Magazine of the Saskatoon Symphony
inTune Volume 3 Issue 1
your complimentary copy CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD ®
September – November 2013
Opera’s Dream Couple
John Brancy and Wallis Giunta
Vampire Flick Nosferatu
A Symphony of Horrors
Lemony Snicket’s
Calling Young Detectives: The Composer is Dead!
Photo: Michael Gauthier
Making the Prairies Pop
Singer/songwriter Jeffery Straker
Czech-Mate!
Conductor Daniel Smith + bassoonist Mathieu Harel
Magazine of the Saskatoon Symphony
inTune Volume 3 Issue 1
CZECH-MATE!
Contents
EVENING AT THE OPERA 14
Gyro Masters Series, September 14, 2013 Presented by BHP Billiton
Maestro Victor Sawa conductor John Brancy baritone, Wallis Giunta mezzo-soprano
OVERTURE 22
Players Choice Series at Delta Bessborough – September 29, 2013
Saskatoon Symphony Chamber Players
A PRAIRIE POPS SPECTACULAR 26
NOSFERATU
Conexus Pops Series at TCU Place – October 19, 2013 presented by Saskatoon Fastprint
Maestro Victor Sawa conductor Jeffery Straker singer/songwriter/pianist
NOSFERATU SILENT MOVIE 32
Silence is Golden Series at Roxy Theatre presented by LeFevre & Company – October 26, 2013
Brian Unverricht guest conductor Rick Friend piano
A PRAIRIE POPS SPECTACULAR Buy tickets and get more information:
saskatoonsymphony.org in person TCU Place Box Office by phone 306.975.7799 toll-free 1.888.639.7770
LEMONY SNICKET’S THE COMPOSER IS DEAD 36
Family Concerts at Elim Church – November 2, 2013
Mathieu Pouliot guest conductor Chris Donlevy narrator
czech-mate! 44
Gyro Masters Series at TCU Place – November 16, 2013 presented in part by Brainsport/Pedestrian
Daniel Smith guest conductor Mathieu Harel bassoon Saskatoon Youth Orchestra
inTune 3
®
In the next issue - available November 18, 2013 cue the candelabra – it’s liberace!
Also in this issue
Brian Jackson guest conductor / pianist
Welcome message 9
THE CORE AT PAVED ARTS
Honorary Patrons, Board of Directors and Administration 10
Special - TCU Place November 23, 2013
The Core Series November 29 & 30, 2013
Saskatoon Symphony Chamber Players
holiday gospel spectacular
Holiday Concert - TCU Place December 7, 2013
Orchestra musicians and 6 Chair sponsors Group Discounts 10
Pre-concert talks 13 SSO Book & Music Sale 31 Drop-off locations Funding agencies and Corporate sponsors
41
Supporters circle 52–53
Maestro Victor Sawa conductor Guest artists TBA in the fall
messiah
Third Ave United Church December 14, 2013
Maestro Victor Sawa conductor Saskatoon Chamber Singers directed by James Hawn Chelsea Mahan soprano Alicia Woynarski mezzo-soprano Michael Harris tenor Dominic Gregorio baritone
the music of pink floyd
Conexus Pops Series - TCU Place January 18, 2014
Mathieu Pouliot conductor Jeans ‘n Classics Rock Ensemble Jean Meilleur lead vocals
BLACK AND WHITE
Players Choice Series – SSO Community Centre, 408 20th St W January 26, 2014
Saskatoon Symphony Chamber Players + Piano
© Saskatoon Symphony & contributors Publisher: Saskatoon Symphony Society 408 20th St W Saskatoon SK S7M 0X4 Ph: 306.665.6414 office@saskatoonsymphony.org www.saskatoonsymphony.org Comments and suggestions are welcome. Please send to marketing@saskatoonsymphony.org or contact the SSO office. Program advertising: Mike Covey, mike@mcmedia21.ca Contributors: Mike McCoy, Joan Savage, Margaret Wilson, Karen Adams, Jill Reid, Terry Heckman, Marie-Hélène Nault Leblanc, Lynn Ewing, Mike Covey Photos: Trudy Janssens - Photography One 2 One, Rosanna Parry Photography, Mike McCoy, others contributed. Printed in Canada.
