Well, it is time to kick off another season with the Symphony of Southeast Texas! I could not be more excited about this season’s offerings as we take the SOST around the world on a musical journey. We will visit Latin America, Germany, Russia and the United States.
Our journey begins with music from our neighbors to the south in Mexico. What I love about this music is the colorful use of percussion and the thick layers of rhythms stacked against one another. It is impossible to sit still after it begins.
We start with the music of Jose’ Pablo Moncayo’s “Huapango,” which is a popular dance style in Mexico. Moncayo is arguably the most popular composer to write for the orchestra to come out of Mexico. The “Three-Cornered Hat Suite No. 2” by Manuel de Falla will transport us to have a taste of Spain. The music paints the picture of neighbors gathering to celebrate the feast of St. John followed by a Spanish dance called a “Jota” that brings us to a chaotic and jubilant resolution.
Our featured soloist for the evening is Arturo Sandoval, the 10-time Grammy winning trumpet virtuoso from Cuba. Mr. Sandoval made his mark in the Jazz world but is equally comfortable in the Classical idiom. We will have a chance to experience both with him showing off his Classical ability with the Arutunian “Trumpet Concerto” on the first half of the concert. Following intermission, Mr. Sandoval will be coming out to delight the audience with some of his original compositions for trumpet and orchestra.
This will be a night to remember and it is only the start of our journey. Come join us and I will guarantee that you will not be disappointed. Go SOST!!!
