Thursday, December 10, 2009
TEMPO
The Daily Aztec
13
LIVE AND DANGEROUS
San Diego Symphony perfects Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 SA RA H GR I E C O A S S I S TA N T O P I N I O N E D I T O R
The San Diego Symphony is one of the city’s finest hidden treasures. After more than 25 years of playing in downtown’s Copley Symphony Hall, the symphony continues to “wow” all who partake in its splendor. Fans of classical music and those who are new to its magnificence will enjoy the cultural experience the San Diego Symphony has to offer. The flawless architecture within Copley Symphony Hall is reason enough to visit. Within the building is a grand room filled with intricate Gothic design and breathtaking chandeliers. Keeping with the holiday season, the walls are now adorned with poinsettias that provided an atmosphere of festivity for all concertgoers, giving a breath of fresh air to downtown’s typical modern design and a unique touch compared to other theaters in San Diego. While the inside is beautiful, the marvelous music one encounters within that will surpass expectations. Music director of the symphony, Jahja Ling, is in his sixth season of conducting and his devotion to music is undeniable. He has traveled around the globe conducting both contemporary and classical pieces. Ling’s vast experience in the arena is demonstrated when he is onstage, guiding his musicians through the notes of 18th century composers. Saturday, Ling and his orchestra performed Ludwig Van Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 in D minor with choral accompaniment by the San Diego Master Chorale. Ling conducted with energy and ease and took the audience through the many emotions of Beethoven’s longest symphony. The orchestra seemed to channel the spirit of Beethoven in the 68-minute arrangement.
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Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony was progressive for its time and reflects a struggle with new direction in a time of rigidity. The orchestra plays the powerful and inspiring symphony with great passion, which is how one imagines Beethoven would have wanted it to be. The true star was concertmaster Jeff Thayer, who led his fellow violinists through the stylistically wondrous performance. Thayer’s talent reverberated throughout the concert hall and his exceptional skills were duly respected.
The symphony’s finale is the famous “Ode to Joy,” which in Beethoven’s time was the first use of a choir in a symphony. After nearly an hour of purely instrumental music, the addition of the choir added depth and meaning to the production. The four soloists and chorale sang their way through the end of Beethoven’s masterpiece, shaking the very foundation of the concert hall. Ling, the orchestra and the chorale were exceptional in the execution of Beethoven’s timeless symphony. The thrilling performance
made a lasting impression on the audience. Spectators gave Ling and his 79 musicians a rousing standing ovation upon completion. A newfound appreciation for classical music is sure to be had at Copley Symphony Hall, and it is likely to remain a treasure of San Diego for years to come. The San Diego Symphony, located at 1245 Seventh Ave., has concerts and events yearround. Tickets can be purchased at www.sandiegosymphony.com.