When Maestro James Levine asked me to write a piece celebrating the career of the Boston Symphony’s illustrious principal harpist Ann Hobson Pilot, I at first demurred. Having written for the harp for a great many years in its role in the orchestra, I was keenly aware of the difficulties in writing for this enchanting instrument in a solo setting.

Over the centuries, paeans have been written describing the harp as a celestial lyre and the instrument of the angels, and in the hands of Ann Hobson Pilot it has always proven to be just that. The concerto was given its premiere at Symphony Hall Boston on September 23, 2009, with James Levine conducting and Ms. Pilot as soloist.

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Duration: 15 minutes
Premiere Date: 2009