Sponsored by
Albert and Margaret Alkek Foundation
Carol Franc Buck Foundation
Texas Commission on the Arts
BMI

Collaboration and innovation were on display in this June 7, 2024 showcase led by ROCO Artistic Partner and conductor Mei-Ann Chen as part of the 2024 League of American Orchestras Conference in Houston. Comprising several of ROCO’s previously commissioned world premieres and passion project works, alongside works by Gabriela Lena Frank, Jennifer Higdon, Errollyn Wallen, Reena Esmail, Heather Schmidt, and Leanna Primiani, and a premiere by Autumn Maria Reed—one of the finalists of ROCO and American Composers Orchestra’s EarShot Call for Scores by early career female composers—this concert highlighted ROCO’s innovative nature, commitment to women composers, and expansion of the classical canon.

PROGRAM

Mei-Ann Chen, conductor

Gabriela Lena Frank, Elegia Andina

Errollyn Wallen, Photography: I. Vivace

Reena Esmail, Teen Murti
(Past ROCO World Premiere Commission)

Leanna Primiani, Neither man nor money validate my worth
(Past ROCO World Premiere Commission)

Jennifer Higdon, Dance Card: V. Machina Rockus
(Past ROCO World Premiere Commission)

Autumn Maria Reed, Mental Health Suite
(World Premiere, Finalist of American Composers Orchestra Earshot Readings)

Heather Schmidt, Solitaire
(Past ROCO World Premiere Commission)