News Summary
The Knoxville Symphony Orchestra unveiled the World Premiere of Derrick Skye’s ‘Between Suns: A Concerto for West African Drums and Orchestra’ during their Masterworks concert. Collaborating with Indigenous Vibes, the orchestra showcased this innovative composition, which explores rhythm and identity through dynamic movements. The concert also included notable works, highlighting the integration of diverse musical traditions, and closed the KSO’s season with a celebration of key milestones.
Knoxville – The Knoxville Symphony Orchestra (KSO) featured the World Premiere of “Between Suns: A Concerto for West African Drums and Orchestra,” a new composition by Los Angeles composer Derrick Skye, during their recent Masterworks concert. This event, titled “New World Symphonies,” showcased the collaboration between the KSO and the Knoxville-based drum ensemble Indigenous Vibes, who have performed with the orchestra since their debut three years ago.
Skye’s concerto, which explores themes of rhythm and identity, consists of five movements designed to challenge traditional perceptions of time through dynamic rhythmic changes. The piece prominently features the solo drums of Indigenous Vibes, accompanied by the orchestra, which Skye intends to use as an additional percussion instrument, moving away from conventional western European musical structures. The score reflects the concept of a central rhythmic pulse representing the sun, integral to the musical narrative.
Founded by Obayana Ajanaku, Indigenous Vibes includes members Willie Ankinsola Ervin, JaDarius “Dia” Fuller-James, KeShawn (Omitola) Mitchum, and Jamarr (Jaja) Underwood. Their contribution to the concert elevates the performance of the new work, further enriching the musical tapestry presented by the KSO under the guidance of Maestro Aram Demirjian.
The concert also showcased other significant works, including Florence Price’s “Colonial Dance,” which combines energetic rhythms influenced by African folk traditions within a classical framework. The resurgence of interest in Price’s works has occurred over the past two decades following revelations of previously unpublished music. The evening also featured Dvořák’s celebrated “Symphony From the New World” (Symphony No. 9), which incorporates themes from African American spirituals alongside the composer’s Bohemian influences.
Demirjian, known for his intense and engaging conducts, expertly brought out the intricate dynamics of Dvořák’s symphony, including a poignant solo by Jessica Smithorn, KSO’s English horn player, during the second movement, the Largo. This movement received particular praise for the orchestra’s delicate support and balance, showcasing a melody that harmonized beautifully with the overall orchestral sound.
The concert provided a contrast between the gentle Largo and the livelier Scherzo movement, enhancing the dynamic range of the performance and engaging the audience with its evocative musical storytelling. The collaboration and distinct styles highlighted not only the depth of the compositions but also the integration of diverse musical traditions.
This Masterworks concert marked the conclusion of KSO’s 2024-25 season, celebrating key milestones within the orchestra, including the remarkable 55-year tenure of cellist Bruce Wilhite. The KSO will return to the stage for the 2025-26 season on September 18-19, featuring Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony, promising to continue its tradition of impactful performances and innovative programming.
In summary, the concert reflecting various realities of a new world highlighted the KSO’s commitment to collaborative works, innovative compositions, and a diverse range of musical influences that resonate with contemporary audiences. The introduction of Derrick Skye’s work alongside classical pieces creates a rich dialogue between traditions, underlining the evolving nature of symphonic music.
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Additional Resources
- Arts Knoxville: KSO Wraps 2024-25 Season with Impressive New Worlds
- Wikipedia: Knoxville Symphony Orchestra
- Indigenous Vibes Official Site
- Google Search: Derrick Skye
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Florence Price
