The Orchestra of the Southern Finger Lakes (OSFL) has announced they have been selected as one of 16 orchestras nationwide to partake in a new initiative showcasing the works of women and nonbinary composers on a repeated basis.
The offer to join this monumental initiative was extended to the OSFL from the League of American Orchestras, the only national organization devoted to supporting orchestras through advocacy, research, leadership development, and artistic programs. The initiative was originally commissioned through the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation’s Commissions Program, which focuses specifically on improving the visibility of works from women and nonbinary composers.
OSFL’s involvement will entail them joining forces with female composer Wang Jie to perform her piece The Winter that United Us. The collaboration will take place during the upcoming holiday concert, The Magic of Holiday Traditions Together, on December 13 at 3 p.m. at Elmira’s Clemens Center.
Through The Winter That United Us‘s inclusion in this beloved holiday concert, the OSFL aspires to contribute to the national conversation on diversity in classical music. Too often, the voices of women and nonbinary composers go unheard or are disregarded in favor of male composers. OSFL’s involvement in this initiative aims to stop that, elevating the underrepresented and championing these voices for the Southern Finger Lakes community.
“We are thrilled to be part of this important national initiative and to bring fresh and dynamic work to our community. Wang Jie’s composition perfectly captures the spirit of unity and tradition, and we look forward to sharing it with our audience during this special concert.”
-Toshiyuki Shimada, Conductor of the OSFL
The OSFL has always been known for pushing the boundaries of classical music and orchestra performances. Their commitment to showcasing not just the well-known works of older classical composers, but also the works of contemporary composers innovating in the genre, has remained central to their mission for decades. This new initiative is just another step forward in showcasing the lesser heard voices of classical music in the greater Elmira and Corning areas.
Directly after the concert, the Orchestra of the Southern Finger Lakes will also be hosting their annual holiday dinner fundraiser at Afterglow. It is slated to be an elegant evening of dining and discussion with the orchestra, including the composer, soloists, and conductor.
To purchase tickets for December 13’s The Magic of Holiday Traditions Together at the Clemens Center or for the holiday dinner at Afterglow, click here.
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