FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Savannah Philharmonic Presents Season Finale Concert Featuring Saint-Saëns’ Organ Symphony and a World Premiere from Robin Beauchamp
SAVANNAH, GA – [May 4, 2023] The Savannah Philharmonic is set to conclude their 2022-23 concert season with a spectacular performance this Saturday at the historic Lucas Theatre for the Arts. Under the baton of esteemed Music and Artistic Director Keitaro Harada, the orchestra and chorus will perform Poulenc’s Gloria, the magnificent Organ Symphony by Camille Saint-Saëns, as well as the world premiere of local composer Robin Beuchamps’ “Homage,” which is inspired by the town of Savannah.
“After writing so many arrangements for orchestras and choirs, I am very excited to have this opportunity to compose an original work for such an accomplished group,” states composer and SCAD professor Robin Beauchamp. “Homage is written in three movements, each designed to evoke a different mood. The last movement should really make you feel like you are in Savannah!”
Another very special element of the concert is the debut of the newly, fully restored Wurlitzer organ. This historical instrument was originally installed in the Lucas Theatre in 1925, and then removed in the 1970s – and now recently reinstalled after a meticulous, years-long restoration process. To date, there are only four playing pipe organs throughout the state of Georgia, and the Lucas is the only one to house a Wurlitzer.
Maestro Harada shares his excitement for the season finale: “This final concert for our 14th season truly defines the direction in which the new Savannah Philharmonic is heading. We are so pleased to present a world-premiere work by local composer Robin Beauchamp, and to have the SavPhil Chorus perform Poulenc’s Gloria with world-renowned soprano Anna Christy. All of this will then be followed by Saint-Saëns Organ Symphony, during which the Mighty Wurlitzer makes its return to the Lucas stage with our chorus master Paul Thornock playing, who is also the Director of Music and Organist at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist. We are honored to be sharing the story of Savannah through music, and this concert is so wonderfully representative that it can only be experienced in the Hostess City of the South.”
The performance promises to be a dynamic conclusion to a successful season for the organization, showcasing their exceptional musicianship and dedication to presenting innovative programming that offers something for everyone to enjoy.
To learn more about the Savannah Philharmonic and their upcoming 15th Anniversary Season, please visit www.savannahphilharmonic.org.
ABOUT THE SAVANNAH PHILHARMONIC:
The Savannah Philharmonic, a nonprofit 501©(3), is a community-focused arts organization which strives to present concert performances and music education of the highest caliber throughout the southeast. Comprised of a professional orchestra and community chorus, and led by the masterful baton of Keitaro Harada, the SavPhil performs a vast range of works from composers of the past and present, and in all genres from classical to contemporary. The organization focuses on fostering community and inspiring a true appreciation of music through equitable access to performances and education programs.
To learn more, please visit: savannahphilharmonic.org.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Jamie Coffey | Director of External Relationships | Savannah Philharmonic
jamie@savannahphilharmonic.org / (941) 350-5120