Augusta Cecconi-Bates *

"The story of Canada's first heroine, Molly Brant (1736-1796), the opera Molly Brant premiered at St. George's Cathedral, Kingston, Ontario, to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the Cataraqui Archaeological Research Foundation of Kingston. My gratitude to Andrew Bolotowsky, Mary Hurlbut, and Alison Jones, who performed the first version of Molly, in New York, NY, December 23, 2002. Molly will be performed throughout Ontario during 2003-2004; and for the schools of Kingston at the Grand Theatre."

Premieres

Molly Brant, a one-woman opera, was premiered by soprano Rhona Gale, with Carrie Wyatt, flute, and the composer at the keyboard, April 25, 2003, St. George's Cathedral, Kingston, Ontario, Canada.

Performances

Molly Brant was heard in performance throughout 2003: at Grand Theatre, Kingston, Ontario, March 14; in Clayton, NY, June 14; and at "Theatre 5" Kingston, November 15. Essences of the North Country received two performances by the Orchestra of Northern New York, Kenneth Andrews, conductor: October 23, 2003, Dulles State Office Building, Watertown, NY, and October 24, Civic Center, Brockville, Ontario, Canada.

Publications

Sonatina 1981, cello and piano; Molly Brant; Willie Was Different; Essences of the North Country (in preparation); Together: organ march for churches with short aisles; all by Enclave Music.

Recordings

A CD of the opera Molly Brant, on Rivershack Records, is available in the U.S. from the composer's website: www.cecconibates.homestead.com

*Sigma Alpha Iota Member

Further Information

• 2001-2002 American Composers Update
• 2000-2001 American Composers Update
• 1998-1999 American Composers Update
• 1997-1998 American Composers Update
• SAI's Composers Bureau Online