The Bozeman Symphony invites audiences to an electrifying program, Sounds of America II: Rhapsody in Blue & West Side Story. The concerts feature Grammy Award-winning pianist Michelle Cann in a dynamic showcase of American masterworks. Performances will be held Friday and Saturday, May 15th and 16th, at 7:30pm, and Sunday, May 17th, at 2:30pm. All will be held at the Willson Auditorium in Downtown Bozeman.
One of the most sought-after pianists of her generation, Cann takes center stage in a dazzling double feature: George Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue and Florence Price’s Piano Concerto in One Movement. Gershwin’s iconic work, situated at the crossroads of classical music, jazz, and Broadway, remains a defining expression of the American sound.
Cann also brings renewed brilliance to Price’s concerto, a richly expressive work shaped by the composer’s Late Romantic style and deep connection to African American spiritual traditions. Nearly lost to history, the concerto has only recently returned to the concert stage following its reconstruction from original manuscripts about 15 years ago.
Also on the program is The Observatory by Pulitzer Prize and Grammy Award-winning composer Caroline Shaw. Premiered by the Los Angeles Philharmonic in 2019, the piece offers a cinematic, kaleidoscopic journey inspired by the iconic Griffith Observatory overlooking Los Angeles.
Rounding out the program is Leonard Bernstein’s Symphonic Dances from West Side Story, a thrilling orchestral suite drawn from his landmark musical. Spanning nine movements, the work pulses with dramatic intensity, blending classical form with jazz rhythms, Latin dance influences, and vibrant syncopation.
Performances will be held May 15th–17th at the Willson Auditorium in Downtown Bozeman. Individual tickets are available for purchase online at www.bozemansymphony.org or by phone at (406) 585-9774. Tickets at the door based on availability. Tickets begin at $30 with student-discounted tickets available.
These concerts are made possible through the generous support of sponsors The Dovana Foundation, Calum & Tricia DeSouza, Bob & Donna Ritchie, Bruce & Kimberlie Jodar, Gary Kunis & Connie Wong, Paul & Arlene Wylie, Carol Lalani, and Lynn & Chip Rinehart. •
