Symphonic Stories 

The CSU Symphony Orchestra offers an evening of symphonic storytelling. Leanna Primiani’s 1001 for Orchestra and Pre-Recorded Electronics explores Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov’s Scheherazade through the eyes of the story’s heroine, providing an alternative perspective. Chickasaw classical composer Jerod Tate retells the traditional Native American legend of the white deer as a bassoon concerto, performed by CSU SMTD faculty member, Dr. Cayla Bellamy. We close our program with Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov’s colorful and evocative symphonic poem, Scheherazade. 

Jerod Impichchaachaaha‘ Tate (Chickasaw) is a dedicated American Indian classical composer and pianist who expresses his native culture in symphonic music, ballet and opera. All of his compositions have been commissioned by major North American orchestras, ensembles, and organizations and his works are performed throughout the world. In preparing for the concert, Jerod Tate has generously volunteered to coach the orchestra over Zoom, as well as lead discussions about being an American Indian composer and artist.