Intended Audience
The SMCM Symphony Orchestra, under the direction of Jeffrey Silberschlag, will give the first of two Spring concerts. This program will include James P. Johnson's “Harlem Symphony” and other compositions.
James P. Johnson was an African American pianist and composer. He was best known for being a pioneer of stride piano and one of the key figures in bridging ragtime and jazz. Not only was Johnson a fantastic pianist who inspired greats like Duke Ellington, Art Tatum, Fats Waller, and many more, he was also a legendary composer with compositions as film scores that were used in movies that surpassed his life span.
Johnson’s classical music training was used creatively when he composed “Harlem Symphony” in the 1930’s. He infused the jazz and classical culture harmoniously. The piece stands out as a jazz and blues piece that fits a symphonic format without compromising classical architecture.
The repertoire also features Igor Stravinsky's The Firebird Suite and a piano concerto by Mozart featuring soloist Rie Moore '19.
This event is free to the community.