The National Youth Orchestra of Canada returns to Chamberfest on its annual cross-country tour. This summer's programme foregrounds orchestral works that broaden the familiar symphonic landscape, spotlighting voices that deserve a lasting place on the concert stage. Anna Clyne's Masquerade, commissioned by the BBC for the Proms in 2013, opens the evening with a whirlwind of colour and energy. William Grant Still's Symphony No. 2, Song of a New Race (1937), blends European symphonic tradition with musical ideas rooted in Black American musical culture, creating a work of warmth, lyricism, and expressive power that reflects the complex cultural landscape of its time. The program finishes in more familiar orchestral territory, with the suite from Richard Strauss's nostalgia-draped 1910 opera Der Rosenkavalier.

On the podium is NYOC's new music director, Daniel Bartholomew-Poyser, known for his dynamic work with ensembles across North America, including as Principal Youth Conductor at the National Arts Centre Orchestra and Resident Conductor of Engagement and Education at the San Francisco Symphony. With a passion for communication and connection, Bartholomew-Poyser brings clarity, energy, and purpose to the orchestral stage.

Artists:
National Youth Orchestra of Canada orchestra
Daniel Bartholomew-Poyser conductor

Programme:
Anna Clyne (b. 1980)
Masquerade

Lili Boulanger (1893-1918)
D'un soir triste

William Grant Still (1895-1978)
Symphony No. 2 in G minor (Song of a New Race)
    Slowly
    Slowly, with deep expression
    Moderately fast
    Moderately slow

Intermission

Liam Ritz (b. 1996)
SOCAN/NYO Canada commission

Richard Strauss (1864-1949)
Suite from Der Rosenkavalier, TrV 227d
    Overture
    Presentation of the Silver Rose (Act II)
    Baron Ochs's Waltz (Act II)
    "Ist ein Traum" (Act III)
    Waltz (reprise)

This performance runs approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes including a 20-minute intermission.