By Sarah Daniels, Staff Writer
On Friday, April 5, the Sunderman Conservatory’s Symphony Orchestra performed their “Rhapsody in Blue” program at the Majestic Theater. The orchestra was conducted by Assistant Professor for the Sunderman Conservatory of Music César Leal, and the musicians had small touches of blue mixed into with their concert black outfits through the form of painted nails, ties, scrunchies and jewelry, unifying the color blue as a theme for the concert.
The first piece, “An Outdoor Overture,” composed by Aaron Copland, was a lively, quick tempoed piece. With a prologue spoken by Jacob Hunkins ’24, the introduction to the melodies was demonstrated briefly by the brass and strings sections before the piece was played.
The next piece of the concert was composed by prominent Black musician William Grant Still. Josie Eteme ’24 gave an introduction and biography of Still. As a groundbreaking Black composer pushing boundaries, he paved the way for other composers and musicians of color to publish and perform their work in previously banned venues. The piece chosen by the Conservatory is titled “The American Scene: Suite 4 ‘The Far West,’” a three part exploration of American culture in the 20th century. With the first section, “The Plaza,” Still kept the area of Southern California and Los Angeles in mind. “Sundown Land,” the second part, was composed with the discriminatory cities and towns of the West and Midwest in mind. The final part, “Navajo Country,” focused on the Native populations of America.
The third piece performed, “West Side Story: Selections for Orchestra,” was composed by Leonard Bernstein and arranged by Jack Mason.
The final piece, “Rhapsody in Blue,” composed by George Gershwin, was given an introduction by Christian Teufel ’27, who let the audience know that the piece was celebrating its 100th year. The piano soloist and Professor for the Sunderman Conservatory of Music Jocelyn Swigger carried a melody that the rest of the orchestra would join briefly. With quieter moments that captured the audience to bold, complicated melodies, Swigger received a standing ovation for her masterful piano skills and beautiful execution of the piano portion of the song. Her performance combined with the blue lighting on stage tied the blue theme of the concert together nicely.
Leal congratulated the student orchestra staff, Kate Anderson ’25, Beckett Reynolds ’27 and Alexis Gonzales ’26, on a job well done; they were responsible for essentially every aspect of the concert, from setting up to programs to lighting. With a final bow to a roaring wave of applause, the concert was over.
After the performance, many were giving accolades to the orchestra.
“The theme of the concert was not only unique, but very well done,” said Scott Myers ’27. “Each individual part of the orchestra was outstanding in their performance, and the solo pianist Dr. Swigger was amazing as well.”
Riley Dunbar ’27, who is a 1st Violin, spoke to the preparation aspect of the concert and their admiration for Dr. Swigger.
“It was such an incredible experience, being able to work with the orchestra for what seemed like years and years,” they said, “it was actually only a couple of months, but they were filled with lots of rehearsal and preparation. Dr. Swigger is literally incredible. She has such a strong stage presence, and I couldn’t take my eyes off of her when we were waiting for our cues because her performance was captivating and incredible.”
