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Crescendo Ignace "Iggy" Jang |
Canadian pianist infuses
vitality into Beethoven
concertoThe marriage between a piano and symphony is said to be made in heaven. The distinct sonorities complement each other, and seldom do the voices of the orchestra subdue this single yet powerful instrument. This weekend, I invite everyone to experience this blissful union with a captivating performance of Beethoven's First Piano Concerto.
Making her Honolulu debut will be Canadian pianist Jane Coop, an established artist who is much in demand these days. Her performances bring vitality and clarity to the music, giving it many colorful inflections. A Montreal critic once described her talent as "possessing an extra something that lets a pianist become a poet." This certain "je ne sais quoi" will be yours to appreciate when her magical touch caresses the keyboard.
'The 3 Bs'
Honolulu Symphony Halekulani MasterWorks concert features pianist Jane Coop, violist Mark Butin and Samuel Wong conducting:In concert: 8 p.m. Friday and 4 p.m. Sunday
Place: Blaisdell Concert Hall
Tickets: $16, $28, $33, $44 and $59
Call: 792-2000, or Ticketmaster at 877-750-4400
Written in the late 18th century, the concerto begins with an orchestral introduction that reveals the basic thematic material. In those days it was common practice for composers to write such initial statements. Soloists would join in quietly, giving their cold fingers a chance to warm up before the grand entrance.
Times have changed, and these days, pianists sit on their bench as the excitement builds and prologue develops. Perhaps some pianists wish that they could begin with the orchestra. Like a boxer ready to throw the first punch at the ring of the bell, it's probably a lot easier to get in the thick of things from the get-go. But Coop is a seasoned veteran and, like a champion, knows how to assert herself no matter what the situation -- or timing -- presents. She's ready to shine in this work, which offers "memorable melodies that bear the recognizable stamp of Beethoven's originality."
Pianist Jane Coop and violist Mark Butin will perform with the Honolulu Symphony Orchestra.
This weekend, we'll also explore another fascinating partnership in these concerts that celebrate three Bs of classical music: Brahms, Beethoven and Berlioz. And, we'll add our very own B to this illustrious list when Honolulu Symphony principal violist Mark Butin plays the central role in Berlioz's "Harold in Italy." The viola is the tenor of the modern violin family and is showcased magnificently in this piece.
"Harold in Italy," inspired by an English poem and written by a French composer for an Italian violinist who refused to perform it, was presented for the first time on Nov. 23, 1834, in Paris. Berlioz defined it as "a series of scenes for orchestra in which the solo instrument is involved as a more or less active character." Although the title refers to "Childe Harold's Pilgrimage" by the English poet Lord Byron, the piece illustrates the composer's own adventures through Italy.
Harold's journey takes him to the Alpine Abruzzi Mountains, where he meets a variety of unique personalities. While encounters with marching pilgrims and an Italian highlander bring happiness, he remains an observer, unaffected as he wanders from place to place. Translated into music, Harold's theme is interpreted by the viola as a melodic line that is altered throughout the piece. Berlioz called this device an "idée fixe," or fixed idea. When the wine, blood, joy and rage of the finale become too much for Haroldto handle, the violist abandons the tumultuous orchestral dialogue, self-absorbed in his melancholy dreams.
This finale, which showcases the orchestra, didn't sit well with Berlioz's original soloist, the incomparable violinist Niccolo Paganini. Equally masterful at the viola, Paganini encouraged Berlioz to compose this piece for the viola so he could perform it on his beautiful Stradivarius.
As often happens with strong egos, composer and musician clashed. The proud Berlioz wasn't about to let "Harold in Italy" be upstaged by a soloist. Paganini, on the other hand, had been mesmerizing audiences with his incredible skills and haunting persona for years. He claimed that he had to be playing all the time and that the hero's meditative character and taking a back seat to the orchestra had no appeal to him. Always the star, Paganini wasn't keen on performing a work that didn't feature him exclusively and left Paris before Berlioz completed the work.
Rumor has it that this Italian musician made a pact with the devil, selling his soul in exchange for extraordinary prowess. Paganini's lanky silhouette and piercing eyes fed this rumor, and it became legend.
I can safely say that no ego wars will be waged this weekend. Musician and pilot Butin (a commercial aviator and certified flight instructor) brings much dreamy melancholy to the music while fusing it with his never-ending supply of enthusiasm. "Harold in Italy" is an exclusive opportunity to appreciate the unique tonal qualities of the viola and enjoy this beautiful masterwork of the repertoire.
Join for a showcase of great classical music -- Brahms, Beethoven and Berlioz await!
Ignace "Iggy" Jang is the Honolulu Symphony's concertmaster. His column will appear on the Monday prior to each concert of the season to illuminate works to be performed. E-mail comments and questions to Jang at suggestions@honolulusymphony.com
