What's Happening?
The Fall River Symphony Orchestra is scheduled to hold a Winter Concert on February 22 at the Jackson Auditorium, Bristol Community College. The event, conducted by Ray Daniels, will feature a diverse program including 'Leichte Kavallerie' by Franz von Suppé, 'Piano Concerto in D minor' by Florence Price, and 'El Sombrero de tres Picos' by Manuel de Falla. Janice Weber will perform as the soloist for Price's concerto. Florence Price, noted as the first African-American woman recognized as a symphonic composer, has a significant historical impact, having composed over 300 works. The concert is part of the Massachusetts Cultural Council's Card to Culture Program, offering free admission to public assistance recipients.
Why It's Important?
This concert highlights the
ongoing recognition and celebration of Florence Price's contributions to classical music, emphasizing diversity and inclusion in the arts. Price's work, particularly her 'Piano Concerto in D minor,' represents a significant cultural milestone as she was the first African-American woman to have her compositions performed by major orchestras. The event also underscores the importance of accessibility in the arts, as demonstrated by the orchestra's participation in the Card to Culture Program, which aims to make cultural events more accessible to economically disadvantaged individuals.
What's Next?
The concert is expected to draw attention to the works of underrepresented composers in classical music, potentially influencing future programming decisions by orchestras. The success of such events could encourage more cultural institutions to adopt similar accessibility programs, broadening audience demographics and fostering a more inclusive cultural environment. Additionally, the performance may inspire further exploration and performance of Price's extensive body of work, contributing to a broader appreciation of her legacy.
