March 23, 2008: Peter Serkin

Note: This concert begins at 2 p.m.
This is a free concert, with voluntary contributions at the door.

Recognized as an artist of passion and integrity, American pianist Peter Serkin is one of the most thoughtful and individualistic musicians appearing before the public today. Throughout his career he has successfully conveyed the essence of five centuries of repertoire and his performances with symphony orchestras, recital appearances, chamber music collaborations and recordings are respected worldwide.

Peter Serkin's rich musical heritage extends back several generations... | more |

Program:

Josquin Desprez (ca. 1440-1521)
Ave Christe
by Charles Wuorinen b. 1938

Olivier Messiaen (1908-1992)
Petites Esquisses d’Oiseaux
I Le Rouge - gorge (Robin)
II Le Merle - noir (Blackbird)
III Le Rouge - gorge (Robin)
IV La Grive - musicienne (Song Thrush)
V Le Rouge - gorge (Robin)
VI L’Alouette des Champs (Sky Lark)

Johannes Brahms(1833-1897)
Theme with Variations in D minor,
from the String Sextet in B-flat Major

J.S. Bach (1685-1750)
Capriccio on the departure of the beloved brother, BWV 992
I. Arioso. Adagio - A coaxing by his friends to dissuade him from his journey.
II. Andante - A description of various calamities that might overtake him in foreign lands.
III. Adagissimo - An all around lament of the friends.
IV. Here the friends, seeing they cannot alter the brother’s decision, take their leave of him.
V. Allegro poco - Aria of the Posthorn.
VI. Fugue in imitation of the posthorn.

Intermission

Johannes Brahms (1833-1897)
Variations and Fugue in B-flat on a Theme by Handel, Op. 24