Mohammed Fairouz to Guest Compose Ohio State Wind Symphony, 10/30

Widely commissioned and recorded Arab-American composer Mohammed Fairouz will be guest composer for the Ohio State Wind Symphony's performance of his latest work on Wednesday, October 30, at 8 pm in Weigel Hall Auditorium, 1866 College Rd.

Fairouz, guest composer-in-residence and cultural awareness advocate, will present In the Shadow of No Towers, his most recent symphony for wind ensemble. It is inspired by Pulitzer Prize-winning graphic novelist Art Spiegelman's book about American life in the aftermath of the September 11 terrorist attacks.

Fairouz's fourth symphony, In the Shadow of No Towers has been greeted with critical acclaim. After its premiere at Carnegie Hall in March 2013, Steve Smith, The New York Times, described the work as "technically impressive, consistently imaginative and in its finest stretches deeply moving."

Hailed by The New York Times as "an important new artistic voice," Fairouz, born in 1985, is one of the most frequently performed, commissioned and recorded composers of his generation. He integrates Middle-Eastern modes into Western structures, encompassing many different genres. Fairouz's cosmopolitan outlook reflects his transatlantic upbringing and extensive travels. His catalog encompasses virtually every genre, including opera, symphonies, ensemble works, chamber and solo pieces, choral settings, and electronic music. His large-scale works, including four symphonies and an opera, engage major geopolitical and philosophical themes. Described by Gramophone as "a post-millennial Schubert," he has composed an opera (with a second in progress), 13 song cycles, and hundreds of art songs. He lives in New York City.

Also on the Ohio State program are Robert Beaser's Manhattan Roll and William Schuman'sGeorge Washington Bridge. The concert features Russel C. Mikkelson as conductor, and Nicholas Enz as guest conductor.

Tickets are $10 general admission, $5 senior citizens, Alumni Association members, non-Ohio State students and children. Free to all ConcertCard holders and Ohio State students, faculty and staff (1 ticket per BuckID presented in person, subject to availability).

Visit music.osu.edu for more information and details. Advance tickets available by calling (614) 292-2295.

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