MUSIC

The Houston Symphony presents Vivaldi's Four Seasons Saturday, November 26 at 7:30PM in Jones Hall.

Delve into the meaning and context of this beloved musical work through a stunning visual and musical presentation. The first half of the program will offer a multimedia examination of the Four Seasons-sharing the illuminating stories found "inside" the music- followed by a full performance by the Houston Symphony with Associate Concertmaster Eric Halen (pictured).

Recognized by the Houston Chronicle as a Houston favorite, Houston Symphony Associate Concertmaster Eric Halen’s violin playing has been described by critics as “sterling”, and “tenderly expressive and dramatic”. A review in the Chicago Sun-Times of the Houston Symphony Chamber Players Ravinia Festival performance of Messiaen’s “Quartet for the End of Time” states, “…as the final, sustained tone of Eric Halen’s violin faded to close… there was no doubt that the evening had offered the best kind of virtuosity”.

Eric Halen joined the Houston Symphony as Assistant Concertmaster in 1987. In 1997, he assumed the position of Associate Concertmaster and served as Acting Concertmaster for the 2005-06; 2008-09; and 2009-10 seasons. Eric grew up in a family of violinists. His parents were both professionals, and his brother David is Concertmaster of the Saint Louis Symphony. After earning his bachelor’s degree at Central Missouri State University where he studied violin with his father, Dr. Walter Halen, he received his master’s degree at the age of 20 from the University of Illinois, while studying with Sergiu Luca. At age 23, he became artist-teacher of violin at Texas Christian University. Mr. Halen has performed in solo and chamber music programs in the U.S. and abroad, including solo appearances with the St. Louis and Houston Symphonies.