This event is part of UCF Celebrates the Arts 2024.
A vibrant program from the UCF Symphony Orchestra and its newly-appointed conductor Robert G. Hasty showcases heroism and how it is conveyed in music.
What makes a person heroic? Three composers from different times and places took varying approaches to tell the stories of heroes. One composer — arguably the most revered symphonic composer in all western classical music — attempted to pay tribute to a king, but later revoked the tribute in honor of an unnamed hero. An esteemed 20th century American composer paid homage to the values and words of an American president. A celebrated contemporary composer wrote a tribute inspired by the tireless frontline workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
In this program, Valerie Coleman’s Seven O’Clock Shout begins as a trumpet fanfare then unfolds into a celebration of life and heroism of ordinary people symbolized by the selfless acts of nurses and doctors. The words of Abraham Lincoln will be narrated during Aaron Copland’s A Lincoln Portrait which has deeply endeared the American consciousness since its premiere in 1942. Filled with references to the time he lived, the piece musically reflects the president’s gentle nature and the impressive words he used to invoke the magnificent spirit of our country. Ludwig van Beethoven furiously erased his written acknowledgement to Napoléon on the cover page of his Symphony No. 3 in E-flat major, op. 55 (Eroica) so violently that he bore a hole into the paper after learning that the military dictator had crowned himself emperor. The work became a monument in symphonic composition, now called by the composer a “heroic symphony … composed to celebrate the memory of a great man.”
One of Central Florida’s favorite new traditions celebrates ten years! UCF Celebrates the Arts is an immersive and dynamic cultural extravaganza that fuses creativity, innovation and community engagement. This annual festival showcases the artistic prowess of UCF’s faculty and students and invites the broader community to enjoy performances, exhibitions, presentations and interactive experiences. With a focus on accessibility, partnership and diverse offerings, UCF Celebrates the Arts is a unique opportunity for the community to experience the creative side of UCF’s innovative spirit. Events will be held April 3-14 at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. Learn more at arts.cah.ucf.edu/celebrates.
Read MoreTickets starting at $20