Kerson Leong Plays Beethoven
Kerson Leong, violin | 2023-2024 Artist of Distinction
Geoffrey Robson, conductor
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February 24, 2024
Saturday at 7:30 PM
Location: Robinson Center
February 25, 2024
Sunday at 3:00 PM
Location: Robinson Center
Your Program Experience
Christopher Theofanidis - The Wind and Petit Jean
The experience: enchanting, majestic, beautiful
The Wind and Petit Jean was commissioned by your ASO musicians, first premiering in 2014. The title refers to Petit Jean Mountain, a prominent geographic landmark in Arkansas. This piece truly captures the essence of the natural beauty and spirit of the region.
Jonathan Bailey Holland - Halcyon Sun
The experience: whimsical, mysterious, captivating
Jonathan Bailey Holland’s Halcyon Sun was commissioned to celebrate the opening of the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. Holland noted that “the Underground Railroad has always sparked visions of dark tunnels and pathways, with people moving from desolation to an unknown new life. The end of a journey is often symbolized by an image of light. For those traveling through the Underground Railroad, the light at the end of the tunnel was freedom and a new life.” He chose to focus on the end result of the journey as a starting point for his captivating piece.
Ludwig Van Beethoven - Violin Concerto in D Major (feat. Kerson Leong)
The experience: graceful, regal, cheerful
Ludwig van Beethoven is widely considered one of the greatest composers of all time. But despite his prolific output, Beethoven only wrote one violin concerto, which has been the most celebrated and beloved work. The concerto begins with five repeating notes in the timpani, resembling a gentle but persistent heartbeat, and it becomes the recurring theme. The second movement is a serene and heartfelt Adagio that contrasts the drama of the first movement. The final movement brings a lively and spirited conclusion to the concerto, featuring syncopated rhythms and dance-like themes.
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