The Atlanta Symphony to Present Leon Bates with Gershwin Classic
James L. Paulk writing for the Atlanta Journal Constitution, “This week’s Atlanta Symphony Orchestra concerts will feature two important African-American artists. Renowned pianist Leon Bates will perform Gershwin’s ‘Rhapsody in Blue’ with the orchestra. And the orchestra will present the world premiere of ‘Different Rivers,’ by Atlanta-based composer Alvin Singleton. Bates tours regularly, performing a wide-ranging repertoire with major orchestras. But if he has a specialty, it would be Gershwin, which he has performed and recorded often. He is an energetic performer, ideally suited for ‘Rhapsody in Blue,’ Gershwin’s popular ‘jazz concerto.’ And, as if to contradict any stereotypes anyone might have about concert pianists, Bates is also a dedicated body builder and a major sports fan.”