MUSIC

The Houston Symphony and the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion present Chopin & Tchaikovsky, Friday, September 18, 2009, at 8:00 PM.

The Houston Symphony's performance of Chopin & Tchaikovsky September 18 showcases the classical side of orchestral music. Maestro Graf conducts the world-renowned symphony in an evening showcasing three masters of classical music: Schuman, Chopin and Tchaikovsky. Ingrid Fliter (pictured) accompanies the symphony on the piano.

William Schuman’s broad musical interests ranged from his own jazz band and the school orchestra to family evenings singing operettas and musical comedy. On his own, he wrote some original popular songs. One of his works, “Showcase, A Short Display for Orchestra,” was written on commission for the Houston Symphony in 1986. Chopin’s Piano Concerto No. 2 was composed in 1830. The main theme of the final movement, as introduced by the piano, is classic Chopin - a delicate and yearningly poignant melody reminiscent of some of his mazurkas.

For the finale Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 5 was composed in 1888 and was first performed in St. Petersburg the same year with Tchaikovsky conducting. The theme of the music has a gloomy start in the first movement, but gradually transforms into a triumphant march. Hear these masterworks expertly performed by the Houston Symphony.
 

Hear these masterworks expertly performed by the Houston Symphony. Pre-concert activities start at 7:00 PM. At Chopin & Tchaikovsky, Woodlands Online, Woodforest National Bank with Barkley and Audi of America are on hand for lots of fun. At both events, children can explore the world of musical instruments with The Pavilion Partners’ popular Instrument Petting Zoo, sponsored by Music & Arts, with a special zoo featuring keyboards for Chopin & Tchaikovsky. Partners arts and crafts gets kids in touch with their artistic side. Guests also can register-to-win Tommy Bahama’s “Best Seats in the House.” All pre-concert festivities are free to anyone attending the performances.

Orchestra Seating $15
Free Mezzanine and General Admission Lawn Seating courtesy of National Endowment for the Arts.