Scandinavian Evening: Thursday, August 7
Conductor: Maestro Rune Bergmann
Carl Nielsen: Overture to Maskarade
Edvard Grieg: Concerto for Piano, Op. 16 with piano soloist Avery Gagliano
Sibelius: Symphony No. 5
Immerse yourself in the rich musical landscapes of Scandinavia with an evening of passion, power, and breathtaking beauty. Featuring acclaimed pianist Avery Gagliano, this electrifying program, led by Maestro Rune Bergmann, highlights the energetic charm of Carl Nielsen, the soaring Romanticism of Edvard Grieg, and the sweeping grandeur of Jean Sibelius—culminating in a night of unforgettable symphonic splendor. This captivating program showcases the distinctive voices of Nordic composers, whose works evoke the dramatic fjords, mystical forests, and dancing northern lights of Scandinavia.
The journey begins with Nielsen’s Overture to Maskarade, a lively and exuberant gem bursting with wit, drama, and festive energy. This effervescent piece brims with playful melodies and vibrant orchestral colors, setting the perfect tone for an evening of Nordic brilliance.
At the heart of the program, Avery Gagliano takes center stage for Grieg’s beloved Concerto for Piano, Op. 16. From its thunderous opening chords to its dazzling finale, this concerto is a tour de force of sweeping melodies and virtuosic brilliance. Infused with the spirit of Norwegian folk music, its lyrical beauty and dramatic flair make it one of the most cherished works in the repertoire. Celebrated as “a distinctive young talent” (International Piano) and recognized for interpretations with great emotional depth and a “distinctly narrative approach” (Miami International Piano Festival), Gagliano brings this masterpiece to life with breathtaking artistry. Having first risen to international acclaim as the winner of the First Prize and Best Concerto Prize at the 2020 National Chopin Piano Competition, she promises a performance that will leave audiences spellbound. Her interpretations of Chopin have been hailed as “revelatory” (New York Classical Review), and her profound musical insights connect deeply with audiences.
The evening concludes with Sibelius’ Symphony No. 5, transporting listeners to the vast, primeval landscapes of Finland with its sweeping melodies and nature-inspired themes. This majestic masterpiece builds from a stirring, ethereal opening to one of the most exhilarating finales in orchestral music. The triumphant finale, with its famous “swan theme” inspired by Sibelius’ observation of sixteen swans in flight, creates one of classical music’s most transcendent moments—a fitting conclusion to an evening of Nordic splendor.
With its blend of fiery virtuosity, folk-inspired melodies, and sweeping symphonic grandeur, Scandinavian Evening is a must-see event for classical music lovers.
