The Utah Symphony Plays Mendelssohn's 'Italian Symphony' 2/8 & 9

The Utah Symphony and Music Director Thierry Fischer will transport listeners to the streets of Italy with Mendelssohn's Symphony No. 4 "Italian."

The orchestra will also perform "In the South" by Edward Elgar and Stravinsky's Concerto in D major for violin, featuring internationally renowned violinist Baiba Skride, February 8 and 9 at 8 p.m. in Abravanel Hall.

With all of its charms, architecture and art, Italy has enchanted and inspired many artists and composers, including German composer Felix Mendelssohn and English composer Edward Elgar.

Mendelssohn spent a year passing through Venice, Florence, Rome, and Naples before he returned home. He spent his time painting watercolors, however, the open vistas, religious gravity and mighty architecture of Italy is more fully portrayed in his music. His Symphony No. 4 reflects a sunny and bright Italian summer day.

Elgar received inspiration for "In The South," considered a tone poem, while passing through the Italian town Alassio. The piece evokes the charm of the coastal town with mood-shifting and colorful tones.

Stravinsky's Concerto in D major reveals what he called his "passport chord." While writing the piece, he was unsure of whether the desired chord could be played on the violin, but discovered that it was possible for the most talented of violinists to do. The chord is the declarative opening of each movement of the concerto. Skride will solo with the orchestra on this piece.

Fischer and Toby Tolokan, Utah Symphony Vice President of Artistic Planning, will present a free pre-concert chat each night, one hour prior to the start of the performance on the orchestra level of Abravanel Hall.
Single tickets for the performances range from $18 to $53 and can be purchased by calling (801) 355-ARTS (2787), in person at the Abravanel Hall ticket office (123 W. South Temple) or by visiting www.utahsymphony.org. Season ticket holders and those desiring group discounts should call (801) 533- NOTE (6683). All ticket prices are subject to change and availability. Ticket prices will increase $5 when purchased on the day of the performance.