(Daniel Boico)The music in the fifth concert of the KZN Philharmonic Orchestra’s Summer Season - titled Classical Spirit - straddles categorical divides: early Mozart sounding Romantic alongside Schubert at his most Classical, with the polish of Mendelssohn in between. Daniel Boico - the exuberant conductor who made his debut with the KZN Philharmonic last Spring to great acclaim (when he replaced Victor Yampolsky at a moment’s notice) - returns to Durban for the Summer Season’s final two concerts.
Two of the evening’s works were written by composers in their teens. Mozart’s Symphony No. 25 was written in 1773 under the influence of Haydn, and is one of Mozart’s most dramatic early works. Often called the “Little” G-minor symphony to distinguish it from its later famous compatriot in the same key (the Symphony No. 40), this work launched a new phase in Mozart’s output. Audiences may recognise the opening theme from its excellent use in the film Amadeus.
Noted South African pianist, Malcolm Nay, will make his debut with the Orchestra for a performance of Mendelssohn’s Piano Concerto No. 2. By the time of its composition in 1837, Mendelssohn had already completed many other works involving piano and orchestra, and this final piano concerto contains enduring melodies and an ethereal second movement.
The last work on the programme is one of Schubert’s greatest orchestral achievements. The influence of Mozart on the teenaged composer (Schubert composed this symphony in 1816) is unmistakable. Like several of Schubert’s pieces, the work was nearly lost to posterity after an initial performance - more than half a century would pass before it was rediscovered, performed and eventually published in 1885. Part of the beauty of the work is its homage to classicism in symphonic music, and it neatly rounds out our classically spirited programme.
Relax and unwind at Quarters Florida Road on Thursday evenings after work – enjoy a cocktail and snacks and socialise with other concert goers. Meet orchestra staff, musicians and, on occasion, the visiting conductors and soloists. You can also take advantage of the complimentary shuttle service from Quarters to and from the Durban City Hall. Cocktails served from 17:30.
The Pre-Concert talks held in association with the Friends of Music now take place at the Albany Hotel (follow signage from the foyer). Entry fee is just R30 and includes tea, coffee and sandwiches.
Classical Spirit takes place on March 15 at 19h30 (doors open at 18h30) in the Durban City Hall. Booking is at Computicket, Shoprite Checkers Money Market counters or visit www.computicket.com or call the hotline on 083 915 8000. There is safe and subsidised parking available at The Royal Parkade (R10 flat rate for the evening). Some 30 additional security personnel are positioned in and around the City Hall, Royal and Albany hotels to escort patrons to and from their vehicles.
For further information and subscription bookings, click on the banner advert at the top of this page which will connect you to the orchestra’s website.
Posts
