The Rite of Spring

I always look forward to attending a Utah Symphony concert but I was particularly happy to be at Abravanel Hall last night after a long and difficult week.  I really needed something to take away my stress and last night's performance did not disappoint!  A small chamber group performed Symphony No. 10 by Joseph Haydn while standing (it looks so cool when the musicians play standing up).  This piece is light and effervescent and I especially enjoyed the finale because it really gets going.  Next the full orchestra was joined by pianist Till Fellner for Piano Concerto No. 20 by Mozart, my favorite composer.  I became enchanted with Mozart after watching the movie Amadeus when I was in high school and listening to him was my first introduction to classical music.  I especially love this piece (it is rumored to be one of Mozart's favorites as well) and I added this concert to my season package just so that I could hear it.  The second movement is absolutely beautiful (it is featured during the end credits of Amadeus) with a melody played by the solo piano that is so tender and romantic.  In addition to the beautiful melodies that Mozart is known for, I think this piece is also a bit moody and tempestuous, especially in the restless third movement.  I loved Fellner's performance because, in my mind, his tempo was absolutely perfect (many soloists have a tendency to rush the second movement).  After the intermission, the orchestra performed The Rite of Spring by Igor Stravinsky and it was epic!  It is rumored that a riot broke out during its premiere and I certainly understand why!  The music depicts a pagan ritual involving the sacrifice of a virgin who dances herself to death and, oh my goodness, it is so frenzied!  I loved it, especially the dramatic themes played by the strings in unison, the fanfares played by the brass, and the wild timpani (I enjoy watching Eric Hopkins play and during this piece it seemed like he was in constant motion).  This will probably end up being one of my favorite concerts of the season so I definitely recommend getting a ticket (go here) to tonight's performance of the same program.  You'll think me later!