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Recomposing the Past: An African American Perspective

Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia
The Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia in the Perelman Theater, Kimmel Cultural Campus. Photo by Conrad Erb.
The Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia in the Perelman Theater, Kimmel Cultural Campus. Photo by Conrad Erb.
Composer Evan Williams. Photo by Amurica Photo.
Composer Evan Williams. Photo by Amurica Photo.
Countertenor soloist Reginald Mobley. Photo by Liz Linder.
Countertenor soloist Reginald Mobley. Photo by Liz Linder.

Composer Evan Williams creates three new chamber pieces that recompose historical works, placing contemporary and Baroque music in conversation with African American genres. Grounded in minimalist and postmodern music, Williams’ work frequently integrates music from non-orchestral traditions like jazz, blues, and spirituals. For the centerpiece of the project, a Mass inspired by and paired with Antonio Vivaldi’s Gloria is written in consultation with and performed by countertenor Reginald Mobley. A second concert features two of Williams’ compositions, including his “Beautiful Death,” a recomposed “Dido’s Lament” arranged for chamber orchestra, with Mobley performing the original aria.

The total grant amount represents project funding plus an additional 20% in unrestricted general operating support.

Primary EventsEvents & Exhibitions
Photography related to this content

The Best of Haydn

Feb. 14 at 7:30 p.m. and Feb. 16 at 2:30 p.m.
Perelman Theater
The Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts
300 S. Broad St.
Philadelphia, PA 19102

More info

The Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia in the Perelman Theater, Kimmel Cultural Campus. Photo by Conrad Erb.

Tommy Mesa at Esperanza Arts Center

Feb 15, 2025
7 p.m.
Teatro Esperanza
4261 North 5th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19140

More info

Composer Evan Williams. Photo by Amurica Photo.

Vivaldi’s Gloria & Evan Williams' A Little Mass for Christmas

Dec 15–17, 2023
Perelman Theater
The Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts
300 S Broad St
Philadelphia, PA 19102

Esperanza Arts Center
4261 N 5th St
Philadelphia, PA 19140

More info

Recipient
Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia

Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia

The Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia is a 33-member professional ensemble led by music director Dirk Brossé. Founded in 1964 by Marc Mostovoy, the Chamber Orchestra has a well-established reputation for distinguished performances of repertoire from the Baroque period through the 21st century. 

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News

$9.5 Million From The Pew Center for Arts & Heritage to Support 30 Philadelphia Organizations and 12 Artist Fellowships

Sep 19, 2022
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