“Rhapsody in Red, White, and Blue” with Aberdeen University/Civic Symphony

On March 1, 2025, Aberdeen University/Civic Symphony will celebrate “Rhapsody in Red, White, and Blue”— a remarkable evening that highlights the American spirit through music. We are excited to present the South Dakota premiere of Peter Boyer’s “Rhapsody in Red, White, and Blue” with renowned pianist Jeffrey Biegel. This work is part of a national project composed for the 100th anniversary of George Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue” (performed by the AUCS in October 2022). Mr. Biegel is performing this new work in every state as part of the festivities, and AUCS is the representative for this project in South Dakota! Back by popular demand, this concert also features Boyer’s “Ellis Island: The Dream of America,” a deeply moving work that brings the immigrant experience to life through a powerful fusion of music and spoken word. Actors from NSU’s Theatre Department will join us for this performance, making it a true collaboration of the arts. To round out the evening, AUCS will perform a special side-by-side performance with students from Aberdeen Central High School, reflecting our commitment to fostering the next generation of musicians.

PROGRAM:
Peter Boyer: Ellis Island: The Dream of America
Copland: Variations on a Shaker Theme
Side-by-Side with Aberdeen Central HS Orchestra
Peter Boyer: Rhapsody in Red, White and Blue (SD Premiere)