Beethoven + Bartók

Beethoven began work on the Eighth in the summer of 1812, immediately after the completion of his Seventh Symphony. Martin Geck describes the Eighth as containing “all the relevant hallmarks, including motivic and thematic writing notable for its advanced planning, defiant counterpoint, furious cross-rhythms, sudden shifts from piano to forte, and idyllic and even hymnlike episodes.” The orchestra will then perform Bartok’s Concerto for Orchestra. This work combines elements of Western art music and Eastern European folk music, especially that of Hungary, and it departs from traditional tonality, often using non-traditional modes and artificial scales.

For the first time, ASO will play Béla Bartok’s Concerto for Orchestra. Bartók employs compositional practices idiomatic of the Classical period in the work; for instance, the first and fifth movements are written in sonata-allegro form. He interpolates Eastern European folk melodies, especially those of Hungary; however, the concerto departs from traditional tonality with manufactured scales and forays into surprising modal material.

Free benefit with every ticket:
Conductor’s Comments with Maestro Carlos Izcaray!

Conductor’s Comments is a unique opportunity to hear Carlos Izcaray provide insights to better understand and appreciate the selections you will hear and learn about the journey of the Symphony and artists working to make the performance come together. Join us at 6:15pm before the concert in the Reynolds-Kirschbaum Recital Hall (upper level, next to main doors) of the Alys Stephens Center.