Pacific Symphony Unveils The Sublime Beauty Of Beethoven's EMPEROR

Considered one of the greatest pianists of the 20th century and a perennial favorite of Pacific Symphony, André Watts returns to the stage with one of Beethoven's most beloved works-his Fifth Piano Concerto, "Emperor." A work prized for its serene and tender second movement, Beethoven's last piano concerto is a testament to the composer's emotional range. From sheer beauty to dazzling grandeur, the "Emperor" requires extreme virtuosity from its soloist, making it an ideal centerpiece in the hands of the talented Watts. Complementing the evening is Shostakovich's electrifying Symphony No. 10, full of tragedy, terror and-ultimately-triumph, when the orchestra, led by Music Director Carl St.Clair, delivers an unforgettable night of deeply contrasting music.

"Watts Plays Beethoven" includes image magnification during the performance to enhance the experience and provide a closer look at the artists at work. The concert takes place Thursday through Saturday, May 3-5, at 8 p.m. in the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall. Tickets are $35-$126. A preview talk with Alan Chapman begins at 7 p.m. For more information or to purchase tickets, call (714) 755-5799 or visit PacificSymphony.org.

"André is an American treasure as an artist and musical ambassador," says Maestro St.Clair. "What a joy and honor to perform with him. He has never stopped searching or finding deeper and deeper meaning in all the repertoire he performs. This, combined with his virtuosity and vast experience, makes him the consummate musician we all know him to be. We have performed Beethoven's Third and Fourth Piano Concertos together in past seasons. So, I thought why not do the 'Emperor?' Lastly, we are dear friends with mutual trust and respect for one another's musicianship. This is a rare gift in our musical world."