On the Horizon presents a groundbreaking musical exploration of climate change and our planet's future, featuring the world premiere of a concert-length composition by acclaimed Philadelphia composer Melissa Dunphy. This powerful work, created in partnership with Commonwealth Youth Choir, gives voice to young people's perspectives on one of the most pressing issues of our time. Dunphy's composition weaves together a tapestry of sound, contrasting moments of anxiety and trauma with the joy and hope found in nature and human cooperation. The libretto, crafted from the words of participating youth, serves as both a poignant expression of their views and a resounding call to action.
Melissa Dunphy, known for her politically and socially conscious compositions, brings her unique voice to this urgent topic. Her works have been performed across the country, earning her recognition as a leading voice in contemporary classical music. For this performance, Timberdale Brass and Percussion will join forces with the voices of Commonwealth Youth Choir and the Mendelssohn Chorus of Philadelphia, conducted by artistic director Dominick DiOrio.
Experience this transformative musical journey at The Church of the Holy Trinity on Saturday, April 5th at 4pm, as we confront the challenges of our changing world and envision a path forward together.
Start of Concert
The performance will begin at 4:00 PM with a special 30-minute panel discussion exploring the creation, significance, and impact of "On the Horizon." Distinguished panelists include:
Public Figure, Arts Advocate, and MCP Commissioned Composer, On the Horizon
Artistic & Education Advisor for the Philadelphia Youth Choral Ensembles and Professor of Music Education, Temple University
Hazel Tomlinson Associate Professor in the Department of Earth and Environmental Science, Temple University, and PYCE Parent
Civil Engineer, Urban Planner, and Mendelssohn Chorus Baritone
Commonwealth Youth Choir, Philadelphia Youth Choral Ensembles
Jonathan J. Wallace's On the Horizon, 2025 is a continuation and updated version of last year’s work to accompany Melissa Dunphy’s commissioned piece: On the Horizon. This artwork serves as a visual representation of the hopes, fears, chaos, and realities of the climate crisis – and how it disproportionally affects the younger generations on this earth. The centerpiece, affectionately named “The Burning Globe,” was created by gluing Individual pieces of paper that were cut from an abstract watercolor piece, and were then singed and layered into a connected, yet separated, circular shape. Surrounding this shape are physically altered words, written with washable markers, that were taken from the libretto of Dunphy’s piece (which were inspired by conversations she had with members of the Commonwealth Youth Choir).
Learn more about Jonathan J. Wallace here.
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