Philharmonic’s new classical music initiative shines light on New England composers

By Sara Creato, The Daily Free Press

The violins whined, the trumpets groaned and the electric harpsichord twinkled. With delicate flicks of his baton in upwards, downwards and circular motions, the conductor controlled the orchestra. A musician at the back of the stage struck a drum, inviting a jolting sound, but the disruption is a choreographed aspect of the piece.

The symphony marked the launch of New England Philharmonic’s newest initiative, New Music New England, at Boston University’s Tsai Performance Center on March 3.

The concert featured five orchestral pieces and is the first of what will be an annual performance that aims to spotlight New England composers by curating performances of their work. This year’s inaugural show highlighted composer and advisory board member John Harbison, in celebration of his 85th birthday.

Read the full article at The Daily Free Press.