Schoenberg and Beethoven Masterworks

The Florida Orchestra and the Master Chorale of Tampa Bay will perform Arnold Schoenberg’s “Friede Auf Erde” (Peace on Earth) and Ludwig Van Beethoven’s “Symphony No. 9 in D minor, Op. 125” in the Tampa Bay Area from February 25 – 27, 2011. Conducted by Stefan Sanderling, this concert also features Jonita Lattimore, soprano, Frances Pappas, mezzo-soprano, Steven Tharp, tenor, and Richard Zeller, baritone.

“Friede Auf Erde”, composed in 1907, shows Schoenber’g apparent leanings into atonality although not quite yet. Personally, I think it has more of a Wagnerian and Mahler influence with a longing to break away from it. Though seemingly transitory in musical taste, it still represents a genuine style like no other. At rehearsals, I thought I was going to hate this piece – I was mistaken.

The epic “Symphony No. 9 in D minor” is a must-hear as it is one of the greatest music ever composed. Known as the “Choral Symphony”, this late Beethoven composition uses Friedrich Schiller’s poem, “Ode to Joy” in the last movement, complete with vocal soloists and choir.

I’m pretty excited about these pieces! You should be excited to watch them too!

Fri, Feb 25, 2011 at 8:00 PM
Carol Morsani Hall – David A. Straz Center for the Performing Arts
Tampa, FL

Sat, Feb 26, 2011 at 8:00 PM
Mahaffey Theater
St. Petersburg, FL

Sun, Feb 27, 2011 at 7:30 PM
Ruth Eckerd Hall
Clearwater, FL

You can buy your tickets here or call the Florida Orchestra Box Office at (727) 892-3337 or (800) 662-7286