Ben Opie – Concerto for Orkestra
7:30p :: Doors open
8:00p :: Show starts
Kelly Strayhorn Theater
5941 Penn Ave :: Map
Presented by Ben Opie
Saxophonist, composer and educator Ben Opie has for decades established himself as a vital participant in Pittsburgh’s creative and independent music scene. Founder and co-leader of OPEK, Thoth Trio, Sound/Unsound, Water Shed 5tet, the Space Exchange concert series, and organizer of the Braxton Plays Pittsburgh Plays Braxton festival, his contribution to local culture has been significant.
Concerto for Orkestra is Mr. Opie’s first concert-length composition. Inspired in part by Duke Ellington’s various suites and Charles Mingus’ Epitaph, Concerto is a symphonic suite in ten movements for creative music orchestra. The work touches on elements of traditional jazz, avant garde, r’n’b, and even marches and circus music. While a showcase for Mr. Opie’s talents and wide-ranging musical interests, it also features each member of the ensemble as a soloist. The fifteen-piece ensemble collects much of Pittsburgh’s best jazz talent. The premiere was enthusiastically received, and this performance should prove to be even more exciting. The concert will be recorded for possible future release.
GET TICKETS NOW
Ticketing provided through presenting partner. For information about tickets or event contact Ben Opie.
General admission: $15 in advance, $20 at the door