Performances
& Events
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Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Chelsea Komschlies, Mycelialore
Grant Park Orchestra
Jake Pritzker Pavilion | Chicago, IL
Link: https://www.grantparkmusicfestival.com/events/saint-saens-organ-symphony/
Program
CHELSEA KOMSCHLIES, Mycelialore
FRANZ LISZT, Piano Concerto No. 1
CAMILLE SAINT-SAENS, Symphony No. 3, “Organ”
Giancarlo Guerrero, conductor
Clayton Stephenson, piano
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program: American Composers Orchestra and League of American Orchestras have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024–25 season, ten composers have their works performed by fifteen orchestras across the U.S.
Mycelialore was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
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Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Marina López, Moño
Art Deco at 100 (Summermusik Festival)
Cincinnati Chamber Orchestra
School for Creative and Performing Arts | Cincinnati, OH
Link: https://summermusik.org/events-main/artdeco/
Program
ELLINGTON/STRAYHORN, arr. Fred Barton, Take the “A” Train
JOHN ALDEN CARPENTER, Krazy Kat
MARINA LÓPEZ, Moño
MAURICE RAVEL, Piano Concerto in G Major
OTTORINO RESPIGHI, Gli Ucelli (The Birds)
GEORGE GERSHWIN, arr. Ferde Grofe, Rhapsody in Blue
Eckart Preu, Conductor
Terrence Wilson, piano
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program: American Composers Orchestra and League of American Orchestras have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024–25 season, ten composers have their works performed by fifteen orchestras across the U.S.
Moño was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
Shelley Washington – Haymaker
Mazz Swift – Memory FIVE: Freedom Initiate
Link: https://secure.givelively.org/event/american-composers-orchestra/compose-yourself-reading
Compose Yourself provides advanced in-school and out-of-school composition classes to high school age musicians interested in exploring music composition on a deeper level.
Mise-En-Place
45 St Nicholas Ave, New York, NY 10026
In Harlem at the corner of 112th St
Closest trains - C, 2, 3
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Jeffery Meyer, conductor
Featured Artists and Works:
Corey Chang, New Work TBD
Gabriel Novak, New Work TBD
Laura Pacheco, New Work TBD
Emre Sener, New Work TBD
Mentor Composers:
David Dzubay
Gabriel Jenks
Melinda Wagner
Jeffery Meyer, conductor
Featured Artists and Works:
Corey Chang, New Work TBD
Gabriel Novak, New Work TBD
Laura Pacheco, New Work TBD
Emre Sener, New Work TBD
Mentor Composers:
David Dzubay
Gabriel Jenks
Melinda Wagner
Jeffery Meyer, conductor
Featured Artists and Works:
Corey Chang, New Work TBD
Gabriel Novak, New Work TBD
Laura Pacheco, New Work TBD
Emre Sener, New Work TBD
Mentor Composers:
David Dzubay
Gabriel Jenks
Melinda Wagner
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Featured Artists and Works:
Marisol Gentile, New Work
Jens Ibsen, New Work
Benjamin Krause, New Work
Matthew Lam, New Work
Mentor Composers:
James Lee III
Featured Artists and Works:
Marisol Gentile, New Work
Jens Ibsen, New Work
Benjamin Krause, New Work
Matthew Lam, New Work
Mentor Composers:
James Lee III
Featured Artists and Works:
Marisol Gentile, New Work
Jens Ibsen, New Work
Benjamin Krause, New Work
Matthew Lam, New Work
Mentor Composers:
James Lee III
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Chelsea Komschlies, Mycelialore
Lima Symphony Orchestra
Veterans Memorial Civic and Convention Center | Lima, OH
Link: https://www.limasymphony.com/2025-2026-season
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program: American Composers Orchestra and League of American Orchestras have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024–25 season, ten composers have their works performed by fifteen orchestras across the U.S.
Mycelialore was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
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Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Meilina Tsui, Floridian Symphony
Resurrection: Mahler’s Resurrection & The Music of The Lion King
Symphony of the Rockies
Parker Arts Culture & Events Center | Parker, CO
Link: https://www.symphonyrockies.org/events/resurrection-mahler
Program
GUSTAV MAHLER, Symphony No. 2
HANS ZIMMER, The Lion King Orchestra Suite
MEILINA TSUI, Floridan Symphony
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program: American Composers Orchestra and League of American Orchestras have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024–25 season, ten composers have their works performed by fifteen orchestras across the U.S.
Floridian Symphony was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
In every era of uncertainty, artists and visionaries have been the true searchlights — illuminating new paths forward when the world needs them most. Join us for a celebration honoring two luminary couples who exemplify our core values of artistry, creativity, community, and equity.
Immerse yourself in a genre-bending experience rooted in Prohibition Era rebellion and Gatsby-esque opulence. This gathering of artists and their champions is a celebration of artistic disruption and all the good trouble that may come!
This musical evening will honor the past, inspire the present, and light the way for the future, while supporting our American composers through ACO's national EarShot composer advancement programs, orchestral performances, and educational initiatives.
HONOREES
Ray & Vivian Chew
Elizabeth & Justus Schlichting
PERFORMANCES & CREATIVE EXPERIENCES BY
Dr. Edward W. Hardy
Trevor New
Daniel Rozin
Mali Irene
+additional artists to be announced
GALA COMMITTEE
NancyBell Coe
Ilya Karaulov
Yimin Ngan
Patricia Saich
Philip Webb
Richard Weinert
SPONSORSHIP & TICKETS
Purchase your tickets before the event.
Visionary $25,000
- 8 Premiere tickets to the dinner & performance with priority table placement; includes placement of two guest artists at your table, if desired
- Inside Gala Journal Cover Ad (full color)
- Recognition as an official sponsor of The New Virtuoso: For Art’s Sake ACO’s October 29, 2025 concert at Carnegie Hall
- 8 VIP tickets to ACO’s The New Virtuoso: For Art’s Sake concert at Carnegie Hall, plus invite to exclusive post-show reception
$23,000 of this purchase is tax-deductible
Icon $10,000
- 8 VIP tickets to the dinner & performance with preferred table placement; includes placement of two guest artists at your table, if desired
- Full-page Gala Journal Ad (B&W)
- Recognition as an official sponsor of The New Virtuoso: For Art’s Sake, ACO’s October 29, 2025 concert at Carnegie Hall
- 4 VIP tickets to ACO’s The New Virtuoso: For Art’s Sake concert at Carnegie Hall, plus invite to exclusive post-show reception
$8,000 of this purchase is tax-deductible
Maverick $5,000
- 4 VIP tickets to the dinner & performance, with select table placement, includes placement of one guest artist at your table, if desired
- Listing in Gala Journal
- Invitation to a special ACO insider event
$4,000 of this purchase is tax-deductible
Muse $1,500
- 1 VIP ticket to the dinner & performance with select seating
- Listing in Gala Journal
- Invitation to a special ACO insider event
$1,250 of this purchase is tax-deductible
Explorer $1000
- 1 VIP ticket to the dinner & performance
- Listing in Gala Journal
$750 of this purchase is tax-deductible
Non-Profit/Artist Ticket $300
- 1 VIP ticket to the dinner & performance
- Listing in Gala Journal
$50 of this purchase is tax-deductible
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Meilina Tsui, Floridian Symphony
Elgar Cello Concerto
Knoxville Symphony Orchestra
Tennessee Theatre | Knoxville, TN
Link: https://knoxvillesymphony.com/concert/elgar-cello-concerto/
Program
MEILINA TSUI, Floridian Symphony
EDWARD ELGAR, Cello Concerto
IGOR STRAVINSKY, Petrushka
Aram Demirjian, conductor
Zlatomir Fung, cello
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program: American Composers Orchestra and League of American Orchestras have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024–25 season, ten composers have their works performed by fifteen orchestras across the U.S.
Floridian Symphony was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Meilina Tsui, Floridian Symphony
Elgar Cello Concerto
Knoxville Symphony Orchestra
Tennessee Theatre | Knoxville, TN
Link: https://knoxvillesymphony.com/concert/elgar-cello-concerto/
Program
MEILINA TSUI, Floridian Symphony
EDWARD ELGAR, Cello Concerto
IGOR STRAVINSKY, Petrushka
Aram Demirjian, conductor
Zlatomir Fung, cello
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program: American Composers Orchestra and League of American Orchestras have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024–25 season, ten composers have their works performed by fifteen orchestras across the U.S.
