Tehachapi winter concert to debut new composition
Tehachapi Symphony Orchestra musicians are rehearsing for their second concert of the season set for the first day of Daylight Saving Time.
Under the direction of Dr. David Newby, the symphony will perform March 12 at Country Oaks Baptist Church.
The program will feature the world premiere of “San Gabriel Mountains,” a brand-new piece of music by David Stern, the winner of the Composition Competition.
Stern’s inspiration for the tone poem was the view from his house, which looks out at the majestic San Gabriel Mountains. Stern’s composition was outstanding in a contest of other good works.
The composer will receive a $2,000 stipend and will attend the concert to hear the symphony debut his work.
The Tehachapi Symphony Orchestra received a grant from the Virginia & Alfred Harrell Foundation to fund the competition. This also encourages California’s composers to keep writing new pieces. Playing new works of music helps orchestras remain relevant over the years. This is the Tehachapi Symphony Orchestra’s fourth world premiere in its 24-year existence.
Other pieces of music on the program include Beethoven’s Piano Concerto #5, “Emperor” featuring soloist Rufus Choi, and Haydn’s Symphony #104 “London Symphony.”
Doors open at 3:30 p.m. with the performance at 4 p.m. March 12 at Country Oaks Baptist Church, 20915 Schout Road in Tehachapi.
There will be a reception following the concert where audience members may meet Newby, Stern, Choi and the other musicians.
All symphony concerts are free to the community.
Visit tehachapiorchestra.com or call 661-821-7511 for more information.