b"Program NotesJulia Perry(1924-1979)Study for OrchestraComposed 1952Study for Orchestra is a composition by Black composer Julia Perry. Written in 1952, it is notable for its blend of classical and modernist elements. It is considered to be one of Perry's most important works, and showcases her mastery of orchestration and counterpoint, while also incorporating dissonant harmonies and other avant-garde techniques. The result is a work that is both innovative and accessible, displaying Perry's unique voice as a composer.The composition is very symmetrical in structure. The beginning is marked by strong, syncopated brass chords, and it features a garish, angular thematic line that is played in octaves by strings and woodwinds with horns. Its lively atmosphere and speed serve as the foundation for the entire work, reappearing twice to alternate with contrasting material and a third time to end the piece. The first contrasting episode is very melodious and has a more moderate tempo. A main melody is introduced here first by a solo flute, followed by oboe, clarinet, and horn. The powerful dotted rhythm initially played by the bassoons and then taken over by the violas dominates the brief middle section. In the third episode, a flute, solo violin, oboe, and other instruments imitate each other's gracefully descending melody line. This episode is one of contemplative melancholy. The final pages of the score recall the spirited introduction once more, bringing the piece to a close.Perry was a groundbreaking figure in American music, particularly for her contributions to the field of classical music as a Black, female composer. Born in Kentucky in 1924, Perry showed an early talent for music and began studying composition at age 14. She later attended Westminster Choir College, the Juilliard School and the Curtis Institute of Music. Like many other young composers of the time, she traveled to Paris to study composition with the renowned instructor Nadia Boulanger. In the 1950s, she received several prestigious awards, including two Guggenheim Fellowships, which allowed her to study in Italy for an extended period of time with Luigi Dallapiccola.continued"