Hendersonville Community Band Presents “Rhapsody in Blue”
Hendersonville, NC – The Hendersonville Band welcomes pianist Cynthia Lawing, for a performance of Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue” for piano and wind ensemble, Sunday March 10th at 3 p.m. in the Conference Room of Blue Ridge Community College, Campus Drive, Flat Rock.
Everybody is familiar with Rhapsody in Blue. Far fewer people know that this iconic American Masterpiece almost didn’t happen. Gershwin only learned from a newspaper article that he was composing this piece for Paul Whiteman, just weeks before it was due! But in that time he produced a piano score titled “American Rhapsody” that incorporated both classical musical and jazz elements.
Brother Ira, influenced by Whistler’s Impressionist painting “Nocturne in Blue and Green” suggested he change the title to “Rhapsody in Blue” and voila, a modern classic was born.
Ms. Lawing’s performing career spans the US, S. America, Europe and Asia, where she performs solo recitals, lectures and conducts master classes. Highlights include performing in the inauguration concert for the Royal Governor of Macau and a private recital for Mme. Chiang Kai-shek. She also performs in a piano duo with Gloria Cook, serves as clinician and adjudicator, organist and choir director and is currently Artist Associate at Davidson College NC.
Under the direction of Winford Franklin, the band will present a selection of classical, jazzy and Broadway selections complementing “Rhapsody in Blue’s” fusion of the old and new.
“Just a Closer Walk With Thee” arranged by Don Gillis features a New Orleans style slow version of a traditional gospel song that gives way to Dixie fun showcasing clarinet, trumpet and trombone solos. Our talented brass section will also be featured playing “Down in the River to Pray”.
“The Lord of the Rings” (Hobbits) paints an evocative portrait of these diminutive characters featuring a carefree folk dance, a hymn to their determination and nobility and a serene farewell as Frodo and Gandalf sail over the horizon.
“The Irish Washerwoman” Leroy Anderson’s arrangement of a traditional jig familiar to many in Ireland, GB and the US.
“Der Lehrmeister” and “The Stormchasers” two very different works by Robert Sheldon: a tribute to musical giant Richard Strauss, and an homage to popular circus marches, played at hair–raising speed!
Timelessly popular songs of Gershwin’s era are saluted in “Cole Porter on Broadway”, Warren Barker’s arrangements of nine hit songs including “Anything Goes”, “Let’s Do it” “Night and Day” , and “Love for Sale.”
Hendersonville Community Band is a group of volunteer musicians who love to play and share music with their communities. In 1997, music camp scholarships for qualified band students were established, funded by concert ticket sales, sponsorships and contributions and named in honor of HCB founder and Conductor Emeritus Jim Stokes.
Please join us for this special performance and celebration of modern classics. The hall has open seating and there is plenty of free handicap accessible parking behind the hall. Tickets are $10, students free, available from Hendersonville Visitors Information Center on Main St., the Crate Wine Market, Laurel Park and at the door on the day.
For more information Visit us at www.hcbmusic.com Or call: 828 505 4964
