James Lee III is an acclaimed composer of more than 80 works, praised for his “bright, pure music” and inventive style.
The Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra has worked with Lee for many years, premiering works such as Beyond Sensorial Portals (2022) commissioned by the orchestra for the opening of Dr. Phillips Center’s Steinmetz Hall, and the piano concerto Shades of Unbroken Dreams (2024) co-commissioned by the Orlando Philharmonic alongside the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and the BBC Philharmonic.
Now, Lee returns for a commission by the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra with the world premiere of his Symphony No. 2, “Resolute Souls.”
Read below to hear about this new work from the words of Composer James Lee III.
This new symphony is in four movements, I. Resolute Attitude, II. Assailing Winds, III. The Beauty of Unconquerable Hope, and IV. Rising Joy. Resolute Souls refers to individuals who are firm, determined and steadfast in their beliefs and actions.
This term is used in various contexts, including religious writing and philosophical discussions, to describe people who show courage and conviction in the face of challenges or opposition.
I intended my symphony to be an emotional and uplifting journey that speaks to the soul. Part of my inspiration also comes from Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 with celebrations of unity, hope, and the indomitable human spirit.
Throughout my symphony, there is the constant musical element of an ascent. Resolute Attitude is structured in a modified sonata form that includes contrasting ascending themes that negotiate various metaphorical obstacles until reaching a peaceful conclusion.
Assailing Winds serves as a scared soul in ternary form, so it’s in three parts [ABA]. However, it is not very playful. Rather, it is full of anxiety. The Beauty of Unconquerable Hope is through-composed and starts with string instruments playing in unison before changing pitches to form beautiful harmonies that are more soothing. It is intended that the music evokes a calm hope that transcends all impediments on the journey to peace.
The last movement, Rising Joy, is in a five-part rondo form [ABACA] and at times is dancelike in its celebrations which brings the symphony to a rousing and exhilarating end.
Hear his new symphony at the Classics Series concert Beethoven Symphony No. 9 on May 9 & 10 at Dr. Phillips Center’s Steinmetz Hall, conducted by Music Director Eric Jacobsen.