An Afternoon of Music, Literature, and History
Music fans, musicians and lovers of great literature: Join us for an unforgettable musical experience as the Civic Orchestra of Jacksonville presents a program inspired by some of the greatest stories ever written. This concert brings together sweeping melodies, powerful themes, and cherished narratives that have shaped our imaginations for generations. Under the direction of Dr. Marguerite Richardson, this family-friendly performance is part of their 10th anniversary season.
Immerse yourself in the magic of music drawn from literature, legend, and beloved stories.
Before the concert, local musician and music educator Tony Steve will present a special History Chat on the impact of Holst & Tchaikovsky on present-day Hollywood, the game industry and more.
History Chat: The Impact of Holst & Tchaikovsky on Film and Multimedia Scoring
Gustav Holst and Piotr Tchaikovsky are important figures in the world of classical music composition. Their music is a staple of concert halls across the globe. What is sometimes overlooked is how their influence continues in the work of leading composers for cinema and other multimedia projects like video games. Learn more at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, March 7, at the Main Library.
Our guest presenter Tony Steve is a prominent percussionist, composer, and music educator in Jacksonville. He is known for his work at Jacksonville University and with the Jacksonville Symphony, specializing in contemporary and world music, including composing for silent films.
Register for this History Chat
Free Concert: Music Inspired by Literary Giants
Walk through worlds of poetry, romance, fantasy, and heroism—and let the orchestra carry you from the shores of Whitman’s America to Verona, Paris, Agrabah, and the Shire. This free concert is for readers, dreamers, families and all who believe in the power of a story well told.
Join us from 4 to 5 p.m. on Saturday, March 7, in the Multipurpose Room in the Conference Center at Main Library. This program honors the imagination, courage, and timeless beauty found in the world’s great literature—brought to life through the colors and power of a full symphony orchestra.
Repertoire:
- Holst — Walt Whitman Overture in D Major
- Tchaikovsky — Romeo and Juliet Fantasy Overture
- Alan Menken — Aladdin Suite
- Selections from Les Misérables — arr. Lowden
- Howard Shore — The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring Symphonic Suite
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History Chat: Memphis Wood, Jacksonville's "First Lady of Art"
Affectionately known as Jacksonville’s “First Lady of Art,” Memphis Wood was a long-time resident of Mandarin. She excelled in many aspects of art, including drawing, painting, pottery, and jewelry, but is probably best known for her unique and colorful work in fabrics and textiles. Though she died in 1989, her strange and often brilliant work is finding interest from a new generation.
Tim Gilmore joins us from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Monday, March 2, at the South Mandarin Branch Library to explore the life and work of this celebrated local artist. An audience Q&A will follow the 40-minute presentation. Find this and all upcoming History Chat programs with our events calendar.
