Trailblazers: From Beethoven to Borodin and Beyond

Featuring harpist Grace Roepke. 

A program of works by composers who ventured beyond the conventions of their time, creating new, unique voices. The music of Ludwig van Beethoven expanded the stylistic boundaries of the Classical Period; his epic Leonore Overture No. 3 overflows with the emotional intensity that ushered in the Romantic period. As one of the Russian nationalists, Alexander Borodin rebelled against 19^th century Western European musical dominance and helped establish a more direct Russian musical language, wonderfully demonstrated in his Symphony No. 2. Argentinian composer Alberto Ginastera developed a distinctly colorful nationalistic voice which made him one of the major forces of the 20^th century. His folk-based musical material and innovative orchestral techniques combine in his Harp Concerto to create a variety of atmospheres, from riveting to ethereal. Additionally, contemporary American composer Joan Tower asserts her own view of artistic endeavor against the male-dominated, European-based musical establishment of the late 20^th century in her Fanfare for the Uncommon Woman.

Tickets range from $28, $48, $53, $58 depending on seating section (fees included)

We would like to specially thank our generous sponsor for this concert: