Performances
& Events
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November 22, 2024
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Angel Lam, 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.
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, 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.
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
December 13, 2024
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Angel Lam, 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.
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, 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.
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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 13–14, 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.
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January 10–11, 2025
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Marina López, TBD (World Premiere)
Grand Rapids Symphony
Link: https://www.devosperformancehall.com/events/2025/gr-symphony-presents-sax-and-the-city
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.
January 10–11, 2025
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Marina López, TBD (World Premiere)
This work was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
January 10–11, 2025
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Marina López, TBD (World Premiere)
Grand Rapids Symphony
Link: https://www.devosperformancehall.com/events/2025/gr-symphony-presents-sax-and-the-city
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.
January 10–11, 2025
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Marina López, TBD (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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February 1–2, 2025
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Chelsea Komschlies, TBD (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, TBD (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, TBD (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, TBD (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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February 22–23, 2025
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Sarah Gibson, to make this mountain taller
Idaho State Civic Symphony
Link: https://iscsymphony.org/24-25-season/
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.
to make this mountain taller was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
February 22–23, 2025
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Sarah Gibson, to make this mountain taller
to make the mountain taller 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, TBD (World Premiere)
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, TBD (World Premiere)
This work was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
February 22–23, 2025
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Sarah Gibson, to make this mountain taller
Idaho State Civic Symphony
Link: https://iscsymphony.org/24-25-season/
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.
to make this mountain taller was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
February 22–23, 2025
Virginia B. Toulmin Commission Concert
Sarah Gibson, to make this mountain taller
to make this mountain taller was commissioned by the League of American Orchestras with the generous support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.
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: Evolution of AI (ACO Commission/World Premiere)
Edmar Castañeda: New Work (ACO Commission, developed via EarShot CoLABoratory/World Premiere)
Alice Coltrane Turiyasangitananda: Going Home, arr. Curtis Stewart (World Premiere Arrangement)
Tania León, Ácana
Tomàs Peire Serrate: New Work (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.
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 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.
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 25-27, 2025
EarShot Readings: Indiana University's Jacobs School of Music
Bloomington, IN
TBD, Conductor
Featured Artists and Works TBD
Mentor Composers TBD
March 25-27, 2025
EarShot Readings: Indiana University's Jacobs School of Music
Bloomington, IN
TBD, Conductor
Featured Artists and Works TBD
Mentor Composers TBD
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.
May 12-13, 2025
EarShot Readings: Lawrence University Symphony Orchestra
Appleton, WI
TBD, Conductor
Featured Artists and Works TBD
Mentor Composers:
Joanne Metcalf
Asha Srinivasan
Marcos Balter
May 12-13, 2025
EarShot Readings: Lawrence University Symphony Orchestra
Appleton, WI
TBD, Conductor
Featured Artists and Works TBD
Mentor Composers:
Joanne Metcalf
Asha Srinivasan
Marcos Balter
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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.
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.
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June 5–6, 2025
EarShot Readings: American Composers Orchestra
Neidorff-Karpati Hall, Manhattan School of Music | New York City, NY
Link TBA
Conductor TBA
Featured Artists and Works TBA
Mentor Composers TBA
June 5, 2025
EarShot Readings: American Composers Orchestra
Neidorff-Karpati Hall, Manhattan School of Music | New York City, NY
June 5–6, 2025
EarShot Readings: American Composers Orchestra
Neidorff-Karpati Hall, Manhattan School of Music | New York City, NY
Conductor TBA
Featured Artists and Works TBA
Mentor Composers TBA
June 6, 2025
EarShot Readings: American Composers Orchestra
Neidorff-Karpati Hall, Manhattan School of Music | New York City, NY
January 26-30, 2026
EarShot Readings: Lawrence University Symphony Orchestra
Appleton, WI
TBD, Conductor
Featured Artists and Works TBD
Mentor Composers:
Joanne Metcalf
Asha Srinivasan
Marcos Balter
January 26-30, 2026
EarShot Readings: Lawrence University Symphony Orchestra
Appleton, WI
TBD, Conductor
Featured Artists and Works TBD
Mentor Composers:
Joanne Metcalf
Asha Srinivasan
Marcos Balter
ACO partners with the Buffalo Philharmonic for their 2014-15 Earshot New Music Readings
The ACO partners with the Berkeley Symphony Orchestra for a second time in 2014 for the Earshot New Music Readings.
