November Concerts Featuring Farrenc and Beethoven
Delmarva Peninsula – The Mid-Atlantic Symphony Orchestra (MSO) is excited to announce its upcoming November concerts, featuring a captivating program of classical masterpieces. Concertgoers will experience Louise Farrenc’s Overtures No. 1 in E-flat Major and No. 2 in E Major, alongside Ludwig van Beethoven’s celebrated Symphony No. 1 in C Major and Symphony No. 5.
Performances will take place on Friday, November 8, 2024, at 7 PM at Epworth United Methodist Church in Rehoboth Beach, DE, and the following day, Saturday, November 9, 2024, at 3 PM at the Performing Arts Center in Ocean City, MD. The concert series will conclude on Sunday, November 10, 2024, at 3 PM at the Todd Performing Arts Center in Wye Mills, MD.
Louise Farrenc (1804-1875) was a pioneering French composer and virtuoso pianist, recognized during her lifetime as a leading figure in the musical landscape of her era. She made history as the first woman to hold a position as Professor of Piano Performance at the Conservatoire de Paris. Although her remarkable contributions to music faded into obscurity, the Mid-Atlantic Symphony Orchestra is proud to perform her Overtures No. 1 and No. 2. Each overture features a striking adagio introduction, followed by vibrant allegro sections that showcase Farrenc’s unique thematic development and energy.
In addition to Farrenc’s works, the symphony will present Beethoven’s Symphony No. 1 and Symphony No. 5. Symphony No. 1 marks the composer’s emergence in Vienna. Completed in 1800, this symphony exhibits a light-hearted charm, blending traditional classical elements with Beethoven’s innovative spirit. The work features playful motifs and demonstrates Beethoven’s burgeoning harmonic explorations, offering a glimpse into the genius that would redefine the symphonic form.
Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5 is one of the most iconic works in classical music, known for its powerful four-note motif that opens the first movement. Completed in 1808, this symphony showcases Beethoven’s spirit, blending rhythmic vitality with dramatic tension. The work, a hallmark of coherence and economy, explores the full expressive potential of its simple musical ideas, ultimately transforming the symphonic landscape.
The Mid-Atlantic Symphony invites audiences of all ages to come and enjoy a performance of orchestral music, celebrating both the pioneering spirit of Louise Farrenc and the genius of Ludwig van Beethoven.
ABOUT THE MID-ATLANTIC SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
The Mid-Atlantic Symphony Orchestra (MSO) is the only professional symphony orchestra serving southern Delaware and Maryland’s Eastern Shore with a full season of programs. The MSO is supported in part by the Maryland State Arts Council; the Talbot County Arts Council; the Worcester County Arts Council; the Sussex County, Delaware Council; and the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore, Inc.
A complete schedule of the 2024-2025 season’s Masterworks and Ensembles programs, venues, times, and other information is available at www.midatlanticsymphony.org.