The Madison Symphony Orchestra (MSO) is set to kick off its season this September with an inspiring performance of Valerie Coleman’s “Umoja” as part of its “Reunion” concert. “Umoja,” means “unity” in Swahili, making it a fitting piece to open a program centered around themes of reuniting and connection.
“Umoja” was originally composed by Coleman as a simple melody for a women’s choir, but has since evolved into a versatile work that has been adapted into various formats, such as the orchestral arrangement that MSO will be performing.
As part of that journey, “Umoja” held great significance for Imani Winds, the woodwind quintet Coleman founded. The piece quickly became a signature encore for the ensemble, as it was known for its ability to connect with audiences through its accessible and profound message.
“It just became this utility piece for us that we could pull out at any given time and perform by memory,” Coleman explained. Over time, “Umoja” has served as a “calling card” that has introduced people to Coleman’s unique voice as a composer and opened doors for further collaborations.
The orchestral version of “Umoja” that MSO will perform was born out of a collaboration with the Philadelphia Orchestra, where Coleman was asked to expand the original 90-second piece into a more substantial work. “It was a challenge to break out of the gravity of the piece’s original three-feel meter,” said Coleman. “But the process allowed me to explore new musical paths and create an arrangement that feels like an expanded version of the original.”
In this version, the piece begins with a solo violin introducing the melody, followed by a call-and-response interaction with the full string section. This structure mirrors traditional African musical practices and underscores the piece’s theme of unity. Coleman describes this orchestral arrangement as a dynamic exploration of dancing and questioning the concept of unity in the world, ultimately returning to the joyful essence of the original melody.
As “Umoja” opens the “Reunion” concert, Coleman hopes that MSO’s performance will resonate deeply with the Madison audience and offer an experience of connection and inspiration. “It’s meant to be a storytelling song, tribal and joyful,” said Coleman.
As Valerie Coleman’s “Umoja” prepares to take center stage at Madison Symphony Orchestra’s “Reunion” concert, the composer herself is embarking on an exciting new chapter in her career. In just a few weeks, Coleman will begin her appointment as a professor of music and music composition at the prestigious Juilliard School, a milestone that reflects her growing influence in the world of classical music.
Additionally, Coleman has a few residencies throughout the year, including one with the Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra where she will be composing a new work inspired by the life of George Floyd.
With these upcoming projects, Coleman continues to use her platform as a composer to inspire dialogue, reflection and unity—just as she did with “Umoja.”
