"It's a roof-raiser."
-Colin Currie on Danny Elfman's Percussion Concerto
June 4 – 7, 2026
Danny Elfman's Percussion Concerto
Overview
Respighi, beloved magician of orchestral colors, pays tribute to the “Eternal City” in his richly imagined Pines of Rome, transporting you to famous pine stands around Rome…to a splendid estate, mournfully to a catacomb, to the moonlit Janiculum hill with the haunting song of a nightingale, and to the Appian Way, with blazing trumpets and the thunder of marching armies. Plus, the amazing Colin Currie, former artist-in-residence and audience favorite, raises the roof in the Concerto composed for him.
About the Show
Info
This concert is part of Classical Series C, and is eligible for the Choose Your Own Series.
Take a peek behind the curtain
A festival to highlight the heartbeat of Portland.
Featuring a mix of incredible works, rhythmic innovations, and audience engagement events
Percussion & Rhythm with Andy Akiho
In this exciting program, Composer-in-Residence Andy Akiho presents a work that celebrates percussion and rhythm alongside the Oregon Symphony percussionists.
Danny Elfman’s Percussion Concerto
Respighi, beloved magician of orchestral colors, pays tribute to the “Eternal City” in his richly imagined tone poem. Plus, Colin Currie raises the roof in the Concerto composed for him.
Coming Spring 2026
Bang It!
A thrilling percussion festival
Featuring percussionist extraordinaire Colin Currie, the Oregon Symphony’s incomparable percussion section, and local musicians from diverse world traditions (led by Portland Taiko), this festival will highlight the heartbeat of Portland like never before. Hear works for percussion by Oregon Symphony’s composer-in-residence Andy Akiho, Danny Elfman, Steve Reich, and many more.
Percussion Powerhouses: From the Oregon Symphony’s percussionists to globally renowned artists like Colin Currie and Portland Taiko, this festival brings diverse traditions to life.
Exciting Premieres: A highlight includes works by composer Brittany Green whose piece is a west coast premiere.
Interactive Experiences: The festival also features drumming circles, masterclasses, and performances that invite the community to get hands-on with rhythm.