The U.S. Congress has designated September 11th of each year as “Patriot Day” and requested that it be recognized as a “National Day of Service and Remembrance”. Monrovian mainstays Tamsen Beseke and David Layne have decided to answer this request by organizing a special concert to commemorate the 15th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. Concertmaster Beseke has gathered together over 50 talented orchestra musicians and four conductors who will come together for a classical program, presenting a wide range of music with a uniquely American flavor. Layne, currently the Musical Director for the First Presbyterian Church of Monrovia, will be the principal conductor. This orchestra represents the largest assembly of musicians Monrovia has seen in decades!
The program is highlighted by two premieres by composer David Stern. Beseke was impressed with the patriotic conviction she heard in Stern’s music and was eager to present them in Southern California. “We Stand For Freedom: In Memoriam September 11, 2001” will have its West Coast Premiere. This powerful piece made its debut on the first anniversary of that tragic day. This piece has received glowing press during its several performances around the U.S.A. The second work is a World Premiere Preview from one of his latest compositions,”Lincoln Speaks of Liberty.” The preview features his second movement, “All Men are Created Equal,” which has a narrator, Eduardo Delgado, quoting Lincolns inspiring words about the Declaration of Independence over a descriptive orchestral palette. These are both works for our times and evoke feelings that are both somber and inspiring. Continuing with the patriotic theme, the program includes the sweeping “New World” symphony by Antonin Dvorak, and the rousing “Stars and Stripes Forever” by John Philip Sousa will close the concert. Layne had been longing for more classical music in Monrovia while Beseke sought to present music on a grand scale. Patriot Day provided an opportunity to achieve both of their goals. They are proud to provide a wonderful musical experience for the community presented by musicians who are from the community. They are grateful for the generosity of the players and the church for hosting this event and making their dreams a reality. |