Sphinx Organization makes Wigmore Hall debut in ‘American Sketches’

In an evening that promises to be as enlightening as it is enchanting, the Sphinx Organization proudly announces its debut at the iconic Wigmore Hall in London. Scheduled for Sunday, 26 May 2024, at 7:30 pm, this concert titled American Sketches  is a tribute to the richness of American compositional talent, featuring works from some of the most influential composers across the United States. 

Founded on the principles of diversity and inclusion, the Sphinx Organization has been at the forefront of bringing under-represented voices to the classical music stage. With a lineup of pieces from Jessie Montgomery, Coleridge-Taylor Perkinson, Billy Strayhorn, Tania León, William Grant Still, Samuel Coleridge-Taylor, and Florence Price, this concert is a celebration of America’s multifaceted musical heritage. 

Performing these masterpieces are virtuosos who have not only mastered their craft but also embody the mission of Sphinx: violinists Melissa White and Alex Gonzalez, violist Michael Casimir, cellist Sterling Elliott, and pianist Michelle Cann. Each of these artists brings their unique perspective and passion to the stage, promising an evening of unforgettable performances.

Jessie Montgomery’s Strum  kicks off the programme with its vibrant, folk-inspired rhythms, setting the stage for an exploration of America’s diverse musical landscape. Following this, the audience will be treated to a selection of pieces that weave together the threads of jazz, classical, and folk traditions into a rich tapestry of sound. From the jazz-infused melodies of Billy Strayhorn’s Take the A Train to the intimate, reflective tones of William Grant Still’s Mother and Child, each piece offers a window into the soul of American music. 

What makes this concert especially noteworthy is the inclusion of works by composers who have been instrumental in shaping the American musical identity yet have often been overlooked. Florence Price, the pioneering African-American composer, and Samuel Coleridge-Taylor, whose compositions bridge cultures, are among the luminaries featured in this programme. Their music, performed by today’s leading artists, resonates with a message of inclusion and the power of diversity. 

The Sphinx Organization, under the visionary leadership of Afa Dworkin, continues to champion the cause of diversity in classical music, not just by promoting under-represented artists but also by bringing their music to new audiences. American Sketches  at Wigmore Hall is not just a concert; it’s a milestone in this journey towards a more inclusive and diverse musical world. 

Tickets for this landmark event range from £18 to £40, making it accessible to a wide audience. Those interested can find more information and purchase tickets at www.wigmore-hall.org.uk/whats-on/202405261930. Join us for an evening that celebrates the beauty of diversity through the universal language of music. 

For more about the transformative work of the Sphinx Organization and its impact on the world of classical music, visit www.sphinxmusic.org. Together, let’s embrace the power of diversity and the enduring legacy of American composers as we look forward to an unforgettable night at Wigmore Hall.