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'Celebrating Our Homelands' concert Oct. 5

| September 27, 2024 1:00 AM

The Coeur d'Alene Symphony Orchestra will present its "Celebrating Our Homelands" concert featuring Jacqueline Wilson and Connor Chee at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 5 at the Schuler Performing Arts Center on the North Idaho College campus.

The concert will feature patriotic and Olympic favorites, with the finale, "Celebrating the Little Things," which includes pieces by Bach and Tchaikovsky. 

Wilson, a distinguished bassoonist of Native American descent, is a prominent advocate for new music and diversity. She is the principal bassoonist of the Washington Idaho Symphony and an assistant professor of bassoon at Washington State University, performing with the Solstice Faculty Wind Quintet. Wilson frequently gives recitals, masterclasses and clinics, with appearances at events like the International Double Reed Society Conference and the International Alliance for Women in Music Conference.

Dialogues with Music Director Danh Pham will precede the concert at 6:30 p.m. Wilson will discuss her unique approach to music as a Native American artist, offering deeper insight into her creative journey and the significance of her heritage in her performance. 

Chee, a Navajo pianist and composer, is celebrated for combining his classical piano training with his Native American heritage. He made his Carnegie Hall debut at age 12 after winning a gold medal in the World Piano Competition. A graduate of the Eastman School of Music and the University of Cincinnati’s College-Conservatory of Music, Chee's solo piano compositions are inspired by traditional Navajo chants and songs.

During the concert, the symphony will premiere Chee's new "Bassoon Concerto," performed by Wilson, who brings her expressive artistry and dedication to showcasing underrepresented musicians in classical music.

Tickets to "Celebrating Our Homelands" are $35 for adults, $25 for seniors, $15 for students, active military and veterans, and free for NIC students. One free youth 6-12 ticket will be given with the purchase of an adult of senior ticket. Tickets for children 0-5 are free.

Visit cdasymphony.org for tickets and info.

The Schuler Performing Arts Center is at 880 W. Garden Ave., Coeur d'Alene.