national Arts Festival Banner

Sunday, March 6, 2016

JAMES ROSS FOR KZN PHILHARMONIC



(James Ross)

The KZN Philharmonic’s symphony season continues on March 10, when American conductor, James Ross returns to Durban to lead the orchestra through a concert of both familiar and uncharted territory.

The concert begins with Beethoven’s overture to his only opera Fidelio. The overture was Beethoven’s fourth attempt to create an opening prelude for the opera. The first three attempts are still performed as concert pieces – the Leonore overtures.

Farida Bacharova, one of the most influential musicians and educators in South Africa, steps onto the stage of the City Hall to perform Mendelssohn’s violin concerto. The concert ends with what is certainly a Durban première, and quite possibly a South African première – Charles Ives, Symphony No. 2. The name Ives typically induces thoughts of atonality and rhythmic chaos, but his 2nd symphony is anything but. The work is filled with lyrical expression, traditional American folk tunes and playful themes that leave the listener full of awe and joy.

The concert takes place at 19h30 on March 10. Refreshments and light snacks may be purchased in the foyer before the concert and during interval. Single tickets are available from www.computicket.com, 0861 915 8000, or from Shoprite Checkers Money Market counters. Subscribers can save up to 30%.

Audiences can gain a deeper understanding of the music they are about to hear by attending the Friends of Music’s Pre-Concert Lecture at the City Hall starting at 18h00 and entry is R10. For more information, contact 031 369 9438 or email bookings@kznphil.org.za