ASHLAND — The Ashland Symphony Orchestra presents “Power Without Words” this Saturday, March 15, at 7:30 p.m. at the Robert M. & Janet L. Archer Auditorium. Michael Repper will give a preconcert talk at 6:50 p.m.
The ASO will perform Kumbaya arranged by Tim Berens, Four Hymns Without Words by Adolphus Hailstork, and Coriolan: Overture, op.62 and Symphony No.5, op.67 by Ludwig van Beethoven.
The musicians and Grammy award winning Music Director Michael Repper are excited to present these powerful pieces with trumpet soloist Kenneth Holzworth and student string players.
Coriolan: Overture, op.62 (1807) by Beethoven is a story of moral conflict and resolution. The dynamic themes create a dramatic parallel to the tragic play Coriolanus.
Adolphus Hailstork’s Four Hymns Without Words for Solo Trumpet, played by ASO’s Principal Trumpet Holzworth, and Orchestra is a work that explores themes of spirituality, reflection, and musical expression without the use of traditional lyrics.
Kumbaya (20th Century) is a traditional spiritual song which has origins in the Gullah people of the South Carolina and Georgia coastal regions. Kumbaya translates to, “Come by here.”
The power of this piece asking for comfort in the darkest of circumstances reminds us of the need for compassion and understanding in the face of adversity and troubled times. Student string musicians will join the ASO for Kumbaya.
Symphony No.5, op.67(1804-1808) by Beethoven opens with what are possibly the most famous four notes in the history of music. The themes within create suspenseful sounds of “fate knocking at the door.”
The power behind this piece carries throughout all the movements with moments of resolution only to have fate knock once again at the door. The final movement brings forth victory, resounding in triumph.
Individual tickets are on sale by visiting the website www.ashlandsymphony.org, calling 419-289-5115 or visiting the office located at 331 College Avenue, and at the door starting at 6:30 p.m. Child and student tickets are free with the purchase of adult or senior tickets and discounted tickets are available for persons receiving EBT, SNAP, WIC, or Medicaid.
The ASO is a 501(c)3 non-profit corporation and is thankful for season sponsors Robert and Janet Archer, Samaritan Hospital Foundation, and the Ohio Arts Council, music sponsor Bella’s 220, and many other corporate and individual donors.