For the first time in recent history, Interlochen's annual "Les Préludes" concert will begin with performances by the World Youth Wind Symphony, marking a milestone in the Arts Camp's nearly century-long legacy.
The performance begins with the Wind Symphony under the direction of Steven Davis, featuring music by Reena Esmail, Nicole Piunno and selections from Paul Hindemith’s "Symphonic Metamorphosis." The first half concludes with John Philip Sousa’s "The Northern Pines," a piece he dedicated to the Camp during his 1931 visit.
Listen to Steven Davis's full interview with IPR host Nancy Deneen by clicking "Listen" below:
Yearly performances of "Les Préludes" began in 1928, when founder Dr. Joseph Maddy selected it to close the inaugural season. He chose the piece for its title, “The beginnings,” to inspire students to view the Camp’s end as a new creative chapter.
Following the inaugural performance, students begged to perform it the following year, which cemented it as one of Interlochen’s longest traditions.
Following a brief intermission, Franz Liszt’s "Les Préludes" will unite student performers from the World Youth Symphony Orchestra (WYSO), Interlochen Philharmonic, World Youth Wind Symphony and the Interlochen Summer Dance Ensemble. Cristian Măcelaru, Artistic Director and Principal Conductor of the World Youth Symphony Orchestra, will conduct the combined ensembles.
Attend the free concert in person or listen to the live broadcast on Classical IPR.
Classical IPR's pre-show begins Sunday, August 3 at 7:00 p.m ET; downbeat and our live broadcast starts at 7:30 p.m. ET.
