On February 22, 2025, the Cañon City Chamber Orchestra will transport audiences to the rugged beauty and spirit of the American West with their highly anticipated concert, Western Landscapes. This free community event features music from iconic Western films and TV shows, alongside selections that promise to surprise and delight. Highlighting the program is the world premiere of Un-Settled, a newly composed piece by conductor and composer Gerald Willis. Join us at 2:00 PM at the Steeple Events Center for an afternoon of music and adventure.
How the West Was Won
An epic tale of the American frontier, How the West Was Won is widely regarded as one of the greatest Western films of all time. Its score, composed by Alfred Newman, captures the vast landscapes and pioneering spirit of the Old West. The sweeping melodies and dynamic orchestration evoke images of adventure and the determination of early settlers. Expect grandeur and emotion in this unforgettable piece.
Bonanza
Few TV themes are as instantly recognizable as the opening notes of Bonanza. Composed by Jay Livingston and Ray Evans, this jaunty theme reflects the warmth, camaraderie, and excitement of the beloved Ponderosa Ranch. Its enduring popularity makes it a nostalgic treat for Western enthusiasts and music lovers alike.
Maverick
With its adventurous spirit and clever lyrics, the Maverick theme embodies the charm and wit of the TV series it represents. This piece perfectly captures the life of the roguish Bret Maverick, always one step ahead of trouble. Listeners will appreciate the playful yet confident tone of this iconic tune.
The Big Country
Jerome Moross’s score for The Big Country is a landmark in Western film music. Its bold melodies and expansive orchestration mirror the untamed landscapes and the moral complexities of the film’s characters. The piece has inspired countless Western scores, and its majestic themes are sure to stir the soul.
Rawhide
Rawhide is more than a TV theme—it’s an anthem for the cowboy way of life. Composed by Dimitri Tiomkin with lyrics by Ned Washington, this energetic piece captures the relentless drive and rugged resilience of cattle herders. Audiences can expect a rousing performance of this timeless classic.
The Magnificent Seven
Elmer Bernstein’s legendary score for The Magnificent Seven is bold, heroic, and thrilling. With its unforgettable melodies and powerful brass sections, this piece has become synonymous with Western adventure. Its larger-than-life sound reflects the courage and camaraderie of the seven heroes in the film.
The Wild, Wild West
Quirky and adventurous, the theme from The Wild, Wild West perfectly blends Western motifs with the show’s unique mix of action, mystery, and science fiction. The music’s dynamic shifts and lively rhythms make it a standout in the program.
Paint Your Wagon
The music of Paint Your Wagon holds a special place in the Western genre. This musical’s beloved songs, such as "They Call the Wind Maria," are reimagined for the orchestra. These melodies are rich with emotion and character, bringing a touch of romance and nostalgia to the program.
A Fist Full of Dollars
Ennio Morricone’s groundbreaking score for A Fist Full of Dollars redefined the sound of Westerns. With its innovative use of sparse instrumentation, whistling, and sound effects, this piece creates an atmosphere of tension and drama. The orchestra will bring Morricone’s unique soundscape to life, thrilling audiences with its evocative style.
Un-Settled: A World Premiere by Gerald Willis
One of the most exciting features of this concert is the debut of Un-Settled, an original composition by Gerald Willis. As the orchestra’s conductor and music director, Willis brings decades of experience and passion to this new work. Inspired by the vastness and complexity of the American West, Un-Settled explores themes of transformation, resilience, and the interplay between humanity and nature.
In an exclusive interview, Willis shared his thoughts on the piece: “I wanted to capture the duality of the West—both its beauty and its challenges. It’s a story of people finding their place in an untamed land.”
The world premiere of Un-Settled is a testament to the orchestra’s commitment to creativity and innovation. It’s an opportunity to hear a fresh, contemporary perspective on the Western genre, making this concert truly unique.
Western Landscapes offers a rare chance to journey through the sounds of the American West, from iconic themes to a bold, new composition. This free concert is a celebration of music, storytelling, and community. Don’t miss your opportunity to experience the artistry of the Cañon City Chamber Orchestra. Join us on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at the Steeple Events Center for an afternoon of music and adventure.
We’ll see you there!