How Music Heals
A Red Earth Inc & OKC Philharmonic Collaboration taking place at the 39th Annual Red Earth Festival
The Power of Music
Exploring the American Indian Symphony
Join us for a remarkable exploration of how music bridges cultures, tells stories, and fosters healing. The Oklahoma City Philharmonic is proud to present the World Premiere of the American Indian Symphony by Chickasaw composer Jerod Impichchaachaaha' Tate at the Civic Center Music Hall on April 19, 2025. This landmark event celebrates Native American artistry and culture through a unique symphonic experience.
In addition to the premiere performance, several insightful panel discussions will be held leading up to the event, offering a deeper understanding of the intersection of music and Indigenous culture.
Panel Discussions:
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How Music Heals
Red Earth Festival at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
March 21, 2025 | 3:30-5:00 p.m.
Free with Festival admission
Featuring: Jerod Impichchaachaaha’ Tate (Chickasaw), Tim Nevaquaya (Comanche), Dr. Cornel Pewewardy (Comanche-Kiowa), and Brent Greenwood (Chickasaw-Ponca) -
Connecting Cultures Past & Present
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Honoring American Indian Culture Through Music
The American Indian Symphony Concert will take place on April 19, 2025, at 8:00 p.m. at the Civic Center Music Hall, marking the 30th Anniversary of the Oklahoma City Bombing. The evening will begin with a musical prayer, Elegy by Leshnoff, followed by Stravinsky’s The Firebird Suite, and conclude with the highly anticipated American Indian Symphony by Jerod Impichchaachaaha' Tate.
Tickets and More Info: Visit OKC Civic Center
This is a rare opportunity to witness the fusion of symphonic music and Native American culture—don't miss it!
Jerod Impichchaachaaha’ Tate
is an Emmy Award-winning classical composer, pianist, and citizen of the Chickasaw Nation, whose works celebrate Native American culture through orchestral music. Renowned for blending traditional Indigenous themes with classical composition, Tate has been commissioned by major symphonies and institutions, including the National Symphony Orchestra and the American Composers Orchestra. His works have been performed across the world, from Carnegie Hall to the Kennedy Center. A passionate advocate for Native representation in classical music, Tate also mentors young Indigenous musicians, ensuring the preservation and evolution of Native artistic expression in contemporary symphonic music.
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About the Oklahoma City Philharmonic
The Oklahoma City Philharmonic has been a cornerstone of the city’s cultural landscape since its founding in 1988. Dedicated to bringing world-class orchestral music to the region, the OKC Phil performs a dynamic mix of classical masterworks, pops concerts, and special events throughout the season. Under the leadership of Music Director Alexander Mickelthwate, the orchestra continues to inspire and engage audiences with innovative programming, community outreach, and educational initiatives.
From symphonic tributes to groundbreaking premieres like Jerod Tate’s American Indian Symphony, the OKC Phil remains committed to celebrating the diversity of musical expression and connecting communities through the power of music.
