Orchestra Nova Northwest recently debuted its new name with an impressive concert highlighting works by African-American composers at Reynolds High School on September 14. The event, conducted by Music Director Steven Byess, who is celebrating his 10th season with the orchestra, featured compositions from notable artists such as George Walker, Florence Price, and Fred Onovwerosuoke. Pianist Artina McCain also made a notable appearance, delivering two standout pieces.
While the performance showcased exceptional talent, attendance was disappointingly low on a rainy evening, overshadowing the remarkable program.
The orchestra, formerly known as the Portland Columbia Symphony, rebranded as Orchestra Nova Northwest to better represent its mission of showcasing diverse musical talent throughout the greater Portland metropolitan area. The inaugural concert embodied this vision, starting with Onovwerosuoke’s “Dance Tribute for Orchestra and Piano Obbligato.” Onovwerosuoke, an accomplished American composer with roots in Ghana and Nigeria, incorporated both African and Western musical styles in this lively piece.
Typically, orchestra concerts begin with a brief piece to engage the audience, and Onovwerosuoke’s composition served this purpose well. With McCain on piano, the work was characterized by rhythmic joy and engaging melodies supported by spirited flute riffs and dynamic percussion.
George Walker’s “Lyric for Strings” has gained increasing recognition worldwide, applauding his artistry long overdue. Composed when Walker was just 24, this piece, which he described as a fascination with strings despite never playing one, was beautifully executed by the orchestra under Byess’s direction, blending elements of lament, poignancy, and optimism.
The revival of interest in Florence Price’s music grew after the rediscovery of many of her scores in 2009, found in an abandoned house in St. Anne, Illinois. McCain took center stage again to perform Price’s “Piano Concerto in D Minor,” showcasing her skills with vibrant melodies and an engaging interplay between the oboe and piano.
After intermission, the orchestra delivered a compelling performance of Price’s “Symphony No. 1 in E Minor.” Byess managed excellent playing from the woodwinds and highlighted a fine viola solo in the first movement. The second movement showcased a graceful exchange between brass and woodwinds, while the third movement’s syncopated rhythms created infectious energy, culminating in a spirited finale.
Despite the orchestra’s efforts to attract audiences in the east-county area through concerts in Gresham and Troutdale, questions remain about how to boost attendance for future events.