Upcoming Performances

Program Notes

Johannes Brahms's Concerto for Violin and Cello in A minor, often referred to as the Double Concerto, is a monumental work that showcases the composer's mastery of orchestration and his uncanny ability to weave together myriad musical themes into a cohesive whole. Composed in the summer of 1887, the concerto was Brahms's final orchestral work (he died ten years later), and it is considered to be one of his greatest achievements. The concerto was first performed in October of 1887 in Cologne, Germany, and it was written for the cellist Robert Hausmann and the violinist Joseph Joachim, Brahms’s by-then estranged friend for whom the composer had also written his violin concerto.

The concerto is structured in three movements. The first movement opens with a dramatic orchestral introduction, which leads into a lyrical, melancholic melody played by the cello. The violin then enters, engaging in a dialogue with the cello, as the two instruments explore and extend the themes introduced by the orchestra. The movement features intricate counterpoint and rich harmonies, as well as moments of true emotional intensity.

The second movement is a tender adagio, featuring a beautiful melody that is passed back and forth between the violin and cello. The orchestral accompaniment is sparse and delicate, allowing the soloists to shine and fully explore the emotional depth of the music.

The final movement is a lively and energetic rondo, featuring a lively and dance-like theme that is passed between the violin and cello. The music is filled with virtuosic passages for both instruments, showcasing their technical prowess and the tight interplay between the soloists and the orchestra. The movement builds to a thrilling and triumphant conclusion, bringing the concerto to a close with a burst of energy and joy.

The Star Wars Suite for Orchestra, created by award-winning American composer John Williams–who at age 91 still regularly conducts his own film scores—features some of the most recognizable and beloved themes from the Star Wars franchise, arranged into a cohesive and thrilling suite for full orchestra.

The suite begins with the opening fanfare, a triumphant introduction that sets the tone for the rest of the piece. From there, we are treated to the soaring man theme, which captures the spirit of adventure embodied by series protagonist Luke Skywalker.

The suite also contains the ominous, menacing Imperial March, a piece of music that has become synonymous with the evil power of Darth Vader and the Galactic Empire. The contrast between the brassy, militaristic sound of the Imperial March and the lush romanticism of other movements in the suite (such as the slower, melancholy Princess Leia’s Theme and the meditative Yoda’s Theme) highlights the tension and conflict at the heart of the Star Wars universe.

Throughout the suite, Williams uses a variety of orchestral colors and textures to create a rich and dynamic sound; the strings, brass, woodwinds, and percussion are all used to great effect. Critics and musicologists have noted that Williams’s stylings in the suite are drawn from the Late Romanticism of Richard Strauss and others, with more contemporary references added to the mix, as well.

Perhaps one of the most impressive aspects of the Star Wars Suite is the way in which Williams weaves together various leitmotifs, or recurring musical themes associated with particular characters, emotions, places, or ideas. These leitmotifs help to create a sense of continuity and coherence throughout the suite, while also allowing for moments of contrast and surprise. If you’re a fan of the film franchise, listen for leitmotifs that herald the arrival of your favorite characters!

Written by Allen Frost

Tonight’s Soloists