November 4, 2024 By Hannah Schedel, Music Director
“Star-crossed lovers” is a term which is often quoted, but one that merits a closer examination. This phrase refers to lovers whose fate is determined by the stars, a concept rooted in the astrological belief that celestial bodies have the ability to shape human destinies. In the realm of classical music, many compositions explore emotional turmoil that resonates with all of us. On this program, we explore three remarkable works: Richard Wagner’s Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg, Emmanuel Séjourné’s Concerto for Marimba and Strings, and Sergei Prokofiev’s Romeo and Juliet Suite No. 2. Each piece offers a unique insight into the composers’ artistic imagination and the emotions they aim to evoke.
Please join us for this concert at Eisenhower Community Center in Hopkins on November 17, 2024 at 3:00 pm. Note the new venue!Details can be found here.
Prelude to Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg by Richard Wagner Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg (The Mastersingers of Nuremberg), Wagner’s only comedic opera, stands out not only for its humor but also for its historical setting, diverging from the mythical realms typical of Wagner’s other operas. Composed over twenty-two years, the opera premiered in Leipzig in 1862. Set in sixteenth-century Nuremberg, it depicts a complicated love story between Walther and Eva, as Eva must marry the winner of a singing contest organized by the Mastersingers—a guild of amateur musicians and poets.
With the guidance of Hans Sachs, the most esteemed mastersinger, Walther learns to sing the night before the contest, and ultimately triumphs. This victory allows him not only to join the guild but also to marry Eva, creating a narrative that celebrates love, artistry, and community.
Concerto for Marimba and Strings by Emmanuel Séjourné Kelly Grill, Marimba
The next piece, Concerto for Marimba and Strings was composed by French composer Emmanuel Séjourné who currently teaches at the Strasbourg Conservatory, Séjourné is celebrated for his innovative compositions for keyboard percussion, particularly the marimba and vibraphone. His works often blend classical traditions with jazz, rock, and world music styles.
Commissioned by marimba virtuoso Bogdan Bácanu, the concerto has seen over 500 performances since its premiere in 2006. Originally comprised of just two movements—“Tempo souple” and “Rhythmique énergique”—the piece highlights the marimba’s versatility. The second movement, with its intricate rhythms reminiscent of Spanish flamenco, showcases challenging passages in an 11/8 meter, allowing the soloist to explore the instrument’s emotional depth and technical brilliance. This lively work invites listeners to appreciate the marimba as both a lyrical and virtuosic instrument.
Romeo and Juliet Suite No. 2 by Sergei Prokofiev
No exploration of a love story in music would be complete without Sergei Prokofiev’s Romeo and Juliet. Composed as a ballet in 1935, Prokofiev later extracted movements to create three orchestral suites that illuminate Shakespeare’s tragic tale.
The suite begins with the “Montagues and Capulets,” in which the “Dance of the Knights” sets the tone for the tension felt between the feuding families. This is followed by “Juliet – The Young Girl,” which captures the youthful spirit of Juliet, and “Friar Lawrence,” which portrays the well-meaning priest. As the suite unfolds, listeners experience the intimate moments between Romeo and Juliet, culminating in the heart wrenching “Romeo at Juliet’s Grave.” This movement evokes the deep sorrow felt as Romeo, unaware of Juliet’s feigned death, takes his own life in despair, only to have her awaken moments later.
Each of these works offers a distinct perspective on love, artistry, and the human experience. Wagner’s playful yet profound opera, Séjourné’s vibrant and captivating marimba concerto, and Prokofiev’s poignant ballet suite together create a rich tapestry of musical expression. As we immerse ourselves in these compositions, we are reminded of the power of music to tell stories that resonate across time and culture. As we immerse ourselves in these compositions, we are reminded of music’s power to tell stories that resonate across time and culture. Whether through Wagner’s storytelling, Séjourné’s rhythmic innovations, or Prokofiev’s tragic beauty, each piece invites us to explore the depths of emotion and creativity found in both the world and in classical music. I’d love to see you in the audience on November 17!
Hannah Schendel, Music Director September 15, 2024
If you’ve ever dreamt of taking a trip to Italy, this concert is for you! Experience the rich history of Italian opera through the dramatic overture of Verdi’s Luisa Miller and discover the charming Baroque Oboe Concerto in G Major by Besozzi. Respighi’s evocative Trittico Botticelliano and Fontane di Roma paint vivid musical portraits of art and important landmarks. We will explore three paintings by renowned Italian Renaissance artist, Sandro Botticelli and take a walking tour through Rome to view four famous fountains. Each of these pieces showcases the incredible diversity and breadth of Italian classical music.
Join us on October 6, 2024 at 3:00 pm at Hopkins High School for this free performance with guest artist Cassie Pilgrim, Principal Oboe, Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra. You can find full event details here.
Here’s a bit more about this exciting performance:
Giuseppe Verdi’s Overture to Luisa Miller An eminent composer in 19th-century opera, Giuseppe Verdi is known for his unique ability to weave rich orchestral textures into expressive vocal lines. His 1849 opera Luisa Miller stands as a testament to his early talent. The overture to Luisa Miller sets a dramatic tone for the opera, which is filled with intrigue and heart-wrench.
The plot is filled with numerous twists and turns, culminating in a tragic scene reminiscent of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, where the characters Luisa and Rodolfo take poison in the name of their doomed love. Verdi’s overture captures the intensity of the narrative, hinting at the complex emotions and dramatic twists that lie ahead.
Alessandro Besozzi’s Oboe Concerto in G Major Born in Parma, Italy in 1702, relatively little is known about Alessandro Besozzi’s life, career, and compositional output. Historians confirm that he trained and worked as both an oboist and composer, serving the King of Sardinia for much of his career. Alessandro lived and performed alongside his brother Paolo Girolamo, a bassoonist, sharing both their musical pursuits and sartorial choices throughout their lives. Six oboe concerti are attributed to Besozzi, though their exact dates are not certain.
This concerto, consisting of three movements, showcases the oboe’s expressive range and technical capabilities. Besozzi’s music is both lyrical and intricate, and is an elegant interplay of melody and ornamentation, reflecting the playful yet ornate nature of the Baroque period.
Thank you to Midwest Musical Imports for sponsoring Cassie Pilgrim’s performance!
Ottorino Respighi’s Trittico Botticelliano (Three Botticelli Pictures) Next, we encounter Ottorino Respighi’s Trittico Botticelliano, a suite of early 20th century orchestral works inspired by paintings of Sandro Botticelli which are currently housed in the Uffizi Gallery in Florence.
From left to right: Mercury, the three Graces, Venus, Flora(s), Zephyr. The music vividly portrays the joyful, floral, and sometimes breezy essence of springtime.
At the center of the painting is the nativity scene set amidst Roman ruins. The Three Magi and notable figures from Florence observe the scene. This is musically represented through the medieval hymn “Veni, veni, Emmanuel” (Oh Come, Oh Come, Emmanuel) and through the sparkling colors that evoke the magi.
From left to right: Zephyr, Aura, Venus, Hour of Spring. The strings mimic the ocean waves and the scalloping of the seashell that carries Venus to the coast of Cyprus. The music captures the grandeur of the moment and the expansive landscape.
Ottorino Respighi’s Fontane di Roma (Fountains of Rome) Respighi’s Fontane di Roma continues our exploration of his evocative musical imagery. Each movement of Fontane is an artistic impression of four fountains located throughout Rome.
Heroic horn calls (conch shells) and shimmering cymbal sprays capture the joyous and wild celebration of tritons and naiads depicted in this famous Bernini masterwork.
This final movement portrays the fountain bathed in the nostalgic, fading light of dusk. A mournful melody intertwines with distant church bells and softly chirping birds until everything fades into nightfall.
From Verdi’s emotionally charged overture, Besozzi’s Baroque charm, and to Respighi’s evocative musical depictions, these works offer a rich overview of Italian classical music that spans centuries and styles. Each piece not only reflects the unique voice of its composer but also immerses us in a world of artistic expression and historical context. Whether you’re a seasoned music lover or new to classical music, these masterpieces are sure to leave a lasting impression!
https://thewso.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/wayzata-symphony-orchestra-mainLogo.png00Melissa Kalalhttps://thewso.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/wayzata-symphony-orchestra-mainLogo.pngMelissa Kalal2024-09-15 10:42:212024-09-15 10:48:15Journey to Italy
Please join the Wayzata Symphony Orchestra for “Dark and Light,” our final concert of the 2023-24 season!
