La Dolce Vita: Italian Masterpieces

Program

• Vivaldi | Bassoon Concerto in A minor, RV 497: Michael Kroth showcases the “soul” of the bassoon in this nimble, expressive work by the Red Priest of Venice.

• Telemann | Concerto for 2 Horns in F: Erich Peterson and Leslie Norton bring a regal, heroic energy to the stage in this virtuosic display of horn playing.

• Vivaldi | Concerto for Flute, Oboe, Bassoon, and Strings: A delightful “conversation” between Helen Blackburn, Eric Olson, and Michael Kroth. It is Baroque chamber music at its most sophisticated and playful.

• Verdi | Overture to La Forza del Destino: The second half roars to life with one of opera’s most famous overtures—a dramatic, sweeping whirlwind of fate and passion.

• Respighi | Pines of Rome: The night ends with a true sonic spectacular. This massive four-part tone poem depicts the trees of Rome across history, culminating in a finale so powerful it includes extra brass and the sound of a marching Roman army. It is a physical experience that must be felt live.

Personnel:

Ezra Calvino, conductor

Thomas Nettle, conductor

Rune Bergmann, conductor