INSIGHTS from Christopher Wilkins

Dramatic moods, romantic expression and orchestral fireworks set the tone for this program. The works of two giants of German Romanticism  – Brahms and Weber – frame the program, and provide a fitting context for two more recent orchestral showpieces. William Wolfram – a great pianist in the Romantic tradition – joins the Orlando Philharmonic in one of the most beloved of all piano concertos.

For many, the Brahms 1st piano concerto stands at the pinnacle of Romantic-era orchestral music. It confidently extends the traditions of the Classical era, but in tones glowing with Brahms’ characteristic warmth, creating an aura of reverence and affection throughout. As the only concerto Brahms composed in his youth, it is in many ways a portrait of the young artist: bold, impetuous, and full of ardor. At the same time, the confidence of the writing reveals already the hand of a master.

The great symphonic works of Beethoven served as Brahms’ models. The dramatic structure of the work – its key, its heroic content, its resolution in uninhibited joy – mirrors closely Beethoven’s plan for his own 9th symphony. Many of the concerto’s most poetic moments can be traced to Robert and Clara Schumann. In a letter to Clara, Brahms once described the intimate interplay of piano and orchestra in the 2nd movement as “a gentle portrait of you.”

A generation before Brahms, the age of German Romanticism began with Carl Maria von Weber. His music is romantic at heart and dramatic to the core. Hindemith’s ever-popular orchestral work, Symphonic Metamorphosis, is based entirely on music of Weber. Its ear-catching tunefulness derives from the easy lyricism of Weber’s melodies, but Symphonic Metamorphosis was composed with the virtuosity of American orchestras in mind.

Rollins College composer Daniel Crozier has referred to his Capriccio for orchestra as an “opera scene without words.” Its characters appear as musical ideas; its plot unfolds by allowing those ideas to evolve through dialogue with each other. These tunes, together with Dr. Crozier’s masterful orchestration, create a musical narrative of extraordinary color, inventiveness, and good humor.

Join us for a joyous and passionate evening of great music, and great music-making!

Warm Regards,
Christopher Wilkins