An important part of the Greeley Philharmonic Orchestra’s mission is to educate and provide community service to Greeley and the surrounding area. This season, the GPO will fulfill part of its educational mission by offering History on Stage – A Lincoln Portrait, an integrated educational outreach program.  This project is designed to interest students in symphonic music by learning about the art form while expanding knowledge and understanding of one of the most tumultuous times in US history.

In January 2010, the GPO will provide Weld County School District Six school performance programs featuring Mr. Noel Johnston and GPO Music Director/Conductor Dr. Glen Cortese.  Mr. Johnston’s presentations will include excerpts from Lincoln’s speeches, historical background, relevant Civil War information, anecdotal stories and question/answer sessions. Accompanying Mr. Johnston in the theatrical performances, Dr. Cortese will focus on American composer Aaron Copland’s symphonic work, Lincoln Portrait, connecting the significance of this piece with our nation’s history. 

Lincoln Portrait is a symphonic work interwoven with traditional folksongs that was written by Copland as part of the World War II patriotic war effort in 1942. The piece is narrated with descriptions of President Abraham Lincoln, the reading of letters of the period and excerpts of Lincoln’s speeches including the Gettysburg Address.

By combining symphonic music, dramatic presentation, history and literature, this program vividly brings our 16th president and focuses on a turning-point in our nation’s history.  The project culminates with the concert dress rehearsal on January 15, 2010.