Philip Aaberg debuts new work commissioned by Montana Farmers Union
Pianist Philip Aaberg debuts a new work commissioned by the Montana Farmers Union for the organization’s convention and 100th anniversary celebration, Oct. 22-24 in Great Falls.
The convention opens at the Best Western Heritage Inn with a screening of “Terra Firma,” a documentary by Christine Anthony and Owen Masterson about women, war and the healing power of agriculture, at 7:30 p.m. Thursday. Three of the film’s subjects speak after the screening.
The Trade Show kicks off at 10 a.m. Friday. Chris Clayton, ag policy editor for DTN/The Progressive Farmer, gives the keynote address, and Monte Dolack’s limited edition print for MFU, “Prairie Evening,” will be unveiled at Friday’s luncheon. Rob Quist and Great Northern with Halladay Quist perform from 7-10 p.m. that evening.
Amberley Snyder shares her inspirational story at the Saturday’s luncheon. After being in a tragic accident that left her paralyzed from the waist down, Snyder is now back on the rodeo circuit. Educational panels on climate change and ag safety demonstrations are also on tap.
The convention closes with a concert by internationally renowned pianist Aaberg, 7 p.m. Saturday evening at the Mansfield Performing Arts Center, titled “From the Ground Up: Celebrating 100 Years of Farmers Union.” Aaberg premieres a piece commissioned by the MFU, with stunning Montana scenery as a backdrop to his creation.
The pianist, who lives in Chester, is known worldwide for compositions that evoke the spaciousness and beauty of the Western landscape. A Harvard graduate, he has performed with the Boston Pops, Peter Gabriel, Elvin Bishop, and released eight solo albums. Live from Montana was nominated for a Grammy. He is also an Emmy nominee for “All-American Jazz” and for his score for “Class C: The Only Game in Town.” Tickets are $15-$25; call 455-8514 or visit www.ticketing.greatfallsmt.net.
Convention registration is $50-$100; call 406-452-6406 or visit www.montanafarmersunion.com for details.