Bolivia: Porgy and Bess with National Orchestra
Bolivia - Porgy and Bess, Rhapsody in Blues with National Orchestra
Program:
David Handel, Conductor
John Ferguson, Pianist
Ira Spaulding, Baritone and Chorusmaster
Project Summary
From July 22nd through 29th American Voices brought its second program to La Paz, Bolivia, this time in collaboration with the Orquesta Sinfonica Nacional and la Sociedad Coral Boliviana. This project was a result of American Voices work with David Handel in various countries over the past years and half.
During the first 5 days Ira Spaulding worked with the choir and soloists on the music of Porgy and Bess, John Freguson worked with the orchestra on Rhapsody in Blue, culminating in three performances Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings. Although just two concerts were planned originally and third concert was arranged due to the high demand for tickets. As such the Teatro Mincipal, accommodating 700, welcomed an almost full house three nights running. A total of approximately 1900 citizens were reached via the 3 live performances. A larger audience was reached via television, radio and press interviews.
The thirst for continuation of such programs in Latin America was resoundingly expressed by faculty and students of the orchestra and choir, as well as the enthusiastic applause at the public events.
Workshops
Piano Masterclass with choir and orchestra pianists
Voice Masterclass with Coral Juvenil de la Sociedad Coral Boliviana
Concerts
3 successive evening concerts at the Teatro Municipal, La Paz for an audience of 600-700 people each night.
Sponsors:
American Airlines
Hotel Europa
La Paz
Citibank Bolivia
US Embassy Bolivia