ST. PAUL, Minn. – On the strength of a proposal submitted by Bangor Symphony Orchestra, Bangor has been selected to represent Maine in “Continental Harmony,” the national music commissioning program sponsored by American Composers Forum and the National Endowment for the Arts.

Bangor is one of 13 American communities chosen at a recent meeting in St. Paul by a national panel of experts in community-based arts.

Cooperating with Bangor Symphony Orchestra in the project are Maine Folklife Center, University of Maine Oratorio Society, Bangor Area Children’s Choir, Bangor Public Library, Bangor Regional Arts and Cultural Council, Robinson Ballet Company and Thomas School of Dance, University of Maine Museum of Art, Hudson Museum and Maine Discovery Museum.

“This program offers communities – from rural towns to metropolitan areas – the unique opportunity to be a part of new musical works which celebrate their history and culture,” says Laura Hoeschler, executive director of American Composers Forum. “These exceptional musical celebrations strengthen social bonds and renew the collective spirit.”

Each community host selects its own composer, assuring that the artist’s skill and artistic style match the community’s needs. During the residency that follows, the composer interacts with people of all ages to learn about their community and share their experiences through the creative process. The composer then writes music inspired by these experiences and helps local musicians prepare for performances.