AJC.com: “Symphony to present world premiere: 'Different River' by Atlanta composer Alvin Singleton”

[Alvin Singleton]

By James L. Paulk 

For The Atlanta Journal Constitution 

This week’s Atlanta Symphony Orchestra concerts will feature two important African-American artists. Renowned pianist Leon Bates will perform Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue” with the orchestra. And the orchestra will present the world premiere of “Different River,” by Atlanta-based composer Alvin Singleton.

Singleton’s works have been performed around the world, but the ASO has always had a special affinity for him. He was the company’s Composer-in-Residence from 1985 to 1988, and of course he lives here, in Midtown. Two of his works were presented by the orchestra during 2011 alone. One of those, a fanfare, “Miaka Kumi,” was written to celebrate Robert Spano’s 10^th anniversary as the orchestra’s music director.

Singleton is not a member of the “Atlanta School” of five composers who share various traits and a special relationship with Spano. His deep connection with the ASO predates Spano’s by nearly 20 years. But he has nevertheless been embraced by the conductor, who has a special affinity for new music, and especially for the more conservative composers, whose works are mostly tonal and considered accessible.

Two of Singleton’s compositions, “PraiseMaker” and “After Fallen Crumbs,” have been recorded by the orchestra. His sound is influenced by jazz, and often includes improvisation.

“Different River” is a 25 minute piece presenting, according to the composer, “an ever-changing perspective on a river that is always moving.” Rather than an overarching theme, the work is a series of passages. It features a large orchestra with extra percussion.