PLEASE NOTE: Concert details subject to change without notice.
inTune 4
your complimentary copy
inTune
Magazine of the Saskatoon Symphony
®
Volume 3 Issue 1
Photo: Rosanna Parry
September, 2013 Welcome to inTune, the Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra’s program magazine! If you are new to the SSO, be sure to visit SaskatoonSymphony.org to find out more about our programming. We present a wide range of musical genres, with something for everyone. New this season is “Time for Toddlers,” at the SSO Community Centre (408 20th St W). The first of these parent-child musical discovery experiences specifically designed for 2–4 year-olds takes place Oct. 9, 9:30 am. Call the SSO at 306.665.6414 to register. Congratulations to everyone involved in creating “The Core at Paved Arts” Series last season (1). Paved Arts, the Saskatoon Symphony, and project sponsor Affinity Credit Union have been awarded a national Business in the Arts Partnership Award for the project. The series continues this season, too, with the first event at Paved Arts on Nov. 29 & 30. Watch pavedarts.ca for tickets. The 2nd annual Playathon in support of the SSO was held at the beginning of June. Many young musicians came armed with pledges to help create a day of continuous music in our home. Congratulations to the winners: violinist Hannah Lissel-Decorby, 1st place, cellist Clara Knox, 2nd, and pianist Geethan Pfeifer, 3rd. See photos (2), (3), (4), to the right. Were you at Evening Under the Stars, at the Whitecap Sports Complex in August (5)? The highlight of this new outdoor event supporting St. Paul’s Hospital Foundation was the SSO’s Music of Queen concert, with Jeans ‘n Classics and our musicians. It got chilly when the sun went down, but the music was hot! Watch for this event next summer! In the meantime, you can catch Jeans ‘n Classics rocking with the SSO in January, with the Music of Pink Floyd.
1
2
3
4
Until next time, let’s enjoy some great music together!
Your team at the Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra
5 inTune 5
Violin 1
Viola
Bass
Michael Swan, Concertmaster William Boan, Assistant Concertmaster Mary Lou Day Lillian Jen-Payzant Joan Savage Marcel van den Hurk Simon Fanner Maxim Pletnev Nova Wong (on leave)
James Legge, Principal
Richard Carnegie, Principal David Humphrey David Grosse Stephen Kreuger Zachary Carter
Violin 2 Oxana Ossiptchouk, Principal Karen Bindle Rosanne Daku Sophie McBean Arthur Boan Evan Friesen
Listing current at press time.
Chair generously sponsored by the Viola Section of the Saskatoon Philharmonic Orchestra Saache Heinrich Jeremy Janzen Heather Wilson Miles Buchwaldt Stacey Mennie
Cello Lahni Russell, Principal
Chair generously sponsored by Bill Richards and Sandra Beardsall John Payzant Bernadette Wilson Carman Rabuka Christina Bakanec Scott McKnight
Flute Randi Nelson, Principal
Chair generously sponsored by Lilian and Doug Thorpe Brenda Moats (flute, piccolo)
Oboe Erin Brophey, Principal Kevin Junk (oboe, English Horn)
Clarinet Margaret Wilson, Principal
Chair generously sponsored by Jack and Sylvia Vicq Melissa Goodchild (clarinet, Eb clarinet)
inTune 6
Photo: Trudy Janssens, Photography One 2 One
Music Director Maestro Victor Sawa Bassoon
Trumpet
Timpani
Stephanie Unverricht, Principal
Terry Heckman, Principal Daniel Funk Dean McNeill
Darrell Bueckert, Principal
Chair generously sponsored by Dr. Mary C. Marino
Trombone
Marie Sellar (bassoon, contrabassoon)
Horn Carol-Marie Cottin, Principal Arlene Shiplett Dubrena Bradley
Don Schmidt, Principal Brian Unverricht Dawn McLean-Belyk
Tuba Brent Longstaff, Principal
Bassoon emeritus
Peter Gravlin, Retired
Chair generously sponsored by Ms. Betty Reynolds
Percussion Mathieu Pouliot, Principal
Chair generously sponsored by The Ewing Family, in Memory of Earl and Mary Ewing Kevin Grady
Harp CĂŠcile Denis, Principal
Personnel varies by concert. We gratefully acknowledge the support of additional musicians who perform with the orchestra when larger works are presented. Violin Bryn Rees Flute Jennifer McAllister Oboe Sara Spigott Clarinet Alyssa Thompson Keyboard Gillian Lyons Percussion Mark Altman
Thank you to all our musicians and to our chair sponsors who support their work. For information about the benefits of chair sponsorship, please contact Jill Reid at 306.665.4862 or email general.manager@saskatoonsymphony.org inTune 7
Saskatchewan’s destination for high quality piano sales & service for over 32 years
* BEST Quality * BEST Prices * BEST Service * Lessons Available
GRAND AND UPRIGHT PIANOS BY • Yamaha • Seiler • Knabe Yamaha Disklavier, Avant, Clavinova, Modus and Keyboards
1011 Broadway Avenue Saskatoon SK S7N 1C1 306.665.0213
www.yamahapianocentre.ca inTune 8
Saskatoon Symphony leadership team (l-r): Board President, Lynn Ewing; Music Director, Victor Sawa; General Manager, Jill Reid. (Sawa photo: Trudy Janssens, Photography One 2 One
Welcome to a fresh, new Saskatoon Symphony season! Few people look forward to the end of summer, but it does bring some good things— like the start of a new season of Symphony activities and concerts! At the SSO, we are committed to providing quality music experiences, whether you are a classical music afficianado, a fan of the pops, a parent wanting to introduce your child to creative concepts, or, like many of us, you are simply looking for an inspired evening out. We’ve got a great time in store for you this season, with superb guest artists, music that you told us you would love to hear, and new programs for families, young parents and toddlers, and, through Sistema, for at-risk kids.
The Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra has been a cultural icon in the city for over 80 years, through good and lean times. Through it all, we have looked to all of you for support of our concerts and our other activities in the community, buying subscriptions and single tickets, investing in our organization, and giving of your time through volunteer work are key to our continued survival. Together, let’s bring music to life! The Board, Music Director, General Manager, Players Committee, Musicians, Staff and Volunteers of the Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra
Programs the SSO supports include: • One-to-one mentoring with clients of the Core Neighbourhood Youth Coop • El Sistema programs for at-risk youth • Performance opportunities for all skill levels— youth orchestra, university, high school, elementary students and pre-school • Visits to hospitals, seniors residences and nursing homes
• SaskTel School Tour • Innovative uses of the SSO Community Centre on 20th Street West to promote inner-city renewal • Classical music appreciation programs • Concerts and visits by renowned guest artists • Family concerts & kids tickets for Masters Series • Parent-child programs (for ages 2–4)
Saskatoon Symphony Players Committee: (l-r): Arthur Boan, Simon Fanner, Oxana Ossiptchouk, Mathieu Pouliot, William Boan
inTune 9
Saskatoon Symphony Society Board and Administration Honorary Patrons
SSO Management and Staff
Honourable Brad Wall, Premier of Saskatchewan, and Mrs. Tami Wall
Administration Jill Reid, General Manager general.manager@saskatoonsymphony.org
His Worship, Mayor Donald J. Atchison, and Mrs. Mardelle Atchison
Board of Directors Ken Coutu Rob Dobrohoczki Lynn Ewing Annalisa Govenlock Shawn Heinz Rob Hendry Sharon Hildebrand Roger Jolly Bryn Richards Kassidy Schneider
Saskatoon Symphony Centre 408 20th Street West Saskatoon, SK S7M 0X4 Telephone: 306.665.6414 Fax: 306.652.3364 office@saskatoonsymphony.org Website: saskatoonsymphony.org Twitter: @SSO_stoon Facebook: Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra TCU PlaceBox Office: www.tcutickets.ca or call 306.975.7799
Group discounts
Group discounts are available and there is an inexpensive student rate for Masters Series and Players’ Choice concerts. For information email groupsales@saskatoonsymphony.org or call 306.665.6414.
Melissa Goodchild, Office Assistant office@saskatoonsymphony.org Orchestra Victor Sawa, Music Director maestrovic@sasktel.net Sarah Stack, Director of Artistic Operations operations@saskatoonsymphony.org Terry Heckman, Personnel Manager personnel@saskatoonsymphony.org Lillian Jen-Payzant, Orchestra Librarian Mathieu Pouliot, Production Manager Finance Darci Speidel, Bookkeeper Marketing and Audience Engagement Michael McCoy, Articulate Eye Marketing Director Direct line: 306.227.3586 marketing@saskatoonsymphony.org Mary Ann Therrien, Articulate Eye Marketing Support marketingsupport@saskatoonsymphony.org Group Sales information and bookings Call the SSO at 306.665.6414 or email: groupsales@saskatoonsymphony.org Development Mike Covey, Director of Sponsorships Direct line: 306.221.7120 mike@mcmedia21.ca
Program advertising
Contact Mike Covey: mike@mcmedia21.ca to receive a sales kit, including program advertising rates and to discuss how you can connect with the buying power of our audience. inTune 10
THE No Ordinary Relationship... No Ordinary Florist 89% of people receiving flowers stated their gift giver was sophisticated
FRONT PORCH
SERIES
mymuseummatters
In concert: Chamber Players Sunday, November 17th — 2:30 pm — on 1910 Boomtown Street FREE with Museum admission!
by FRED
384-3003
Corner of Avenue H & 22nd
727 22nd Street W.
