Sphinx Virtuosi featuring J’Nai Bridges, mezzo-soprano

Presenting Series To mark the 250th anniversary of America, American Dialogues celebrates the nation's ever-evolving story through newly commissioned works and reimagined classics that give voice to our shared ideals and diverse perspectives. Highlights include Rachel McFarlane's new title work as well as Maurice Ravel's timeless "Blues" movement from the Violin Sonata. Works by Roberto Sierra and Jessie Montgomery offer vibrant explorations of heritage and transformation. At the same time, Stravinsky's Concerto for Strings in D connects past and present in a timeless meditation on artistic freedom. Through music that bridges time and culture, American Dialogues invites audiences to engage in a musical conversation about who we are—and who we aspire to become. Sphinx Virtuosi is a dynamic, self-conducted chamber orchestra and the flagship performing ensemble of the Sphinx Organization, the nation's leading nonprofit dedicated to transforming the arts. Comprising 18 of the nation's most accomplished professional string players, Sphinx Virtuosi is redefining classical music through artistic excellence, pioneering programming, and cultural leadership. Recognized for their artistry and commanding presence, Sphinx Virtuosi has been praised by The New York Times as "top-notch, more essential at this moment than ever." The Strad praises their "elegant ascent into the upper ranks of string orchestras," a testament to their growing influence in the field. Grammy winning mezzo-soprano J'Nai Bridges, is known for her "plush-voiced mezzo-soprano" (The New York Times) , and "calmly commanding stage presence" (The New Yorker) has been "marked out at an early stage as a singer headed for top flight" (Financial Times) , gracing the world's leading operatic and concert stages "with a voice both voluptuous and statuesque" (The New York Times) . Bridges is a recipient of the prestigious 2018 Sphinx Medal of Excellence Award. Program American Dialogue Rachel McFarlane Sinfonietta for Strings Roberto Sierra "Declaration" with J'Nai Bridges Damien Geter (libretto by Aaron Dworkin) Banner! Jessie Montgomery "Blues" from Violin Sonata No. 2 in G Major Ravel (arr. Mladen Miloradovic) Concerto in D Stravinsky Recommended for ages five and up.