Chineke! Orchestra: Phenomenal Women

The Chineke! Orchestra and conductor Jeri Lynne Johnson guide us through Eleanor Alberga’s extraordinary, cosmic Jupiter’s Fairground, then to bask in the pastoral beauty of Avril Coleridge-Taylor's Sussex Landscape. The centrepiece is Valerie Coleman's Concerto for Wind Quintet and Orchestra, Phenomenal Women. The piece is a profound tribute to women who have stepped into treacherous spaces, inspired the world, and moved the course of history; shining a bright light and opening doors, especially for women of colour. Following the interval, the Chineke! Orchestra breaks new ground with the UK premiere of Florence Price's fourth and final symphony; she never heard it performed during her lifetime. The work was thought to be lost but was rediscovered in 2009 among a stash of manuscripts in Price’s former summer home. The piece weaves a rich narrative of cultural depth and emotional nuance, celebrating her historic contribution to American music. It is a privilege for the Chineke! Orchestra to give the floor to these incredible women.