Friday, December 15, 2023 | 7:30 PM
Kresge Auditorium, MIT
Street Parking is available in the area surrounding Kresge Auditorium on Memorial Drive and Vassar Street.
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PROGRAM
Learn more about the program below:
RICHARD STRAUSS
Wind Serenade
MICHAEL GANDOLFI
The Nature of Light
JOHANN SEBASTIAN BACH
Double Concerto
BÉLA BARTÓK
Viola Concerto
AARON COPLAND
Appalachian Spring
ABOUT THE PROGRAM
The act of 'coming together' holds profound significance both philosophically and practically in our lives, reflecting our interconnectedness and interdependence. This concert serves as a living embodiment of this philosophy, with each musician and piece contributing to a harmonious whole, much like a symphony. In highlighting the talents of individual soloists from within the orchestra, the program underscores the importance of collaboration and unity, demonstrating that true harmony is achieved when diverse voices join together.
Richard Strauss - Serenade for Winds: The concert begins with Strauss’s "Serenade for Winds," a piece that serves as a metaphor for unity and interconnectedness. The 13 wind instruments come together to create a lush and cohesive sound, exemplifying how individual contributions can lead to a beautiful and harmonious whole. This piece sets the tone for the evening, showcasing the power of collaboration and setting the stage for a night of exceptional music-making.
Michael Gandolfi - Selections from The Nature Of Light for clarinet and strings: Featuring clarinetist Chris Stathis, "The Nature Of Light" explores the intricate relationship between a solo instrument and an ensemble. Gandolfi’s composition connects music to the universal phenomenon of light, reminding the audience of our shared humanity and connection to the natural world. Stathis's performance highlights the beauty that emerges when individual talent and collective support come together, creating a dialogue that enriches both the music and the audience’s experience.
Johann Sebastian Bach - Double Concerto for Violin, Oboe, and Strings: In Bach’s "Double Concerto," violinist Yoonhee Lee and oboist Joel Bard engage in a musical dialogue, their voices coming together to create a cohesive and harmonious whole. This piece exemplifies the philosophical idea that dialogue and collaboration are essential for understanding and growth, as the interplay between the soloists and the orchestra creates a rich and layered musical experience.
Béla Bartók - Selections from the Viola Concerto: Njord Fossnes’s performance of Bartók’s "Viola Concerto" highlights the viola’s expressive capabilities, showcasing how individual brilliance contributes to the overall impact of the ensemble. This piece serves as a reminder of the beauty that arises when diverse voices and perspectives come together, with Fossnes's talent and the orchestra's support creating a performance that is both powerful and moving.
Aaron Copland - Appalachian Spring: The concert concludes with Copland’s "Appalachian Spring," a celebration of the American spirit and the coming together of different musical traditions. This piece reflects the themes of unity and diversity, as the orchestra comes together to create a sound that is distinctly American, yet influenced by a variety of musical traditions. The performance serves as a fitting end to a program that celebrates the power of coming together, showcasing the beauty and strength that arises when individuals join forces.
This concert program transcends the boundaries of music, serving as a powerful reminder of the importance of coming together. The soloists and orchestra embody the philosophy of interconnectedness and collaboration, creating a harmonious and impactful performance. As the final notes of "Appalachian Spring" resonate through the concert hall, they also resonate within us, inspiring a renewed commitment to unity, diversity, and the power of coming together. Through this celebration of music and community, we are reminded that when we acknowledge and celebrate our differences, we can create something far greater than the sum of its parts