Thursday, March 27, 2014

Symphony No. 9 in E minor, Op. 95, "From the New World"

COMPOSER: Antonin Dvorak

GENRE: symphony

PERFORMANCE: Friday, March 21st at Powell Hall with David Robertson conducting

A great piece, classic. I remember vividly my experience listening to this in Vienna in the fall of 2005. Can't remember if I have heard it live since then, until tonight. The English horn was beautiful.

Violin Concerto in D Major, Op. 35 by Korngold

COMPOSER: Erich Wolfgang Korngold

GENRE: violin concerto

PERFORMANCE: Friday, March 21st at Powell Hall with Gil Shaham on violin and David Robertson conducting

To be honest, I enjoyed watching Mr. Shaham so much more than Mr. Bell (last fall). Both are undoubtedly skilled violinists, with incredible talent. But it wasn't about that for me. It was the experience Mr. Shaham created. He didn't just perform. He played, for me, and every one in the audience. It was engaging, interactive, as he played to you, stepping toward the audience, inviting us in, creating more than music, creating an experience. Every eye was attentively watching him as he drew us in to journey with him in this brilliant musical piece. I loved the music as well, the way it contained joy, brilliance, and technical skill. Thanks to Mr. Shaham, this is a performance I will cherish forever.

Bright Kingdoms, Kingdoms of Innocence

COMPOSER: Ingram Marshall

GENRE: orchestra and recorded sounds

PERFORMANCE: Friday, March 21st at Powell Hall with David Robertson conducting

This piece was so moving to me. I absolutely loved how I connected with the use of the hen, "Abide with Me." It made the piece so special and personal for me as I listened. I was very much intrigued by the use of recorded sounds, and loved that it utilized a boys choir, reminds me of my time in Vienna. So many personal elements lined up with me and my life to make this piece memorable. I believe the composer was in attendance at this performance, and I was grateful to hear this creation of his.

Sibelius Violin Concerto

COMPOSER: Jean Sibelius

GENRE: vioiln concerto

PERFORMANCE: Saturday, November 30th, 2013 at Powell Hall with the St. Louis Symphony, conducted by David Robertson

My first attendance to Powell Hall. Love the antiquated style of the hall. Also, loved the performance by Mr. Bell.