By Jonews Reporter
THE Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra's second season of the year presents a varied and exciting line-up, with regard to both programme and artists.
A solo double bass will be played by another acclaimed overseas-based South African musician, Leon Bosch, who will interpret Koussevitzky's Double Bass Concerto in F Sharp Minor and will also perform a virtuosic solo on June 4 and 5. In addition, Michael Hankinson will conduct the orchestra in Weber's Oberon Overture and Rachmaninov's Symphony Number Three.
Some of the most popular classical pieces comprise the final week's performances with Beethoven's overtures and Rachmaninov's piano concertos always attracting a wide audience. The soloist is Nina Schumann who will play Rachmaninov's bold and passionate Piano Concerto Number Four before she jets out to perform in Europe.
The JPO, conducted by Bernard Gueller, will also perform Beethoven's Overture to Fidelio and Mussorgsky's Pictures at an Exhibition, an extremely popular piece which is not often played and features a large percussion section and a saxophone which is seldom used in symphonic works. These performances take place on June 11 and 12.
The final week is a big bang All-American affair. Bernstein's "Candide Overture" is fast, loud and fun and Gershwin's Piano Concerto is an exciting mix of classical and jazzy and will be played by Israeli soloist Aviram Reichert who is extremely popular with JPO audiences.
Finally, the beautiful Dvoøák New World Symphony conducted by Bernard Gueller will be performed as the final piece of the season on June 18 and 19. This piece, which evokes American folk themes and longing, was selected to play last so that it falls closest to the US's Independence Day.
All performances are held at the Linder Auditorium, JCE, 27 St Andrews Road, Parktown, at 8pm on Wednesday and Thursday evenings.
For further information please email the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra, visit their web site or telephone them at (011) 789 2733.
