Art and music, as a language – an expression of the human experience – take many different forms. It may be a way to express the traditions unique to a particular culture. Or it can tell a story through the sonic realizations of a composer’s emotions. It can highlight and celebrate that which is wonderful in our world. Or it can bring awareness and attention to that which is not. Music cannot be separated from human life; if anything, it exists because of it. This program showcases the many intersections between music and life.

Bartok’s Romanian Folk Dances shimmer with life and excitement. It elevates and celebrates the dance traditions of the Transylvanian culture in which he grew up. Visser’s A Palestinian Wedding considers life in Gaza in the broadly relatable context of a wedding but brings attention to the atrocious pain and suffering that has come from the short-sightedness of politics, divisiveness, and genuine evil. Walker’s Lyric for Strings is a moving expression of his feelings and emotions when he thinks about his grandmother’s life in slavery. Finally, Elgar’s Enigma Variations celebrates the beauty and joy that can come from human interaction and the profound impact that people can have on one another’s lives.