2610 Lorne Avenue 306-931-1910 www.wdm.ca #frontporch
PROCEEDS TO ENHANCE PUBLIC PROGRAMMING
inTune 11
inTune 12
Free Pre-Concert Talks Prior to Masters Series Concerts
Enhance Your Experience at the Symphony ATTEND THE PRE-CONCERT TALK Not sure about the music? Come early and get the inside scoop! Prior to each Masters Series concert, the SSO presents a Pre-Concert talk with informative and engaging conversations.
An expert presenter himself, Brian also invites other musicians and guest artists to add their insights about the evening’s program through interviews, performances, and lecture/demonstrations.
Brian Unverricht is our host for the first part of this season. Not only is Brian a long standing musician in our orchestra, he is widely recognized as a superb educator. The 2012 Sask. Music Education Conference honoured Brian with its ‘Director of Distinction’ award.
The talks begin at 6:55 pm and last about 25 minutes. Concertgoers are invited to drop in anytime during the conversation. Pre-concert talks are held in the TCU Place Green Room. Follow the signs or check for directions from an usher or at the SSO kiosk in the lobby.
GYRO PRODUCTIONS PROUD SPONSOR OF THE SSO, VICTOR SAWA - MUSIC DIRECTOR
“If a composer could say what he had to say in words, he would not bother trying to say it in music.” - Gustav Mahler
SASKATOON
REGINA
VANCOUVER
T E L E V I S I O N CO M M E R C I A L S • CO R P O R AT E V I D E O S • M O B I L E P R O D U C T I O N
hiddenheroes.ca
Visit Gyro online at www.gyroproductions.com inTune 13
Photo: Trudy Janssens, Photography One 2 One
Gyro Masters Series September 14, 2013
MAESTRO VICTOR SAWA
WALLIS GIUNTA
JOHN BRANCY
Evening at the Opera - Classics for Skeptics TCU Place, Sid Buckwold Theatre, 7:30 pm
Maestro Victor Sawa conductor Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra John Brancy baritone Wallis Giunta mezzo-soprano Strauss Overture, Die Fledermaus Mozart Arias from Le Nozze di Figaro, K. 492:
The Gyro Masters Series is generously sponsored by
Presented by
“Crudel! Perchè fin’ora” Duo “Hai già vinta la causa” J. Brancy “Non so più” W. Giunta
Bizet Arias from Carmen:
“Toreador Song” J. Brancy
“Si tu m’aimes, Carmen” Duo “Seguidille” W. Giunta
Wagner Overture, Tannhäuser, WWV 70 intermission Weber Overture, Der Freischütz, J.277
Rossini Arias from Il Barbiere di Siviglia
“Dunque io son!” Duo “Largo al factotum” J. Brancy Una voce poco fa” W. Giunta
Borodin Polovtsian Dances, Prince Igor
Pre-Concert Talk Learn about the music in tonight’s program. 6:55 pm – 7:20 pm, TCU Place Green Room. Free with concert ticket. inTune 14
John Brancy baritone
well as the lead role in Sir Peter Maxwell Davies’ new youth opera, Kommilitionen!. Baritone John Brancy has been hailed by Other recent roles include Aeneas in Dido The New York Times as “a vibrant, resonate & Aeneas, and Theseus in A Midsummer presence.” He is a 2013 George London Night’s Dream at the Juilliard School, and Foundation Encouragement Award Winner. Sid in Albert Herring with the Opera on the Avalon Festival. Mr. Brancy is a recent During the 2012–13 season, Mr. Brancy made winner of the Sullivan Foundation Grand his debut with the Dresden Semperoper, Prize and Career Grants, 1st Prize at the as Fiorello in Rossini’s Il Barbiere di Siviglia, Classical Singer Magazine Competition, performed Mike in a new production of and the Gold Award for Voice at the John Adams’ I Was Looking at the Ceiling, YoungArts Foundation competition. He is a and Then I Saw the Sky with Paris’ Theatre 2nd Place winner in the Gerda Lissner and du Chatelet, and joined Juilliard Opera as Liederkranz competitions, and 3rd place Harasta in The Cunning Little Vixen. This sumwinner in the 2012 Montreal International mer, he performed the role of Papageno Music Competition. in Die Zauberflöte (The Magic Flute) at the prestigious Music Academy of the West in Mr. Brancy completed his Graduate Santa Barbara. Diploma at the Juilliard School this past spring, where he also received his bachelors Future engagements bring him to the degree, under the tutelage of Edith Wiens. Glyndebourne Festival Opera Tour, Oper Frankfurt (Sonora in La fanciulla del West), Gotham Chamber Opera (Charpentier’s mezzo-soprano La descente d’Orphée aux Enfers), Pacific Hailed by The New York Times for her Opera Victoria (Harlekin in Ariadne auf “chocolaty and penetrating mezzo-soprano Naxos), and the symphony orchestras of voice,” Ottawa-native Wallis Giunta is a 2013 Boston and San Francisco. graduate of both the Metropolitan Opera Lindemann Young Artist Development While still an undergraduate student at Program, and The Juilliard School’s Artist The Juilliard School, Mr. Brancy made his Diploma in Opera Studies. She has been Carnegie Hall and Avery Fisher Hall debuts praised by OPERA NEWS for her “delectably as the baritone soloist in Fauré’s Requiem, rich, silver-toned mezzo-soprano, with a Mozart’s Coronation Mass, Schubert’s Mass beautiful sense of line and effortless rapid in G, amongst other notable