Cadenza Series: Winter Concert

Portland Youth Philharmonic’s Conservatory ensembles return to George Fox University for a winter concert that pairs classic orchestral drama with the voice of a rising American composer.

The program opens with selections from Georges Bizet’s L’Arlésienne Suites, music originally written for the stage but now known for its brilliant melodies, rhythmic vitality, and rich orchestrations. These iconic movements remain some of Bizet’s most memorable and vibrant works.

Also on the program is Electric Beauty by Quinn Mason, a co-commissioned work that showcases the composer’s bold, contemporary voice. Mason’s writing blends energy, lyricism, and color in a way that feels both immediate and lasting—an exciting opportunity for young musicians to engage with new music.

Together, these works offer a compelling mix of tradition and innovation, performed by some of the most dedicated young musicians in the region.