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Messiaen: From the Canyons to the Stars

  • Published
  • By Chief Master Sgt. Bob Kamholz
Washington, D.C. --  The United States Air Force Band is proud, once again, to partner with Washington Performing Arts in performing the east coast premiere of Messiaen: From the Canyons to the Stars, at DAR, Constitution Hall, on Friday, May 12 at 8 p.m.

The work has been described by Alex Ross of The New Yorker as a "cult work of twentieth-century music." The magnificent, 12-movement orchestral gem was commissioned by Alice Tully to commemorate the bicentennial of the United States. The performance features the U.S. Air Force Symphony Orchestra, one of America's premier military musical ensembles. 

Celebrated conductor and Messiaen champion David Robertson, leads the ensemble through this 90-minute masterpiece. The production features a stunning new visual treatment commissioned from photographer Deborah O'Grady.  Through the use of both still and moving images, O'Grady visually brings to life Messiaen's musical responses to the bird calls, landscapes, colors and geologic formations that he experienced.

The spectacular imagery of Southwestern Utah serves as a fitting celebration of the National Park Service's 2016 centenary. The production has packed halls from the Barbican in London to the Sydney Opera House. Don't miss your opportunity to witness this special east coast premier in our nation's capital.

For free tickets, please visit: Washington Performing Arts tickets