The ACO partners with the San Diego Symphony for their 2012 Earshot New Music Readings
The ACO partners with the Berkeley Symphony Orchestra for a two part New Music readings with esteemed American composers. Composers not only get the opportunity to hear their works performed by a live orchestra, but they will revise their works for a second reading after two months.
The ACO joins the Memphis Symphony Orchestra for their very first Earshot New Music Reading
Welcome to American Composers Orchestra’s 40th Birthday Concert and Gala! For 40 years, ACO has dedicated itself to the creation, performance, and celebration of American music. Not only does ACO honor our legacy, but we take pride in finding and nurturing the next generation of creative artists through work with emerging composers both here in New York at the Underwood New Music Readings and nationally through EarShot. Working with emerging composers - both in our pre-professional platforms and through our education programs in our city’s public schools - gives us an opportunity to help define what it means to be American in 2017, embracing gender, ethnic, national and stylistic diversity and realizing the notion of “American” in the most inclusive way possible. Tonight’s program encapsulates how ACO defines its mission. With music by our recently passed and beloved founder Francis Thorne and by composer - and founder of National Sawdust - Paola Prestini, we pay tribute to two of our special honorees who have made the community of contemporary American music so strong. Ellington and the American songbook are represented and tip our hat to founder Francis Thorne’s love for this music. With Leonard Bernstein’s sonata orchestrated for large ensemble, we note the exciting season of Bernstein@100, celebrations taking place all over the world. And of course, it would not be an ACO concert without an exciting, new voice like Elizabeth Ogonek’s. In addition to Francis and Paola, ACO honors the Leonard Bernstein family - Alexander, Nina and Jamie Bernstein. Through their work in music education and by keeping alive the flame of their father’s genius, this trio of fantastic siblings have contributed enormously to the musical life of our city, our country, and the world. Ellen and James S. Marcus are among the most active cultural philanthropists in the country, and ACO has been blessed to be among the beneficiaries of their passion for the arts. Finally, along with the presence of Dennis Russell Davies on the podium tonight, we celebrate our founders by honoring not only Francis Thorne but also the extraordinary musician Paul Lustig Dunkel, ACO's long time Associate Conductor, an original member and co-founder with Dennis and Francis. Thank you to all for what they do to make our work possible. Please join us for other concerts this coming season which include a collaboration with the PROTOTYPE festival in January when we co-present the NY Premiere of Fellow Travelers by composer Gregory Spears and librettist Greg Pierce; our annual appearances at Zankel Hall where we will celebrate Philip Glass’ 80th birthday and play music by two younger composers who have benefited from his mentorship as well as featuring jazz and world music champions writing for orchestra; and of course, our annual Underwood New Music Readings where we discover where the next generation will take us. ACO extends a heartfelt thank you to its dedicated board, staff and musicians; to our cherished patrons for tonight’s event for their generous support; to our honorees; and most importantly, to you, our audience. We are a community of active listeners, supporters, creators and performers who share a passion for American orchestral music. The renewing and inspiring circle of energy created by all parts of this community is what makes our work exciting, adventurous and joyful. ACO is hard at work on a new strategic plan that will help us face the future with determination, rigor and amazing music. Stay tuned for the next 40 years and have a great time tonight! With gratitude and warmest wishes, Derek Bermel/Artistic Director George Manahan/Music Director Frederick Wertheim, Chairman Ed Yim/President
The American Composers Orchestra hosts the 2016 Jazz Composers Orchestra Institute Readings.
The ACO and the Buffalo Philharmonic present the 2013 Jazz Composers Orchestra Institute (JCOI) Earshot New Music Readings featuring the some of the country's most talented emerging American Jazz composers.
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ACO Concert at Carnegie Hall
SONiC: Sounds of a New Century is a festival devoted to new music written in the 21st century by composers age 40 and under. Entitled “21st Firsts,” this is an exceptional program even by ACO standards, with five world premieres.
