To close their 50th anniversary season, Salem Symphonic Winds is going all in with Symphony No. 5 – Return to Middle Earth by Dutch composer Johan de Meij, featuring soprano Kurleen George. Inspired by J.R.R. Tolkien’s rich and mythic world, the symphony brings to life legendary characters and scenes from The Silmarillion, The Lord of the Rings, and beyond. It’s unlike anything Salem audiences have ever heard.
“This is not a passive symphony experience,” said Artistic Director John Skelton. “It’s dramatic, lyrical, and filled with unexpected sound.”
Six movements take listeners through Tolkien’s lore with lyrics sung entirely in Elvish and Orcish, immersing audiences in the textures and languages of Middle Earth. It’s complex. It’s theatrical. And it’s absolutely captivating.
To bring the composer’s vision to life, Salem Symphonic Winds has sourced a range of unique instruments, some ordered from overseas. Others, like the massive Orc war drums, are being built from scratch using 55-gallon steel barrels and a bit of community ingenuity to create battle-ready percussion pieces.
The scale of the production doesn’t stop at the orchestra. Festival Chorale Oregon has opened its doors to singers of all experience levels, offering a rare opportunity to perform in Tolkien’s languages and contribute to the musical experience.
Whether you're a Tolkien fan, a music lover, or someone simply looking for a new adventure, this is one concert you won’t want to miss.
Salem Symphonic Winds
Kurleen George
Soprano soloist Kurleen George
Return to Middle Earth
3 p.m. Sunday, June 15 in Rose Auditorium at South Salem High School, 700 Howard St SE | Click here for tickets.
Salem Symphonic Winds
Pippa Randolph
The concert also features guest flute soloist Pippa Randolph performing Mike Mower’s Concerto for Flute and Wind Orchestra, a lively, jazz-infused piece that dances with big-band bravado.
This story originally ran in Press Play Salem issue 24 ( Summer 2025)
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