Dvořák’s Symphony of Hope

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Saturday, May 14th, 2022
May 14 - 7.00pm and May 15 - 2.00pm

Dvořák’s Symphony of Hope comes to the Comox Valley

After a sold-out March performance, the Strathcona Symphony Orchestra (“SSO”) is excited to present Antonín Dvořák’s Symphony "No. 9 in E Minor, Op. 95", commonly known as the "New World" to Comox Valley audiences. Dvořák’s masterpiece is regarded to be one of the top ten greatest symphonies in the world.

“Although I chose this work last December to challenge the orchestra to work on a complete symphony, the broadcasting of turmoiled events in the Ukraine makes this piece all the more relevant”, said Helena Jung, the SSO’s Music Director.

“Dvořák drew on his challenge of working as an immigrant in America during his directorship with New York’s National Conservatory of Music and his yearning for home is evident in the "New World”.

“Although each movement from this symphony is powerful, the English horn soloist’s introduction to the second (Largo) movement, encapsulates the yearning for family and the familiar”.

“One of Dvořák’s students, William Arms Fisher, wrote lyrics for the Largo section and the song, "Goin’ Home", is still a beloved spiritual for many listeners”, said Ms. Jung.

The New World is a dynamic and influential example of how American composers were offered a fresh approach to represent their own voice without relying on the traditional European musical style.

In addition to the New World symphony, the SSO will perform Franz von Suppe’s "Cavalerie Légère" and Welsh composer, Karl Jenkins’ "Benedictus", part of "The Armed Man: A Mass for Peace".

For more information about tickets or the Strathcona Symphony Orchestra, please visit the website, www.strathconasymphony.ca.