New Jersey Youth Symphony to Honor Veterans with Premiere of 'Rhapsody in Red, White, and Blue'

The New Jersey Youth Symphony (NJYS) is set to present a special Veterans Day concert on November 3, 2024, at the Patriots Theater at the War Memorial in Trenton. The event will showcase the New Jersey premiere of Peter Boyer's 'Rhapsody in Red, White, and Blue', performed by acclaimed pianist Jeffrey Biegel and the youth symphony.

This concert is part of the Rhapsody National Initiative, a groundbreaking project aimed at supporting American orchestras in the post-pandemic era. The initiative involves performances of Boyer's work by at least one orchestra in all 50 states over three years, at no cost to participating orchestras. NJYS is one of only three youth orchestras selected to participate in this historic endeavor.

The significance of this event extends beyond its musical offerings. It represents a unique opportunity for young musicians to engage with contemporary American compositions and participate in a nationwide celebration of orchestral music. The concert also serves as a platform to honor veterans and active service members, with free admission offered to veterans using a special discount code.

Jeffrey Biegel, the pianist who commissioned Boyer's work, emphasized the importance of the initiative: 'I created the 50 states Rhapsody National Initiative as the first commissioning project not requiring orchestras to pay toward the composer's fee, and to bring orchestras in all 50 states to the initiative celebrating orchestras and music in America.'

The concert program reflects a commitment to American music and patriotic themes. In addition to Boyer's piece, the NJYS will perform works by Leonard Bernstein and Adolphus Hailstork, as well as patriotic favorites like 'America the Beautiful' and 'Armed Forces Salute'. The New Jersey Youth Chorus will also contribute to the performance with a selection of patriotic music.

Helen Cha-Pyo, Artistic Director and Principal Conductor of NJYS, highlighted the event's significance: 'Projects like this bring generations together, uniting people through the creation of new works that celebrate the present and inspire the future of America.'

This concert exemplifies the role of youth orchestras in preserving and advancing American musical traditions. By participating in the premiere of a new work that pays homage to Gershwin's iconic 'Rhapsody in Blue', the young musicians of NJYS are connecting with a rich musical heritage while looking toward the future of American composition.

The event also underscores the importance of accessible arts education. As part of Wharton Arts, New Jersey's largest independent non-profit community performing arts education center, NJYS is committed to providing high-quality musical training to students regardless of their financial circumstances. This commitment aligns with the broader mission of fostering personal growth and building inclusive communities through the arts.

As the United States approaches another election year, this concert serves as a reminder of the unifying power of music and the importance of honoring those who have served the nation. By bringing together young musicians, veterans, and the community at large, the NJYS Veterans Day concert demonstrates how the arts can play a vital role in celebrating shared values and bridging generational divides.

The New Jersey Youth Symphony's participation in the Rhapsody National Initiative and its presentation of this Veterans Day concert highlight the ongoing relevance and adaptability of orchestral music in America. As these young musicians take on the challenge of premiering a new work, they are not only developing their skills but also contributing to the evolving landscape of American classical music.