Masterworks 5: Daybreak of Freedom

February 1, 2025

James Lowe, conductor
Kitara Johnson-Jones, speaker
Spokane Symphony Chorale
Dr. Meg Stohlmann, chorale director

After substantial initial success, William Dawson’s Symphony fell into decades of neglect, from which it’s only now emerging. Full of Spiritual melodies and African rhythms, the work is a brilliant and essential piece of American musical history. Joseph Schwantner sets Martin Luther King’s speeches to a soaring and luminous orchestral palate, and Beethoven opens with music of victory over oppression. 

Ludwig van Beethoven
Fidelio: Overture, Op.72c
Joseph Schwantner
New Morning for the World (Daybreak of Freedom)
William Dawson
Negro Folk Symphony

SATURDAY DOORS 6PM | PRECONCERT LECTURE 6:30PM | SHOW 7:30PM
SUNDAY DOORS 1:30PM | PRECONCERT LECTURE 2PM | SHOW 3PM