A Note from the Maestro

Carissimi,

Ludwig van Beethoven was born 252 years ago and his musical legacy continues to extend into countless works by other composers. With tonight's concert we celebrate Ludwig Van Beethoven's musical legacy. Beethoven is the preeminent example of a great composer at the forefront of music who was ahead of his time. Before Beethoven there was no "romantic era" in music.

We can trace this transformative passage through a cycle of nine symphonies. The first two symphonies are modeled after those of Haydn and Mozart; follow the innovations of the third and fifth symphony which necessarily lead to the magnificent and romanticism of his ninth and final symphony. His music is not only famous for being fundamental, it is also deeply radical, beautiful and intelligently written. Surprisingly, Beethoven not only helped invent a new musical style, but he also perfected it. On March 21, 2022, The Villages® Philharmonic Orchestra will welcome the return of the extraordinarily talented concert pianist Antonio Pompa Baldi - live from The Sharon® L Morse Performing Arts Center. Antonio will perform the Piano Concerto No. 5 in E flat major, "Emperor" for piano and orchestra by Ludwig Van Beethoven. The second part of this program will see the orchestra perform one of Ludwig van Beethoven's finest symphonies, The Symphony No. 8 in F major Op.93. Music is a necessity for those who interpret these wonderful pages of this musical literature, that is immortal, and those who listen to it. Having a special audience that gives great support to the arts is a fundamental for every musician, and I sincerely thank everyone. We invite you to share with us this wonderful dream of making music and being able to create emotions that we will carry in our hearts every day of our life. Musically yours, Pasquale Valerio