Palm Beach Symphony, under the baton of Music Director Gerard Schwarz, hosted renowned violinist Gil Shaham for a performance of Ludwig van Beethoven’s Violin Concerto in D Major, Op. 61 on February 6. The concert, part of the Masterworks Series, took place at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts and was made possible by the generous support of Ari Rifkin/The Len-Ari Foundation.
Beethoven’s only violin concerto, composed between 1804 and 1806 during a period of personal turmoil and profound deafness, revolutionized the concerto form. Its opening five timpani notes broke away from traditional norms, ushering in new possibilities for orchestral writing. The work, deeply influenced by Enlightenment ideals, demonstrates Beethoven’s desire to elevate music to unprecedented heights. From the very first solo violin note, the concerto transports listeners into the Romantic era, with a novel approach that allows the soloist to shine with newfound depth and brilliance.
Gil Shaham, one of the foremost violinists of today, brought this exceptional work to life. Known for his flawless technique and unique warmth, Shaham has earned worldwide acclaim for his concerto performances. “I’ve known Gil Shaham since his student days in New York, and I’ve had the pleasure of working with him for many years,” said Maestro Schwarz. “He is truly one of the great violinists of his generation. His performances are always thoughtful, sincere, and marked by a deep musical understanding.”
Shaham regularly performs around the world, gracing the stages of the most prestigious concert halls and festivals. Recent highlights include his acclaimed recordings and performances of J.S. Bach’s complete Sonatas and Partitas for Solo Violin, as well as recitals with his long-time duo partner, pianist Akira Eguchi. Shaham has appeared with major orchestras such as the Berlin Philharmonic, Boston Symphony, Chicago Symphony, and Israel Philharmonic, among others. With over two dozen concerto and solo recordings, Shaham has earned multiple GRAMMY Awards and other prestigious honors. His 2016 album 1930s Violin Concertos Vol. 2 and his 2021 recording of Beethoven and Brahms Concertos with The Knights were both nominated for GRAMMYs.
The program also featured Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No. 1 in D Major, known as Titan. A monumental work in Mahler’s early career, Titan is celebrated as one of the most original First Symphonies in music history. Its powerful orchestration and programmatic elements take listeners on a journey, from a pastoral opening to a joyous dance, culminating in an exuberant finale that reflects Mahler’s fascination with existentialism, childhood experiences, and his exposure to philosophical and literary works.
“Mahler’s First Symphony is filled with folk music, beautiful melodies, and nature sounds,” explained Maestro Schwarz. “The flute evokes the sound of birds, while the brass calls to mind a Klezmer band. The audience was enveloped in this powerful and moving music.”
Mahler first conducted the symphony’s premiere in 1889 with the Budapest Philharmonic. His career, largely shaped by his summers spent composing, contrasted with his winters spent conducting major orchestras worldwide. The symphony, influenced by Beethoven, highlights the vast scope and evolution of the orchestra, showcasing the grandeur and potential of orchestral music at its peak.
Mahler’s First Symphony underwent several transformations, initially called a “Symphonic Poem” before being renamed Titan. Over time, the work shed its movement titles and descriptions, embracing a more abstract presentation. Maestro Schwarz shared, “Mahler believed that the music should speak for itself. He didn’t want extraneous titles to influence the audience’s interpretation. I appreciate that approach because it allows listeners to form their own personal connection with the music.”
The evening also featured a pre-concert performance by the Bak Middle School of the Arts string ensemble, directed by Nancy Beebe.
The Palm Beach Symphony’s Masterworks Series continues at the Kravis Center with upcoming performances by Garrick Ohlsson (March 2), Anne-Marie McDermott (April 8), and a special encore concert with Kevin Kenner (May 19).
Additionally, the Symphony will host Lunch and Learn events on April 3 and May 15. These informal gatherings, hosted by Maestro Schwarz, will offer guests an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the Symphony’s concert preparations and provide insights into the upcoming performances. Tickets for these events are $125, and complimentary valet parking will be provided.
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