Worthington Chamber Orchestra Lifts the Immigrant Experience Through Music
On April 19, the Worthington Chamber Orchestra (WCO) will host a concert titled “Upon These Shores,” dedicated to celebrating the immigrant experience as part of its Benedicta Enrile Masterworks series themed “America’s Crossroads.” Under the direction of Antoine T. Clark, the performance aims to reflect the cultural richness that immigrants contribute to America.
The topic of immigration continues to polarize opinions in the United States. However, Clark firmly believes that the identities of “immigrant” and “American” are inherently intertwined. He emphasizes that, aside from Native Americans, everyone in the country has ancestral roots elsewhere. This foundational idea serves as a backdrop for the concert’s thematic direction.
For Clark, curating this concert was an opportunity to highlight the various aspects of American life that resonate deeply with audiences. He stated that it’s crucial to not only perform pieces from the traditional repertoire but also to include works by women and composers from diverse backgrounds. This inclusive approach aligns with the orchestra’s mission to celebrate the multifaceted nature of American identity.
The concert will kick off with Jesse Montgomery’s “Banner,” a work that intricately weaves together the national anthem with labor songs, freedom songs, and a variety of musical styles. Montgomery sought to honor the significance of “The Star-Spangled Banner” during its 250th anniversary by incorporating national anthems from a mosaic of cultures.
Additionally, the program will include “The Great Anticipation,” a contemporary composition by WCO’s Composer-in-Residence Ben Shirley, merging traditional string elements with electronic sounds. The repertoire also features Franz Waxman’s “Sinfonietta,” penned during his transatlantic journey from New York to Europe, and Derek Vermer’s “Screams, Whispers and Traces,” inspired by a letter from Béla Bartók reflecting on his experiences in New York.
As the concert approaches its finale, the orchestra will perform beloved selections from Leonard Bernstein’s “West Side Story,” including hits like “Maria,” “Tonight,” “I Feel Pretty,” and, of course, the iconic “America.” This selection aims to encapsulate the diverse narratives that immigrants contribute to the American fabric, reminding audiences of the collective experience that unites them.
In celebrating America’s 250th anniversary, Clark sees an opportunity to honor the myriad communities that coexist within the nation. “We are all Americans and share many similarities,” he reflects. “Yet, our diverse backgrounds can bring people together in powerful ways.”
The concert is scheduled for April 19 at 3 p.m. at the Worthington United Methodist Church, located at 600 N. High St. Tickets range from $15 to $30 and are available online and at the venue. For more information, visit worthingtonchamberorchestra.com.
For inquiries related to features and entertainment, contact Belinda M. Paschal at bpaschal@dispatch.com.