Floridian Symphony was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
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Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Karena Ingram, RAINN
An American In Paris
Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra
Orpheum Theater | New Orleans, LA
Link: https://lpomusic.com/events/os03-paris-oct23
Program
JAMES LEE III, Concerto in A
DUKE ELLINGTON, New World A-Comin’
LEONARD BERNSTEIN, On the Town: Three Dance Episodes
KARENA INGRAM, RAINN
GEORGE GERSHWIN, American In Paris
Matthew Kraemer, conductor
Jeffrey Biegel, piano
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program: American Composers Orchestra and League of American Orchestras have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024–25 season, ten composers have their works performed by fifteen orchestras across the U.S.
RAINN was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Chelsea Komschlies, Mycelialore
VSO at the Flynn: Pastoral Symphony
Vermont Symphony Orchestra
Flynn Center | Burlington, VT
Link: https://www.vso.org/vso-event/pastoral-symphony/
Program
WILLIAM GRANT STILL, Wood Notes
CHELSEA KOMSCHLIES, Mycelialore
LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN, Symphony No. 6, “Pastoral”
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program: American Composers Orchestra and League of American Orchestras have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024–25 season, ten composers have their works performed by fifteen orchestras across the U.S.
Mycelialore was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
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Featured Artists and Works
Donna Weng Friedman
Stefania de Kenessey
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Wednesday, October 29, 2025 at 7:30 PM
American Composers Orchestra
Zankel Hall, Carnegie Hall | New York City, NY
Link TBA
The New Virtuoso: For Art’s Sake features works that utilize newly created instruments and sonic media to explore symphonic texture. Spanning the use of sculptures that move and sonically react to their environments; graphic scores; gestural conduction; a survey of contemporary techniques for traditional instruments; the fashioning of instruments based on composers’ unique cultural backgrounds, these artists’ sense of design propels them into new compositional spaces.
Lucy Gibbon, Soprano
Mélisse Brunet, Conductor
Daniel Rozin, Responsive Sculptures
The New Virtuoso: For Art's Sake
RAVEN CHACON, Inscription (NY Premiere, ACO Co-commission, developed via EarShot CoLABoratory)
TAMAR MUSKAL, Square Off for Voice and Mirror with Responsive Sculptures (World Premiere, ACO Commission)
ELIJAH DANIEL SMITH, Horizon of Closure (World Premiere, ACO Commission)
MAZZ SWIFT, Memory FIVE: Freedom Initiate (ACO Commission, developed via EarShot CoLABoratory, World Premiere)
AARON ISRAEL LEVIN, Multiverse verse chorus bridge verse chorus chorus (ACO Commission, World Premiere)
The New Virtuoso: For Art’s Sake features works that utilize newly created instruments and sonic media to explore symphonic texture. Spanning the use of sculptures that move and sonically react to their environments; graphic scores; gestural conduction; a survey of contemporary techniques for traditional instruments; the fashioning of instruments based on composers’ unique cultural backgrounds, these artists’ sense of design propels them into new compositional spaces.
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Link: https://secure.givelively.org/event/american-composers-orchestra/colaboratory-workshop-joe-philips
Featured Artists and Works
Joe C. Philips Jr., We Hold These Truths to Be Self-Evident
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Marina López, Moño
Viva La Música: A Celebration Of Latin American Soundscapes
South Bend Symphony Orchestra
Morris Performing Arts Center | South Bend, IN
Link: https://southbendsymphony.org/events/viva-la-musica-a-celebration-of-latin-american-soundscapes/
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program: American Composers Orchestra and League of American Orchestras have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024–25 season, ten composers have their works performed by fifteen orchestras across the U.S.
Moño was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
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Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Melody Eötvös, Red Dirt | Silver Rain
Stanford Philharmonia
Bing Concert Hall | Stanford, CA
Paul Phillips, conductor
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program: American Composers Orchestra and League of American Orchestras have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024–25 season, ten composers have their works performed by fifteen orchestras across the U.S.
Red Dirt | Silver Rain was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Marina López, Moño
Beethoven and Blue Jeans
Arkansas Symphony Orchestra
Robinson Center | Little Rock, AR
Link
Program
MARINA LOPEZ, Moño
LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN, Piano Concerto No. 4
SILVESTRE REVUELTAS (arr. Hindemith), Suite from La noche de los Mayas
ARTURO MARQUEZ, Danzón No. 2
Orion Weiss, piano
Geoffrey Robson, conductor
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program: American Composers Orchestra and League of American Orchestras have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024–25 season, ten composers have their works performed by fifteen orchestras across the U.S.
Moño was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Karena Ingram, RAINN
Inner Landscapes: Depths of Expression
Orchestra Nova Northwest
Mt. Hood Community College | Gresham, OR (Nov 15 at 7:30 PM)
Link: https://novanw.org/events/inner-landscapes-depths-of-expression/
Program
KARENA INGRAM, RAINN
LŪCIJA GARŪTA, Piano Concerto in F-sharp Minor
ANTONIN DVORAK, Symphony No. 8 in G Major
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program: American Composers Orchestra and League of American Orchestras have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024–25 season, ten composers have their works performed by fifteen orchestras across the U.S.
RAINN was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Marina López, Moño
Beethoven and Blue Jeans
Arkansas Symphony Orchestra
Robinson Center | Little Rock, AR
Link
Program
MARINA LOPEZ, Moño
LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN, Piano Concerto No. 4
SILVESTRE REVUELTAS (arr. Hindemith), Suite from La noche de los Mayas
ARTURO MARQUEZ, Danzón No. 2
Orion Weiss, piano
Geoffrey Robson, conductor
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program: American Composers Orchestra and League of American Orchestras have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024–25 season, ten composers have their works performed by fifteen orchestras across the U.S.
Moño was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Karena Ingram, RAINN
Inner Landscapes: Depths of Expression
Orchestra Nova Northwest
Mt. Hood Community College | Gresham, OR (Nov 16 at 3:00 PM)
Link: https://novanw.org/events/inner-landscapes-depths-of-expression/
Program
KARENA INGRAM, RAINN
LŪCIJA GARŪTA, Piano Concerto in F-sharp Minor
ANTONIN DVORAK, Symphony No. 8 in G Major
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program: American Composers Orchestra and League of American Orchestras have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024–25 season, ten composers have their works performed by fifteen orchestras across the U.S.
RAINN was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
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Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Moni Jasmine Guo, the sound of where i came from (乡音 Xiāng Yīn)
Luisi Conducts Mozart
Dallas Symphony Orchestra
Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center | Dallas, TX
Link: https://www.dallassymphony.org/productions/luisi-conducts-mozart/
Program
LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN, Leonore Overture No. 3
JON CZINER, Clarinet Concerto (World Premiere)
MONI JASMINE GUO, the sound of where i came from (乡音 Xiāng Yīn)
WOLFGANG AMADEUS MOZART, Symphony No. 40 in G minor
Fabio Luisi, conductor
Gregory Raden, clarinet
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program: American Composers Orchestra and League of American Orchestras have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024–25 season, ten composers have their works performed by fifteen orchestras across the U.S.
the sound of where i came from (乡音 Xiāng Yīn) was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Moni Jasmine Guo, the sound of where i came from (乡音 Xiāng Yīn)
Luisi Conducts Mozart
Dallas Symphony Orchestra
Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center | Dallas, TX
Link: https://www.dallassymphony.org/productions/luisi-conducts-mozart/
Program
LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN, Leonore Overture No. 3
JON CZINER, Clarinet Concerto (World Premiere)
MONI JASMINE GUO, the sound of where i came from (乡音 Xiāng Yīn)
WOLFGANG AMADEUS MOZART, Symphony No. 40 in G minor
Fabio Luisi, conductor
Gregory Raden, clarinet
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program: American Composers Orchestra and League of American Orchestras have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024–25 season, ten composers have their works performed by fifteen orchestras across the U.S.
the sound of where i came from (乡音 Xiāng Yīn) was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Moni Jasmine Guo, the sound of where i came from (乡音 Xiāng Yīn)
Luisi Conducts Mozart
Dallas Symphony Orchestra
Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center | Dallas, TX
Link: https://www.dallassymphony.org/productions/luisi-conducts-mozart/
Program
LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN, Leonore Overture No. 3
JON CZINER, Clarinet Concerto (World Premiere)
MONI JASMINE GUO, the sound of where i came from (乡音 Xiāng Yīn)
WOLFGANG AMADEUS MOZART, Symphony No. 40 in G minor
Fabio Luisi, conductor
Gregory Raden, clarinet
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program: American Composers Orchestra and League of American Orchestras have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024–25 season, ten composers have their works performed by fifteen orchestras across the U.S.
