The Frost School of Music at the University of Miami demonstrated its musical excellence with a historic performance at Lincoln Center’s Alice Tully Hall. On October 23, 70 students from Frost’s Symphony Orchestra traveled to New York City to perform “San Juan Hill: A New York Story,” composed by Frost Professor Etienne Charles, under the baton of legendary conductor Gerard Schwarz.
This immersive multimedia work celebrates the vibrant history of San Juan Hill, a neighborhood that once thrived where Lincoln Center now stands. Commissioned for the reopening of David Geffen Hall in 2022, the piece blends rich musical styles—including jazz, mambo, calypso, and hip-hop—and features powerful visuals and personal narratives. It highlights the diverse communities that shaped New York City’s cultural landscape.
Etienne Charles expressed pride in collaborating with the Frost students and Schwarz, emphasizing the piece’s homage to the community’s artistic legacy. The concert marked the ensemble’s first New York performance in recent years and was part of the Legacies of San Juan Hill Festival, a celebration honoring the neighborhood’s contributions to American culture.
Gerard Schwarz, a distinguished figure in classical music, praised the students’ performance and the significance of performing at Lincoln Center. Dean Shelton G. “Shelly” Berg highlighted the support from donors that made this transformative experience possible, reaffirming Frost’s commitment to providing students with professional-level opportunities.
This performance underscores Frost’s reputation for nurturing future leaders in music, offering students unique platforms to showcase their talents on prominent stages. The success at Lincoln Center not only marks a milestone for the Frost Symphony Orchestra but also honors the enduring legacy of San Juan Hill’s vibrant community.
More information on the Frost School is available at frost.miami.edu.