Multiple American orchestras will perform concerts and programs commemorating the twentieth anniversary of the tragic events of September 11, 2001. Here is a partial list. On Saturday, September 11, the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, in collaboration with the Western New York Families of September 11 and the American Red Cross, Western New York Chapter, will present “American Resilience: 20th Anniversary Commemoration to 9/11 Heroes.” The concert, conducted by John Morris Russell, will feature George Walker’s Lyric for Strings, Copland’s “Fanfare for the Common Man,” the Largo from Dvořák’s Symphony No. 9, and songs of inspiration. On September 11, the Colour of Music Festival, in residence at the University of South Carolina School of Music, will present the Colour of Music Orchestra in a free concert that honors the 20th anniversary of September 11, conducted by Julius P. Williams. Since 2013, the Colour of Music Festival has brought classically trained musicians, composers, and performers of African descent together to showcase Black classical artistry. On September 11, the Dallas Symphony Orchestra will mark the twentieth anniversary of 9/11 with a concert benefitting Carry the Load, a Dallas-based nonprofit that aims to spotlight the sacrifices made by members of the military, veterans, first responders, and their families. Leonard Slatkin will lead the DSO in music by American composers. On September 11, Pennsylvania’s Johnstown Symphony Orchestra will present a free concert at the Flight 93 National Memorial that honors the community’s response to the events of 9/11. Led by Music Director James Blachly, the hour-long concert will take place outdoors at the Flight 93 National Memorial’s Wall of Names. On September 10, an ensemble from the Johnstown Symphony will provide music as part of a luminaria ceremony at the national park. On September 11, the Mainly Mozart Festival in San Diego, California, will present its Mainly Mozart All-Star Orchestra, which comprises concertmasters and principal players from multiple U.S. orchestras, in a benefit concert honoring the twentieth anniversary of 9/11. Led by David Chan and featuring saxophonist Branford Marsalis, the event is presented in collaboration with the National Conflict Resolution Center. The National Symphony Orchestra in Washington, D.C. will perform a free “Concert of Remembrance” on Friday, September 10 marking the 20th anniversary of 9/11, reflecting on the ongoing loss from COVID-19, and honoring those who have been on the front lines during the pandemic. Music Director Gianandrea Noseda will lead a program that includes a world premiere by James Lee III, commissioned by the NSO.
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