Diversity and digital performances will be a big part of the new season.
The Philadelphia Orchestra has announced a big change in the coming season.
From Operawire:
"The theme of the orchestra’s season, titled “Our World NOW,” will reflect the cultural and musical zeitgeist with recent works from composers such as Gabriela Lena Frank, Valerie Coleman, Vivian Fung, Missy Mazzoli, and Jessie Montgomery, among standard repertoire from Beethoven, Brahms, Copland, Mahler, Mozart, Vivaldi, Florence Price, and George Walker."
The orchestra will record performances of the music and release them online for public view.
Additionally, Operawire:
"Audiences can also stream free concerts performed by small ensembles at iconic venues and Black-owned businesses in the Philadelphia region, such as the National Marian Anderson Museum, Harriett’s Bookshop, the Historic Belmont Mansion/ Underground Railroad Museum, and The Franklin Institute. The orchestra’s monthly “HearTOGETHER” series will focus on social justice, creative equity, and inclusion, featuring industry leaders and guest artists."
This looks like a real step forward in the interest of stepping outside the box and adding diversity to classical music.
For more details, you can read the full article here.