Times Weekly, entertainment staff
The Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras (CYSO) is reteaming with Joliet native and CYSO alum Mary Elizabeth Bowden for the world premiere of “Bohemian Queen: Concerto for Trumpet and String Orchestra” by Clarice Assad at Symphony Center’s Orchestra Hall 7:30 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 20.
The subject of “Bohemian Queen,” written specifically for Mary Elizabeth Bowden and CYSO, is the surrealist art of Gertrude Abercrombie (1909-1977), an American painter based in Chicago often called “the queen of the bohemian artists.” As Assad observed in the program notes for the piece, “Abercrombie’s paintings are characterized by their use of dreamlike symbolism and careful attention to detail. She was profoundly interested in the jazz scene and friends with and used to throw parties for musicians including Dizzy Gillespie, Charlie Parker, and Sarah Vaughan.”
“Bohemian Queen” is in three movements. The first two are inspired by two of her paintings: “Girl Searching” (1945) and “The Stroll” (1943). The third movement, “Hyde Park Jam,” is an imaginary depiction of her memorable parties where she used to sit in as a pianist herself and play with jazz’s greatest masters.
Clarice Assad’s latest work is a brilliant example of her sophisticated yet accessible style and a perfect vehicle for the powerful virtuosity of CYSO alumna Mary Bowden,” said Music Director Allen Tinkham. “Bohemian Queen” illuminates why Clarice’s eclectic and energizing voice is among the fastest rising in classical music today. We are thrilled to have Chicago’s brightest young musicians take part in this important premiere giving them a personal experience with two fearlessly creative artists. CYSO is shaping the future of music by investing in the next generation of leaders, and as educators we have a responsibility to lead change tearing down old barriers so the next generation can dream bigger and lead even greater change.”
Tickets CYSO presents their fall concert at Orchestra Hall, 220 South Michigan Ave. at 7:30 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 20. Tickets for general admission floor and upper balcony will be $20; lower balcony $40-$50; boxes $60. Children aged 7 and under are free. Tickets are on sale now at http://cyso.org/tickets or from the Symphony Center box office.
Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras’ mission is to inspire and cultivate personal excellence through music. After more than 75 years of music-making, CYSO continues to shape generations of young leaders and musicians.