“The Promise of Peace” delves into the profound impact of war on music, revealing the human spirit’s struggle, hope, and ultimate resilience. The program travels chronologically through pivotal conflicts, beginning with the American Civil War, then moving to the World Wars, and finally to Vietnam. 

Experience the musical responses of composers across these eras, from Stravinsky’s “L’Histoire du Soldat” to Charlie Parker transcriptions reflecting post-WWII societal anxieties. The evening culminates with the world premiere of a deeply personal work by Viet Cuong, commissioned by the Moab Music Festival. His new clarinet quintet commemorates the 50th anniversary of the end of U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War, reflecting his own experience as an American-born composer whose parents fled Vietnam in 1975. 

Prior to the concert, join for a 30-minute Pre-Concert Talk with Michael Barrett, Music Director Emeritus, and Viet Cuong Composer-in-Residence, to learn about Viet’s MMF-commissioned work and how it fits in the historical context of the evening’s program. 

About the venue: Historic Star Hall, built in 1906, was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1993. Located in downtown Moab, the intimate size, excellent acoustics, and architectural charm make Star Hall an ideal setting for chamber music.

Tickets (cash only) also available at the Moab Information Center and Back of Beyond Books.