things further, the composer died (at age 35!) while working on this music and before being able to complete the full work. Although we now know much more about the origins of the Requiem, these “tales” and conflicting stories about the work continue to feed audiences and performers with some extra “drama” that adds to the work’s overall appeal.

Another element that contributed to Mozart’s Requiem popularity was the highly fictionalized movie about the composer’s life that came out in 1984, Milos Forman’s Amadeus. It was while watching the movie that I learned about the Requiem and fell in love with it. Later, in 2012, I had one of the highlights of my music career when I had the privilege of conducting the CSUS Chamber Singers and members of the MSO Chorus in a performance of Requiem at Lincoln Center, in New York City.

MSO: There are many iconic sections to the Requiem, like the “Dies irae” and the “Lacrimosa.” What about these sections of the Mozart Requiem do you think audiences will find most exciting to hear or see performed live?

DA: Yes, these two movements do have the most recognizable music of this entire work. And I believe this is due to Mozart’s ability to write music that perfectly depicts the character and meaning of the text. These two movements are part of a larger section of the Requiem called “Sequence” that describes the “judgment day.” The Dies irae begins this section and the Lacrimosa ends it. In the Dies irae, the words describe judgment day as a “day of wrath” when the world will “dissolve in ashes.” And in the Lacrimosa, the words depict a “tearful day” when “the guilty man will rise from the ashes to be judged.” These are powerful and colorful images that Mozart expertly matches to equally powerful and ingenuously constructed musical ideas. The result is music that is both beautiful and expressive, full of different colors and musical elements that at the same time intrigue and fascinate the listener.

MSO: You’ve been the MSO chorus director since its foundation in 2001, what has it been like working with a diverse group of singers for over 20 years?

DA: I absolutely love working with the MSO Chorus! And the diversity in the group’s membership is one of the most interesting aspects of the work to me. We have singers of all levels of ability and musical experience in the group. We have experienced choral singers and some who have music degrees (music teachers, music ministers, etc.). We also have many singers who don’t read music and some who had never been part of a choir before. The power of collective singing comes exactly from that: different people working together with a common goal, helping each other to overcome any challenges and difficulties during the process. And every time the chorus performs, we are reminded of the importance of working together as a cohesive community, and how music can be a powerful tool to bring people together. Now, add to that learning and performing some of the most exciting music ever written for choir and orchestra, and you have the full picture of how wonderful my job is!


Hear Mozart Live

Join the MSO Chorus as they perform Mozart Requiem live this May 12 & 13, 2023 at the Gallo Center for the Arts!

The Perseverance of Florence Price

about the composer

The Perseverance of Florence Price

Florence Price, composer

Florence Beatrice Smith was born on April 9, 1887, in Little Rock, Arkansas. Her father was the only African American dentist in the city and her mother was a music teacher, who provided Florence with her earliest musical training. Florence proved to be highly talented, giving her first piano performance at the age of four, and publishing her first composition at the age of 11. In 1902, at the age of 15, she enrolled in the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston, Massachusetts, and was the only one of 2,000 students to pursue a double major in organ and piano. She graduated with honors four years later with a teaching certificate and an artist diploma in organ performance.

Maude Roberts George, arts administrator

1910 marked the beginning of a new chapter for Florence where she began her teaching career in Atlanta, Georgia before eventually settling in Little Rock after marrying Thomas J. Price and having two children. Increasing racial tensions in the South led the Prices to leave Little Rock and settle north in Chicago. It was here that Florence’s composition career began to take off. In 1928, she published four compositions for piano while studying with Chicago’s leading composition and organ teachers. In 1933, Maude Roberts George, an advocate for the Arts, especially for those underrepresented, paid $250 (the modern-day equivalent of $5,093 ) for Price’s Symphony No. 1 to be performed by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra as a part of the Chicago World’s Fair. This made Florence Price the first Black woman to have her music performed by a major U.S. orchestra. Price’s unique style began to appear in 1938 with the completion of her third symphony. In traditional Romantic fashion, Price’s Symphony No. 3 has four movements. From the beginning of the piece, Price’s modernism shines through with a slow introduction that leads into a turbulent main theme. As the second movement starts, the influence of Black music comes front and center as jazz and blues themes take over in the solo trombone. The third movement continues to celebrate the blues, while introducing a Juba, an African American dance style created by those who were enslaved in the Deep South with specific origins being linked to Charleston, South Carolina. It’s a dance involving stomps and claps and eventually influenced future styles of music and dance in popular culture, such as modern tap dancing, and rhythm and blues singers which eventually influenced rock musicians. In the symphony’s final movement, the African American styles and classical music influences collide, providing joyous energy.  

Over her lifetime, Florence Price composed over 300 works in a variety of genres, including symphonies, choral works, pieces for piano and organ, and many others. She passed away in 1953 at the age of 66. In a time when classical music was largely based on European traditional practices, Price’s compositions were distinctly American and celebrations of her heritage that incorporated Black spirituals and folk traditions. Florence Price was a pioneer in classical music not only for her gender but also for her race. Her legacy brought a new narrative and voice forward that was largely overlooked.

Join us as the MSO performs Florence Price’s Symphony No. on May 12 & 13 alongside the monumental Mozart Requiem.


Listen to Price’s Legacy Live!

Come hear Florence Price’s Symphony No. 3 alongside Mozart’s Requiem, conducted by Anthony Parnther, this May 12th & 13th at the Gallo Center for the Arts!


Learn more about Price (Reference):

Swing with the Symphony & Ryan Silverman!

Broadway star, Ryan Silverman (Chicago, Phantom of the Opera), who last performed with the MSO in 2019, swings back into town this March 17th to croon your favorite jazz standards!

Hear the Great American Songbook performed live by the MSO this March 17, 2023!

Sound Bite / What Is the Great American Songbook?

Have you ever heard of The Great American Songbook? Even if you're not familiar with the name, you certainly have heard the classic pop songs that make up the genre. Join Principal Pops Conductor Ryan Murray as he explains why The Great American Songbook is considered to be "America's Classical Music."

Hear The Great American Songbook performed live by the MSO this March 17, 2023!

Barber's Violin Concert Will Make Your Heart Race! (feat. violinist Simone Porter)

Don't miss the "soul-shaking beauty and heart-racing excitement" of Barber's Violin Concert performed by violinist Simone Porter this February 10th & 11th!

Andrew Grams will conduct the MSO for the Barber & Brahms concerts with a program that will take our audiences on an emotional journey of love, loss, and the beauty of life. We’re also excited to have violinist Simone Porter to share her amazing energy and beautiful tone in Samuel Barber’s beloved Violin Concerto. The concert will conclude with Brahms’ Second Symphony, which will leave our audiences full of optimism.

Hear the works of Brouwer, Barber, and Brahms performed live by the MSO this February 10 & 11, 2023!