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Monrovians Organize Classical Concert to Commemorate 9/11
Arts Aug 29, 2016
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Patriotic Monrovia locals Beseke and Layne honorably took it upon themselves to honor those who fell during the 9/11 tragedy. – Courtesy photo
The US Congress has designated Sept. 11 of each year as “Patriot Day” and requested that it be recognized as a “National Day of Service and Remembrance.”
Monrovian mainstays Tamsen Beseke and David Michael Layne have decided to answer this request by organizing a special concert to commemorate the 15th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks.
Concertmaster Beseke has gathered together over 50 talented orchestra musicians and four conductors who will come together for a classical program, presenting a wide range of music with a uniquely American flavor. Layne, music director for First Presbyterian Church Monrovia, will be the principal conductor.
The program is highlighted by two premieres by composer David Stern. “We Stand For Freedom: In Memoriam September 11, 2001” will have its West Coast premiere. This powerful piece made its debut on the first anniversary of that tragic day. The second work is a world premiere preview from one of his latest compositions, “Lincoln Speaks of Liberty.”
Continuing with the patriotic theme, the program includes “Jubilee,” the first movement from “The Symphonic Sketches” by George Whitefield Chadwick who is considered the first native-born, professional composer of classical music. The sweeping “New World” symphony by Antonin Dvorak and the rousing “Stars and Stripes Forever” by John Philip Souza will close the concert.
The Patriot Day Concert will take place on Sunday, Sept. 11 at 4 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church Monrovia, 101 E. Foothill Blvd., Monrovia (corner Foothill and Myrtle).
Suggested donation is $7 per person. For more information, call (626) 932-1592 or click here.
