Rhapsody in Blue at Severance Music Center

COPLAND  Suite from Appalachian Spring 

GERSHWIN  Rhapsody in Blue 

ELLINGTON  New World A-Comin'

COPLAND  Suite from The Tender Land

Pianist Marc-André Hamelin brings his breathtaking virtuosity to the irrepressible jazz rhythms of Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue, which celebrates its 100th anniversary this year. This beloved work is the centerpiece of a journey through America’s musical heartland that also features New World A-Comin’, Duke Ellington’s hopeful vision of a future with “no war, no greed, no categorization.” Conductor David Robertson bookends the piano pyrotechnics with Copland’s suites from Appalachian Spring and The Tender Land, sprawling works that evoke open landscapes and open hearts.

The Cleveland Orchestra
David Robertson, conductor
Marc-André Hamelin, piano

This program’s Concert Preview lectures will be presented by James O'Leary, Frederick R. Selch Associate Professor of Musicology, Oberlin College and Conservatory