This is a printer-friendly version of an article from Zip06.com.

Symphony Orchestra Joins Forces with New London Big Band

The 2020 portion of the Eastern Connecticut Symphony Orchestra’s (ECS0) 2019-’20 season kicks off with a non-traditional pairing: the New London Big Band on the stage for the first time with the ECSO on Saturday, Feb. 1 at 7:30 p.m. at the Garde Arts Center, 325 State Street, New London.

Continuing the celebration of Music Director & Conductor Toshiyuki Shimada’s 10th anniversary, this concert presents a slate of national and local treasures. In recognition of Black History Month, the ECSO performs Concert Overture No. 2 by composer Florence Price. Price was the first African-American woman to have a composition performed by a major symphony orchestra. A medley of big band hits closes out the first half with classics such as “In the Mood,” “Begin the Beguine,” “Moonlight Serenade,” and more, all arranged by Lee Norris.

The New London Big Band, led by Sean Nelson, is featured prominently in the second half as it joins forces with the ECSO for originals and works by big band composers. Principal Clarinetist Kelli O’Connor returns to the front of the stage to perform Artie Shaw’s spirited “Clarinet Concerto.” Music of the legendary jazz composer and orchestra leader Duke Ellington will be performed, along with works by George Gershwin, Tommy Dorsey, and more.

Prior to the evening’s concert, all attendees are invited to a free pre-concert chat with Shimada starting at 6:30 p.m. All attendees are also invited to meet and greet with fellow concertgoers and ECSO musicians at the complimentary post-concert reception in the upper lobby of the Garde Arts Center.

This concert is sponsored by Dominion Energy.

Tickets can be purchased online at gardearts.org, by calling the Garde Arts Center Box Office at 860-444-7373 x 1 or the ECSO office at 860-443-2876, or in person at the ECSO office at 289 State Street, New London.