February, a month often associated with love and cozy evenings, also gifts us with a wonderful array of musical birthdays! From the elegant melodies of the Romantic era to the innovative sounds of the 20th century, some of history's most influential composers were born in this chilly month. Join us as we celebrate the lives and legacies of seven remarkable musicians whose creativity continues to warm our hearts and fill our ears with beautiful music.
Felix Mendelssohn (February 3, 1809 - 1847): A German composer, pianist, organist and conductor of the early Romantic period. His compositions include symphonies, concerti, oratorios, piano music and chamber music.
On Allegro’s final concert of the season, “Opening Remarks,” (August 9th) the full Allegro Orchestra will perform Mendelssohn’s famous “Hebrides Overture.”
Listen here: {Apple Music} {Spotify}
Antonín Dvořák (February 8, 1841 - 1904): A Czech composer, one of the first to achieve worldwide recognition. Dvořák frequently employed aspects of the folk music of Moravia and his native Bohemia in his music.
One of Dvořák’s works might be featured in our highly anticipated “Summer Surprise” (June 21) concert at the Gardner Theatre!
Listen here:
{Apple Music} {Spotify}
Florence Price (February 9, 1887 – 1953): An African-American classical composer, pianist, organist, and music teacher. She was the first African-American woman to have a symphony performed by a major American orchestra. Her works often incorporate elements of African American spirituals and folk songs.
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Sergei Prokofiev (February 15, 1891 - 1953): A Russian and Soviet composer, pianist and conductor. As one of the most renowned composers of the 20th century, he wrote works in a variety of musical genres, finding new expression for modernism.
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John Adams (February 15, 1947 - ): A leading American composer of minimalist and postminimalist music. His works, such as "Nixon in China" and "Doctor Atomic," often blend classical and popular music influences, and explore historical and political themes.
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György Kurtág (February 19, 1926 - ): A Hungarian classical composer and pianist, known for his concise and often aphoristic musical language. His works are often intensely personal and expressive, exploring themes of memory, loss, and the human condition.
Listen Here: {Apple Music} {Spotify}
Claude Debussy (February 22, 1862 - 1918): A French composer regarded as the founder of musical Impressionism. His music is notable for its sensory content and frequent use of atonality.
Listen Here: {Apple Music} {Spotify}
We hope you’ve enjoyed this trip through musical history, found some interesting new pieces or some old favorites.
And join us at West Art on February 22nd when we present a wonderfully fun concert featuring a Marimba Ensemble!
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