The Tuscaloosa Symphony Orchestra is set to kick off its 2026‑27 season with a concert that honors the nation’s founding ideals. “We the People” will take place on Monday, Sept. 14 at 7 p.m. in Moody Concert Hall, coinciding with the United States’ 250th anniversary.
Program Highlights
Music Director Adam Flatt will lead the orchestra through an all‑American lineup that spans centuries. The evening opens with William Schuman’s New England Triptych, a piece that weaves early American hymns and the Revolutionary‑era melodies of William Billings, including the historic song “Chester.”
Tuscaloosa native Willie E. Williams Jr. will serve as narrator for Aaron Copland’s A Lincoln Portrait, a work that incorporates Abraham Lincoln’s own words to explore themes of democracy, freedom, sacrifice and citizenship.
The Alabama Choir School, under the direction of Leah Keyes Durham, will join the orchestra for the opening selections. The concert will close with Charles Ives’ Symphony No. 2, a vibrant blend of hymns, folk tunes, patriotic songs and European symphonic tradition, featuring familiar strains such as “America the Beautiful,” “Camptown Races” and “Turkey in the Straw.”
Season Outlook
“We the People” launches a season that also includes performances titled “Into the Light,” “Classical Conversation,” and “Gershwin Greats,” as well as the annual Young Person’s Concerts. Additional events slated for the year feature “Home Alone in Concert” at the Mercedes‑Benz Amphitheater and the contemporary program “CONTACT!” with Time for Three.
Tickets and further season information are available on the Tuscaloosa Symphony Orchestra’s website or by calling 205‑752‑5515.
Original reporting: The Tuscaloosa Thread — read the source article.
