Grand Rapids Symphony

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David Lockington, Conductor
Bright Sheng, Guest Conductor
Yolanda Kondonassis, Harp
Amy Burton, Soprano

A composer whose work has been described as “genius” and one of the world’s greatest harpists will combine their talent on stage this weekend!  Your Symphony will perform the Michigan premiere of Chinese-American Composer Bright Sheng’s Never Far Away, featuring harpist Yolanda Kondonassis.  Sheng writes of his work “Never Far Away,” “...each movement is inspired by my native Chinese culture. If your native culture is still the inspiration of your work, you are ‘never far away’ from home.”  You won't want to miss this exciting new work reflecting the composers Chinese heritage.  Also on the program, Mr. Tambourine Man, a unique, 2008 Grammy winning work featuring the poetry and lyrics of Bob Dylan, set to new tunes by famed contemporary composer, John Corigliano.  The 35-minute orchestral work includes five-movements: “Clothes Line,” “Blowing in the Wind,” “Masters of War,” “All Along the Watchtower,” and “Forever Young.” Soprano Amy Burton is a favorite vocalist of Corigliano and will be performing with your Grand Rapids Symphony.