works. He has given recitals throughout Europe and North runs,” and her jump-in last season as Mozart’s Sesto for the Canadian Opera America, and has appeared frequently in Company (COC) was celebrated as “a concert with New York Festival of Song, including several concerts at the Caramoor triumph...remarkable in its combination of Festival. He was also the winner of the 2010 intelligence and beauty.” Juilliard School Honors Recital Competition. Miss Giunta begins the 2013–14 season with In 2011, he made his Alice Tully Hall Songfest her debut for the Taipei Symphony debut, collaborating with Brian Zeger. Orchestra as Annio in La Clemenza di Tito, Recently, he sang Handel’s Messiah with followed by a return to the Metropolitan the Charleston Symphony and performed Opera for Rigoletto. She then heads home in recital with the renowned Hugo Wolf to the COC for Dorabella in Atom Egoyan’s Akademie in Stuttgart, Germany. new production of Cosí fan tutte, and makes her debut NAXOS recording in a new work During the 2011–12 season with Juilliard by American composer, William Perry, with Opera, Mr. Brancy sang the role of Slook the RTÉ National Symphony Orchestra in in Rossini’s La Cambiale di Matrimonio, Dublin. This season she also debuts with covered the title role in Don Giovanni, as inTune 15
Wallis Giunta
the Toronto and Saskatoon Symphony Orchestras, and performs concerts and recitals in Toronto, New York, Ottawa, Regina, and Boston, along with her acclaimed programme of Kurt Weill’s Seven Deadly Sins in Miami, with pianist Ken Noda.
Maestro Victor Sawa conductor Victor Sawa is a triple threat of talent, experience and personal dynamism. Music Director of the SSO, he holds similar positions with orchestras in Sudbury and Regina. He was previously Resident Conductor with the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra (19931997), Music Director with the North Bay Symphony, the Guelph Youth Orchestra and the Kitchener-Waterloo Orchestra. He also served as Principal Clarinet with the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony. He has guest conducted for orchestras across the country.
Giunta had a whirlwind 2012/13 season, while still completing her studies, making her Metropolitan Opera debut as the Countess Ceprano in Rigoletto, debuting the role of Annio in La Clemenza di Tito with the COC, presenting her Seven Deadly Sins recital for the first time at Toronto’s Roy Thomson Hall, and performing Victor has been the recipient of many Dorabella in the Metropolitan Opera awards and honours, including three Lindemann Young Artist production of Canada Council awards for Conducting, a Cosí fan tutte, to rave reviews. She also Grand Prix du Disque—Best Chamber Music made debuts with L’Opéra de Montréal, Recording (Canadian Chamber Ensemble), the Edmonton, Seville and Nuremberg a Grammy award (with the New England Symphonies, the Stuttgart Festivalorchester, and the orchestras of the Ragtime Ensemble), and the Tanglewood National Arts Centre (Ottawa) and Munich Festival award for Outstanding Musician. Radio. This past June, she made her Paris A Montreal native, Sawa holds a Bachelor debut with Le Théâtre du Châtelet as of Music with Distinction from McGill Tiffany in John Adams’s rarely-performed University and an Honours Masters of opera I Was Looking at the Ceiling and Then Music Performance from the New England I Saw the Sky, followed by a July recital of Conservatory of Music. He is also a Barber, Wolf and Respighi with the Miró graduate of the Pierre Monteux School for Quartet, for the Ottawa International Advanced Conductors. In 2011, Victor Sawa Chamber Music Festival. was appointed Honorary Consul for Japan in Saskatchewan. In recent seasons she has performed with Fort Worth Opera, Opera Lyra Ottawa, Toronto’s Opera Atelier, the New York (1825–1899) Festival of Song, the festivals of Caramoor, Ravinia and Aspen, and at the Banff Centre. OVERTURE, DIE FLEDERMAUS Her past roles include Cherubino in Le Johann Strauss wrote 16 operettas, one of Nozze di Figaro, Hermia in A Midsummer the most famous being Die Fledermaus Night’s Dream, Nancy in Albert Herring, (Vienna, 1874). Written for Strauss’ first wife, Ernesto in Il Mondo Della Luna, Lola in with a libretto by Karl Haffner and Richard Cavalleria Rusticana, and Second Lady in Genée, it is the story of Eisenstein, who The Magic Flute. She is a graduate of abandoned his drunken friend Falke Toronto’s Glenn Gould School (2009), and (dressed in a bat costume, hence the title an alumnus of the Canadian Opera The Bat) and exposed him to ridicule, and Company Ensemble Studio (2011). Ms. Falke’s plan to get even. Full of ebullient Giunta is a grateful recipient of a 2012 Sylva music that evokes Viennese nightlife of the Gelber Music Foundation Career period, the opera is a comedy of errors, rife Development Award, as well as multiple with mistaken identities and disguises. grants from the Canada Council for the Arts. Composer Richard Strauss (no relation, but
Johann Strauss, Jr.
