South Dakota Symphony Orchestra Music Director Delta David Gier takes a bow with musicians and cast members at the “Giants in the Earth: The Norwegians in the Dakota Territory” concert, April 26, 2025. Photo courtesy of Michael Woolheater Media.
In Wednesday’s (4/30) Argus Leader (Sioux Fallas, SD), Angela George writes, “The South Dakota Symphony Orchestra hosted their 2025 season finale performance April 26-27, reviving the 1951 opera ‘Giants in the Earth’ by American composer Douglas Moore and based on the 1925 novel by Norwegian-American author Ole Edvart Rølvaag. SDSO director Delta David Gier made history last weekend, becoming the first conductor to record the performance, create an appendix and engrave the lyrics for the Pulitzer-winning opera. ‘Contemporary music is a living art form that should serve its unique community,’ said Maestro Gier, who is in his 20th season with the SDSO. ‘I am here to build something significant for them.’ Sioux Falls Mayor Paul TenHaken announced that April 26, 2025 would be declared as ‘Giants in the Earth Day’ in Sioux Falls after the South Dakota Symphony Orchestra’s performance, titled ‘Giants in the Earth: The Norwegians in the Dakota Territory’ at the Washington Pavilion. South Dakota Symphony Orchestra executive director Jennifer Teisinger also welcomed to the stage Norwegian ambassador to the United States Anniken Huitfeldt, who traveled to Sioux Falls for ‘Giants.’… ‘So much applause for Delta David Gier, Jennifer Teisinger and all the incredible musicians and performers!’ Huitfeldt said. ‘It was a moving experience for a Norwegian visiting the prairie.’ ”
