Premiering "Fourteen Souvenirs of a Young Traveler"

July 26, 2016 the Grand Rapids Summer Concert Series features Graeme Shields, son of Cathy and George Shields.  This is Graeme’s fourth or fifth appearance with us and each time the program is richer and more reflective of Graeme’s personal style on piano, organ, and mixed media. 

Graeme Shields is an emerging Canadian-born composer currently residing in Kalamazoo, Michigan.  Composing classically-oriented music influenced by programmatic elements and modern ideas, he strives to present his work in an accessible light.

Graeme is currently pursuing a Master of Music degree in Composition at Western Michigan University.  Shields also holds a Bachelor of Music in Theory and Composition from the University of Minnesota Duluth where he studied under the tutelage of Dr. Justin Rubin.  He holds awards from the Kennedy Center and University of Minnesota Duluth.

This week’s program reflects Graeme’s European travels.  Shields’ travels have led him across twelve European countries to search for melodies and sounds to incorporate into and inform the material in his substantial piano work Fourteen Souvenirs of a Young Traveler. 

The United Methodist Church at 1701 SE 5th Ave, Grand Rapids, MN 55744 is pleased to present Graeme and feature their new grand piano at noon, Tuesday, July 26.  As always, the concert is free (funded by donations) and the optional church luncheon $6.00.

http://www.graemeshields.com/