The San Francisco Pride Band, the official band of San Francisco, invites audiences to a powerful late-summer concert titled “RISE: Anthems of Resilience,” under the baton of guest conductor Matthew Fell. This inspiring program honors the strength of community and the quiet, persistent acts of love that move us forward. This is the second of two 1-hour community concerts this summer as the Band works towards selecting a new Artistic Director of Concert Bands.
The concert features two commissioned works that center the LGBTQ+ experience. City Trees by Michael Markowski (2012) commemorates the 30th anniversary of the Pride Bands Alliance. It is a deeply personal reflection on resilience and growth in challenging environments. John and Jim by Viet Cuong (2024) pays tribute to Jim Obergefell and John Arthur, the Ohio couple at the heart of Obergefell v. Hodges, the Supreme Court case that secured marriage equality nationwide. The piece thoughtfully weaves in Pachelbel’s Canon in D, echoing themes of love and commitment.
Join us for an afternoon of music, meaning, and celebration.