FROM THE NEW WORLD
BOULDER PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA
MICHAEL BUTTERMAN, conductor
Tessa Lark, violin
LIAS
Wind, Water, Sand | World Premiere
TORKE
Sky: Violin Concerto
Overview
Tessa Lark, a brilliant classical artist from Kentucky with bluegrass roots, brings a unique blend of styles to our program. Michael Torke’s “Sky,” written for Lark and nominated for both a Grammy and Pulitzer, merges Copland-like Americana with Appalachian fiddle music. The program also features works inspired by the beauty of American landscapes, including Stephen Lias’s “Wind, Water, Sand,” which draws from his experiences as composer-in-residence at a dozen US National Parks, including Great Sand Dunes National Park in Colorado. This concert marks the world premiere of Lias’s piece. Additionally, Dvořák’s “New World” Symphony, a beloved blend of Central European classicism with American influences, including spirituals and Native American music, rounds out the evening with its distinctive Americana.
Schedule
Sunday – January 12, 2025 | 4 PM
Venue
Macky Auditorium – Boulder, CO
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Beyond the Performance
THE ARTIST |
TESSA LARK, violin
Lark, a virtuosic violinist celebrated for her technical brilliance and versatility, seamlessly blends classical traditions with elements of bluegrass, reflecting her Kentucky roots. Her innovative approach and charismatic performances have earned her numerous accolades and a devoted following worldwide. Lark once expressed, “Music is a universal language that transcends boundaries; it’s my mission to connect with audiences and share the joy and beauty of music with them.” Her commitment to musical excellence and her ability to cross genres continue to captivate and inspire listeners around the globe.
NATIONAL PARKS COMPOSER |
STEPHEN LIAS
Lias, an adventurous composer known for his evocative works inspired by nature, has made significant contributions to contemporary classical music. His composition “Wind, Water, Sand” vividly captures the elemental forces and dynamic landscapes of the American wilderness, drawing listeners into a sonic exploration of the natural world. Lias’s ability to translate the beauty and power of nature into music is evident in this piece, which features intricate textures and shifting rhythms that mirror the unpredictable yet harmonious interactions of wind, water, and sand. Through “Wind, Water, Sand,” Lias not only showcases his innovative compositional style but also his profound connection to and reverence for the environment.
