When I first started listening to classical music, my favorite composer was Mozart. I think much of his music is light, airy, and beautiful; easily accessible for a beginner. When I became a bit more knowledgeable about classical music my taste grew more sophisticated. I became a fan of the Russian composers because, to me, their music is so passionate. Luckily last night's Utah Symphony concert featured two of my favorites: Tchaikovsky and Rachmaninoff! Let me tell you, I was definitely ready for a relaxing evening listening to beautiful music! The orchestra began with Carl Nielsen's Symphony No. 6, which concluded the Nielsen Symphony Cycle. I have enjoyed getting to know a composer I was unfamiliar with this season and I particularly enjoyed this piece because it prominently featured the woodwind section (I played the clarinet in school). Next the orchestra played Tchaikovsky's Rococo Variations, featuring Matthew Zalkind on solo cello (Zalkind is the son of two current Utah Symphony members). I thought he was amazing. Towards the end of the piece, the solo cello played a theme (echoed by the clarinet) that was so hauntingly beautiful I held my breath! I think Tchaikovsky's music is so emotional. The concert concluded with Rachmaninoff's Symphonic Dances and I absolutely loved this piece. In my opinion it is very evocative of Russia and, once again, it heightened my anticipation for a trip to Russia this summer. I also really enjoyed all of the percussion in this piece. This concert was a wonderful conclusion to a very enjoyable 2013-2014 season and a lovely start to the long Memorial Day weekend.
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