Grammy winner Mark O'Connor to perform with Glacier Symphony

Mark O'Connor, a three-time Grammy winner and seven-time Country Music Awards Musician of the Year is set to captivate audiences alongside his wife, the acclaimed violinist Maggie O'Connor at the Wachholz College Center April 20.

The classically trained fiddlers effortlessly blend genres like Americana bluegrass, country, jazz, and classical music, creating a spellbinding musical experience.

Mark O'Connor, a multi-instrumentalist renowned for his virtuosity on violin and acoustic guitar, chronicles his 50-year career in the memoir "Crossing Bridges: My Journey from Child Prodigy to Fiddler Who Dared the World.” His wife, Maggie, a talented violinist in her own right, earned a Grammy with the O'Connor Band and has collaborated with legendary artists like Paul Simon and Zac Brown.

The O’Connor’s will perform“Appalachian Spring” and “Candide Overture,” two iconic pieces that have shaped the landscape of classical music, alongside the Glacier Symphony.

“Appalachian Spring by Aaron Copland” premiered in 1944.  Originally titled “Ballet for Martha" in dedication to the choreographer Martha Graham, this composition is celebrated for its evocative portrayal of American pastoral life. It captures the essence of springtime in the Appalachian Mountains, weaving together folk tunes and Copland's distinctively American style.

“Candide Overture” by Leonard Bernstein” comes from the operetta “Candide,” which premiered in 1956. Bernstein's energetic and whimsical composition sets the tone for Voltaire's satirical story, filled with adventure, romance, and philosophical musings. The overture itself is a lively journey through various themes and moods, showcasing Bernstein's brilliance as a composer.

Additionally, the concert will showcase Mark O'Connor's original compositions, including “Improvised Violin Concerto” and “Double Violin Concerto.”

“Improvised Violin Concerto”  showcases his improvisational skills, bringing a unique and captivating experience, blending elements of classical, jazz, and Americana “Double Violin Concerto” highlights Mark O'Connor's mastery of the violin, with intricate melodies and harmonies that showcase both technical prowess and emotional depth, creating a rich and captivating musical narrative.

The performance starts at 7:30 p.m. The Wachholz is located at the Flathead Valley Community College.

To purchase tickets visit www.glaciersymphony.org or contact 407-7000.