Event: Dakota Valley Symphony & Chorus' American Masterworks
Location: Masquerade Dance Theater
Date: February 8, 2026 2:00pm
Show Length: TBA
About: This concert will highlight the rich tapestry of American music, featuring both traditional and contemporary compositions including works by Howard Hanson, Florence Price, William Grant Still and a new work by the orchestra’s resident composer, Randall Stokes.
Program Highlights:
Premiere Performance: The American Dream composed by Randall Stokes
Experience the debut of this new work inspired by folk tunes, reflecting the diverse experiences and aspirations that shape the American identity. Randall Stokes, the resident composer, brings a fresh perspective to the concert with this engaging piece.
Florence Price: Violin Concerto No. 2
Soloist: Erika Hoogeveen, Concertmaster
Celebrate the groundbreaking contributions of Florence Price, the first African American woman to have a symphony performed by a major orchestra. This concerto showcases her unique voice and rich musical language, with our talented Concertmaster, Erika Hoogeveen, as the featured violin soloist.
Howard Hanson: Song of Democracy
Chorus Prepared by: Austin Meyer
This powerful choral work, set to the inspiring words of Walt Whitman, celebrates democracy and the human spirit. The Dakota Valley Symphony Chorus, will deliver a stirring performance that resonates with themes of unity and hope.
William Grant Still: Festival Overture
The concert will conclude with this vibrant and energetic overture by William Grant Still, known as the "Dean of African American composers." His work reflects the spirit of celebration and showcases a blend of classical and American folk influences.
Location: Masquerade Dance Theater
Date: February 8, 2026 2:00pm
Show Length: TBA
About: This concert will highlight the rich tapestry of American music, featuring both traditional and contemporary compositions including works by Howard Hanson, Florence Price, William Grant Still and a new work by the orchestra’s resident composer, Randall Stokes.
Program Highlights:
Premiere Performance: The American Dream composed by Randall Stokes
Experience the debut of this new work inspired by folk tunes, reflecting the diverse experiences and aspirations that shape the American identity. Randall Stokes, the resident composer, brings a fresh perspective to the concert with this engaging piece.
Florence Price: Violin Concerto No. 2
Soloist: Erika Hoogeveen, Concertmaster
Celebrate the groundbreaking contributions of Florence Price, the first African American woman to have a symphony performed by a major orchestra. This concerto showcases her unique voice and rich musical language, with our talented Concertmaster, Erika Hoogeveen, as the featured violin soloist.
Howard Hanson: Song of Democracy
Chorus Prepared by: Austin Meyer
This powerful choral work, set to the inspiring words of Walt Whitman, celebrates democracy and the human spirit. The Dakota Valley Symphony Chorus, will deliver a stirring performance that resonates with themes of unity and hope.
William Grant Still: Festival Overture
The concert will conclude with this vibrant and energetic overture by William Grant Still, known as the "Dean of African American composers." His work reflects the spirit of celebration and showcases a blend of classical and American folk influences.
