VentiCordi Presents: 'Martha Uncaged'

About this event

Jessie Montgomery - Duo for Violin and Cello Samuel Barber - Capricorn Concerto, for Flute, Oboe, Trumpet, Piano Malcolm Arnold - Suite Bourgeois, for Flute, Oboe, Piano James Stephenson - 'Martha Uncaged', for Trumpet, Violin, Cello, Piano

Morgan Lee, Piano Shion Suzuki, Flute Kathleen McNerney, Oboe Stephen Banzaert, Trumpet Dean Stein, Violin Eliza Meyer, Cello

Free pre-concert talk with composer Bill Matthews, 6 pm

This program celebrates friendship, wit, artistic freedom, and the creative spirit of two extraordinary American artists. From the playful intimacy of Jessie Montgomery’s Duo—her self-described “ode to friendship,” moving through Antics, In Confidence, and Serious Fun—to the exuberant energy of Samuel Barber’s Capricorn Concerto, these works invite us to listen for the joy of musical conversation. Barber’s concerto, written during World War II, pays homage to the Baroque concerto grosso while combining lively counterpoint, unexpected rhythms, lyrical beauty, and an unmistakable sense of exuberance. Malcolm Arnold’s Suite Bourgeoise, written when the composer was just 18, is equally spirited, showcasing his early gift for melody, wit, and stylistic surprise. Completing the program is Martha Uncaged, a vivid musical portrait of the legendary American dancer and choreographer. Across five movements, the work traces Graham’s restless creativity—from the “caged lion” of her young ambitions and her break with tradition to her relationships, evolving artistic language, and revolutionary approach to movement. Together, these works celebrate artists who embraced individuality, imagination, and the freedom to create something entirely their own.