The American Composers Orchestra was delighted to contribute to this Wall to Wall series.
Based on the 2007 novel Fellow Travelers by Thomas MallonFellow Travelers was developed through “Opera Fusion: New Works,” a joint venture between Cincinnati Opera and the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, made possible by a grant from The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation; a residency at the MacDowell Colony, Peterborough, NH; and a residency at the Copland House, Cortlandt Manor, NY, as a recipient of the Copland House Residency Award.Used by arrangement with European American Music Distributors Company, sole U.S. and Canadian agent for Schott Helicon Music Corporation, New York, publisher and copyright owner.New York PremiereFELLOW TRAVELERSCOMPOSER Gregory SpearsLIBRETTIST Greg PierceDIRECTED BY Kevin NewburyCONDUCTED BY George ManahanEXECUTIVE PRODUCER G. Sterling ZinsmeyerSCENIC DESIGNER: Victoria "Vita" TzykunLIGHTING DESIGNER: Thomas C. HaseCOSTUME DESIGNER: Paul CareyHAIR AND MAKEUP DESIGNER: Anne Ford-CoatesGENERAL MANAGER: Amanda CooperPRODUCTION MANAGER: Carly LevinCINCINNATI OPERA PRODUCTION DIRECTOR: Glenn PlottSTAGE MANAGER: Constance Dubinski GrubbsFEATURING:Aaron Blake as TIMOTHY LAUGHLINJoseph Lattanzi as HAWKINS FULLERDevon Guthrie as MARY JOHNSONVernon Hartman as SENATOR POTTER & BARTENDERMarcus DeLoach as ESTONIAN FRANK, INTERROGATOR, & SENATOR McCARTHYChristian Pursell as POTTER'S ASSISTANT, BOOKSELLER, & PRIESTPaul Scholten as TOMMY McINTYREAlexandra Schoeny as MISS LIGHTFOOTCecilia Violetta López as LUCYWITH American Composers OrchestraA Cincinnati Opera ProductionDeveloped and Co-Commissioned by G. Sterling Zinsmeyer and Cincinnati OperaCo-presented with John Jay College of Criminal Justice and American Composers OrchestraAdditional Billing & Special ThanksASSOCIATE DIRECTOR:Marcus ShieldsASSISTANT CONDUCTOR:Braden ToanASSOCIATE COSTUME DESIGNER:Madeleine PritnerASSOCIATE LIGHTING DESIGNER:Joe BeumerCOSTUME COORDINATOR/WARDROBE HEAD:Victoria BekHAIR AND MAKEUP ASSISTANT:Ali PohankaASSISTANT STAGE MANAGERS:Skye Cone & Hayley HuntSUPERTITLE OPERATOR:Heather O'DonovanREHEARSAL PIANISTS:David Sytkowski &Andrew SunAMERICAN COMPOSERS ORCHESTRA:Eva Gruesser - The Roger Sessions Chair,Robert Chausow, Sander Strenger,Michael Roth, Deborah Wong,Martin Agee, violinVeronica Salas & Sandra Robbins, violaGene Moye - The Virgil Thomson Chair& Jeanne Leblanc, celloGail Kruvand, bassLaura Conwesser, fluteMelanie Feld, oboeSteve Hartman, clarinetMike Seltzer, Dave Taylor, tromboneSteven Beck - The Thorne Family Chair, pianoJonathan Taylor, Personnel ManagerSPECIAL THANKS:The Fellow Travelers Company would like to extend their gratitude to Cincinnati Opera, for all their support and work in creating the world premiere, and subsequently this remount, in particular Patricia K. Beggs, Evans Miragus, Glenn Plott and Marcus Kuchle. Thank you to the Lynch theater staff, and all the amazing staff and interns for thePROTOTYPE Festival.This work would not exist without the incisive novel by Thomas Mallon, to whom we owe our un-ending appreciation. And this NYC Premiere would not have been possible without the support of our angel individual donors:Lead Supporters:Gale Family FoundationTed SnowdonSupporters:Susan BienkowskiChristine & Michael GarnerSherwin GoldmanJohn KanderDoug NevinThe Newburgh Institute for the Arts and IdeasJohn Pcsolar and Alan SandmanCarey Ramos & Coco BentleyThe Jill and William SteinbergFamily FoundationOpera In Europe LLCWyncote FoundationThe Andrew D. Zacks FoundationFELLOW TRAVELERS, SYNOPSISThe story takes place from September 1953 to