Boston Conservatory Orchestra’s 2022–2023 opening concert explores themes of nature and transformation with works by William Grant Still, Tan Dun, and Gustav Mahler.

The concert opens with William Grant Still’s deeply expressive Poem for Orchestra, which was “inspired by the concept of a world being reborn spiritually after a period of darkness and desolation,” according to his spouse, Verna Arvey.

Next is Chinese-American composer Tan Dun’s Passacaglia––Secret of Wind and Birds, which showcases unconventional sounds that no "classical" composer would have dreamed of a century ago, such as actual birdsong.

The concert concludes with Mahler’s epic Symphony No. 1 (“Titan”). Filled with fanfares, more traditional bird calls, and a bow to klezmer, this work is notable for bringing forth an exciting new approach to universal, nature-based music-making.

Bruce Hangen, Conductor

WILLIAM GRANT STILL: Poem for Orchestra

TAN DUN: Passacaglia––Secret of Wind and Birds

MAHLER: Symphony No. 1 (“Titan”)

For requests and accommodations, please contact the Mechanics Hall Box Office at 508-752-5608 x246.