At a Glance
Welcome to American Soundscapes, the culmination of a five-day
workshop that features three young conductors and an instrumental
ensemble of young artists, all coached by John Adams and
David Robertson. Led by two of the most compelling figures in
American music, this workshop focused on American 20th- and
21st-century music, as well as on the collaboration between
composer, conductor, and ensemble in realizing new scores.
Tonight's concert juxtaposes the music of American master Elliott
Carter with that of Steven Mackey and John Adams, two members of
the following generation. Both influenced by popular idioms, Mackey
and Adams offer visually evocative works rich with humor and
rhythmic drive. This concert also explores the relationship of
ensemble and soloist. All three works utilize soloists that
alternate roles—at times leading the ensemble and at times joining
it—as well as allowing members of the ensemble to take turns being
the soloist, creating an ever-changing tapestry that allows
multiple virtuosos to emerge.
Program Notes