Prokofiev’s Romeo and Juliet
Fri Feb 9 — Sat Feb 10, 2024
Orchestra Hall
Smetana, Prokofiev, two thrilling debuts and a Minnesota Orchestra first all at once! Conductor Ruth Reinhardt and saxophonist Steven Banks, a 2022 Avery Fisher Career Grant recipient, make their debuts with the Minnesota Orchestra to showcase Billy Childs’ recently premiered Diaspora, a concerto for saxophone and orchestra. The work co-commissioned by the Orchestra highlights Black experiences in America, with inspiration from poets including Langston Hughes and Maya Angelou. Then: romance, drama and intrigue capture the evening with a suite from Prokofiev’s gripping ballet score.
A Few Things to Know
- Composer Billy Childs has been the recipient of 16 Grammy nominations and five Grammy Awards.
- Steven Banks is the first saxophonist to capture First Prize at the Young Concert Artists Susan Wadsworth International Auditions in the organization’s 60-year history.
- The suite from Prokofiev’s Romeo and Juliet that is performed in this program was compiled by conductor Ruth Reinhardt.
Program
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SMETANA
Šárka, from Má vlast (My Homeland)
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CHILDS
Diaspora (Concerto for Saxophone and Orchestra)
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PROKOFIEV
Romeo and Juliet Suite
Artists
The Grammy Award-winning Minnesota Orchestra, now in its second century, ranks among America’s top symphonic ensembles, with a distinguished history of acclaimed performances in its home state and around the world; award-winning recordings, broadcasts and educational engagement programs; and a commitment to intentionally build concert programs to feature more works by composers of color, exploring music both contemporary and historic. This fall, Danish conductor Thomas Søndergård begins his tenure as music director.
Accessibility Services
- Armless & Bariatric Chairs
- Assistive Listening Devices
- Large-Print Programs
- Noise-Cancelling Headphones
- Service Animals
- Wheelchair & Accessible Seating
Additional services are available upon request.
Sponsored By
The 2023-2024 Classical Season is presented by Ameriprise Financial.