At its 10th anniversary, the award-winning Bravura Philharmonic Orchestra, based in the West Windsor-Plainsboro area, will present its annual Holiday Concert on Dec. 4 at 7 p.m.
The theme of the concert, “Hope for the Holidays,” will feature a world premiere performance of “Christmas Hope” composed by Marlboro native Matthew Liu, 20.
Liu studies with Dr. Robert Beaser of the Juilliard School, New York City, and also serves as a teaching fellow for Ear Training department head Dr. Wayne Oquin. Liu began formal composition studies in 2010 at the age of 14, studying with Dr. Paul Undreiner and Dr. Darren Gage of Rutgers University, and Dr. John Girvin of Princeton.
Originally a violinist and a pianist, Liu is active in New York’s musical theater scene, serving as music director, music assistant and engraver for Broadway composers Michael Mott, Melissa Li and the organization Broadway Dreams.
The Bravura Philharmonic Orchestra consists of professional musicians, high-level amateurs, university students and gifted pre-college students, according to a press release. Conductor Chiu-Tze Lin has performed around the world and is active throughout the Tri-State Area.
The concert will be held at the Princeton Alliance Church, 20 Schalks Crossing Road, Plainsboro. A community chorus of singers from area choruses and church choirs will bring selections from the Christmas section of Handel’s “Messiah.”
“Christmas Hope” will have its world premiere at the concert. The composition reflects the message of hope the season brings and features the pure and youthful sound of singer Catherine Jiang, 11, of Plainsboro, according to the press release.
The orchestra will perform Dvorak’s Symphony No. 9, called the “New World Symphony.” The Bohemian composer wrote this symphony to reflect America, writing this major work while living and working in New York City, according to the press release.
Audience members will be invited to join in a holiday music sing-along at the end of the concert.
General admission is $20; $18 for seniors and students. Premium seating is available at $30 each. Tickets purchased in advance are $15 and can be obtained online from www.bravuraphil.org or by calling 609-933-4729, 908-420-1248 or 732-792-2070, or by emailing bravura.orchestra@gmail.com
