November 30, 2009
Purdue Orchestra concert packages Gershwin, Copland, Bernstein and Wagner
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. - In December 2008, West Lafayette pianist Jason Wu wowed Lafayette Symphony audiences with his rendition of Grieg's "Concerto in A Minor" as a Keller Competition winner. One year later, on Saturday (Dec. 5), he returns to the same Long Center stage to perform Gershwin's famed "Rhapsody in Blue" with the Purdue Symphony Orchestra.The free concert, which also features the Purdue Philharmonic Orchestra in works by Wagner and Bernstein, is set for 8 p.m. at the Long Center, 111 N. Sixth St., Lafayette.
"Rhapsody in Blue" became instantly popular following its premiere in a concert titled "An Experiment in Modern Music" on Feb. 12, 1924, in New York City's Aeolian Hall. Gershwin was backed up by Paul Whiteman, whose dance band was one of the most popular in America at the time. Combining elements of classical music with jazz-influenced effects, "Rhapsody in Blue" has entranced audiences ever since.
The Purdue Symphony also will perform three dance episodes from Aaron Copland's "Rodeo" during Saturday's concert. Though many of Copland's works incorporate traditional American folk tunes, "Rodeo" is unique in that it leaves them intact within the score with very little alteration on the part of the composer.
"Buckaroo Holiday" heavily uses the tune "If He'd Be a Buckaroo" to tell the story of a lone cowgirl seeking the affections of the champion roper. In "Corral Nocturne," Copland's heavy use of oboe and bassoon invokes the lovesick musings of the cowgirl. "Hoe-Down" is based on a unique version of the American folk song "Bonyparte" or "Bonaparte's Retreat."
In its part of the program, the Purdue Philharmonic Orchestra will tackle Richard Wagner's "Prelude to die Meistersinger" and Leonard Bernstein's "Symphony No. 2: Age of Anxiety," which also features Wu on piano.
Contact: Kathryn Matter, 765-496-6785, kcmatter@purdue.edu
Purdue News Service: (765) 494-2096; purduenews@purdue.edu
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