In the wake of the terrorist attacks in Paris on Friday, November 13, American orchestras expressed their support for the people of Paris with musical artistry at concerts this weekend. Included in the orchestras that paid tribute this weekend are:
The Detroit Symphony Orchestra dedicated its concert and webcast on Saturday to the victims of the Paris attacks, and performed the French national anthem, “La Marseillaise.” Guest conductor Fabien Gabel, who is Paris-born, led the concert.
In Texas, the San Antonio Symphony, led by Music Director Sebastian Lang-Lessing, played “La Marseillaise” and “The Star-Spangled Banner” prior to its performances over the weekend.
The Santa Cruz Symphony in California dedicated its Saturday concert to Paris. Two of the works on the program were by French composers—Saint-Saëns’s Cello Concert No. 1 and Debussy’s Clair de lune—and the evening opened with “La Marseillaise.” The concert was led by Music Director Daniel Stewart.
At the Utah Symphony, Music Director Thierry Fischer spoke from the stage this weekend to express the orchestra’s concern for and solidarity with the people of Paris. The orchestra had previously scheduled a program of works by the French composer Ravel, which became poignantly relevant in the circumstances.
At the Metropolitan Opera in New York, the orchestra, choristers, and backstage personnel performed the French national anthem under the baton of Placido Domingo, who led the Saturday matinée performance of Tosca.
Posted November 17, 2015
