California Compositions

The concept of the California Compositions project came from Jennifer Basye Sander who later joined the board of directors for the Philharmonic and who continues to shepherd this exciting series of commissions.  Jennifer’s idea was both simple and profound:  music is the most celebratory art form around, so why not celebrate and honor special people by commissioning wonderful composers to write new works in their honor?  In considering the first honoree Jennifer immediately thought of internationally-acclaimed Sacramento painter Wayne Thiebaud.

And for the first composer, how about André Previn?  But would he agree?  Maestro Michael Morgan encountered Maestro Previn at Tanglewood and popped the question.  The response?  He was a Thiebaud fan and would be delighted!  Alas, “the course of true love never does run smooth.”  The premiere was originally scheduled for April, 2005, but had to be delayed, due to the extensive touring schedule of Previn.  Happily, a new concert date was scheduled for October, 2006 – to open the Philharmonic’s Tenth Anniversary Season.