Johann Sebastian Bach didn’t invent the concerto grosso, a genre with musical conversation between a small group of instruments and the full orchestra, but he probably wrote the best six in history with his Brandenburg Concertos. Stravinsky modeled his Dumbarton Oaks after Bach’s concertos, named for the historic estate in Washington, D.C. and filled with Stravinsky’s own flavor of Americana. Alberto Ginastera’s Concert Variations weave the music of Argentina into this program through a set of short solos for nearly every instrument in the orchestra.

We don’t know for certain why Schubert left this symphony midway in 1822, with only two of the conventional four movements penned. Physical and mental health difficulties? Insecurity from the intimidating shadow of Beethoven? We may never be sure, but there is no doubt it still manages to be one of the great symphonies ever written. Courtney Lewis kicks off our Symphony in 60 Series by talking through all that gave this masterpiece a place in history. The Symphony’s principal oboe, Eric Olson, opens the program with a piece by living composer Bill Douglas that drops flavors of jazz, Afro-Cuban, American folk, and Celtic music.

Join the Symphony as we celebrate Veteran’s Day and honor those who have protected the freedoms that make America great. Hear your favorite selections from The Star-Spangled Banner to the themes of each of the branches of our military, with a touch of the Andrews Sisters for good measure. It promises to be one of the most inspiring events of the year. 

Join the Symphony as we celebrate Veteran’s Day and honor those who have protected the freedoms that make America great. Hear your favorite selections from The Star-Spangled Banner to the themes of each of the branches of our military, with a touch of the Andrews Sisters for good measure. It promises to be one of the most inspiring events of the year.