American Masters at San Jose Center for the Performing Arts

Gershwin, Copland, Bernstein and "Duke" Ellington: Jazz, Blues and Broadway meet Classical Concert Hall.Coplands expansive, optimistic Appalachian Spring became known as the quintessential American sound. In fact, all four composers could stake that claim. Gershwin and Bernstein each gave us a brilliant mix of symphonic music, jazz and Broadway. And Duke Ellingtons stunning reflection on Black history from slavery to the Harlem Renaissance is considered one of the greatest examples of long-form jazz. Drawing on the blues, soaring gospel music, work songs, swing, and more, Ellington created an all-American orchestral masterpiece. Conductor: Tito MuozThe Program: Aaron Copland: Appalachian SpringGeorge Gershwin: An American in ParisLeonard Bernstein: On the Town (Three Dance Episodes)Duke Ellington: Black, Brown & Beige