the sound of where i came from (乡音 Xiāng Yīn) was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Moni Jasmine Guo, the sound of where i came from (乡音 Xiāng Yīn)
Heartsong: Mendelssohn, Guo, & Rachmaninoff
Lexington Philharmonic
Singletary Center for the Arts | Lexington, KY
Link: https://lexphil.org/heartsong
Program
MONI JASMINE GUO, the sound of where i came from (乡音 Xiāng Yīn)
FELIX MENDELSSOHN, Violin Concerto
SERGEI RACHMANINOFF, Symphony No. 2
Mélisse Brunet, conductor
Tai Murray, violin
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program: American Composers Orchestra and League of American Orchestras have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024–25 season, ten composers have their works performed by fifteen orchestras across the U.S.
the sound of where i came from (乡音 Xiāng Yīn) was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
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Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Wang Jie, The Winter that United Us
Orchestra of the Southern Finger Lakes
Clemens Center | Elmira, NY
Link: https://www.osfl.org/2025-2026-osfl-season.html/#orchestraseries
WANG JIE, The Winter that United Us
TRADITIONAL, Angels We Have Heard on High, Joy to the World, Sleigh Ride
ANVER FINBERG, Dances in Freygish
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program: American Composers Orchestra and League of American Orchestras have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024–25 season, ten composers have their works performed by fifteen orchestras across the U.S.
The Winter that United Us was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
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Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Andreia Pinto Correia, Ciprés
Prokofiev’s First Violin Concerto
Princeton Symphony Orchestra
Richardson Auditorium | Princeton, NJ
Link: https://www.princetonsymphony.org/performances/prokofievs-first-violin-concerto/2026-01-10
Program
ANDREIA PINTO CORREIA, Ciprés
SERGEI PROKOFIEV, Violin Concerto No. 1 in D Major, Op. 19
DIMITRI SHOSTAKOVICH, Symphony No. 1 in F Minor, Op. 10
Rossen Milanov, conductor
Bella Hristova, violin
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program: American Composers Orchestra and League of American Orchestras have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024–25 season, ten composers have their works performed by fifteen orchestras across the U.S.
Ciprés was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Andreia Pinto Correia, Ciprés
Prokofiev’s First Violin Concerto
Princeton Symphony Orchestra
Richardson Auditorium | Princeton, NJ
Link: https://www.princetonsymphony.org/performances/prokofievs-first-violin-concerto/2026-01-10
Program
ANDREIA PINTO CORREIA, Ciprés
SERGEI PROKOFIEV, Violin Concerto No. 1 in D Major, Op. 19
DIMITRI SHOSTAKOVICH, Symphony No. 1 in F Minor, Op. 10
Rossen Milanov, conductor
Bella Hristova, violin
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program: American Composers Orchestra and League of American Orchestras have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024–25 season, ten composers have their works performed by fifteen orchestras across the U.S.
Ciprés was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
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EarShot Readings: Lawrence University
Lawrence University | Appleton, WI
Link TBA
Mark Dupere, conductor
Featured Artists and Works:
Alicia Castillo, Billow
Matthew Mason, Downhill from Breathing
Lila Meretzky, To crave and to have
Logan Rutledge, Grad Workers Union
Mentor Composers:
Marcos Balter
Joanne Metcalf (TBC)
Asha Srinivasan
EarShot Readings: Lawrence University
Lawrence University | Appleton, WI
Link TBA
Mark Dupere, conductor
Featured Artists and Works:
Alicia Castillo, Billow
Matthew Mason, Downhill from Breathing
Lila Meretzky, To crave and to have
Logan Rutledge, Grad Workers Union
Mentor Composers:
Marcos Balter
Joanne Metcalf (TBC)
Asha Srinivasan
EarShot Readings: Lawrence University
Lawrence University | Appleton, WI
Link TBA
Mark Dupere, conductor
Featured Artists and Works:
Alicia Castillo, Billow
Matthew Mason, Downhill from Breathing
Lila Meretzky, To crave and to have
Logan Rutledge, Grad Workers Union
Mentor Composers:
Marcos Balter
Joanne Metcalf (TBC)
Asha Srinivasan
EarShot Readings: Lawrence University
Lawrence University | Appleton, WI
Link TBA
Mark Dupere, conductor
Featured Artists and Works:
Alicia Castillo, Billow
Matthew Mason, Downhill from Breathing
Lila Meretzky, To crave and to have
Logan Rutledge, Grad Workers Union
Mentor Composers:
Marcos Balter
Joanne Metcalf (TBC)
Asha Srinivasan
EarShot Readings: Lawrence University
Lawrence University | Appleton, WI
Link TBA
Mark Dupere, conductor
Featured Artists and Works:
Alicia Castillo, Billow
Matthew Mason, Downhill from Breathing
Lila Meretzky, To crave and to have
Logan Rutledge, Grad Workers Union
Mentor Composers:
Marcos Balter
Joanne Metcalf (TBC)
Asha Srinivasan
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Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Angel Lam, Please let there be paradise…
Masterworks IV: The Rite of Spring
Quad City Symphony Orchestra
Alder Theater | Davenport, IA
Link: https://qcso.org/event/masterworks-iv-the-rite-of-spring/
Program
MODEST MUSSORGSKY, Dawn on the Moskva River
ANGEL LAM, New Work [World Premiere]
IGOR STRAVINSKY, The Rite of Spring
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program: American Composers Orchestra and League of American Orchestras have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024–25 season, ten composers have their works performed by fifteen orchestras across the U.S.
Angel Lam’s New Work was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Angel Lam, Please let there be paradise…
Masterworks IV: The Rite of Spring
Quad City Symphony Orchestra
Alder Theater | Davenport, IA
Link: https://qcso.org/event/masterworks-iv-the-rite-of-spring/
Program
MODEST MUSSORGSKY, Dawn on the Moskva River
ANGEL LAM, New Work [World Premiere]
IGOR STRAVINSKY, The Rite of Spring
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program: American Composers Orchestra and League of American Orchestras have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024–25 season, ten composers have their works performed by fifteen orchestras across the U.S.
Angel Lam’s New Work was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
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Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Julia Aldolphe, Unearth, Release
Experience the Intrigue
Lincoln’s Symphony Orchestra
Lied Center for Performing Arts | Lincoln, NE
Link: https://lincolnsymphony.com/experience-intrigue/
Program
JEAN SIBELIUS, Finlandia
JULIA ALDOLPHE, Unearth, Release
NIKOLAI RIMSKY-KORSAKOV, Scheherazade
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program: American Composers Orchestra and League of American Orchestras have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024–25 season, ten composers have their works performed by fifteen orchestras across the U.S.
Unearth, Release was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Angel Lam, Please let there be a paradise…
Masterworks III - Regeneration
Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra
Capitol Theater | Madison, WI
Link: https://www.overture.org/tickets-events/2025-26-season/wisconsin-chamber-orchestra-regeneration/
Program
ANGEL LAM, Please let there be a paradise…
DAN CAVANAGH, Concerto for Jazz Trio
MICHAEL BELL, Regeneration: A Pentalogy
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program: American Composers Orchestra and League of American Orchestras have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024–25 season, ten composers have their works performed by fifteen orchestras across the U.S.
Please let there be a paradise… was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Meilina Tsui, Floridian Symphony
MasterWorks V: Alpine Symphony
Canton Symphony Orchestra
Zimmermann Symphony Center | Canton, OH
Link: https://cantonsymphony.org/masterworks-an-alpine-symphony/
Program
JEAN SIBELIUS, Karelia Overture
MEILINA TSUI, Floridian Symphony
RICHARD STRAUSS, An Alpine Symphony
Jeri Lynne Johnson, conductor
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program: American Composers Orchestra and League of American Orchestras have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024–25 season, ten composers have their works performed by fifteen orchestras across the U.S.
