Sphinx Virtuosi at Center for the Arts

Welcome Mason Artist-in-Residence Sphinx Virtuosi, the Detroit-based chamber orchestra dedicated to increasing racial and ethnic diversity in classical music. Prepare to stretch beyond the usual notions of the classical music canon with a dynamic program of music by women and composers of color. The evening begins with Xavier Foleys Evry Voice, a take on the Black national anthem Lift Every Voice and Sing, mirrored later in the program by Jessie Montgomery's vision of the national anthem, with all of its richness, conflict, and celebration in Banner! Montgomerys creative genius is displayed again in the regional premiere of Divided, a cello concerto which is a musical response to the current American political climate. The program also features Four Novelletten, a beautifully crafted work by Samuel Coleridge-Taylor that infuses the modern string orchestra with romantic sentimentality. In addition, works by Cuban composer Guido Lpez-Gaviln, Florence Price, and Alberto Ginastera are featured. With this program, Sphinx Virtuosi contemplates our countrys present division and through creative expression, offers ways to evolve together toward a more just and equitable future. During their residency, ensemble members will spend time participating in engagement activities with the greater northern Virginia community and Mason students.

Program:
Xavier Foley: Ev'ry Voice
Samuel Coleridge-Taylor: Four Novelletten
I. Allegro moderato
III. Andante con moto
Florence Price: Andante Cantabile from String Quartet No. 2 in A minor
Jessie Montgomery: Banner!
Jessie Montgomery: Divided
Guido Lpez-Gaviln: Camerata en Guaguanc
Alberto Ginastera: Concerto for Strings
IV. Finale furioso