May 1957 in Washington, D.C. Eisenhower is president. Senator Joseph McCarthy is stoking fears that the U.S. federal government is full of communists, Soviet spies, and homosexuals.ACT ONESCENE 1, PARK IN DUPONT CIRCLEA fledgling reporter, Timothy Laughlin, sits on a park bench reviewing his notes from McCarthy's wedding when he is approached by State Department employee Hawkins Fuller.SCENE 2, SENATOR CHARLES POTTER'S OFFICETimothy is hired as a speech writer for Senator Charles Potter, upon Hawkins’ recommendation. In Potter’s office, Timothy meets Tommy McIntyre who gives him unsolicited advice.SCENE 3, HAWKINS’S OFFICETimothy stops by Hawkins’ office to drop off a thank-you gift. He meets Hawkins’ assistant and best friend Mary and his secretary Miss Lightfoot, who mocks Timothy after he leaves.SCENE 4, TIMOTHY'S APARTMENTTimothy is at home cooking soup and writing his sister a letter when Hawkins unexpectedly stops by to tell him about the delights of Bermuda, among other things.SCENE 5, St. Peter's ChurchIn the afterglow of last night's encounter with Hawkins, Timothy is torn between his deep Catholicism and his blossoming passion.SCENE 6, The Hotel WashingtonAt a Christmas party, Timothy is approached by an Army general about enlisting; Mary warns Hawkins about his reckless behavior; McIntyre tells Potter about McCarthy’s latest troubles; Miss Lightfoot overhears an intimate exchange between Hawkins and Timothy.SCENE 7, Interrogation Room M304An interrogator puts Hawkins through a series of humiliating tests in an attempt to determine whether or not he is a homosexual.SCENE 8, TIMOTHY’S APARTMENTTimothy and Hawkins discuss the interrogation, McCarthy, and Hawkins’ secret amusements in New York City.ACT TWOSCENE 9, MCCARTHY’S OFFICESenator Potter warns McCarthy that the "Adams Chronology" (which details how Roy Cohn and McCarthy pressured the Army to give David Schine special treatment) will be his downfall unless he gives up Cohn.SCENE 10, MARY'S KITCHEN/TIMOTHY'S APARTMENTMary invites Timothy over to warn him of Hawkins' fickle nature when it comes to his love interests. She tells Timothy she is pregnant from a one-night stand. In Timothy's apartment, Hawkins rejoices that he's been cleared of allegations of homosexuality. Timothy is shocked by how Hawkins wants to celebrate.SCENE 11, ROOF OF THE OLD POST OFFICETimothy, in agony over his fraught relationship, tells Hawkins he’s decided to enlist in the Army.SCENE 12, HAWKINS’ OFFICEMary tells Hawkins she quits, as she can no longer work in an atmosphere of panic and persecution.SCENE 13, TIMOTHY IN FRANCE/ HAWKINS IN CHEVY CHASETimothy writes letters to Hawkins and Mary from France, where he’s been stationed. Hawkins is now married to a woman named Lucy but would clearly like to rekindle things with Timothy upon his return.SCENE 14, Brick HouseIn the brick house that Hawkins has rented for his afternoon flings with Timothy, Hawkins expresses that he cannot be the partner Timothy wants.SCENE 15, MARY'S KITCHEN/BRICK HOUSE/ROOM M304Mary is packing up her things when Hawkins stops by, confessing that he has given Timothy's name to those in charge of investigating alleged homosexuals. He asks Mary to tell Timothy about this betrayal in hopes that it will make Timothy hate him enough to fall out of love with him.SCENE 16, PARK IN DUPONT CIRCLEHis dreams dashed, Timothy decides to leave Washington D.C. and Hawkins Fuller for good.
An all world premiere program featuring Orchestra Underground, ACO’s smaller, flexible, entrepreneurial orchestra that embraces electronics, multimedia, unusual instruments, new collaborations and new influences.