Floridian Symphony was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Moni Jasmine Guo, the sound of where i came from (乡音 Xiāng Yīn)
Symphony Series: Brahms & Dvořák
Richmond Symphony
Carpenter Theatre | Richmond, VA
Link: https://www.richmondsymphony.com/event/brahms-dvorak-2/2026-03-07/#
Program
MONI JASMINE GUO, the sound of where i came from (乡音 Xiāng Yīn)
ANTONIN DVORAK, Cello Concerto
JOHANNES BRAHMS, Symphony No. 4
Valentina Peleggi, conductor
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program: American Composers Orchestra and League of American Orchestras have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024–25 season, ten composers have their works performed by fifteen orchestras across the U.S.
the sound of where i came from (乡音 Xiāng Yīn) was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
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Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Cindy Cox, Dreaming a world’s edge
ORIGINS
North Corner Chamber Orchestra
Rainier Arts Center | Seattle, WA
Link: https://www.nocco.org/upcoming-events/2025/3/7-th4ya
Program
CINDY COX, Dreaming a world's edge
FELIX MENDELSSOHN, Symphony No. 1
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program: American Composers Orchestra and League of American Orchestras have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024–25 season, ten composers have their works performed by fifteen orchestras across the U.S.
Dreaming a world’s edge was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Cindy Cox, Dreaming a world’s edge
ORIGINS
North Corner Chamber Orchestra
Rainier Arts Center | Seattle, WA
Link: https://www.nocco.org/upcoming-events/2025/3/7-th4ya
Program
CINDY COX, Dreaming a world's edge
FELIX MENDELSSOHN, Symphony No. 1
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program: American Composers Orchestra and League of American Orchestras have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024–25 season, ten composers have their works performed by fifteen orchestras across the U.S.
Dreaming a world’s edge was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
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American Composers Orchestra
Zankel Hall, Carnegie Hall | New York City, NY
Link TBA
Commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, we focus on artists’ musical open letters to America, which reflect narratives around the summer homes of turn-of-the-century Black folk; dreams; unspoken emotions; rituals of celebration; and the connection between the historic and current patriotism of Black American women.
Karen Slack, soprano
Amanda Goookin, cello
Cynthia Yeh, percussion
Carolyn Kuan, conductor
Hello, America: Letters to Us, from Us
JOSEPH PHILIPS, We hold these truths (ACO Commission, developed via EarShot CoLABoratory)
BRITTANY GREEN, Letters to America (ACO Co-commission, developed via EarShot CoLABoratory)
KITE, Wičhínčala Šakówin (ACO Commission, developed via EarShot CoLABoratory)
SHELLEY WASHINGTON, Haymaker (ACO Commission, developed via EarShot CoLABoratory)
JESSIE MONTGOMERY, Procession (arrangement)
Commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, we focus on artists’ musical open letters to America, which reflect narratives around the summer homes of turn-of-the-century Black folk; dreams; unspoken emotions; rituals of celebration; and the connection between the historic and current patriotism of Black American women.
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Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Stacy Garrop, Goddess Triptych
Beethoven Symphony No. 9
Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra
Orpheum Theater | New Orleans, LA
Link: https://lpomusic.com/events/os08-beet-mar12
Program
LOUISE FARRENC, Overture No. 1, in e minor
STACY GARROP, Goddess Triptych
LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN, Symphony No. 9, Op. 125
Matthew Kraemer, conductor
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program: American Composers Orchestra and League of American Orchestras have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024–25 season, ten composers have their works performed by fifteen orchestras across the U.S.
Goddess Triptych was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Marina López, Moño
Tchaikovsky Violin Concerto + Sibelius Symphony No. 7
Monterey Symphony
Sunset Center | Carmel, CA
Link: https://www.montereysymphony.org/events/tchaikovsky-violin-concerto-and-sibelius-symphony-no-7/
Program
MARINA LOPEZ, Moño
JEAN SIBELIUS, Symphony No. 7
PYOTR ILYICH TCHAIKOVSKY, Violin Concerto
Jayce Ogren, Music Director and Conductor
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program: American Composers Orchestra and League of American Orchestras have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024–25 season, ten composers have their works performed by fifteen orchestras across the U.S.
Moño was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Marina López, Moño
Tchaikovsky Violin Concerto + Sibelius Symphony No. 7
Monterey Symphony
Sunset Center | Carmel, CA
Link: https://www.montereysymphony.org/events/tchaikovsky-violin-concerto-and-sibelius-symphony-no-7/
Program
MARINA LOPEZ, Moño
JEAN SIBELIUS, Symphony No. 7
PYOTR ILYICH TCHAIKOVSKY, Violin Concerto
Jayce Ogren, Music Director and Conductor
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program: American Composers Orchestra and League of American Orchestras have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024–25 season, ten composers have their works performed by fifteen orchestras across the U.S.
Moño was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Jasmine Guo, the sound of where i came from (乡音 Xiāng Yīn)
Beethoven’s Emperor Concerto: Radiant Vision
Saint Louis Symphony Orchestra
Powell Hall | St. Louis, MO
Link: https://shop.slso.org/8647/8696
Program
LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN, The Consecration of the House Overture
JASMINE GUO, the sound of where i came from (乡音 Xiāng Yīn)
KEVIN PUTS, Concerto for Orchestra
LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN, Piano Concerto No. 5, “Emperor”
Stéphane Denève, conductor
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program: American Composers Orchestra and League of American Orchestras have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024–25 season, ten composers have their works performed by fifteen orchestras across the U.S.
the sound of where i came from (乡音 Xiāng Yīn) was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Jasmine Guo, the sound of where i came from (乡音 Xiāng Yīn)
Beethoven’s Emperor Concerto: Radiant Vision
Saint Louis Symphony Orchestra
Powell Hall | St. Louis, MO
Link: https://shop.slso.org/8647/8696
Program
LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN, The Consecration of the House Overture
JASMINE GUO, the sound of where i came from (乡音 Xiāng Yīn)
KEVIN PUTS, Concerto for Orchestra
LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN, Piano Concerto No. 5, “Emperor”
Stéphane Denève, conductor
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program: American Composers Orchestra and League of American Orchestras have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024–25 season, ten composers have their works performed by fifteen orchestras across the U.S.
the sound of where i came from (乡音 Xiāng Yīn) was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Karena Ingram, RAINN
Masterworks 7: Unbroken
Asheville Symphony
First Baptist Church of Asheville | Asheville, NC
Link: https://ashevillesymphony.org/event/masterworks-7-unbroken/
Program
KARENA INGRAM, RAINN
WOLFGANG AMADEUS MOZART, Piano Concerto No. 12
DMITRI SHOSTAKOVICH, Symphony No. 10
Darko Butorac, conductor
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program: American Composers Orchestra and League of American Orchestras have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024–25 season, ten composers have their works performed by fifteen orchestras across the U.S.
RAINN was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Karena Ingram, RAINN
Masterworks 7: Unbroken
Asheville Symphony
First Baptist Church of Asheville | Asheville, NC
Link: https://ashevillesymphony.org/event/masterworks-7-unbroken/
Program
KARENA INGRAM, RAINN
WOLFGANG AMADEUS MOZART, Piano Concerto No. 12
DMITRI SHOSTAKOVICH, Symphony No. 10
Darko Butorac, conductor
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program: American Composers Orchestra and League of American Orchestras have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024–25 season, ten composers have their works performed by fifteen orchestras across the U.S.
RAINN was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
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Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Brittany J. Green, TESTIFY!
Percussion & Rhythm with Andy Akiho
Oregon Symphony
Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall | Portland, OR
Link: https://www.orsymphony.org/productions/2526/percussion-and-rhythm-with-andy-akiho
Program
BRITTANY J. GREEN, TESTIFY!
ANDY AKIHO, Percussion Concerto
PYOTR ILYICH TCHAIKOVSKY, Symphony No. 4
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program: American Composers Orchestra and League of American Orchestras have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024–25 season, ten composers have their works performed by fifteen orchestras across the U.S.
TESTIFY! was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Brittany J. Green, TESTIFY!
Percussion & Rhythm with Andy Akiho
Oregon Symphony
Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall | Portland, OR
Link: https://www.orsymphony.org/productions/2526/percussion-and-rhythm-with-andy-akiho
Program
BRITTANY J. GREEN, TESTIFY!
ANDY AKIHO, Percussion Concerto
PYOTR ILYICH TCHAIKOVSKY, Symphony No. 4
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program: American Composers Orchestra and League of American Orchestras have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024–25 season, ten composers have their works performed by fifteen orchestras across the U.S.
