2026-2027 Concerts Series
Program
Jennifer Higdon Book of Brass
George Walter Music for Brass Sacred and Profane
John Corigliano Gazebo Dances
Join the Portsmouth Brass Quintet in exploring the many voices of American music. Jennifer Higdon’s Book of Brass dazzles with bold colors and striking contrasts, George Walker’s Music for Brass: Sacred and Profane moves between contemplation and celebration, and John Corigliano’s Gazebo Dances captures the charm, energy, and nostalgia of a summer evening concert in the town square. From moments of quiet reflection to bursts of joyful exuberance, this program showcases the imagination, emotion, and enduring impact of three Pulitzer Prize-winning composers.
The Artists
Portsmouth Brass Quintet
What Makes This Concert Special?
- Jennifer Higdon is one of the most celebrated American composers of our time, winning the 2010 Pulitzer Prize for Music for her Violin Concerto. Book of Brass showcases her signature style: vivid colors, dramatic contrasts, and the ability to make instrumental ensembles sound almost orchestral in scope. The piece highlights the incredible range of brass instruments from powerful, triumphant fanfares to delicate, shimmering textures.
- George Walker made history in 1996 as the first African American composer to win the Pulitzer Prize for Music. Music for Brass Sacred and Profane reflects his ability to blend the spiritual and the secular, pairing moments of solemn, almost hymn-like beauty with bold rhythmic energy. Walker was also a trailblazing pianist, educator, and the first Black graduate of the Curtis Institute of Music, leaving a lasting legacy as one of America’s most influential composers.
- Inspired by the tradition of community band concerts held in town squares, John Corigliano’s Gazebo Dances brings the charm and nostalgia of a summer evening outdoors to the concert hall. Originally composed for orchestra and later arranged for wind ensemble, the work moves through four lively dances that each evoke a different character—from playful and spirited to lyrical and elegant. Corigliano won the 2001 Pulitzer Prize for Music for his Symphony No. 2, and his music is known for its storytelling, drama, and imagination.
What You'll Hear
Take A Closer Look
- Jennifer Higdon won’t apologize for writing accessible music
- Jennifer Higdon: Music is a family
- The Pulitzer Prizes: Jennifer Higdon
- Jack Van Zandt explores Walter Goehr’s (G. Walter) contributions to British music
- Music and the Holocaust: Walter Goehr
- John Corigliano: Composing is a battle for me.
- John Corigliano: Two conversations with Bruce Duffie
The Details
- The concert will last approximately 1 hour.
- There is a large parking lot on site where you can park for free. Accessible parking is located directly next to the church.
