Sean Chen | Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra

Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra 2023/24 Season
Sierra, Marsalis & Gershwin

Saturday, February 24, 2024
7:30 pm (CDT)

Stilian Kirov, Conductor
Sean Chen, Piano

• Sierra New Commission: part of the Virginia B. Toulmin Orchestral Commissions Program
• Gershwin Piano Concerto in F
• Marsalis Preview of New Work: Preview ahead of its World Premiere next season

IPO presents the work of Arlene Sierra, Wynton Marsalis and George Gershwin in stunning fashion. Sean Chen, whom Wayne Lee Gay (Ft. Worth Star Telegram, Texas Classical Review) describes as owning “…an impressive technique, a remarkable command of piano sonority, and an unusual gift for building musical impetus,” takes center stage for what is sure to be a standout performance of Gershwin’s Piano Concerto in F. The program will also feature a preview of the famed trumpeter / composer Wynton Marsalis’ new work for symphony orchestra ahead of its World Premiere next season. This is a rare opportunity to get a sneak peek before the world hears it! Also slated for the evening is a new commission by Arlene Sierra, whose work, The Guardian proclaims, “…has its own character, in which historical and contemporary influences are fused into a highly flexible and distinctive style… packed with crisp, vivid detail that’s not at all hand-me-downs.” This last piece is performed as part of the Virginia B. Toulmin Orchestral Commissions Program through the League of American Orchestras.

Sean Chen is the winner of the 2013 American Pianists Awards.