Recomposing the Past: An African American Perspective

Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia

Composer Evan Williams. Photo by Amurica Photo.

Countertenor soloist Reginald Mobley. Photo by Liz Linder.

Recipient

Grant Year 2022

Grant Amount $240,000

Status Completed

Updated May 15, 2025

Composer Evan Williams creates three new chamber pieces that recompose historical works, placing contemporary and Baroque music in conversation with African American genres. Grounded in minimalist and postmodern music, Williams’ work frequently integrates music from non-orchestral traditions like jazz, blues, and spirituals. For the centerpiece of the project, a Mass inspired by and paired with Antonio Vivaldi’s Gloria is written in consultation with and performed by countertenor Reginald Mobley. A second concert features two of Williams’ compositions, including his “Beautiful Death,” a recomposed “Dido’s Lament” arranged for chamber orchestra, with Mobley performing the original aria.

The total grant amount represents project funding plus an additional 20% in unrestricted general operating support.

Primary EventsEvents & Exhibitions

Reggie Mobley’s Songs of Hope

Jun 26–28, 2025
7 p.m.
June 26 at Bartram's Garden, Philadelphia
June 27 at Esperanza Arts Center, Philadelphia
June 28 at Stoneleigh: a natural garden, Villanova

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Tommy Mesa at Esperanza Arts Center

Feb 15, 2025
7 p.m.
Teatro Esperanza
4261 North 5th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19140

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The Best of Haydn

Feb. 14 at 7:30 p.m. and Feb. 16 at 2:30 p.m.
Perelman Theater
The Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts
300 S. Broad St.
Philadelphia, PA 19102

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Vivaldi’s Gloria & Evan Williams' A Little Mass for Christmas

Dec 15–17, 2023
Perelman Theater
The Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts
300 S Broad St
Philadelphia, PA 19102

Esperanza Arts Center
4261 N 5th St
Philadelphia, PA 19140

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Recipient

Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia

The Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia is a 33-member professional ensemble led by music director Dirk Brossé. Founded in 1964 by Marc Mostovoy, the Chamber Orchestra has a well-established reputation for distinguished performances of repertoire from the Baroque period through the 21st century.

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