A More Perfect Union Presented by the Ridgefield Symphony Orchestra

Presented by the Ridgefield Symphony Orchestra and featuring RSO Music Director Yuga Cohler and composer Paul Frucht, this will be a discussion of the first-of-its-kind symphony commemorating the most iconic speeches of Barack Obama's presidency.  The orchestral song cycle focuses on the ideas of pluralism, unity, democracy, and religion, using six speeches that explore these themes.   The work speaks to the importance of American values and institutions during a time of relative political and cultural disquiet.  When deciding which speeches to feature, Frucht and Cohler sought the counsel of Obama Director of Speechwriting and Ridgefield High School graduate Cody Keenan.  “I had been wanting to write this piece for a long time — to capture the historical and cultural significance of Barack Obama’s words through our art form,” said Frucht. “The symphony is not intended to be partisan in any way. It’s a celebration of deeply-rooted American values, articulated by a president revered for his rhetoric.”  The event at the Ridgefield Library will also include the playing of excerpts from "A More Perfect Union", as well as a question and answer period.  The piece, written in 2019 and revised in 2021, will premiere as part of the Ridgefield Symphony Orchestra concert on October 2, 2021 at Anne S. Richard Auditorium at Ridgefield High School.  .  

Please register below.

ALL patrons must wear masks that cover nose and mouth at all times while in the Library, regardless of vaccination status, per the Town of Ridgefield. Masks must conform to current CDC recommendations