News Summary
The Austin Symphony Orchestra will host its Masterworks Series Concert, ‘American Splendor’, featuring the world premiere of ‘Concerto for Trumpet and Orchestra’ by Sam Lipman. Taking place on February 21st and 22nd, the concert will showcase local talents Ephraim Owens and Giveton Gelin, providing a rich blend of classical and contemporary American music. Tickets range from $15 to $60, promoting accessibility and community engagement.
Austin
What Happened
The Austin Symphony Orchestra is set to host a Masterworks Series Concert titled “American Splendor” on February 21st and 22nd, at 8 p.m. This event will take place in Dell Hall at the Long Center for the Performing Arts, marking an important occasion for the music community in Austin. The focal point of the concert will be the world premiere of composer Sam Lipman’s “Concerto for Trumpet and Orchestra”, offering audiences a fresh experience of contemporary classical music.
Performers and Highlighted Works
The concert will feature acclaimed local trumpet player Ephraim Owens, who has garnered recognition in the jazz scene, alongside New York jazz trumpeter Giveton Gelin. The performance will open with Duke Ellington and Luther Henderson’s “Three Black Kings”, setting a rich musical context for the evening. Following this initial piece, attendees will have the opportunity to hear Lipman’s concerto. After intermission, the concert will proceed with Leonard Bernstein’s “On the Town: Three Dance Episodes” and George Gershwin’s “An American in Paris”, further highlighting the diverse spectrum of American music.
About the Composer
Sam Lipman is an Australian-born composer with a unique blend of influences from both jazz and rock music. He has become an integral part of the Austin music scene after relocating there several years ago. His academic background includes a degree in music from The University of Texas at Austin, where he honed his skills. Lipman’s body of work extends beyond orchestral compositions, having previously created music for film and theater.
Inspiration Behind the Composition
Lipman’s concerto is particularly notable as it is inspired by Ephraim Owens, aiming to create a platform for the soloist to showcase his improvisational skills rather than adhere strictly to pre-written notes. This aspect reflects a jazz-influenced theme that runs throughout the concert, promoting a sense of spontaneity and creativity.
Official Response and Support
The conductor of the Austin Symphony Orchestra, Peter Bay, has conveyed enthusiasm for Lipman’s new work, emphasizing the significance of this premier performance within the broader context of the concert. The event is presented as a testament to the collaborative efforts between local talents and the orchestra, enriching the cultural fabric of the Austin community.
Ticket Information
Tickets for “American Splendor” are priced between $15 and $60, making it accessible to a wide audience. The pricing strategy aims to encourage participation from different demographics, ensuring that the concert draws a diverse crowd to celebrate both classical and contemporary music.
Impact of the Event
The premiere of Lipman’s piece adds a significant milestone both for the Austin Symphony Orchestra and the local music ecosystem. This concert not only highlights local talent but also seeks to elevate the symphonic repertoire by introducing new works that resonate with contemporary audiences. As the concert is described as a celebration of American music and creativity, it serves to foster community engagement and appreciation for the arts in Austin.
What’s Next
Following the concert, it is expected that the success of Lipman’s premiere may encourage further collaborations between the Austin Symphony Orchestra and local composers. This event could pave the way for future performances and initiatives that showcase homegrown talent, reinforcing Austin’s reputation as a vibrant hub for music and the arts. As local artists continue to thrive and innovate, the community can look forward to an exciting array of cultural offerings in the upcoming seasons.
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Additional Resources
- KXAN
- Wikipedia: Austin Symphony Orchestra
- CBS Austin
- Encyclopedia Britannica: American Splendor
- KXAN Studio 512
- Google Search: Ephraim Owens
- CBS Austin – We Are Austin
- Google Scholar: Sam Lipman
- The Statesman
- Google News: American Splendor Concert
Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
The AUSTIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAustinTX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Austin, Travis County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as SXSW, Austin City Limits Music Festival, Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, and the Austin Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce and Visit Austin, plus leading businesses in technology, automotive, and retail that power the local economy such as Dell Technologies, Tesla, and Apple. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
