Hickory – The Western Piedmont Symphony presents its last Masterworks concert of the 2021-2022 season – “New World Symphony” – on Saturday, April 30, 2022, at 7:30 p.m. at the P.E. Monroe Auditorium at Lenoir-Rhyne University.
The classical orchestral concert features the magnificent Dvořák Symphony No. 9 in E minor, “From the New World,” Richard Strauss’ “Four Last Songs” featuring guest artist Jodi Burns, soprano, and the transcendent “Rainbow Body” by Christopher Theofanidis.
“We are fortunate to once again gather together in person to experience these powerful, uplifting orchestral works as we ease into a post-pandemic world,” noted Western Piedmont Symphony’s music director, Matthew Troy. “Our final Masterworks concert features big, familiar music that transforms, from the lovely nostalgic “Going Home” melody in the second movement of the New World Symphony to the profound farewell to a world that will never be the same again in Strauss’ songs, then ending in am experience of energy and light in “Rainbow Body,” added Troy.
Featured guest artist Jodi Burns has been described as singing with a “plush voice and rich expressivity” (The New York Times). In her appearance as Anna Sorenson in Kevin Puts’ Silent Night (Piedmont Opera), the Winston-Salem Journal notes, “Burns dazzle[s] with her lustrous soprano and bright charisma. The production is elevated whenever she appears on stage.”
Whether performing in intimate venues or on the opera stage, she appeals to a rich and diverse audience.
Ms. Burns’ guest artist visit includes a masterclass with regional vocal studies students and a Soundbites lunch and music event on Friday, April 29, 2022, at Noon. Ms. Burns will perform highlights from her operatic repertoire and share a sneak peek of the “Four Last Songs” performance coming up at the Masterworks concert the following evening. Soundbites occurs at the Keiser Community Room at the S.A.L.T. Block, Hickory. Lunch will be provided by
Fresh Chef Restaurant of Hickory.
The Western Piedmont Symphony Masterworks “New World Symphony” is sponsored by Alex Lee.
Masterworks tickets are $25-45; students $5 (17 & under or w/valid student ID). Lenoir-Rhyne University COVID-19 health and safety protocols will be observed. The P. E. Monroe Auditorium is located at 775 6th St NE on the campus of Lenoir-Rhyne University in Hickory, N.C. Soundbites tickets are $35 (for lunch and concert). Purchase by visiting WPSymphony.org/Tickets or call 828.324.8603. S.A.L.T. Block COVID-19 health and safety protocols will be observed.
