Charlotte Symphony: Ravel’s Boléro

Overview

Christopher James Lees, conductor

Taylor Marino, clarinet

SMETANA                                  Vltava (“The Moldau”) from Má vlast

Malek JANDALI                          Clarinet Concerto

Clarice ASSAD                           Sin Fronteras

RAVEL                                        Boléro (with film)

In a program dedicated to musical expressions of home, Smetana’s Vltava traces the river’s journey through the Czech countryside, offering a stirring tribute to his homeland. Charlotte-based Syrian composer Malek Jandali’s Clarinet Concerto weaves ancient Syrian themes into an expressive and deeply personal work. Clarice Assad transcends borders, blending sounds from across the Americas into a vibrant musical tapestry in Sin Fronteras.

The program comes to a mesmerizing close with Ravel’s Boléro featuring a film that showcases the dynamic spirit of Charlotte through iconic locations — a powerful tribute to the Orchestra’s home and the musicians who shape its sound.