MUSIC

On February 2, Music Director Hans Graf and the Houston Symphony bring a free performance of Anton Bruckner’s extraordinary Ninth Symphony to the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart. This occasion marks the third performance that the orchestra has given at the cathedral; the first of which was in May 2008 as one of the events tied to the newly-built cathedral’s opening ceremonies. This performance is free and will be general admission only.

Symphony No. 9 is the final symphony written by Bruckner dedicated "To God the Beloved." Bruckner did not live to see the completion of his work, which makes the dramatic third movement titled "A Farewell to Life" even more poignant.

Houston Symphony Music Director Hans Graf (pictured) is recognized as a leading interpreter of Bruckner’s music. Performing outside of Jones Hall is not uncommon, but Graf holds special anticipation for this performance in this venue. "A concert hall is usually seen as the only venue for the presentation of classical music,” said Graf. “Yet there is music which aims beyond the ‘normal’ concert experience. Some music is transcendent, especially Bruckner's Symphonies, which seem to reach their full range of majestic beauty in the immensity of a sacral room - like in a cathedral. We will have an unforgettable experience at our concert at the impressive and beautiful Co-Cathedral and we are grateful to be given this opportunity."

The Houston Symphony regularly partners with neighboring organizations and is an enthusiastic supporter of bringing classical music outside of the concert hall and into all corners of the Houston community. “One of our main goals is to be an exciting community partner by performing great music around the city,” said Houston Symphony General Manager Steve Brosvik. “This is our third opportunity to perform a free concert at the Co-Cathedral. We feel honored and look forward to bringing this incredible symphonic work to this magnificent and inspiring space that will enhance the performance. It will be a concert that listeners will not want to miss.”

For more information on this performance, please contact the Houston Symphony Patron Service Center at (713) 224-7575 Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. You may also visit the Co-Cathedral’s web site at www.sacredhearthouston.org.  

The Houston Symphony would like to thank media sponsors for this concert: KUHF/KUHA Houston Public Radio and the Houston Chronicle.