Front Row Reviewers

Utah Symphony Presents Stravinsky’s Beautiful Rite of Spring

Front Row Reviewers

Front Row Reviewers

By Amanda Berg Whittle

Rumor has it, the night Igor Stravinsky’s Rite of Spring premiered, a riot broke out because the piece was so emotionally intense and the subject so controversial. When the world class musicians of the Utah Symphony perform it, I guarantee it remains equally as intense, but I assure you, a riot will not ensue. Along with a balanced mixture of Classical period pieces and Neoclassical pieces, the talents of pianists Till Fellner and Jason Hardink, you will be sure to enjoy an elegant night out at the symphony.

Haydn and Mozart are both highly acclaimed composers from the Classical period. This is the era of music one usually thinks of when imagining “classical music.” The music from this era is somewhat predictable—simple rhythms, chords and arpeggios. Nonetheless, despite its predictability, each piece has its unique aspects. Haydn’s Symphony No. 10 is a calming, lovely piece of music. It makes one feel as though they are enjoying a peaceful walk in the park. This contradicts Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 20 greatly, as this piece has various movements with different emotions attached to each. At one moment, Fellner is playing slowly and dramatically with wide eyes and extreme emotion, and the next: his fingers are moving so quickly and mechanically even someone standing three feet away cannot see his hands. This versatility is a necessity when playing Mozart, and Fellner expresses this beautifully. I always appreciate when conductors such as Thierry Fischer trust their enormously talented concerto soloists, and allow them to take the lead while adding their own special twists to the pieces. When this happens—the conductor and soloist make a cohesive team and the orchestra is full of talented musicians–magic is made.

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The second half of the concert consists of Neoclassical music by Messiaen and Stravinsky. Messiaen’s “The white-browed robin-chat” from Des canyons aux étoiles is a perfect segue into Stravinsky’s Rite of Spring but is a good enough piece Stravinsky’s piece does not overshadow it. Pianist Jason Hardink is the star of the second act—though the piece may seem disorganized or sporadic, it is the opposite, and Hardink is able to play the piece exactly as Messiaen intends. If you can, before seeing this piece, go on Youtube and listen to the white-browed robin-chat’s song. It is a beautiful bird with a unique song that is the inspiration for the piece. After you do this, you will be able to understand the methods to Messiaen’s madness. The title piece, Rite of Spring, is a very well-known and powerful piece.  Originally a ballet, it tells the story of a young girl chosen to be a human sacrifice who dances until her imminent demise. Having premiered in 1913, one can surely understand why this piece was controversial. It is animalistic, ritualistic, and incredibly robust. Music from this era is not necessarily what society traditionally would consider “beautiful;” is not melodic, flowing, or smooth like a piece by Chopin. As such, it is often considered to be an “acquired taste,” one which I did not have initially, but as I have listened to this music more, I have grown to enjoy it.

Music of different genres and eras are all unique, yet they are powerful in their own ways. I love when repertoires are chosen that combine different styles of music, as it keeps the performance interesting, and the audience on the edges of their seats. Yes, classical music can be just as exciting as the new superhero movie. Once you understand the genius behind its creation, it will become a fun and exciting experience. If you are seeking a unique musical experience, come see the Utah Symphony perform Rite of Spring Friday and Saturday night, November 22 and 23 at Abravanel Hall in Salt Lake City.

Utah Symphony presents Igor Stravinsky’s Rite of Spring.
Abravanel Hall, 123 West South Temple, Salt Lake City, Utah 84101
November 22-23, 2019 7:30 PM
Tickets: $20-$90
Utah Symphony Facebook Page
Rite of Spring Facebook Event

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