John Adams Leads LA Phil in All-American Musical Showcase
A captivating program of distinctly American compositions, led by LA Phil Creative Chair John Adams, is set to resonate with audiences. The performance features the world premiere of Adams’ new piano concerto, After the Fall, alongside works by Charles Ives, Roy Harris, and Aaron Copland, offering a powerful exploration of the nation’s musical identity.
The concert promises a diverse and emotionally resonant experience, showcasing both established masterpieces and fresh creative endeavors. The program is generously supported by the Contemporary Initiatives Fund and Christian Stracke.
A New Concerto Takes Flight
Adams’ After the Fall is already generating significant buzz, with one critic describing it as “a dreamlike thrill ride” and “a terrific addition to the composer’s catalog,” according to the San Francisco Chronicle. The concerto will be brought to life by acclaimed Icelandic soloist Víkingur Ólafsson, a musician lauded for his “magical touch” by the BBC.
This premiere marks a significant moment in Adams’ career, adding another layer to his already impressive body of work.
Exploring the Roots of American Sound
The program thoughtfully frames Adams’ new work within a historical context, beginning with Charles Ives’ profoundly poetic The Unanswered Question, widely considered his most famous composition. The concert then transitions to Roy Harris’ Symphony No. 3, a work deeply influenced by the landscapes and spirit of the American West.
Born in Oklahoma and raised near Los Angeles, Harris masterfully captures the colors and vastness of the region in his music. His compositions offer a vivid sonic portrait of the West, resonating with a sense of place and authenticity.
Copland’s Frontier Vision
The performance culminates with Aaron Copland’s iconic Appalachian Spring. This beloved work movingly depicts the story of a young preacher and his wife as they begin their life together on the American frontier.
Copland’s evocative score paints a vivid picture of early American life, capturing both the challenges and the hopes of a pioneering generation. The piece stands as a testament to the enduring power of the American spirit.
