It is hard to imagine this iconic symphonic piece of music is a mere 201 years old because its perfection is timeless. It has transformed listeners time and time again through its presentation, ranging from the sublime classical original to the head-scratching (but oddly popular) 70s disco.
Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5 is often referred to by music historians as one of the most triumphant of all symphonies, evident by the delivery of the first four notes that are also ironically the Morse code sequence for “V” as in “Victory.”
When the Grand Rapids Symphony, under the director of Conductor David Lockington and accompanied by guest pianist Terrence Wilson, unleashes the four notes, a heroic tonality will fill the auditorium throughout the four movements, and listeners will be bathed in one of the greatest works of art of all time.
But it was not always this way from the start. The Fifth has gone through many rough spells from the very first performance. The premiere had to be restarted when the frustrated did not like the way it sounded when a musician botched the Choral Fantasy.
And don’t get me started as to what the Victorians did to Beethoven’s music, weighing it down with sugary embellishments and overly sentimental rhythms. It is nice to see that the contemporary conductors have favored embracing the earlier scores in many recent recordings, which highlight its bold unification form.
There has never been a better time to jump in with both feet and try something new as the Grand Rapids Symphony is offering wristband holders of ArtPrize 30% off the price the ticket price. The only catch is you cannot purchase this ticket until 1-hour prior to the concert.
Also on the program is Bernstein's popular Overture to Candide and Redline Tango by contemporary composer John Mackey.
Admission: $18 – 90.
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