One of the first concepts a painter, photographer, or sculptor must learn is how to use light, and the absence of light, to create their desired artwork. Similarly, composers learn how to create the illusion of such images using sound as their medium. Each piece on our program explores the contrasts between light and dark.
In 1903, Carl Nielsen’s wife Anne Marie, a sculptor, received a grant to study ancient Greek art in Athens. While Anne Marie spent much of her time in the Acropolis, Carl studied archaeology and composed. Inspired by the intensity of the scorching Athens sun, Helios Overture paints the image of the sun rising and falling in an arc over the Aegean Sea, emerging from and sinking back into darkness.
Tone Poem, by Chen Yi, was inspired by two poems by Sy Dong-po about southern Chinese landscape paintings. Through this sonic landscape, Chen, conveys images of sunlight, dark rain clouds, sparkling waves, and a sudden and forceful gale.
Sibelius in 1904, by Albert Engström
Jean Sibelius’ Symphony No. 2 is sometimes subtitled as “Confession of the Soul.” As we are carried through the symphony we see flickers of contrasting images, each serving to illuminate one another. Images of a frozen Finnish tundra contrast with warm country sides, encounters with Death oppose moments of intense hope, frenetic energy is juxtaposed with plaintive and tender melody. The final movement harnesses these opposing forces and unites their energy in one of the most glorious symphonic melodies.
As I reflect back on my first season as Music Director, I am inspired by the joy, commitment, and camaraderie shared by the WSO musicians. As we look to the future, we look forward to exciting concerts, new collaborations, and opportunities to expand our impact within the Twin Cities community.
I would like to extend a sincere thank you to all of our donors, volunteers, and audience members. Your impact is vital for the success and mission of this organization. Thank you!
We cannot wait to see you next season!
https://thewso.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/wayzata-symphony-orchestra-mainLogo.png00Melissa Kalalhttps://thewso.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/wayzata-symphony-orchestra-mainLogo.pngMelissa Kalal2024-04-12 15:20:062024-04-12 15:20:06Dark and Light
Star-Crossed Lovers
/in Wayzata Symphony Orchestra, WSO News, WSO NewsBy Hannah Schedel, Music Director
“Star-crossed lovers” is a term which is often quoted, but one that merits a closer examination. This phrase refers to lovers whose fate is determined by the stars, a concept rooted in the astrological belief that celestial bodies have the ability to shape human destinies. In the realm of classical music, many compositions explore emotional turmoil that resonates with all of us. On this program, we explore three remarkable works: Richard Wagner’s Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg, Emmanuel Séjourné’s Concerto for Marimba and Strings, and Sergei Prokofiev’s Romeo and Juliet Suite No. 2. Each piece offers a unique insight into the composers’ artistic imagination and the emotions they aim to evoke.
Please join us for this concert at Eisenhower Community Center in Hopkins on November 17, 2024 at 3:00 pm. Note the new venue! Details can be found here.
Prelude to Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg by Richard Wagner
Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg (The Mastersingers of Nuremberg), Wagner’s only comedic opera, stands out not only for its humor but also for its historical setting, diverging from the mythical realms typical of Wagner’s other operas. Composed over twenty-two years, the opera premiered in Leipzig in 1862. Set in sixteenth-century Nuremberg, it depicts a complicated love story between Walther and Eva, as Eva must marry the winner of a singing contest organized by the Mastersingers—a guild of amateur musicians and poets.
With the guidance of Hans Sachs, the most esteemed mastersinger, Walther learns to sing the night before the contest, and ultimately triumphs. This victory allows him not only to join the guild but also to marry Eva, creating a narrative that celebrates love, artistry, and community.
Concerto for Marimba and Strings by Emmanuel Séjourné
Kelly Grill, Marimba
The next piece, Concerto for Marimba and Strings was composed by French composer Emmanuel Séjourné who currently teaches at the Strasbourg Conservatory, Séjourné is celebrated for his innovative compositions for keyboard percussion, particularly the marimba and vibraphone. His works often blend classical traditions with jazz, rock, and world music styles.
Commissioned by marimba virtuoso Bogdan Bácanu, the concerto has seen over 500 performances since its premiere in 2006. Originally comprised of just two movements—“Tempo souple” and “Rhythmique énergique”—the piece highlights the marimba’s versatility. The second movement, with its intricate rhythms reminiscent of Spanish flamenco, showcases challenging passages in an 11/8 meter, allowing the soloist to explore the instrument’s emotional depth and technical brilliance. This lively work invites listeners to appreciate the marimba as both a lyrical and virtuosic instrument.
