By Mary Furse
Join the Orchestra of Southern Utah (OSU), for a free streamed concert, accessible from Oct.
10, 5:00 p.m. through Oct. 17, 5:00 p.m. at www.myosu.org. The concert will be conducted by Xun
Sun and Carylee Zwang and feature guest soloist Jon Yerby. OSU is excited to be able to bring a
program of lively and passionate music to the community, lending a spark of energy and
romance. Together, even at a distance, performers and listeners can keep that joy burning that we
find in sharing music.
Antonio Vivaldi’s Concerto in D Major for Lute, with Jon Yerby on guitar, will open the
program with a bright, upbeat allegro. The following largo movement will give a few moments
of respite. But though serene, it speaks of a full heart with the romantic tones of the classical
guitar. Then the finale comes to life with a joyful frolic, bringing to mind an outing in a
picturesque Italian countryside.
With a blend of the primal, exotic, and modern, Danza Ritual de Fuego by Manuel da
Falla depicts not only the danger of flame, casting shadows, and consuming, but the life-giving
energy of its dancing light and heat. Though in his day, da Falla was criticized by his compatriots
for bringing foreign influence into his compositions, we can enjoy the richness of his synthesis of
styles.
A sonic painting, Aaron Copland’s El Salon Mexico brings to life a familiar scenario:
the social game of dance. It was inspired by the composer’s visits to Mexico, where he was taken
to experience the local dance halls. He later described how he felt “the atomic sense one
sometimes gets in far-off places, of suddenly knowing the essence of a people — their humanity,
their separate shyness, their dignity, and unique charm.” And in the music and dance are tied up
all the complicated feelings we all understand of navigating the social world, and perhaps
initiating and falling into romance.
The major concert sponsor is the Cedar City RAP Fund.
This concert will be accessible for free streaming through www.myosu.org Oct. 10, 5:00
p.m. - Oct. 17, 5:00 p.m. Future concerts are planned with live “in-person” audiences, tickets
and donations are available to purchase through www.myosu.org.
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October 10, 5:00 p.m. – October 17, 5:00 p.m., 2020 Fiery Romance
Streamed Online at www.myosu.org
Tickets: Free admission through the portal at www.myosu.org
More information: 435-590 6829
Preview the music: