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Anna Shelest joins Springfield Symphony Orchestra in 'Heritage and Harmony' concert / Springfield News-Sun

Ukrainian guest pianist Anna Shelest will perform on two numbers as the Springfield Symphony Orchestra celebrates women composers for its "Heritage and Harmony" concert on Saturday.

Springfield News-Sun's Brett Turner writes…..Think of Saturday evening as ladies’ night at the Clark State Performing Arts Center for the Springfield Symphony Orchestra’s “Heritage and Harmony: Celebrating Women Composers” Masterworks concert with Ukrainian-born pianist Anna Shelest as guest performer at the 7:30 p.m. Masterworks. “Women have consistently made extraordinary contributions to symphonic music, yet societal constraints have often hindered wider recognition of their voices. We’ll celebrate three historical voices that are finally gaining global recognition in our program,” said Peter Stafford Wilson, SSO conductor and music director.

Shelest, who ardently supports her homeland, also brings attention to the rich cultural heritage and resilience of the Ukrainian people, according to Wilson. She’ll perform Clara Wieck Schumann’s “Piano Concerto” and Cecile Chaminade’s “Konzertstück.”

Schumann, renowned for her distinctive voice, had her creative output largely overshadowed by her husband, Robert, and her concerto remains the sole surviving piece of her compositions. “However, this work showcases her innovative spirit and her unique musical perspective, blending Romantic expressiveness with technical prowess,” said Wilson.

French composer Chaminade displayed prodigious talent from childhood, and her music is celebrated for its elegance and charm and is a testament to her enduring legacy in the world of classical music, Wilson said.

Alice Mary Smith was an English composer who left behind a vast repertoire that has only been rediscovered in the past two decades. Despite the shadow cast by a male-dominated society, her works are now being appreciated for their emotional depth and intricate structures, Wilson said.

Margaret Brouwer is a contemporary composer receiving critical acclaim worldwide. “Her compositions are noted for their originality, emotional intensity and the way they challenge and inspire performers and audiences alike,” he said.

Wilson hopes attendees will recognize why he chose this theme and leave with more appreciation for these artists and other female composers.

“This program not only highlights the achievements of these remarkable women, but also serves as a reminder of the ongoing journey towards equality and recognition in the world of music. Each of these composers, past and present, has left an indelible mark on the symphonic repertoire, enriching it with their unique voices and perspectives,” he said.              PHOTO: Credit: Dmitri Shelest

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