MN Orchestra to organize festivals across the state

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Minnesota Orchestra

photo by Ann Marsden

The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation is giving the Minnesota Orchestra $775,000 to create week-long music festivals that reflect the history and heritage of the cities the orchestra visits.

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The project, titled "Common Chords," is designed to increase the Orchestra's presence in greater Minnesota, and build ties with communities across the state.

According to a release "the initiative establishes partnerships between the Orchestra and participating cities that will culminate in a celebratory festival week featuring performances and activities that reflect the interests, diversity and heritage of each community."

First on the list is Grand Rapids, which will play host to a festival in October 2011.

In addition, the orchestra is in talks with the city administrators of Bemidji, Detroit Lakes, Hibbing and Willmar.