inTune 16
Striking a chord BHP Billiton is proud to sponsor the Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra, and to make a positive contribution to Saskatchewan.
Supporting community programs is the way we like to do business.
www.bhpbilliton.com
a huge fan) wrote: “Of all the God-gifted dispensers of joy, Johann Strauss is to me the most endearing . . . and enduring.”
W.A. Mozart (1756–1791) Arias from Le Nozze dI Figaro Mozart’s comic opera Le Nozze di Figaro (The Marriage of Figaro, Vienna, 1786) is based on the second of the Figaro trilogy of plays written by the French inventor, watchmaker, music teacher, diplomat, revolutionary, and spy, Pierre Beaumarchais. The play was banned in Vienna but librettist Da Ponte toned down the more political and risqué elements and got approval for an operatic version.
Figaro, Susanna, and the Countess expose the Count’s scheming, Figaro and Susanna are allowed to marry, and the Countess rekindles their old romance by forgiving the Count. In the aria “Crudel! Perchè fin’ora” Susanna, at the Countess’ urging, promises to meet the Count in the garden. In “Hai già vinta la causa” the count realizes he is being tricked and declares he will get his revenge on Figaro. In “Non so più,” Cherubino, a page with a crush on Countess Rosina, describes his infatuation with all women. The Marriage of Figaro is an opera of wit and complexity, humour and humanity, love and forgiveness.
Georges Bizet (1838–1875)
Figaro wants to marry Susanna, Countess Arias from carmen Rosina’s maid, but Count Almaviva is deterBizet’s opera comique Carmen (Paris, 1875) mined to seduce her. Through manipulais based on a novella by Prosper tions, disguises, and mistaken identities, inTune 17
Mérimée with libretto by Henri Meilhac and Ludovic Halévy. Unfortunately, Bizet died before it became evident what a popular success the opera would become. It tells the story of Don José, a soldier seduced by the gypsy Carmen. Don José is imprisoned for allowing Carmen to escape as he escorts her to jail. He then deserts the army for her but she falls in love with the toreador Escamillo instead. Don José kills Carmen in a jealous rage. In the final act of the opera, at the bullfighting arena, Escamillo and Carmen express their love for each other in “Si tu m’aimes, Carmen”. “Toreador Song” is among the best known opera arias. Sung by Escamillo, it describes the bullring, the bullfight, the cheering crowds, and the fame that comes with victory. The “Seguidilla” uses rhythms and instrumentation associated with flamenco music.
Richard Wagner (1813–1883)
come and say the Pope’s staff has sprouted leaves; Tannhäuser has his redemption. The Overture weaves together elements of the opera: the pilgrim’s chorus (written in the style of J.S. Bach), Venus’ siren song, Tannhäuser’s song to Venus, and the revelries of Venusberg. During Wagner’s lifetime Tannhäuser was not, even after many revisions, the success Wagner had hoped. Weeks before Wagner’s death his wife Cosima wrote in her diary that Wagner felt he “still owed Tannhäuser to the world.”