Romeo and Juliet Suite No. 2 by Sergei Prokofiev
No exploration of a love story in music would be complete without Sergei Prokofiev’s Romeo and Juliet. Composed as a ballet in 1935, Prokofiev later extracted movements to create three orchestral suites that illuminate Shakespeare’s tragic tale.
The suite begins with the “Montagues and Capulets,” in which the “Dance of the Knights” sets the tone for the tension felt between the feuding families. This is followed by “Juliet – The Young Girl,” which captures the youthful spirit of Juliet, and “Friar Lawrence,” which portrays the well-meaning priest. As the suite unfolds, listeners experience the intimate moments between Romeo and Juliet, culminating in the heart wrenching “Romeo at Juliet’s Grave.” This movement evokes the deep sorrow felt as Romeo, unaware of Juliet’s feigned death, takes his own life in despair, only to have her awaken moments later.
Each of these works offers a distinct perspective on love, artistry, and the human experience. Wagner’s playful yet profound opera, Séjourné’s vibrant and captivating marimba concerto, and Prokofiev’s poignant ballet suite together create a rich tapestry of musical expression. As we immerse ourselves in these compositions, we are reminded of the power of music to tell stories that resonate across time and culture. As we immerse ourselves in these compositions, we are reminded of music’s power to tell stories that resonate across time and culture. Whether through Wagner’s storytelling, Séjourné’s rhythmic innovations, or Prokofiev’s tragic beauty, each piece invites us to explore the depths of emotion and creativity found in both the world and in classical music. I’d love to see you in the audience on November 17!
Journey to Italy
/in WSO News, WSO NewsSeptember 15, 2024
If you’ve ever dreamt of taking a trip to Italy, this concert is for you! Experience the rich history of Italian opera through the dramatic overture of Verdi’s Luisa Miller and discover the charming Baroque Oboe Concerto in G Major by Besozzi. Respighi’s evocative Trittico Botticelliano and Fontane di Roma paint vivid musical portraits of art and important landmarks. We will explore three paintings by renowned Italian Renaissance artist, Sandro Botticelli and take a walking tour through Rome to view four famous fountains. Each of these pieces showcases the incredible diversity and breadth of Italian classical music.
Join us on October 6, 2024 at 3:00 pm at Hopkins High School for this free performance with guest artist Cassie Pilgrim, Principal Oboe, Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra. You can find full event details here.
Here’s a bit more about this exciting performance:
Giuseppe Verdi’s Overture to Luisa Miller
An eminent composer in 19th-century opera, Giuseppe Verdi is known for his unique ability to weave rich orchestral textures into expressive vocal lines. His 1849 opera Luisa Miller stands as a testament to his early talent. The overture to Luisa Miller sets a dramatic tone for the opera, which is filled with intrigue and heart-wrench.
The plot is filled with numerous twists and turns, culminating in a tragic scene reminiscent of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, where the characters Luisa and Rodolfo take poison in the name of their doomed love. Verdi’s overture captures the intensity of the narrative, hinting at the complex emotions and dramatic twists that lie ahead.
Alessandro Besozzi’s Oboe Concerto in G Major
Born in Parma, Italy in 1702, relatively little is known about Alessandro Besozzi’s life, career, and compositional output. Historians confirm that he trained and worked as both an oboist and composer, serving the King of Sardinia for much of his career. Alessandro lived and performed alongside his brother Paolo Girolamo, a bassoonist, sharing both their musical pursuits and sartorial choices throughout their lives. Six oboe concerti are attributed to Besozzi, though their exact dates are not certain.
This concerto, consisting of three movements, showcases the oboe’s expressive range and technical capabilities. Besozzi’s music is both lyrical and intricate, and is an elegant interplay of melody and ornamentation, reflecting the playful yet ornate nature of the Baroque period.
Ottorino Respighi’s Trittico Botticelliano (Three Botticelli Pictures)
Next, we encounter Ottorino Respighi’s Trittico Botticelliano, a suite of early 20th century orchestral works inspired by paintings of Sandro Botticelli which are currently housed in the Uffizi Gallery in Florence.
