Eastman Philharmonia: BRAHMS Symphony No. 1 in C Minor, Op. 68 (mvmt. 1)

Eastman Philharmonia
Neil Varon, conductor
Rebecca Bryant Novak, assistant conductor
Performed on September 27, 2023 in Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre.
Program Notes:
Johannes Brahms’s Symphony No. 1 in C minor, Op. 68, is a landmark in the symphonic repertoire, embodying a profound artistic journey and personal struggle. Starting in 1854, Brahms’s creative process for this work spanned more than two decades, shaped by his artistic growth and the weighty legacy of Beethoven.
The symphony premiered in 1876 in Karlsruhe under the baton of Felix Otto Dessoff, and unfolds in four movements, each with its own distinct character: The first movement, marked Un poco sostenuto - Allegro, sets the tone with an intense introduction and energetic principal theme in the exposition. The second movement, Andante sostenuto, offers a lyrical and contemplative respite in E major. A haunting violin solo in this movement evokes the introspective depth of Beethoven’s late works. The gentle elegance of the third movement, Un poco allegretto e grazioso in Afl at major, provides a contrast to the preceding movements. The fourth movement, Adagio - Più andante - Allegro non troppo, ma con brio - Più allegro, serves as the grand finale. It begins with an extended introduction in C minor, featuring an “Alphorn” theme that unfolds majestically first in the French Horns, then in the Flutes. This movement is marked by its vast emotional scope, resolving tensions introduced earlier in the symphony. The symphony was met with critical acclaim upon its premiere, with some referring to it as “Beethoven’s Tenth” due to perceptible echoes of Beethoven’s compositions. While acknowledging these echoes, Brahms presents a fresh and personal voice, his first symphony being one of four which established him as one of the most significant contributors to the genre of the symphony. - Serena Reuten

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EXTRAORDINARY !!! Difficult to believe this is even a music conservatory orchestra ! Bravo 🎉 "kids" !!!