The Adelaide Symphony Orchestra’s Floods of Fire, a response to Australia’s environmental crisis, is the product of a large-scale collaboration. People from multiple backgrounds and groups came together to create the work—and the process may be more important than the result.
Climate change is a major focus for composers writing for orchestra. The topic is taking on increased urgency, with a broad swath of new works demonstrating multiple approaches—and even finding reasons for hope.
Composers have never shied from difficult subject matter or recent tragedies, but the period that began in March 2020 has been particularly challenging. Five creators share how they are documenting, reflecting, and responding with new orchestral works.
Many emerging musicians were about to make their marks at orchestras nationwide when the pandemic hit. Some put their careers on pause, while others performed online or used the time to address issues of racial equity and social justice. As concert life gradually returns, what’s next for emerging musicians in today’s shifting landscape?