La Primavera (The Allegory of Spring)
From left to right: Mercury, the three Graces, Venus, Flora(s), Zephyr. The music vividly portrays the joyful, floral, and sometimes breezy essence of springtime.
L’adorazione dei Magi (The Adoration of the Magi)
At the center of the painting is the nativity scene set amidst Roman ruins. The Three Magi and notable figures from Florence observe the scene. This is musically represented through the medieval hymn “Veni, veni, Emmanuel” (Oh Come, Oh Come, Emmanuel) and through the sparkling colors that evoke the magi.
La nascita di Venere (The Birth of Venus)
From left to right: Zephyr, Aura, Venus, Hour of Spring. The strings mimic the ocean waves and the scalloping of the seashell that carries Venus to the coast of Cyprus. The music captures the grandeur of the moment and the expansive landscape.
Ottorino Respighi’s Fontane di Roma (Fountains of Rome)
Respighi’s Fontane di Roma continues our exploration of his evocative musical imagery. Each movement of Fontane is an artistic impression of four fountains located throughout Rome.
La fontana di Valle Giulia all’alba (The Fountain of Valle Giulia at Dawn)
The music evokes a pastoral scene where cattle and sheep quietly pass by the fountain during the humid hours of Roman dawn.
La fontana del Tritone al mattino (The Triton Fountain in the Morning)
Heroic horn calls (conch shells) and shimmering cymbal sprays capture the joyous and wild celebration of tritons and naiads depicted in this famous Bernini masterwork.
La fontana di Trevi al meriggio (The Trevi Fountain at Midday)
One of Rome’s most iconic landmarks, the Trevi Fountain is represented by a
solemn procession of tritons and naiads, accompanied by a trumpet herald announcing Neptune’s majestic chariot drawn by sea horses.
La fontana di Villa Medici al tramonto (The Villa Medici Fountain at Sunset)
This final movement portrays the fountain bathed in the nostalgic, fading light of dusk. A mournful melody intertwines with distant church bells and softly chirping birds until everything fades into nightfall.
From Verdi’s emotionally charged overture, Besozzi’s Baroque charm, and to Respighi’s evocative musical depictions, these works offer a rich overview of Italian classical music that spans centuries and styles. Each piece not only reflects the unique voice of its composer but also immerses us in a world of artistic expression and historical context. Whether you’re a seasoned music lover or new to classical music, these masterpieces are sure to leave a lasting impression!
Dark and Light
/in WSO News, WSO NewsApril 12, 2024
Please join the Wayzata Symphony Orchestra for “Dark and Light,” our final concert of the 2023-24 season!
One of the first concepts a painter, photographer, or sculptor must learn is how to use light, and the absence of light, to create their desired artwork. Similarly, composers learn how to create the illusion of such images using sound as their medium. Each piece on our program explores the contrasts between light and dark.
In 1903, Carl Nielsen’s wife Anne Marie, a sculptor, received a grant to study ancient Greek art in Athens. While Anne Marie spent much of her time in the Acropolis, Carl studied archaeology and composed. Inspired by the intensity of the scorching Athens sun, Helios Overture paints the image of the sun rising and falling in an arc over the Aegean Sea, emerging from and sinking back into darkness.
Tone Poem, by Chen Yi, was inspired by two poems by Sy Dong-po about southern Chinese landscape paintings. Through this sonic landscape, Chen, conveys images of sunlight, dark rain clouds, sparkling waves, and a sudden and forceful gale.
Sibelius in 1904, by Albert Engström
Jean Sibelius’ Symphony No. 2 is sometimes subtitled as “Confession of the Soul.” As we are carried through the symphony we see flickers of contrasting images, each serving to illuminate one another. Images of a frozen Finnish tundra contrast with warm country sides, encounters with Death oppose moments of intense hope, frenetic energy is juxtaposed with plaintive and tender melody. The final movement harnesses these opposing forces and unites their energy in one of the most glorious symphonic melodies.
As I reflect back on my first season as Music Director, I am inspired by the joy, commitment, and camaraderie shared by the WSO musicians. As we look to the future, we look forward to exciting concerts, new collaborations, and opportunities to expand our impact within the Twin Cities community.
I would like to extend a sincere thank you to all of our donors, volunteers, and audience members. Your impact is vital for the success and mission of this organization. Thank you!
We cannot wait to see you next season!