VFCO / NIKOLAJ SZEPS-ZNAIDER
An emblematic work of Brahms’ genius, the Double Concerto captivates with its richness and virtuosity, here brought to life by the bows of Janine Jansen and Daniel Blendulf. Then comes another Romantic masterpiece, conducted by the charismatic Nikolaj Znaider: Schumann’s Rhenish Symphony, composed in tribute to German heritage.
Programme
FELIX MENDELSSOHN (1809-1847)
Overture to Ruy Blas Op. 95
JOHANNES BRAHMS (1833-1897)
Double Concerto in A minor Op. 102
Interval
ROBERT SCHUMANN (1810-1856)
Symphony No. 3 in E-flat major Op. 97 “Rhenish”
Distribution
- VERBIER FESTIVAL CHAMBER ORCHESTRA
- Nikolaj Szeps-Znaider conductor
- Janine Jansen violin
- Daniel Blendulf cello
And to think that the only reason the ‘Ruy Blas’ Overture saw the light of day was… pride! Mendelssohn, who had been commissioned to write this Overture, had at first politely refused, not appreciating Victor Hugo’s text. The commissioners, arguing that it was due to lack of time, suggested that Mendelssohn postpone the commission until next year… and the composer, stung, set to work and wrote the piece in three days! The speed of the writing process is reflected in the piece, which displays a typically Mozartian vivacity.
Brahms’s ‘Double-Concerto’, on the other hand, takes the time to introduce each of its protagonists in cadential episodes, before contrasting them or bringing them together with a pomp and mastery of which only Brahms had the secret.
In contrast to ‘Ruy-Blas’, Schumann’s ‘Rhenish’ Symphony took ten years to complete. With its rare five-movement structure, its title is a tribute to Germany’s heritage: witness the slow movement built on a chorale in homage to Cologne Cathedral.