Folk Music Festival

DVORAK Slavonic Dances, Op. 72
PISZCZEK Song Catcher: Variations on Native American Folk Songs WORLD PREMIERE
GRAINGER Irish Tune from County Derry
COPLAND Billy the Kid
KODALY Dances of Galánta

Music carries its own genetic code. It reveals who we are, and where we come from. It holds the identities of entire communities and has no respect for political boundaries. Music moves freely across borders, even when people cannot.  This exciting program will feature six exciting works from around the world, showcasing classical masterpieces inspired by rich folk traditions.  The orchestra opens with the lively Dances of Galánta by Hungarian composer Zoltán Kodály, which combines traditional folk melodies from the composer’s home region with a symphonic context.  Native American folk songs will also be highlighted in a new and thrilling work from Mark Piszczek, titled Song Catcher.  The concert is rounded out with three very popular works from around the globe, Aaron Copland’s exciting Billy the Kid, Percy Grainger’s gorgeous Irish Tune from County Derry, and Dvorak’s electrifying Slavonic Dances.