Media release from the Rome Symphony Orchestra:
The Rome Symphony Orchestra (RSO) invites the community to a serene evening under the stars for the “Native American Moon String Quartets” concert at 7 p.m. on Saturday, June 13, at Darlington School’s Thatcher Pavilion. Featuring the Rome Symphony String Quartet, the outdoor performance will highlight two celestial-inspired works by Indigenous American composers: “Fire Moon” by Louis W. Ballard (1931–2007) and “MoonStrike” by Jerod Impichchaachaaha’ Tate (b. 1968).
“The RSO believes in elevating voices that have historically been underrepresented in classical music with thoughtfulness, authenticity and artistic integrity,” said Jeffrey Dokken, Music Director and Conductor of the Rome Symphony Orchestra. “As we journey closer to America’s 250th birthday, we are honored and grateful for the opportunity to highlight the contributions of all Americans.”
“Fire Moon,” by Quapaw-Cherokee composer Louis W. Ballard, reflects the historical military alliance between the French and the Quapaw in the 1800s. Ballard is widely regarded as one of the first Native American composers to achieve national prominence in classical music. Written near the end of his career, “Fire Moon” stands as a poignant tribute to his ancestry.
“MoonStrike,” by acclaimed Chickasaw composer Jerod Impichchaachaaha’ Tate, is a vivid composition commissioned for the Apollo Chamber Players to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing. It weaves together three American Indian legends and is framed by an arrangement of a Calusa Corn Dance. For many Southeastern Indigenous peoples, the Green Corn Dance is associated with renewal, gratitude and the harvest moon, giving the work cultural and celestial resonance.
“Our region holds a long, complex history connected to Native American communities, particularly the Cherokee Nation,” Dokken said. “It is meaningful that we have the opportunity to bring these extraordinary works to our audience and celebrate the artistry, history and enduring voices of Native American composers.”
Special guest narrator Nancy Edens Loriot will share indigenous storytelling traditions featured at the concert. Edens Loriot is a citizen of the Cherokee Nation and is active in the Georgia Cherokee Community Alliance; the National, Georgia and Alabama Trail of Tears associations; the Chief John Ross Chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution; and the Friends of New Echota, where she serves as vice president.
“As we look back on a memorable Orbits & Overtures season, we are excited to end on such a high note,” Dokken said. “Prepare for an unforgettable evening underscored by the magic and mystery of the moon.”
The Darlington School campus, located at 1014 Cave Spring Road SW, will open its gates one hour before the performance. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and may bring outside food and beverages. SweetFrog will be on-site selling frozen yogurt.
Because this is the RSO’s final concert of the 2025–26 season, attendees are advised to purchase tickets in advance. For more information or to buy tickets to “Native American Moon String Quartets,” visit www.RomeSymphony.org or call 706-291-7967.
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