Grant from New Music USA with Erie Philharmonic
On March 7, 2020, the Erie Philharmonic will present the world-premiere of Vivian Fung’s new concert for trumpet, featuring Mary Elizabeth Bowden as soloist, in the historic Warner Theatre in downtown Erie. As an orchestra that has been in existence for more than 100 years, we strive each year to find new and powerful ways to adapt to the changing musical culture of our audience. Between innovative programming, annual co-commissions, world-class soloists, movie concerts and nationally recognized outreach programming, we are truly making a difference in the lives of tens of thousands of people each year. Since 2016, the orchestra has sold out 13 concerts in a theatre that seats more than 2,100 audience members.
As part of this world premiere in March 2020, we will be working withthe Women’s Club of Erie for a weeklong residency including both of ourguest artists. With 2020 being the 100th anniversary of Women’sSuffrage, we are honored to present this new work featuring both afemale soloist and composer, and are working to ensure that thisinnovative collaboration is shared with as many people as possible. Ms.Fung and Ms. Bowden will offer numerous classes throughout the Erieregion to audiences of all ages, all at no cost. We are already intalks with various institutions regarding scheduling for March 2020,including Edinboro University, Gannon University, Mercyhurst University,the Jefferson Educational Society, Erie’s Public Schools and theMillcreek School District. Examples of planned outreach events includepresentations to college and high school music classes, young composerworkshops and performances, lectures and more. Additionally, we willplan an open rehearsal at the Warner Theatre for the community onFriday, March 6 at 7:30pm, offering an amazing chance to see Ms. Fungwork with the orchestra as they prepare her piece with Ms. Bodwen.
With our recent successes involving artist residencies, we are confident in our ability to create an impactful week of once-in-a-lifetime opportunities. As an example, in 2016, the legendary pianist Emanuel Ax chose to spend four days in Erie all at no cost to the orchestra because he believed in the power of what we were doing here in Erie.
To further ensure the success of this project, the Erie Philharmonicis leading a consortium of orchestras from across the country to helpdefray the total cost of the commission. Orchestras as of July 1, 2019,include Anchorage Symphony, San Jose Chamber Orchestra, ShenandoahConservatory and San Diego State University.
Work on the new piece will begin in July 2019 with a goal of completion by January 2020. The Erie Philharmonic will present the world premiere on March 7, 2020, and all commissioning orchestras will being performances in September 2020.
-By Steve Weiser