TESTIFY! was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
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June 6, 2025
EarShot Readings: American Composers Orchestra
Friday, June 6, 2025 at 7:30 PM – Public Reading
Neidorff-Karpati Hall, Manhattan School of Music
Rei Hotoda, conductor
Vijay Iyer, mentor composer
Curtis Stewart, mentor composer
Melinda Wagner, mentor composer
LAVELL BLACKWELL, Toccata for Orchestra
ARJAN SINGH DOGRA, Live Salmon
GRACE ANN LEE, In Crystallized Time
STEVEN R. GERBER, Spirituals for String Orchestra, 6. Call and Response (“Go Down, Moses”)
SHAWN JOHNSON, The Cardinal Takes Flight
CHENG JIN KOH, Midnight Visions
MARIE DOUGLAS, The People Could Fly
Live Salmon is presented in partnership with the BMI Foundation
Spirituals for String Orchestra is made possible by the Steven R. Gerber Trust
EarShot is a program of American Composers Orchestra completed in partnership with American Composers Forum, the League of American Orchestras, and New Music USA. The program is made possible with lead support from Altman Foundation, Elizabeth and Justus Schlichting, Mellon Foundation, Sphinx Venture Fund, TD Charitable Foundation, Fromm Foundation, Ford Good Neighbor Committee, Jerome Foundation, BMI Foundation, and The New York Community Trust Van Lier Fellowships; additional support is provided by the Aaron Copland Fund for Music, Arthur F. & Alice E. Adams Charitable Fund, Alice M. Ditson Fund of Columbia University, G. Schirmer/Wise Music Foundation, and the League of American Orchestras with support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
Public funds are provided by the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council, the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Kathy Hochul and the New York State Legislature, and the National Endowment for the Arts.
June 6, 2025
EarShot Readings: American Composers Orchestra
Neidorff-Karpati Hall, Manhattan School of Music | New York City, NY
EarShot CoLABoratory Workshop: Shelley Washington
Thursday, June 5, 2025 @ 1:30-2:30pm | Neidorff-Karpati Hall, Manhattan School of Music
In her first work for full orchestra, Shelley Washington builds on a previous work, Seething, for cello and kick drum, commissioned and performed by Amanda Gookin. She will explore the question: What would it mean to treat each musician as a virtuoso within the context of a larger group of musicians?
June 5, 2025
Featured Artist & Work
Shelley Washington
June 5, 2025
EarShot Readings: American Composers Orchestra
Thursday, June 5, 2025 at 10:30 AM – Open Rehearsal
Neidorff-Karpati Hall, Manhattan School of Music
Rei Hotoda, conductor
Vijay Iyer, mentor composer
Curtis Stewart, mentor composer
Melinda Wagner, mentor composer
LAVELL BLACKWELL, Toccata for Orchestra
ARJAN SINGH DOGRA, Live Salmon
GRACE ANN LEE, In Crystallized Time
STEVEN R. GERBER, Spirituals for String Orchestra, 6. Call and Response (“Go Down, Moses”)
SHAWN JOHNSON, The Cardinal Takes Flight
CHENG JIN KOH, Midnight Visions
MARIE DOUGLAS, The People Could Fly
Live Salmon is presented in partnership with the BMI Foundation
Spirituals for String Orchestra is made possible by the Steven R. Gerber Trust
EarShot is a program of American Composers Orchestra completed in partnership with American Composers Forum, the League of American Orchestras, and New Music USA. The program is made possible with lead support from Altman Foundation, Elizabeth and Justus Schlichting, Mellon Foundation, Sphinx Venture Fund, TD Charitable Foundation, Fromm Foundation, Ford Good Neighbor Committee, Jerome Foundation, BMI Foundation, and The New York Community Trust Van Lier Fellowships; additional support is provided by the Aaron Copland Fund for Music, Arthur F. & Alice E. Adams Charitable Fund, Alice M. Ditson Fund of Columbia University, G. Schirmer/Wise Music Foundation, and the League of American Orchestras with support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
Public funds are provided by the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council, the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Kathy Hochul and the New York State Legislature, and the National Endowment for the Arts.
June 5, 2025
EarShot Readings: American Composers Orchestra
Neidorff-Karpati Hall, Manhattan School of Music | New York City, NY
June 1, 2025
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Gity Razaz, Methuselah (In Chains of Time)
Berkeley Symphony
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program for women composers is an initiative of the League of American Orchestras, in partnership with American Composers Orchestra (ACO) and supported by the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation. Selected composers are previous participants in ACO's EarShot Readings.
The League and ACO have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024-25 season, 10 composers have their works performed by 15 orchestras across the U.S.
In Chains of Time was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
June 1, 2025
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Gity Razaz, Methuselah (In Chains of Time)
In Chains of Time was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
May 17, 2025
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Karena Ingram, TBD (World Premiere)
Memphis Symphony Orchestra
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program for women composers is an initiative of the League of American Orchestras, in partnership with American Composers Orchestra (ACO) and supported by the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation. Selected composers are previous participants in ACO's EarShot Readings.
The League and ACO have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024-25 season, 10 composers have their works performed by 15 orchestras across the U.S.
This work was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
May 17, 2025
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Karena Ingram, TBD (World Premiere)
This work was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
May 12-13, 2025
EarShot Readings: Lawrence University Symphony Orchestra
Appleton, WI
Michael Clayville, Conductor
Via EarShot, Lawrence University will workshop scores that fall outside of typical performance and notation standards including graphic scores, scores that engage improvisation, and scores with other components that are non-typical to Western musical notation. Selected works include those for open instrumentation (scores that can be read by any configuration of instruments), compositions that integrate "shape note" notation, and works that require light improvisation. Selected composers - Alicia Castillo, Matthew Mason, Lila Meretzky, and Logan Rutledge - will receive individualized feedback from mentor composers Marcos Balter, Joanne Metcalf, and Asha Srinivasan.
Artists will return to Lawrence University in January 2026 to participate in EarShot Readings where they will develop these compositions for the Lawrence University New Music Ensemble.
May 12-13, 2025
EarShot Readings: Lawrence University Symphony Orchestra
Appleton, WI
Michael Clayville, Conductor
Via EarShot, Lawrence University will workshop scores that fall outside of typical performance and notation standards including graphic scores, scores that engage improvisation, and scores with other components that are non-typical to Western musical notation. Selected works include those for open instrumentation (scores that can be read by any configuration of instruments), compositions that integrate "shape note" notation, and works that require light improvisation. Selected composers - Alicia Castillo, Matthew Mason, Lila Meretzky, and Logan Rutledge - will receive individualized feedback from mentor composers Marcos Balter, Joanne Metcalf, and Asha Srinivasan.
Artists will return to Lawrence University in January 2026 to participate in EarShot Readings where they will develop these compositions for the Lawrence University New Music Ensemble.
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May 8, 2025, 10:30 AM - 1:00 PM
CoLABoratory Workshop
American Composers Orchestra
Benzaquen Hall at DiMenna Center
New York City, New York
Quintet: Violin, viola, cello, bass, percussion + electronics
Featured Artists and Works
Horacio Fernandez, New Work (ACO Commission, developed via EarShot CoLABoratory)
Kian Ravaei, New Work (ACO Commission, developed via EarShot CoLABoratory)
CoLABoratory Workshop
Featured Artists and Works
Horacio Fernandez, New Work (ACO Commission, developed via EarShot CoLABoratory)
Kian Ravaei, New Work (ACO Commission, developed via EarShot CoLABoratory)
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April 6, 2025
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Angel Lam, Let there be a paradise…
Quad City Symphony Orchestra
Link: https://qcso.org/event/masterworks-vi-rhapsody-in-blue/
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program for women composers is an initiative of the League of American Orchestras, in partnership with American Composers Orchestra (ACO) and supported by the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation. Selected composers are previous participants in ACO's EarShot Readings.
The League and ACO have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024-25 season, 10 composers have their works performed by 15 orchestras across the U.S.
Let there be a paradise... was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
April 6, 2025
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Angel Lam, Let there be a paradise…
Let there be a paradise... was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
“Signing the Dotted Line”
Licensing and Publishing
April 2, 2025
4:00 PM ET
Staff Moderator: Melissa Ngan
Featured Speaker: Deirdre Chadwick
Understanding media rights, broadcast regulations, and payments is a vital part of making a living as a composer. BMI’s Deirdre Chadwick will lead a dialogue built to demystify some of the fine print that composers face as their careers reach larger scale.
