Alexandria Symphony Presents Dvořák, Elgar and Boulanger
Posted Oct 10, 2019 | ASO News, Press Releases,
Alexandria, VA—The Alexandria Symphony Orchestra continues its 2019-2020 Season on Saturday, November 16, 2019 (8:00 p.m.) and Sunday, November 17, 2019 (3:00 p.m.), under the direction of Maestro James Ross. In his second year as Music Director with the ASO, Ross endeavors to feature forgotten voices in the concert hall and present symphonic music in unconventional and creative ways.
“Together we are exploring what vitality an orchestra can bring to our community,” says Maestro Ross. “Although we are dead serious about orchestral music and its much-needed humanizing impact in today’s world, we’re not afraid of surprises and presenting concerts that are both fun and moving.”
Opening November’s program, the ASO welcomes singers from the Alexandria Choral Society and Fairfax Choral Society for Lili Boulanger’s Old Buddhist Prayer. “The piece is a prayer for the whole world for all creatures to coexist,” says Ross. Lili may be less famous than her sister Nadia, but in her short life—she only lived to age 24—she wrote many acclaimed works. She was the first woman to win the Prix de Rome for composition in 1913.
Cellist Wolfgang Schmidt headlines the performances with Elgar Cello Concerto in E minor. One of Elgar’s last major works, the concerto is melancholy, backward-looking and soulful. “Wolfgang exudes joy and musical sensitivity,” says Ross. “He is deeply attracted to nostalgic pieces that require inward reflection. The audience will connect with that intensity.” All patrons attending on Saturday are invited to attend a free pre-concert chat at 7:00 p.m. with Maestro Ross and Wolfgang Schmidt.
On the second half, the ASO presents Dvořák’s Symphony No. 8 in G major. Composed before Dvořák’s epic move to the new world and his Symphony No. 9, the Eighth Symphony is warm and optimistic. “Dvořák’s Eighth is full of sunshine, parables, folk dance, forest and perfectly-orchestrated storytelling,” says Ross.
Single-ticket prices range from $20 to $85 for adults, $5 for youth and $10 for students. Military, senior and group discounts are also available.
