What's Happening?
The Detroit Symphony Orchestra (DSO) is set to broadcast a live performance on March 6, 2026, featuring a concerto by Carlos Simon that commemorates the Underground Railroad. The piece, premiered by trombonist Kenneth Thompkins and the DSO in 2023, aims
to honor the stories and experiences of enslaved people and abolitionists. The concert will also include William Grant Still's Fourth Symphony, conducted by Thomas Wilkins, which celebrates diverse American musical cultures. The broadcast will be available through Classical IPR, WRCJ, and Detroit Public TV, among others.
Why It's Important?
This event highlights the DSO's commitment to celebrating and preserving significant historical narratives through music. By broadcasting the performance, the DSO and its partners are making these cultural stories accessible to a wider audience, fostering a deeper understanding of American history and its diverse musical heritage. The inclusion of works by African American composers like Carlos Simon and William Grant Still underscores the importance of representation in classical music, potentially inspiring future generations of musicians and composers.
