Portraits

Masterworks IV brings to life beautiful orchestral music as painted by three important composers, all genius musical artists.

Hector Berlioz wrote his Roman Carnival as the overture to an opera that tells the story of two lovers, using the brass section, especially the English Horn, to speak to their affair. Strings and woodwinds evoke images of traditional folk music and dancing, and the rhythm of the saltarello brings forth images of a grand carnaval.

Sir Edward William Elgar, 1st Baronet, dedicated his Enigma Variations to his friends pictured within the work. Each variation is a musical sketch of his closest friends, including his wife, publisher, a former lover sailing away and even his friend’s dog falling into a river. Musical instruments bring forth the personality of each portrait.

Written late in his short life, Robert Schumann’s Concerto for Cello is one of his more enigmatic works due to its structure, the length of the exposition, and the transcendental quality of the opening as well as the intense lyricism of the second movement. Steven Isserlis is our guest artist.

Acclaimed worldwide for his profound musicianship and technical mastery, British cellist Steven Isserlis enjoys a unique and distinguished career as a soloist, chamber musician, educator, author and broadcaster. The recipient of many awards, Steven Isserlis’ honors include a CBE in recognition of his services to music, and other important recognitions. He is also one of only two living cellists featured in Gramophone’s Hall of Fame.