SING DEMOCRACY 250
Sunday, April 12, 2026, at 4:00 p.m.
Orchestra Hall, Minneapolis
Steven Amundson – Fanfare: Democracy 250
Brandon Boyd – Redeem the Dream
Michael Bussewitz-Quarm – US
CELEBRATING DEMOCRACY IN ORCHESTRA HALL
The Metropolitan Symphony Orchestra is delighted to present a program that celebrates the grand experiment of American Democracy and the 250th anniversary of our Declaration of Independence as we present three new works, all composed to commemorate this significant anniversary. First, you’ll hear music director Steven Amundson’s festive new Fanfare: Democracy 250, composed especially for the Metropolitan Symphony Orchestra. Next, the MSO will join the Together in Hope Choir, along with additional singers from all over Minnesota, to perform two exciting new works: Brandon A. Boyd’s Redeem the Dream, based on Langston Hughes’ poem, “Let America Be America Again,” and Michael Bussewitz-Quarm’s US, based on Richard Haass’ book, The Bill of Obligations: The Ten Habits of Good Citizens.
We hope these works will inspire and empower all citizens to participate in renewing American democracy. Come join us in one of America’s finest concert venues for this joyful celebration through music!
See the following videos from Artistic Director G Phillip Shoultz III and Music Director Steven Amundson for more information!
Program Notes for Fanfare: Democracy 250 by Steven Amundson
Dedicated to the Metropolitan Symphony Orchestra. music director Steven Amundson composed his Fanfare: Democracy 250 in the summer of 2025. It will be premiered in Orchestra Hall, Minneapolis on April 12, 2026, when the MSO joins five choral ensembles from throughout Minnesota for a concert celebration of the 250th anniversary of our democracy.
Composed in three short sections, this energetic work is based on the well-known song “America the Beautiful,” lyrics by Katharine Lee Bates, music by Samuel A. Ward. After a brief percussive introduction, the brass unleash their fanfare figures, which are derived from the opening notes of “America the Beautiful.” Sweeping countermelodies appear in strings and the main theme becomes apparent in the horn section. The brass fanfares intensify, culminating with a full orchestra fortissimo on an open fifth fermata, representing the composer’s fear that our fragile democracy is eroding. Wind chimes clear the air, and a slower contrasting section ensues, featuring woodwinds and gentle strings. Solo horn quotes the patriotic hymn but the tune soon goes in a different direction. Suddenly, the full brass enter with bold fanfare figures in a cacophonous crescendo that leads to the final section – a reprise of the opening ideas with “America the Beautiful” now heard in the lowest voices of the orchestra. The piece proceeds in a broader, maestoso tempo as the melody switches to upper strings. An exuberant codetta unleashes the power of the full orchestra in a rousing conclusion.
*This is a ticketed event. Click here to purchase tickets!