Carl Maria von Weber (1786–1826) OVERTURE, Der Freischütz Der Freischütz (Berlin, 1821) helped define the themes and characters of German Romantic opera (exalting nature, a fascination with the supernatural, the struggle between good and evil) and influenced a generation of German composers, especially Wagner. In the
OVERTURE, Tannhäuser Wagner wrote both the text and music for Tannhäuser (Dresden, 1845). Set in 13th century Thuringia and based on the German legends of Tannhäuser and the song contest at Wartburg, the opera explores the themes of lust, love, and redemption. Tannhäuser spends a year as Venus’s lover then invokes the name of the Virgin Mary and returns to Wartburg and the mortal Elizabeth, who loves him. After being taunted into singing the praises of Venus at a singing contest, the other knights draw swords on Tannhäuser but Elizabeth protects him. Tannhäuser journeys to Rome to seek forgiveness from the Pope for his time spent with Venus, but the pontiff tells him he has less chance of being forgiven than the Pope’s staff of sprouting leaves. In despair, Tannhäuser contemplates returning to Venus. Elizabeth dies of grief while waiting for Tannhäuser’s return from Rome. Tannhäuser sees Elizabeth’s coffin, falls to his knees, and dies. Young pilgrims
The best in live roots music Thursdays @ 8:00 - Fridays @ 9:00PM
The best in live jazz music Saturdays @ 9:00PM
PIANO FRIDAYS 4:30 to 7:30 - No Cover Free admission to Saturday Bassment shows with your SSO ticket stub for that night. www.thebassment.ca 202 Fourth Avenue North inTune 18
opera, which uses the Faust legend, the young huntsman Max must prove his worth in a shooting trial before he can marry his beloved Agathe. Afraid he will fail, Max goes to the haunted Wolfglen at midnight and gets magic bullets from the evil Zamiel, who ensnares souls. The “Overture” from Der Freischütz is a miniature tone poem that musically depicts the entire opera complete with sylvan hunting music, the menace of Wolfglen, storms of despair, and Max’s ultimate triumph. This overture is one of Weber’s most popular orchestral works.
will be hers, no matter what tricks she must play to outwit Bartolo. Rossini wrote this opera in just under three weeks when he was 24 years old. Some of the music from The Barber of Seville was used in the Looney Tunes production “The Rabbit of Seville” in 1949.
Alexander Borodin (1833–1887) Polovtsian dances, Prince Igor
Borodin, by profession a research chemist, spent 18 years off and on composing Prince Igor (St. Petersburg, 1890) but died before he finished it. Borodin’s friends (1792–1868) Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov and Alexander Arias from Glazunov completed the opera. Borodin Il barbiere di siviglia based the libretto on the medieval Rossini’s opera buffa Il Barbiere di Siviglia poem Song of the Army of Prince Igor. The (The Barber of Seville, Rome, 1816) was nomadic Polovtsi tribe overrun Prince based on the first play of the Figaro Igor’s city, and he and his son Vladimir trilogy written by Pierre Beaumarchais, are captured in battle. The Polovtsi khan with the libretto by Cesare Sterbini. treats his royal prisoners well. He enterThough written 30 years after Mozart’s tains them with dancers, which is the Marriage of Figaro, Barber tells the presection of the opera from which these quel story of Figaro, Rosina, and Count “Polovtsian Dances” come. In the end Igor Almaviva. Rossini’s comic opera is full of escapes but Vladimir, in love with the wit, comedy, and intrigue. The young khan’s daughter, remains behind. Almaviva is in love with Rosina, the ward Borodin’s research into the melodies of Dr. Bartolo, but Dr. Bartolo intends and rhythms of the folk music of Russia’s to marry her. Through the use of tricks, eastern nomads provided him with letters, and disguises, Figaro, Almaviva, the musical ideas for the “Polovtsian and Rosina convince Dr. Bartolo to allow Dances”. They were first performed in Rosina to marry Almaviva. 1879, at the request of Rimsky-Korsakov, In “Dunque io son!” Figaro asks Rosina before the rest of the opera was comto write a note to encourage Lindoro pleted. The Broadway musical Kismet (Almaviva in disguise), who has been uses music from the “Polovtsian Dances” singing to her. In the aria “Largo al in three of its songs. factotum” Figaro sings about how he is Program notes prepared by Joan Savage, a master of all trades and an excellent member, Violin section, Saskatoon Symphony. barber. In “Una voce poco fa” Rosina © 2013 sings that Lindoro (Almaviva in disguise)
Gioachino Rosinni
inTune 19
Experience exquisite, handcrafted 17th century instruments in a spectacular setting.
