Name: Haydn and Schubert
Start: 2022-07-28T19:30:00
Location: Sunset Center Theater

Nicholas McGegan

Carmel Bach Festival

Ricercar from the Musical Offering is a creative remastering, combining the work of two musical geniuses, two centuries apart. Webern writes music to fill in the blanks in Bach’s work, evoking a conversation between the two great composers, as if they’re discussing their divergent composition methods, each arguing their side with reciprocal respect and admiration. Webern presents a kaleidoscopic, 20th Century view of the Baroque in this arrangement. He was originally attracted to the idea of orchestrating this piece because Bach did not indicate on what instruments Bach wished the music to be performed.  Haydn’s Symphony No. 103 is nicknamed “Drum Roll” after the bold timpani solo which opens and concludes the first movement. The Romantic quality of Haydn’s later symphonies is showcased in the opening movement which takes the listener on a heroic journey complete with a full-orchestra fanfare at its close. The second movement depicts varied personalities in conversation, beginning with a discussion between low and high strings, each proposing their unique ideas and struggling to agree. They’re joined by the woodwinds and brass before a violin soloist takes the reins. The final movement returns to the joyful and triumphant spirit of the first movement for a satisfying full-circle conclusion. The Drum Roll was Haydn’s penultimate symphony and exemplifies his complete mastery of the form, yet also demonstrating that he was continuing to try new ideas.  Schubert’s Symphony No. 8, referred to as the “Unfinished Symphony,” is comprised of just two movements but has the magnitude of any full-length symphony. Composed six years before his death, this piece exemplifies Schubert’s imaginative and rebellious spirit as well as the depths of his emotional experience. The first movement contains a wealth of catchy, singable melodies that bloom with zest and power. In true Schubertian fashion, the spirit of the music can transform quickly, moving seamlessly from carefree to deeply passionate while harnessing the original melody to bind the movement together. The second movement highlights woodwind soloists in gorgeous displays of musical color before descending into flashes of intensity complete with powerful timpani. This piece offers a glimpse into Schubert’s soul as he bent the rules to fulfill his musical vision. The poignant first movement and sentimental second are as well integrated as any of Beethoven’s masterpieces.