The Calgary Civic Symphony is set to launch its 48th concert season with an exciting premiere that honours the invaluable contributions of women in classical music — both as composers and soloists! On Sunday, October 27, at 2:30 p.m., the Jack Singer Concert Hall at Arts Commons will come alive with a vibrant mix of music and instruments, reflecting the diverse contributions of women to the classical music landscape.
The idea for this empowering concert originated in a rehearsal discussion last year, when Civic’s principal horn, Megan Van Horne, suggested featuring women composers as a concert theme in the 2024-2025 season. This sparked a dynamic program that not only highlights the works of three women composers but also showcases four engaging female soloists.
“I’m never afraid to challenge our audience,” Civic’s music director and conductor Rolf Bertsch remarked, “but I also want to have a balance.” This philosophy is embodied in the concert, which aims to present a blend of works by Canadian composers alongside well-known pieces from the Classical and Romantic periods, ensuring a familiar yet refreshing experience for attendees.
Bertsch dedicated considerable time to exploring the works of women composers, carefully selecting pieces that would create a meaningful and compelling performance. After listening to works by 10 to 15 internationally recognized women composers, he chose to open the concert with blue cathedral by Jennifer Higdon, one of the most influential composers of her generation. Known for its emotional depth, blue cathedral has been performed over 600 times worldwide, and Bertsch feels that the innovative techniques Higdon uses, including tuned crystal wine glasses and Chinese bells to create an ethereal sound, will keep listeners engaged throughout the performance.
Next, audiences will be treated to a delightful flute standard: Cécile Chaminade’s Concertino for Flute, performed by Civic’s principal flutist, Emily Phernambucq. This piece will serve as an upbeat and refreshing palate cleanser, setting the stage for Kelly-Marie Murphy’s intense This is the Colour of My Dreams. Inspired by Joan Miró’s surrealist painting and selected by guest cellist Beth Root Sandvoss, Murphy—one of Canada’s leading contemporary composers—showcases the cello in this vivid and thought-provoking work.
Adding a unique flair to the program is accordion virtuoso Penny Sanborn, who will dazzle the audience with her performances of Piazzolla’s Oblivion and Hermosa’s Anantango. And for the grand finale, Saint-Saëns’ Symphony No. 3 will feature the dynamic organist Chellan Hoffman. This will be a special nostalgic treat for anyone that watched the 1995 cult classic Babe!
Join the Calgary Civic Symphony for a season premiere that not only showcases exceptional talent but also serves as a powerful testament to the importance of diversity and representation in the arts. Come celebrate the breadth and depth of women’s contributions to classical music—this is an event you won’t want to miss!
Written by Jennette Miller
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