Columbia Orchestra: Rhapsody in Blue

Valerie Coleman originally wrote a simple melody called "Umoja" the Swahili word for Unity as a song for women's voices, inspired by the call and response of African drum circles. That beautiful tune is quoted in her recent work for orchestra, of the same name. Aaron Copland also quotes his own melody in his inspiring Third Symphony: Written to celebrate the end of World War II, echoes of his "Fanfare for the Common Man" weave through his third symphony. And, pianist Carlos César Rodriguez, whose jaw dropping classical virtuosity will bring Gershwin's famous Rhapsody to life!