Seattle Wind Symphony: Persistence

• African American Cultural Ensemble (ACE)

Haley Woodrow — In Two Places
Omar Thomas — Of Our New Day Begun
Various — Selected works (performed by African American Cultural Ensemble)
Johannes Brahms — Three Chorale Preludes, Op. 122
Aaron Copland — Variations on a Shaker Melody
Fergal Carroll — Song of Lir
Dmitri Shostakovich — "IV. Allegro non troppo" (Finale) from Symphony No. 5 in D minor, Op. 47

Join Seattle Wind Symphony for the third concert of our 2023-2024 season!

The program includes works for wind band inspired by strength and tenacity. This concert will feature special guests, the Northwest African American Museum's African American Cultural Ensemble.

About Seattle Wind Symphony

Seattle Wind Symphony is a premier wind band in the Pacific Northwest, conducted by Dr. John Falskow. Seattle Wind Symphony is dedicated to connecting the Puget Sound community through vibrant, accessible, and captivating performances. We feature a diverse array of composers, both living and historical; local Pacific Northwest soloists; and compositions spanning many musical styles. We strive to inspire a love of the unique resonance of a woodwind, brass, and percussion ensemble in audiences of all ages.

http://www.seattlewindsymphony.org/

About African American Cultural Ensemble (ACE)

Inspiration comes from heritage, arts, and culture. Within the African American tradition, choirs have been significant vehicles for inspiration, comfort, and collective healing. Choirs have always played an important role in keeping Black heritage and Black ancestral stories alive through singing spirituals, freedom songs, and songs of hope.

The Northwest African American Museum's President & CEO LaNesha DeBardelaben envisioned and created the African American Cultural Ensemble (ACE) during the racial reckoning of 2020 and early 2021. The deep hurt, pain, and trauma moved NAAM, an institution that is committed to justice and equity. These recent times have collectively brought us all as a society pain, sorrow, fatigue, anger, and bewilderment. However, meeting these feelings with heart-stirring inspirational music can give way to a determined and forward-facing resolve to "never allow despair to have the last word."

https://www.naamnw.org/ace