Join us for the largest performing arts collaboration in Austin’s history. To honor the centennial of legendary composer and conductor Leonard Bernstein, three hundred artists will come together for two fully staged performances of his most epic work, MASS.
Commissioned by Jacqueline Onassis and first performed in 1971 for the opening of the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC, MASS was written as a celebration of hope and healing for a nation reeling from a decade of war, division, and assassination. The work takes the audience on a journey from despair to inspiration as the Celebrant searches for peace and renewal.
Bernstein’s MASS is a bold combination of classical and contemporary music and theatre. Marching bands mixed with Paul Simon lyrics, traditional Latin prayers refreshed with electric guitars.
MASS is a celebration of music’s ability to unite, offering truth and comfort when and where it’s needed most. Austin may be the stage, but the celebration is truly global. It’s an exciting mix of styles, talents, and voices. People who think they know Bernstein might be in for quite a surprise. Featuring Choir 48 of the African Children’s Choir, Austin Children’s Choir, Austin Symphony Orchestra, Bernstein100Austin Youth Chorus, Chorus Austin, Conspirare, Jubilant Sykes, Members of Austin Opera, Members of Ballet Austin, Members of the UT Wind Ensemble, Chisholm Trail Middle School Mitch Watkins, Panoramic Voices, and conducted by Austin Symphony Orchestra’s Peter Bay, MASS will cap a city-wide season of music and community.
For more information on Bernstein100Austin, please visit www.bernstein100austin.org.
Listen to the recent performance in Studio 1A to get a sample of this epic masterpiece.
