A Whitman Symphony

Embark on a journey through the poetic expanse of Walt Whitman's verse as we present the world premiere of Lee Hoiby's captivating A Whitman Symphony, inspired by his timeless words. From the triumphant cadence of "O Captain! My Captain!" to the soul-stirring call of "For You, O Democracy," embark on a lyrical odyssey through Whitman's most iconic texts. The Buffalo Chamber Players join us for an enchanting evening where nature's beauty and poetic expression converge in a harmonious celebration of the wilderness and the human spirit.

Hoiby's masterful composition draws from Whitman's vast poetic landscape, setting select verses that showcase the poet's celebration of democracy, nature, and the human experience. Throughout his career, Hoiby was been acclaimed for his exceptional gift for text-setting and his ability to illuminate the inherent musicality of the English language. In this new symphonic work, his sophisticated orchestration creates a compelling dialogue between voices and instruments, with intimate chamber textures expanding into moments of magnificent grandeur. Under the dynamic leadership of BPC Music Director Adam Luebke, the Buffalo Chamber Players bring fresh vitality to this powerful marriage of music and verse.

Join us for this historic premiere on Saturday, June 14, 2025, in the magnificent acoustic setting of Ss. Peter & Paul Church in Hamburg, NY. This landmark performance will be recorded for commercial release, preserving this significant addition to the contemporary classical repertoire. Don't miss this opportunity to witness the debut of a work that celebrates both Whitman's enduring impact on American literature and Hoiby's masterful ability to transform poetic text into transcendent musical experience.