DSO Concerto World Premiere Leads Metro Area Weekend Music Program

The Dallas Symphony Orchestra (DSO) brings its signature blend of music to the metro area. Based in historic Orchestra Hall, they present a varied schedule of classical, pops, family and jazz performances at venues across Dallas-Fort Worth.

World-class musicians power the DSO's community engagement, life-altering education and captivating programming which reach over 500,000 people annually! This season the orchestra is delighted to present three world premieres as well as an emphasis on music by people of color.

Mozart’s Turkish Violin Concerto

Mozart composed his fifth violin concerto when he was 19 years old, making it both one of his earliest works and among the earliest pieces written by an established professional composer. Additionally, it's considered one of Mozart's most daring and challenging compositions.

Though Mozart's initial four violin concertos follow a traditional Italian style, this work marks a departure from it. Vivaldi had introduced this form to Bach, but Mozart took it even further into thrilling new territory.

It begins with an adagio orchestral introduction that allows the violinist to enter and take up the tempo and mood of the music. After a brief pause, Mozart gives us one of his most unusual entrances for any instrument in any of his concertos: a sweet aria.

Next, a charming minuet-like rondo theme appears that recalls the sound of a Turkish band. This idea is repeated throughout the piece, even in its contrast section at the end.

This passage is more intense and exotic than the rest of the concerto, which was based on Western themes adapted for Turkish rhythms. Instead of using cymbals and rattles like other musicians were doing at that time, Mozart instructed his cello and double basses to strike their strings with wooden bows for authentic Turkish-style percussive effects.

After a brief recapitulation, the piece climaxes with an energetic Allegro that's as captivating as it is beautiful. This abrupt shift may surprise those familiar with Mozart's other violin concertos, which were usually more subtle and elegant in their pacing.

A second, equally captivating theme emerges. The music becomes increasingly complex, adding weight and coloration, until reaching its climactic climax in a fiery cadenza.

This is only the start of what the soloist will explore in this incredibly expressive and complex work. The Adagio follows, lasting much longer than other concerto slow movements; here Mozart takes his most daring approach to soloist-ensemble interaction. What results is an exquisite masterpiece of musical communication that audiences will never forget.

Capriol Suite

The Dallas Symphony will be giving this work of music its premiere performance. A stunning homage to classical music classics of yesteryear, it boasts several noteworthy elements. Aside from its title role, this concerto also features a host of talented soloists. Furthermore, this marks the first time this particular score has been performed by the DSO - an honorific feat for this venerable orchestra!

The Capriol Suite was a bit of a treat to discover in the DSO catalog, but it proved worth the wait. Starring as one of Warlock's finest works, this concerto has been adapted numerous times for ensembles both large and small. Although not as famous as some other works by Warlock, The Capriol still deserves to be heard; its place among musical greatness cannot be denied. A worthy addition to any symphony's repertory.

Sibelius’ Second Symphony

Sibelius' Second Symphony is one of his most renowned works, a powerful symphonic exploration that challenges style and emotion. Filled with sunny optimism, dark tensions and an inspiring conclusion, this work offers listeners an intensely personal symphonic journey.

The opening movement begins with a series of subtle beats that build to an intense dramatic climax that eventually fades away into silence. It is a moment that epitomizes Sibelius' unique blend of eerie and upliftment. The second movement echoes much of his earlier works, yet here it's replaced by Mediterranean light.

The Second is a timeless work of hope and inspiration, serving as an iconic monument to Finland's pride and perseverance. Its message resonates throughout people's hearts around the globe as a constant reminder of the value of perseverance.

This symphony is one of the iconic works in Western classical music and it continues to be performed by orchestras around the globe. This weekend, the Detroit Symphony Orchestra (DSO) will present a world premiere arrangement of Sibelius' Second Symphony for full orchestra - an exciting development!

Though the original work is relatively straightforward, this arrangement takes the score to another level by enabling musicians to hear each individual line and play it with maximum clarity. This will enable the DSO to perform the piece in smaller venues, providing a more intimate experience for audiences as well.

In addition to this mainstage performance, the DSO will present the work in a more relaxed setting on February 4 and April 8 as part of their Untuxed Series. This performance will be conducted by Danish conductor Thomas Sondergard - newly appointed music director designate of the Minnesota Orchestra.

On May 18, the DSO will present a special concert featuring guest conductor Hannu Lintu conducting Sibelius' Second Symphony alongside Beethoven's Leonore Overture No. 3 and Prokofiev's Sinfonia Concertante for Cello and Orchestra performed by German cellist Alban Gerhardt.

The Second Symphony is a staple of the repertoire and an inspiring example of how music can express a composer's personal vision. It encapsulates Finland's patriotism while also honoring hope and resilience during difficult times for the nation.

Romeo & Juliet

Romeo and Juliet, Shakespeare's classic tragedy about two star-crossed lovers, remains one of his most beloved and celebrated plays. For centuries, this tale of love and hate has captivated audiences around the world, inspiring artists to interpret it in unique ways.

The Dallas Symphony Orchestra presents Tchaikovsky's Fantasy-Overture after Shakespeare, a musical depiction of scenes from the play that tells the timeless tale of two young lovers who fall in love but can never be together due to their feuding families. The work begins quietly with a chant-like sound representing Friar Lawrence's calm presence before tension builds as Capulets and Montagues come to life. The fight theme is repeated throughout the music starting delicately with English horn and violas before returning with strings for added poignancy.

Tchaikovsky's score tells the tale of Romeo and Juliet through interwoven threads from Montagues to Capulets. The sublime harp arpeggios from Friar Laurence's chorale are intertwined into the piece as are passionate themes from Romeo and Juliet themselves.

On May 19-22, the DSO presents music by composers from around the world, including a concerto world premiere by Chickasaw composer Jerod Tate on May 19. Additionally, John Corigliano's Mr. Tambourine Man - a medley of songs based on Bob Dylan poems - and James Newton Howard's Violin Concerto will be performed by Canadian violinist James Ehnes.

The DSO will celebrate spring with a series of concerts that showcase the many instruments that compose its orchestra. On April 28-30, Principal Cellist Joe Reilly and his friends are hosting an exciting event for children to hear the sounds of these instruments in both an engaging and educational atmosphere.

This family-friendly event will feature the DSO's own children as performers. The concerts will offer an array of age-appropriate music and engaging activities that allow kids to have fun while exploring music through imaginative games and activities.

Jeff Tyzik, DSO Principal Pops Conductor, returns to lead the DSO in a season featuring classic rock and Broadway hits from March 31-April 2. Additionally, Cirque De La Symphonie's aerialists, contortionists and strongmen will perform (March 31-April 2); Great American Songbook featuring Broadway star Ashley Brown (Nov. 4-6); and Soul Unlimited with Ellis Hall in tribute to Marvin Gaye, Jackie Wilson, Ray Charles and more on June 16-18.