The Johnson City Symphony Orchestra celebrated its 50th anniversary Saturday. The night marked the explosive world premiere of “Seven Moons of Saturn” by Lewis Songer.
Songer’s “Seven Moons,” according to the composer himself, originates from a piece commissioned by the cantor of the Sacremento Cathedral, who wanted a vigorous piece of music for her funeral rather than a mournful one. When Robert Seebacher, conductor of the JCSO, requested a piece to celebrate 50 years of the orchestra, Songer obliged by taking inspiration from “Lola’s Farewell.” Seebacher also hosted the night.
As the title implies, the piece is inspired by the objects in the orbit of Jupiter, with each portion representing a different moon, though exactly which is left to the listener’s interpretation, save for one.
“The horn rips indicating that the end is near indicate Titan, the largest of Saturn’s moons,” Songer said.
ETSU was also represented in the event, with performances from the ETSU Bluegrass Gospel Band, directed by Daniel Boner, and ETSU Opera Theatre, directed by Karen Smith.
The opera in particular seemed to be a big hit among the ETSU students in attendance.
“They sound great, especially Kaitlyn Brown, the opera singer,” audience member Jared Schooley said.
Also performing were the Tri-Cities Jazz Orchestra with renditions of “Bye Bye Blackbird,” “Georgia on my Mind” and “Rumrunner.” The Appalachian Express Chorus, directed by Matt Kettner, performed a cappella songs, providing a necessary change of pace from the instrumental sections
Up next for the JCSO will be a program entitled “Scottish Inspirations,” dedicated to the memory of Mitch Link, a passionate music lover who passed away in October of 2018. It will be held on March 21 at 7:30 p.m. at Seeger Chapel of Milligan College.
Additional information about events and the orchestra itself can be found at jcsymphony.com.
