This month the Evansville Philharmonic takes us on a journey around the world, from a lively Turkish March to the Latin rhythms of Mexico. Executive Director, Glenn Roberts tells us more about the musical journey that takes place in “Ports of Call.”
N4U: What do you believe is the essence of this concert?
Glenn Roberts: I believe the audience will walk away saying, “Wow, I just went on a musical cruise and gorged on an unlimited buffet of musical styles!” As a clever programming twist to our season theme, “Out of This World Music,” this concert takes us on a journey around the globe. This isn’t your typical classical program, but rather it plays more like a “greatest hits” show. There’s something for everyone in this program.
Which of these seven composers is your favorite?
That’s always a tough question. My cop-out answer is, “Whatever composer I’m listening to at the moment!” But if forced to choose, I would say Debussy. (Sorry, Ludwig!)
Which piece was the most difficult to perform?
Each work has its unique challenges. Nevertheless, I would say the Debussy La Mer (“The Sea”) is the most challenging overall for the orchestra. It is so rich with intricate, undulating passages depicting the movement of the sea, complex rhythms which must be executed to sound “easy.” Colorful harmonies and chords must be played with crystal clear intonation.
Do you think the audience will be able to relate to the Ports of Call theme with the pieces selected?
The important thing is that people will hear music from different countries, melodies and harmonies based on folk music, and a composer’s interpretation of the sights and sounds of exotic places. And from there a listener’s imagination can take them anywhere they want to go.
A Russian (Tchaikovsky) represents Italy, a German (Beethoven) represents Turkey/Greece, an American doing Mexico – what is it about these pieces that resonate with these lands rather than native composers?
Great question, and the answer is “but this is fun, too.” Native composers have an inherent corner on the market, so to speak, in writing music that characterizes their homeland. But to hear a master like Tchaikovsky write music so infused with oregano to make you say, “Wait, that’s by Tchaikovsky?” Or to hear Beethoven throw in extra percussion instruments like cymbals and triangles to give it a more “Turkish” flavor will give the listener new insight into these composers’ creativity. In the case of the American composer Aaron Copland, he was influenced by Carlos Chavez – a native Mexican composer – during his visit to a dance hall in Mexico City where he drew inspiration and ideas for El Salon Mexico. So forget the ketchup, pass the salsa!
“Ports of Call” will be performed March 19 at 7:30 p.m. at the Victory Theatre. For more information or tickets, call 425-5050 or visit evansvillephilharmonic.org.
