Beethoven’s Eroica is widely recognized as the first important Romantic era symphony. The interesting backstory (Beethoven originally dedicated it to Napoleon and then angrily withdrew the dedication when Bonaparte declared himself Emperor) only touches on the genius found in this symphony. Truly revolutionary, Beethoven’s 3^rd Symphony takes us on a journey into the human spirit, from the hopeful opening chords, into the depths of despair of the second movement, then returns to the heights of victory and joy in the Finale. Certainly one of music’s most heroic gestures, the other music on the program follows suit: Shostakovich’s Festive Overture (played side-by-side with our high school guests) and Mussorgsky’s seldom heard “Songs and Dances of Death.” Round out our program. bass-baritone Seth Keeton joins us to add his deeply resonant sound to the Mussorgsky songs. It’s a musical journey you won’t want to miss!

Conductors
Robert Baldwin

• Shostakovich Festive Overture Side-by-Side with high school students
• Mussorgsky Songs and Dances of Death Arr: Aho, Kalevi Solo: Seth Keeton, baritone
• Beethoven Symphony #3 “Eroica”