How many people remember The Competition, starring Richard Dreyfuss and Amy Irving? Near the end of the movie, a piano string breaks in the middle of a Mozart concerto, and Irving’s character walks offstage and insists on substituting a piece that will ultimately propel her to victory: Prokofiev’s Third Piano Concerto. That’s the piece that our guest artist—Van Cliburn winner Antonio Pompa-Baldi—is going to wow us with. It certainly features dazzling virtuoso pyrotechnics, and also lovely lyrical melodies—showing Prokofiev’s romantic side. This concert marks Pompa-Baldi’s first appearance in Stockton, and we are so excited about having this world-class talent on our stage!
Like the Prokofiev, the outer works of our program take us through a compelling and adventuresome range of expression. How often do you hear a symphonic piece inspired by a chant about killing a snake? In seven short minutes, Sensemayá, by Mexican composer Silvestre Revueltas, charges ahead with vital rhythmic energy—and it begins with a tuba solo, no less! Plus, to kick off the evening, a member of With Our Words will recite the poem that inspired this work, which has now become a 20th-century classic.
The Stockton Chorale joins us for our grand season finale: Ravel’s Suites from Daphnis and Chloé. The complete original didn’t fare too well as a ballet, but Ravel’s music has earned a permanent revered place on the concert stage. Inspired by a love story involving rescuing the heroine from pirates, Ravel’s music offers sumptuous orchestration and revs up to a joyful tumultuous conclusion. The work includes one of the most gorgeous sunrises ever depicted in music, and also offers some passages of special effects that continue to evoke wonder to this day. The percussion battery includes passages for a wind machine, and the chorus sings without any words—their “oohs” and “ahs” function alternately as the allure of sirens, the menace of pirates, or at the end, to enhance the simply irresistible energy and celebration of life. Chorale Music Director Megan Solomon invited me to make a house call recently. The singers and I had a great time getting into those “oohs” and “ahs”—making sure they sound like they’re in French. ☺
What a marvelous year we’ve been having artistically—we really look forward to having you join us for our Classics season finale!
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