“Signing the Dotted Line”
Licensing and Publishing
Staff Moderator: Melissa Ngan
Featured Speaker: Deirdre Chadwick
Understanding media rights, broadcast regulations, and payments is a vital part of making a living as a composer. BMI’s Deirdre Chadwick will lead a dialogue built to demystify some of the fine print that composers face as their careers reach larger scale.
March 26-28, 2025
EarShot Readings: Indiana University's Jacobs School of Music
Bloomington, IN
Conductor: Jeffery Meyer
Featured Artists and Works:
Natalia Camargo Duarte
Emre Sener
Gabriel Novak
Wenxin Li
Alexey Logunov
Corey Chang
Laura Pacheco
Xinyuan Deng
Mentor Composers:
Augusta Read Thomas
David Dzubay
Han Lash
Curtis Stewart
March 26-28, 2025
EarShot Readings: Indiana University's Jacobs School of Music
Bloomington, IN
Conductor: Jeffery Meyer
Mentor Composers: Augusta Read Thomas, David Dzubay, Han Lash, Curtis Stewart
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EarShot CoLABoratory Special Event
March 22, 2025
Harlem Samba | Philly Salsa featuring Edmar Castañeda & Curtis Stewart
Esperanza Arts Center | Philadelphia, PA
This event is hosted and curated by Grammy-nominated artists Edmar Castañeda and Curtis Stewart. Harlem Samba/Philly Salsa spotlights two Latino dance and music traditions that blossomed to two separate cities in the 20th century: Samba in New York City and Salsa in Philadelphia, and celebrates the cultural legacy of the Brazilian and Puerto Rican residents responsible for cultivating and sustaining these traditions. Featuring performances by Harlem Samba and Siempre Salsa Philly.
This program is part of American Composers Orchestra’s CoLABoratory Fellowship program at Carnegie Hall – an exploration of how Latin American, Afro-Caribbean, and United States cultures have been interconnected for centuries by the effects of colonization and how these musics have been transformed and transported across the Atlantic in the process.
Presented in partnership with AMERICAN COMPOSERS ORCHESTRA
EarShot CoLABoratory Special Event
March 22, 2025
Harlem Samba/Philly Salsa featuring Edmar Castañeda & Curtis Stewart
Esperanza Arts Center | Philadelphia, PA
This event is hosted and curated by Grammy-nominated artists Edmar Castañeda and Curtis Stewart. Harlem Samba/Philly Salsa spotlights two Latino dance and music traditions that blossomed to two separate cities in the 20th century: Samba in New York City and Salsa in Philadelphia, and celebrates the cultural legacy of the Brazilian and Puerto Rican residents responsible for cultivating and sustaining these traditions. Featuring performances by Harlem Samba and Siempre Salsa Philly.
This program is part of American Composers Orchestra’s CoLABoratory Fellowship program at Carnegie Hall – an exploration of how Latin American, Afro-Caribbean, and United States cultures have been interconnected for centuries by the effects of colonization and how these musics have been transformed and transported across the Atlantic in the process.
Presented in partnership with AMERICAN COMPOSERS ORCHESTRA
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“Away from the Writing Desk and Into the World”
Creating Relationships with Orchestras
March 14, 2025
4:00 PM ET
Staff Moderator: Loki Karuna
Featured Speakers: Allison Loggins-Hull
For most composers, developing and maintaining relationships with orchestras is a key factor toward first and repeat performances. Composer/flutist Allison Loggins-Hull will discuss the “how-tos” of making initial and repeat connections with orchestra administration and staff, sharing her experiences and guidance along the way.
“Away from the Writing Desk and Into the World”
Creating Relationships with Orchestras
Staff Moderator: Loki Karuna
Featured Speakers: Allison Loggins-Hull
For most composers, developing and maintaining relationships with orchestras is a key factor toward first and repeat performances. Composer/flutist Allison Loggins-Hull will discuss the “how-tos” of making initial and repeat connections with orchestra administration and staff, sharing her experiences and guidance along the way.
“Helping Hands”
Traversing Artist Management
March 12, 2025
4:00 PM ET
Staff Moderator: Melissa Ngan
Featured Speaker: Dan Visconti
Professional representation has helped countless artists reach the next levels of their careers, but the process of identifying and securing management can be a heavy lift for those who are unfamiliar with how to do so. This session will highlight both the ways in which representation can help orchestral composers continue their professional trajectories, and how composers can gain the attention of management agencies.
“Helping Hands”
Traversing Artist Management
Staff Moderator: Melissa Ngan
Featured Speaker: Dan Visconti
Professional representation has helped countless artists reach the next levels of their careers, but the process of identifying and securing management can be a heavy lift for those who are unfamiliar with how to do so. This session will highlight both the ways in which representation can help orchestral composers continue their professional trajectories, and how composers can gain the attention of management agencies.
March 6-9, 2025
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Arlene Sierra, Kiskadee
Dallas Symphony
Link: Rachmaninoff's Piano Concerto No. 3 - Dallas Symphony Orchestra
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program for women composers is an initiative of the League of American Orchestras, in partnership with American Composers Orchestra (ACO) and supported by the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation. Selected composers are previous participants in ACO's EarShot Readings.
The League and ACO have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024-25 season, 10 composers have their works performed by 15 orchestras across the U.S.
Kiskadee was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
March 6-9, 2025
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Arlene Sierra, Kiskadee
Kiskadee was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
March 6-9, 2025
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Arlene Sierra, Kiskadee
Dallas Symphony
Link: Rachmaninoff's Piano Concerto No. 3 - Dallas Symphony Orchestra
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program for women composers is an initiative of the League of American Orchestras, in partnership with American Composers Orchestra (ACO) and supported by the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation. Selected composers are previous participants in ACO's EarShot Readings.
The League and ACO have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024-25 season, 10 composers have their works performed by 15 orchestras across the U.S.
Kiskadee was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
March 6-9, 2025
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Arlene Sierra, Kiskadee
Kiskadee was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
March 6-9, 2025
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Arlene Sierra, Kiskadee
Dallas Symphony
Link: Rachmaninoff's Piano Concerto No. 3 - Dallas Symphony Orchestra
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program for women composers is an initiative of the League of American Orchestras, in partnership with American Composers Orchestra (ACO) and supported by the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation. Selected composers are previous participants in ACO's EarShot Readings.
The League and ACO have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024-25 season, 10 composers have their works performed by 15 orchestras across the U.S.
Kiskadee was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
March 6-9, 2025
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Arlene Sierra, Kiskadee
Kiskadee was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
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March 7, 2025, 3:30 PM
CoLABoratory Workshop
American Composers Orchestra
DiMenna Center
New York City, New York
Full orchestra
Featured Artists and Works
Mazz Swift, New Work (ACO Commission, developed via EarShot CoLABoratory)
March 7, 2025, 3:30 PM
CoLABoratory Workshop
Full orchestra
Featured Artists and Works
Mazz Swift, New Work (ACO Commission, developed via EarShot CoLABoratory)
March 6-9, 2025
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Arlene Sierra, Kiskadee
Dallas Symphony
Link: Rachmaninoff's Piano Concerto No. 3 - Dallas Symphony Orchestra
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program for women composers is an initiative of the League of American Orchestras, in partnership with American Composers Orchestra (ACO) and supported by the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation. Selected composers are previous participants in ACO's EarShot Readings.
The League and ACO have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024-25 season, 10 composers have their works performed by 15 orchestras across the U.S.
Kiskadee was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
March 6-9, 2025
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Arlene Sierra, Kiskadee
Kiskadee was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
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March 6, 2025, 7:30 PM ET
Zankel Hall, Carnegie Hall
Tito Muñoz, Conductor
Clarice Assad, Vocals and Electronics
Edmar Castañeda, Harp
Harlem Samba, Percussion
PROGRAM
Clarice Assad: The Evolution of AI (ACO Commission/World Premiere)
Edmar Castañeda: Bordones (ACO Commission, developed via EarShot CoLABoratory/World Premiere)
Alice Coltrane Turiyasangitananda, Curtis Stewart, and Harlem Samba – Fantasy and Interludes on Going Home (inspired by Alice Coltrane’s Lord of Lords) (World Premiere Arrangement)
Tania León, Ácana
Tomàs Peire Serrate: Wayfarer (ACO Commission/World Premiere)
Latin American, Afro-Caribbean, and United States culture have been interconnected for centuries by the effects of colonization and the musics transported and transformed overseas as a result. This program features music from various parts of Latin America and its influence on jazz and “Classical” music in the United States. Conductor Tito Muñoz leads ACO in the performance of works by Clarice Assad, Edmar Castañeda, Alice Coltrane, Tania León, and Tomàs Peire Serrate. Guest artists Clarice Assad (vocals and electronics), Edmar Castañeda (harp), and percussion ensemble Harlem Samba join ACO onstage.
