APRIL/MAY 2017
The
Score
Noteworthy news from the Madison Symphony Orchestra
Colossal Piano
with Pianist Philippe Bianconi
Our April concerts are particularly exciting for two reasons: first, the return of one of the Madison Symphony Orchestra’s (MSO) favorite pianists, Philippe Bianconi, and second, the MSO’s first performance of Witold Lutosławski’s Concerto for Orchestra, a 20th-century masterpiece. Lutosławski developed into quite an avant-garde composer as he progressed through his artistic life, but like many before him, he began in a more conservative vein. This early work of Lutosławski is an exciting, virtuosic feat of writing for symphony orchestra and has long been on our musicians’ wish list of pieces they would love to perform for you. Like many other concertos for orchestra, this piece features different sections of the orchestra in a dazzling display of color and virtuosity.
PROGRAM
Over the span of Bianconi’s many appearances with us, we have so admired his flawless technique and natural musicianship as he spans so many different musical styles at the keyboard. This time, he takes on the Mount Everest of piano concertos, Sergei Rachmaninoff ’s Piano Concerto No. 3. This is a particular favorite of mine, and was inspirational in my own musical development when I heard Byron Janis play it when I was 13 years old. I have no doubt that Philippe’s performance will be definitive and immensely satisfying.
John DeMain, Conductor
Opening the concert is Robert Schumann’s Manfred Overture, a beautiful, romantic offering that was one of Schumann’s favorite compositions. This concert should be a wonderful aural and emotional experience and I look forward to being with you!
MUSIC DIRECTOR
3 Easy Ways to Buy Tickets: Online at madisonsymphony.org
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(608) 258-4141
Robert Schumann Manfred Overture Witold Lutosławski Concerto for Orchestra Sergei Rachmaninoff Piano Concerto No. 3
Philippe Bianconi, Piano Prelude Discussion Pre-concert talk beginning one hour before each concert in Overture Hall Speaker: John DeMain MSO Music Director
EXCLUSIVE SPONSOR
Pleasant T. Rowland Foundation
Photo by Bill Fritsch/ HarperFritsch Studios
John DeMain
APRIL 7, 8, 9
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In person at the Overture Center Box Office (201 State St.)* *save the service fees when buying in person