VIVO Music Festival doesn’t typically follow a theme, but the nation’s anniversary inspired the concert series’ creators to switch it up.
“We don’t often do themes, but America turning 250 is significant,” said Siwoo Kim, who founded VIVO with John Stulz in 2015.
Kim, who shares artistic director duties with Stulz, said a gamut of American experiences will fall under the “America 250” umbrella, including immigrant voices.
“We’re celebrating America at 250 by highlighting the works of composers who helped shape the American musical vernacular,” he said.
“Most of these composers were immigrants, as are most of our esteemed guest artists.”
The theme is also
deeply resonant for Kim, who was born in South Korea and immigrated to the U.S. with his parents at age 5.
“As the son of immigrants, my heart is filled with immense pride for VIVO’s 12th season that explores the stories of Americans,” he said.
“I think this season, in sound and also visually, exemplifies what I believe America to be: Everyone is equal. People come from different backgrounds, but we are unified in spirit.”
Repertoire will range from Béla Bartók to Aaron Copland and include one “intentionally undecided” program that Kim said will be announced from the stage.
Here is the lineup for VIVO with some highlights:
- Sept. 10: “VIVO Origins,” – Featuring work by guest trumpet soloist Brandon Ridenour, 7 p.m., Timashev Recital Hall, 1900 College Road North, Ohio State School of Music. Tickets: $25 online or pay what you wish at the door.
- Sept. 11: “Beer and Beethoven” – Music with jazz, pop and folk influences, 6 p.m., Natalie’s Grandview, 945 King Ave. Tickets: $31; limited, may sell out.
- Sept. 11: “Beer and Beethoven: Different Trains” – Featuring the world premiere of a piece for three violas by Ohio-based composer and cellist Gregory Rowland Evans, 9 p.m., Natalie’s Grandview. Tickets: $31.
- Sept. 13: “VIVO Hope” – Partnership with Chamber Music Columbus, 1 p.m., Southern Theatre, 21 E. Main St. Tickets: $17.40-$57.84.
Kim noted that VIVO is also continuing its tradition of musical outreach in the community. “In addition to the concerts, we’re committed to public engagement,” he said.
During the week leading up to the first concert, VIVO’s outreach will include a residency at Ohio Living Westminster-Thurber and educational performances in Columbus City Schools and the Fairbanks Local School District.
Visit vivofestival.org for tickets and more information.
Contact features and entertainment reporter Belinda M. Paschal at bpaschal@dispatch.com.
This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: VIVO Music Festival celebrates America's 250th with immigrant voices
