Internationally renowned Seattle composer Wayne Horvitz to premier a full ensemble original composition “The House That Brings A Smile” with the Washington Middle School music department.

What does a classical Vienna premier have in common with the quintessential rock group The Band? Wayne Horvitz is reworking music from both, into one. The hybrid composition integrates a 2000 Vienna premier with a composition originally written in tribute to Richard Manuel (1943-1986), pianist from The Band. In its first life, the tribute “The House That Brings A Smile” was premiered in 1990 by the New York Composers Orchestra.

Originally written for a 14 piece orchestra, it is being adapted for the Washington Middle School 84 piece ensemble. This is the third time the Washington Senior Concert Band and Senior Orchestra have collaborated under the direction of a Professional Composer. The mix of a traditional Orchestra with saxophones is unusual and the composers have adapted the music, adding in the horns.

Friends of Washington Music, Washington’s PTSA and the Seattle Office of Art and Cultural Affairs smART Ventures program are contributing funds toward the development of the work. 

Hear the combined Washington ensemble premier the new work under the direction of Wayne Horvitz, June 17th at 7:00 pm at the Quincy Jones Performing Arts Center. Each ensemble will perform their own repetoire as well. $10 suggested donation at the door.

Hope to see you there!