Visiting Orlando Not Just For Disney — Orlando Phil Orchestra!

The Orlando Philharmonic

Conductor Mei-Ann Chen, praised for her passionate conducting style, leads the Orchestra in the Florida premiere of the new concerto for piano and orchestra, Shades of Unbroken Dreams, by Orlando favorite James Lee III. Bookending the Concerto is Emilie Mayer’s Overture, whose Romantic vocabulary explores Faust’s searching, questing soul and leads into the beautiful conclusion of our concert, Brahms’s Third, often called his most personal symphony. “Like a rainbow after a thunderstorm,” as the composer’s biographer Karl Geiringer describes it, with an emotional palette that paints in colors of yearning, reflection, and serene acceptance.

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Review: Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra. February 24, 2024

by Nili Nathan

Art for All lives in Orlando – truly! Last night, at the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra, I attended an exciting program led by the very dynamic guest conductor Mei-Ann Chen that included a woman composer, Emilie Mayer, a German composer (1812-1883). One interesting tidbit about Emilie Mayer’s Faust Overture is its historical significance as a work composed by a female composer in the 19th century. Mayer was one of the few women composers to achieve recognition during her time, breaking societal norms and barriers to pursue her passion for music composition. Admired by critics in the 19th century, yet she had to pay to publish her works while honorariums were given to male musicians. The Faust Overture itself is notable for its dramatic and evocative musical language, inspired by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe‘s famous work “Faust.” Mayer’s interpretation of the Faustian themes demonstrates her skillful orchestration and command of form, showcasing her as a significant figure in the Romantic musical tradition. Moreover, Mayer’s contributions to the orchestral repertoire, particularly with works like the “Faust Overture,” highlight her role in challenging gender stereotypes in the male-dominated world of classical music composition. Her music serves as a testament to the talent and creativity of women composers throughout history.

Shades of Unbroken Dreams is a Piano Concerto by the American composer James Lee III. It was inspired by the life, legacy, and ideals of Martin Luther King Jr., the prominent civil rights leader in the United States. The piece serves as a musical reflection on King’s vision of equality, justice, and the pursuit of freedom for all people. Lee’s compositions are known for their blend of traditional classical techniques with influences from African American spirituals, jazz, and various world music traditions. His works often reflect themes related to spirituality, cultural identity, and social justice.

Pianist Alexandra Dariescu was magnificent in the piano solo cadenza of Shades of Unbroken Dreams. She encapsulates the voice-merging technique used by African American preachers in the second movement. You could hear the voice and speech of Dr. King with every note and it was moving.

The program ended with Brahms’ Symphony No. 3, known for its melodic beauty and elegance, with memorable themes that unfold gracefully throughout the four movements. Brahms‘ gift for crafting poignant melodies is on full display in Symphony No. 3, captivating listeners with its lyrical charm and emotional resonance.

Mei-Ann Chen’s conducting style is dynamic, energetic, and exciting to watch as she leads the orchestra with emotional depth and the lyrical beauty of Brahms No. 3.

Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra’s Music Director, Eric Jacobsen is capitulating Orlando into a cultural force that promises to delight lovers of classical music as well as bring newbies into the arena. Visit the Dr. Philips Center where the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra performs.

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