OPENING NIGHT: PROMISE OF THE NEW WORLD

In this powerful program, New Jersey resident and highly regarded jazz pianist Geri Allen performs her own NJSO commission. Jacques Lacombe and the Orchestra honor the 50th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech with Ellington’s Three Black Kings, which culminates in a tribute to the landmark civil rights event. Dvořák’s well-loved Ninth Symphony was influenced by African-American spirituals; in these concerts, we hear spirituals sung between the movements of the symphony.

JACQUES LACOMBE conductor

GERI ALLEN piano
 
REV. DR. M. WILLIAM HOWARD JR. special guest (Sep 27 only)
AFRO BLUE vocal ensemble

NEW JERSEY SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

• ELLINGTON Three Black Kings
• ALLEN Stone & Streams (World Premiere)
• ELLINGTON New World A-Comin'
• DVOŘÁK Symphony No. 9, “From the New World”  (Clip A)        (Clip B)

Geri Allen's new work is part of the New Jersey Roots Project. Learn More.