Mil Mundos Books is a bilingual bookstore and community center located in Brooklyn, NY whose curation celebrates Black, Latinx, and Indigenous heritage. Founder and Co-Director of Mil Mundos, Maria Herron worked to create a suggested reading list that compliments ACO's Hello, America: Transatlantic program.
Tania Leon's Stride: A Polyrhythmic Life - Alejandro L. Madrid
Harvest of Empire: A History of Latinos in America - Juan Gonzalez
An African American and Latinx History of the United States - Paul Ortiz
Monument Eternal: The Music of Alice Coltrane - Franya J. Berkman
Latin American, Afro-Caribbean, and United States culture have been interconnected for centuries by the effects of colonization and the musics transported and transformed overseas as a result. This program features music from various parts of Latin America and its influence on jazz and “Classical” music in the United States. Conductor Tito Muñoz leads ACO in the performance of works by Clarice Assad, Edmar Castañeda, Alice Coltrane, Tania León, and Tomàs Peire Serrate. Guest artists Clarice Assad (vocals and electronics), Edmar Castañeda (harp), and percussion ensemble Harlem Samba join ACO onstage.
March 5, 2025, 10:00 AM
CoLABoratory Workshop
American Composers Orchestra
DiMenna Center
New York City, New York
Full orchestra
Featured Artists and Works
Mazz Swift, New Work (ACO Commission, developed via EarShot CoLABoratory)
March 5, 2025, 10:00 AM
CoLABoratory Workshop
Full orchestra
Featured Artists and Works
Mazz Swift, New Work (ACO Commission, developed via EarShot CoLABoratory)
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“Onstage Do’s and Do’s”
Rehearsal Techniques and Procedures
February 24, 2025
4:00 PM ET
Staff Moderator: Loki Karuna
Featured Speakers: Leanna Primiani and John Devlin
Receiving a performance by an orchestra isn’t the end of the road for a composer, but the beginning of an ongoing relationship. This webinar will offer rehearsal techniques to composers, and will speak to how they should engage conductors, orchestras, and its musicians throughout the rehearsal process.
“Onstage Do’s and Do’s”
Rehearsal Techniques and Procedures
Staff Moderator: Loki Karuna
Featured Speakers: Leanna Primiani and John Devlin
Receiving a performance by an orchestra isn’t the end of the road for a composer, but the beginning of an ongoing relationship. This webinar will offer rehearsal techniques to composers, and will speak to how they should engage conductors, orchestras, and its musicians throughout the rehearsal process.
February 22, 2025
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Brittany J. Green, TESTIFY!
Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra
Link: https://ci.ovationtix.com/36404/production/1198898?performanceId=11466141
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program for women composers is an initiative of the League of American Orchestras, in partnership with American Composers Orchestra (ACO) and supported by the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation. Selected composers are previous participants in ACO's EarShot Readings.
The League and ACO have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024-25 season, 10 composers have their works performed by 15 orchestras across the U.S.
This work was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
February 22, 2025
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Brittany J. Green, TESTIFY!
This work was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
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“Put Me On”
Commissions and Consortia Workshop
February 18, 2025
4:00 PM ET
Staff Moderator: Melissa Ngan
Featured Speaker: Vanessa Reed and Juan Pablo Contreras
There's a lot more to getting a commission and building a consortium than writing a great piece of music. In this webinar, the leaders of the American Composers Orchestra and New Music USA will dialogue with one of today's most successful composers about the ins and outs of navigating contracts, fee negotiations, and more!
“Put Me On”
Commissions and Consortia Workshop
Staff Moderator: Melissa Ngan
Featured Speaker: Vanessa Reed and Juan Pablo Contreras
There's a lot more to getting a commission and building a consortium than writing a great piece of music. In this webinar, the leaders of the American Composers Orchestra and New Music USA will dialogue with one of today's most successful composers about the ins and outs of navigating contracts, fee negotiations, and more!
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“Beyond Bars”
Creating ‘Non-Traditional’ Scores and Parts
February 4, 2025
4:00 PM ET
Staff Moderator: Loki Karuna
Featured Speaker: inti figgis-vizueta
While creating and providing standard orchestral scores and parts to orchestras is a key component of being a broadly-performed composer, more ensembles are exploring the world of graphic and improvised scores. ACO Director of Artist Equity Loki Karuna will dialogue with composer inti figgis-vizueta on how to successfully traverse this growing corner of new music.
“Beyond Bars”
Creating ‘Non-Traditional’ Scores and Parts
Staff Moderator: Loki Karuna
Featured Speaker: inti figgis-vizueta
While creating and providing standard orchestral scores and parts to orchestras is a key component of being a broadly-performed composer, more ensembles are exploring the world of graphic and improvised scores. ACO Director of Artist Equity Loki Karuna will dialogue with composer inti figgis-vizueta on how to successfully traverse this growing corner of new music.
February 1–2, 2025
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Chelsea Komschlies, Mycelialore (World Premiere)
Tucson Symphony Orchestra
Link: https://www.tucsonsymphony.org/event/mahler-and-schumann/2025-02-01/1/
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program for women composers is an initiative of the League of American Orchestras, in partnership with American Composers Orchestra (ACO) and supported by the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation. Selected composers are previous participants in ACO's EarShot Readings.
The League and ACO have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024-25 season, 10 composers have their works performed by 15 orchestras across the U.S.
Mycelialore was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
February 1–2, 2025
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Chelsea Komschlies, Mycelialore (World Premiere)
This work was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
February 1–2, 2025
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Chelsea Komschlies, Mycelialore (World Premiere)
Tucson Symphony Orchestra
Link: https://www.tucsonsymphony.org/event/mahler-and-schumann/2025-02-01/1/
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program for women composers is an initiative of the League of American Orchestras, in partnership with American Composers Orchestra (ACO) and supported by the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation. Selected composers are previous participants in ACO's EarShot Readings.
The League and ACO have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024-25 season, 10 composers have their works performed by 15 orchestras across the U.S.
This work was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
February 1–2, 2025
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Chelsea Komschlies, Mycelialore (World Premiere)
This work was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
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Composing the Future
Composers and Music Education
January 28, 2025
4:00 PM ET
Staff Moderator: JL Marlor
Featured Speaker: Leila Pertl
New music isn't just for adults- a growing population of K-12 students is also taking a deep dive into creative collaborations with contemporary composers! Leila Pertl, Instructor of Music Education at Lawrence University & Music Education Curator for the Mile of Music, will join ACO Education Coordinator JL Marlor to offer insights on what a successful collaboration between composers and schools looks like. This, the first of a series, will focus on middle and high school ensembles. Join them on Wednesday, January 28th, at 4pm ET on Zoom. Registration is free at the link below.
Composing the Future
Composers and Music Education
Staff Moderator: JL Marlor
Featured Speaker: Leila Pertl
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EarShot CoLABoratory Workshop
January 20, 2025
10:30a-1:00p
Ripley Grier Studios (939 8th Ave # 2B)
CoLABoratory Fellow Mali Irene leads this improvisatory workshop exploring music as ritual and recognizing the "audience" as fellow music creators in the space. Attendees will be invited to participate in call and response, graphic score reading, sound creating, and deep listening. Attendance is free but registration is required. Capacity is limited.
About the Work
For her ACO-commissioned CoLABoratory work, Mali Irene will draw upon two existing compositions: Rite to Freedom, carried by the Praise House Project, and Becoming (Be Suite), which is an electronic dance work for cello, improvised voice, and visual art.
Rite to Freedom is musically informed by Lined-Hymn singing and the Ring Shout. Becoming (Be Suite) depicts styles of African chanting, spirituals, blues, jazz, and scat singing, and expresses the timeline and evolution of Black music from Africa to modern-day popular music. In Mali’s own words, “I will draw these musical themes of Black sacred music to incorporate into this new orchestral work.”
