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The Livermore-Amador Symphony is set to perform several pieces that are a nod to vibrant musical styles and the group’s milestone 60th anniversary this weekend at the Bankhead Theater.
Conductor Lara Webber will lead the group through its “Vibrant Variations” show this Saturday (Feb. 10) at the downtown Livermore venue, which will also feature solo performances by winners of the symphony’s 51st annual Competition for Young Musicians.
Connor Roham of San Ramon will perform Chopin’s Piano Concerto No. 1, 3rd movement and Cara Wang of Fremont will perform Elgar’s Cello Concerto, 1st and 2nd movements.
Both winners are students of the San Francisco Conservatory of Music.
The orchestra will also honor Lunar New Year during the show by performing An-Lun Huang’s “Saibei Dance.” Webber referred to this piece as “energized, vigorous music (that offers) a wonderful blend of traditional Chinese melody and Western symphonic Style.”
“Huapango” by José Moncayo is another culturally significant piece with elements of popular traditional Mexican musical styles that will also be part of the lineup.
“The full color (palette) of a symphony orchestra is explored, with a diverse set of sounds in the percussion, and a particular emphasis on trumpet, trombone and violins, a nod to the Mariachi sound,” Webber said of Moncayo’s piece. “The music builds in intensity to a thrilling finish.”
“Young Persons Guide to the Orchestra” by Benjamin Britten has been described as inventive and full of energy and humor. The group will perform this number as their finale.
Written in the aftermath of WWII – and following a period of artistic suppression in English society – the theme captures musical eagerness and excitement. Instruments in this theme present themselves as characters, forming a sonic narrative that captivates the listener, according to a statement from the orchestra.
The concert is set for 7:30 p.m. and will be preceded by “Inside the Music,” a talk led by Webber, from 7-7:15 p.m. at which time Webber will share insights about the show.
During intermission, teen jazz band Element 116, directed by Matt Finders, will perform in the Bankhead lobby.
As a celebration of the orchestra’s 60th anniversary, a complimentary reception will follow the event in the Bankhead lobby. To find out more about the musical group, or to purchase tickets, visit https://livermoreamadorsymphony.org/.
