Symphony honors Native Americans

The Phoenix Symphony approached acclaimed composer Mark Grey last summer about writing a composition to commemorate the orchestra’s 60th Anniversary Season.

In celebration of the momentous anniversary, The Phoenix Symphony will present the world premiere of Grey’s work, “Enemy Slayer: A Navajo Oratorio” in February, 2008.

As Music Alive Composer‑in‑Residence for the 2007‑08 season, Grey will lead several activities exploring Navajo traditions that originally inspired the creation of “Enemy Slayer.”

The Phoenix Symphony also joins forces with the Heard Museum to present a number of special activities across the Valley beginning this month.

“This is an exhilarating moment for The Phoenix Symphony to be working with composer Mark Grey who has such an impressive background in cross‑cultural collaborative projects,” Music Director Michael Christie, said.

Participants will explore Native American tribal and musical traditions through a year‑long series of events including discussions with tribal leaders and noted authorities, films, performances, master classes, workshops for elementary students and exhibits.

Grey will lead several free activities devoted to the exploration of Navajo culture as well as the evolutionary process of creating a work for orchestra and chorus. Grey will participate in many events, lectures and concerts that will introduce “Enemy Slayer: A Navajo Oratorio,” giving audiences a framework for understanding the new work before its world premiere.

“This project is a fusion of western concert music and Native American traditions, providing the public with an enlightened understanding of the culture that has existed for centuries in the Southwest,” Grey said. “It is such a privilege to collaborate with such great artists, scholars and leaders as we are so fortunate to live in an area so rich in culture.”