EarShot CoLABoratory Workshop
January 20, 2025
10:30a-1:00p
Ripley Grier Studios (939 8th Ave # 2B)
CoLABoratory Fellow Mali Irene leads this improvisatory workshop exploring music as ritual and recognizing the "audience" as fellow music creators in the space. Attendees will be invited to participate in call and response, graphic score reading, sound creating, and deep listening. Attendance is free but registration is required. Capacity is limited.
“Tricks of the Trade”
Orchestration Workshop
January 15, 2025
4:00 PM ET
Staff Moderator: Loki Karuna
Featured Speaker: Curtis Stewart
Curtis Stewart has made a name for himself taking works from the past and re-envisioning them for contemporary relevance. In this session, Curtis will take musical works from the “canon” and use them as a guide to highlight key aspects of orchestration, part writing, and more.
“Tricks of the Trade”
Orchestration Workshop
Staff Moderator: Loki Karuna
Featured Speaker: Curtis Stewart
Curtis Stewart has made a name for himself taking works from the past and re-envisioning them for contemporary relevance. In this session, Curtis will take musical works from the “canon” and use them as a guide to highlight key aspects of orchestration, part writing, and more.
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December 13–14, 2024
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Meilina Tsui, Floridian Symphony (World Premiere)
Artis––Naples, Naples Philharmonic
Link: https://artisnaples.org/subscriptions/masterworks
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program for women composers is an initiative of the League of American Orchestras, in partnership with American Composers Orchestra (ACO) and supported by the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation. Selected composers are previous participants in ACO's EarShot Readings.
The League and ACO have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024-25 season, 10 composers have their works performed by 15 orchestras across the U.S.
Floridian Symphony was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
December 13–14, 2024
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Meilina Tsui, Floridian Symphony (World Premiere)
Artis––Naples, Naples Philharmonic
This work was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
December 13–14, 2024
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Meilina Tsui, TBD (World Premiere)
Artis––Naples, Naples Philharmonic
Link: https://artisnaples.org/subscriptions/masterworks
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program for women composers is an initiative of the League of American Orchestras, in partnership with American Composers Orchestra (ACO) and supported by the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation. Selected composers are previous participants in ACO's EarShot Readings.
The League and ACO have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024-25 season, 10 composers have their works performed by 15 orchestras across the U.S.
This work was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
December 13–14, 2024
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Meilina Tsui, TBD (World Premiere)
Artis––Naples, Naples Philharmonic
This work was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
December 13, 2024
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Angel Lam, Please let there be a paradise…
Utah Symphony & Opera
Link: https://utahsymphony.org/event/id/33382/
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program for women composers is an initiative of the League of American Orchestras, in partnership with American Composers Orchestra (ACO) and supported by the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation. Selected composers are previous participants in ACO's EarShot Readings.
The League and ACO have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024-25 season, 10 composers have their works performed by 15 orchestras across the U.S.
Please let there be a paradise… was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
December 13, 2024
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Angel Lam, Please let there be a paradise…
Please let there be a paradise… was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
December 6-7, 2024
American Composers Orchestra
Link: BAM | Journey LIVE
Part of Next Wave 2024 & Emerging Visions
Austin Wintory, Composer & Conductor
Tommy Mesa, cello
Ariadne Greif, soprano
Patrick O’Malley, arranger
Danny Cohen, projectionist
Ode to Joy, Executive Producer
You wake alone, surrounded by miles of burning, sprawling desert and discover the looming mountaintop that is your goal—your passage will not be an easy one.
In this alchemical collision of video gameplay and music, BAM teams up with composer/conductor Austin Wintory, American Composers Orchestra, and Ode to Joy for an interactive live orchestral performance of the Grammy-nominated score of Journey, “the most beautiful game of its time" (IGN). Never the same each time it is played, Journey LIVE marks an unprecedented formal exploration in which live musicians respond to audience members' journeys through the game—in real time—as they play on-stage.
Do you love Journey? Are you an avid player of the game? Tell us what it means to you for a chance to play the game live on-stage with accompaniment from the American Composers Orchestra.
Have you ever created Journey fan art, or wanted to? Submit your Journey fan art for a chance to be featured on our social channels and entered into a raffle to win a pair of tickets to either performance!
Get excited to hear the stunning soundtrack performed LIVE! You can listen to it on Spotify here.
December 6-7, 2024
American Composers Orchestra
LInk: BAM | Journey LIVE
Austin Wintory, Composer & Conductor
Tommy Mesa, cello
Ariadne Greif, soprano
Patrick O’Malley, arranger
Danny Cohen, projectionist
Ode to Joy, Executive Producer
December 6-7, 2024
American Composers Orchestra
Link: BAM | Journey LIVE
Part of Next Wave 2024 & Emerging Visions
Austin Wintory, Composer & Conductor
Tommy Mesa, cello
Ariadne Greif, soprano
Patrick O’Malley, arranger
Danny Cohen, projectionist
Ode to Joy, Executive Producer
You wake alone, surrounded by miles of burning, sprawling desert and discover the looming mountaintop that is your goal—your passage will not be an easy one.
In this alchemical collision of video gameplay and music, BAM teams up with composer/conductor Austin Wintory, American Composers Orchestra, and Ode to Joy for an interactive live orchestral performance of the Grammy-nominated score of Journey, “the most beautiful game of its time" (IGN). Never the same each time it is played, Journey LIVE marks an unprecedented formal exploration in which live musicians respond to audience members' journeys through the game—in real time—as they play on-stage.
Do you love Journey? Are you an avid player of the game? Tell us what it means to you for a chance to play the game live on-stage with accompaniment from the American Composers Orchestra.
Have you ever created Journey fan art, or wanted to? Submit your Journey fan art for a chance to be featured on our social channels and entered into a raffle to win a pair of tickets to either performance!
Get excited to hear the stunning soundtrack performed LIVE! You can listen to it on Spotify here.
December 6-7, 2024
American Composers Orchestra
LInk: BAM | Journey LIVE
Austin Wintory, Composer & Conductor
Tommy Mesa, cello
Ariadne Greif, soprano
Patrick O’Malley, arranger
Danny Cohen, projectionist
Ode to Joy, Executive Producer
November 22, 2024
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Angel Lam, Please let there be a paradise…
The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program for women composers is an initiative of the League of American Orchestras, in partnership with American Composers Orchestra (ACO) and supported by the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation. Selected composers are previous participants in ACO's EarShot Readings.
The League and ACO have established two 30-orchestra consortiums, each supporting commissions by six women and nonbinary EarShot alumni. Each composer writes a 6–8 minute orchestral work and develops an educational or community-focused program presented in partnership with each orchestra. In the 2024-25 season, 10 composers have their works performed by 15 orchestras across the U.S.
Please let there be a paradise… was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
November 22, 2024
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Angel Lam, Please let there be a paradise…
Please let there be a paradise… was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
October 30, 2024, 7:30 PM ET
Zankel Hall, Carnegie Hall
Mei-Ann Chen, Conductor
Kebra-Seyoun Charles, Bass
Mak Grgik, Guitar
Inbal Segev, Cello
Curtis Stewart, Violin and Electronics
PROGRAM
Michael Abels: Borders
Kebra-Seyoun Charles: New Work (ACO Commission, developed via EarShot CoLABoratory/World Premiere)
Curtis Stewart, Embrace (ACO Commission)
Paul Novak, Forest Migrations (ACO Commission/World Premiere)
Victoria Polevá, The Bell
“The New Virtuoso“ is a series of programs featuring works that defy genre expectations for a solo instrument, and in doing so carve out novel texture, affect and technique in Symphonic composition. This program features works that question the nature and effect of political, gender, and ecologic borders, and how we as humans move and migrate in reaction. With conductor Mei-Ann Chen on the podium, this concert features guitarist Mak Grgik, cellist Inbal Segev, and violinist Curtis Stewart. ACO will perform three commissions by Kebra-Seyoun Charles, Paul Novak, and Curtis Stewart, alongside works by Michael Abels and Victoria Polevá.
“The New Virtuoso“ is a series of programs featuring works that defy genre expectations for a solo instrument, and in doing so carve out novel texture, affect and technique in Symphonic composition. This program features works that question the nature and effect of political, gender, and ecologic borders, and how we as humans move and migrate in reaction. With conductor Mei-Ann Chen on the podium, this concert features guitarist Mak Grgik, cellist Inbal Segev, and violinist Curtis Stewart. ACO will perform three commissions by Kebra-Seyoun Charles, Paul Novak, and Curtis Stewart, alongside works by Michael Abels and Victoria Polevá.