October 14, 2013
Third Avenue United Church at 2 pm and 7:30 pm Guest artists: Arthur Boan – violin, William Boan – violin, Heather Wilson – viola, Hans Deason – cello, Renée de Moissac – harpsichord
amatiquartet.usask.ca
Saskatoon Chamber Singers
Elegy Music and Words of Remembrance MONDAY, NOVEMBER 11 2:00 PM and 7:30 PM KNOX UNITED CHURCH
Advance tickets available from McNally Robinson, St. John’s Music and online
Remember: Find our CD at McNally Robinson or on iTunes
www.saskatoonchambersingers.ca inTune 21
Photo: Ron Checora
Players Choice Series September 29, 2013
JACQUES HÉTU
STEWART GRANT
Overture Delta Bessborough, 2:30 pm
IRVING FINE (R) WITH ROSENDO SANTOS JR.
Generously sponsored by
Saskatoon Symphony Chamber Players
HĂŠtu
Quintette, Op. 13
Adagio - Allegro molto
Vivace Adagio Lento - Allegro con brio
Mendelssohn String Quartet No. 1 in E-flat Major, Op. 12
Adagio non troppo - Allegro non tardante Canzonetta: Allegretto - Pui mosso Andante espressivo Molto allegro e vivace
intermission
Fine Romanza Samazeuilh Divertissement et Musette Grant Rhapsodie Concertante, Op. 30
Enjoy coffee & tea service during intermission. inTune 22
Jacques Hétu (1938–2010)
be the greatest child prodigy since Mozart, Mendelssohn received his earliest musical instruction on the piano from his mother, QUINTETTE, op. 13 Lea Salomon-Bartholdy. In 1817 he began to Jacques Hétu was born in Trois-Rivières, study composition with Carl Friedrich Zelter Québec and began his musical studies in Berlin, and later with Ignaz Moscheles, (piano) at the relatively late age of 15. He who was to become a close colleague and began to compose prolifically soon after. lifelong friend. In 1829 Mendelssohn emHe studied at the University of Ottawa barked on the first of many trips to England for a brief time (1955–56) before spending where he was greatly admired by Queen five years at the Montreal Conservatory Victoria and her musical husband Prince studying with Clermont Pépin and Jean Papineau-Couture, as well as oboe instruc- Albert. Here he found inspiration for his tion with Melvin Berman. A summer course famous Hebrides Overture and the Scottish Symphony. In 1835 he was appointed at Tanglewood also led to study with conductor of the Gewandhausorchester in Lukas Foss. In 1961, armed with a number of prizes and bursaries including a Canada Leipzig where he happily settled and later founded the Leipzig Conservatory, persuadCouncil grant and the Prix d’Europe, Hétu was able to spend 2 years in Paris where he ing his friend Moscheles to also join him. studied composition with Henri Dutilleux Mendelssohn wrote a total of seven string and Olivier Messiaen. In 1964 he joined quartets—six of which are numbered. His the faculty at Université Laval, and in 1979 earliest attempt was in 1823 but this work became a member of the faculty of the was not to be published for many years University of Québec in Montreal. and remains unnumbered. The String Quartet No. 1 in Eb Major, Op. 12, was writHétu received many commissions for ten in 1829 and published in 1830. The slow works throughout his career, including introduction of the first movement often the Quintette, Op. 13, which was commissioned by the Quintette à vent de Québec, leads to a comparison with Beethoven’s “Harp” Quartet, Op. 74, which is written in in collaboration with the Canadian Music the same key. The Canzonetta is sometimes Centre and a grant from the Centennial played as a separate piece and shows Commission, for a premiere performance Mendelssohn’s characteristic light style during Canada’s Centennial in 1967. It with the pizzicato and staccato effects. The was also one of three works chosen as third movement, Andante, goes without part of “MusicCanada”, a festival of music a break to the finale at the end of which presented in London and Paris in 1977. there is a reappearance of the main theme Written in a classic four-movement form the Quintette has become one of the most from the first movement which leads to a natural and inevitable conclusion. popular Canadian wind quintets, highlighting the singing and virtuosic abilities of the wind instruments.
Felix Mendelssohn (1809–1847)
Irving Gifford Fine (1914–1962) ROMANZA
Irving Fine was an American composer string quartet no. 1 in born in Boston, Massachusetts. He ree-flat major, op. 12 ceived his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in music from Harvard University where Born in Hamburg in 1809, Felix was the he studied with Walter Piston. He was also eldest son of a banker (Abraham) and the a student of Nadia Boulanger at Radcliffe grandson of the great Jewish philosopher Moses Mendelssohn. Considered by many to College and at the Fontainebleau inTune 23
School of Music in Paris. From 1939 to 1950 he taught music theory at Harvard and, from 1950 until his untimely death, was a professor of music and founding chairman of the School of Creative Arts at Brandeis University. A group of mid-20th century composers known as the “Boston Six” included Fine, Arthur Berger, Leonard Bernstein, Aaron Copland, Lukas Foss and Harold Shapero. Fine’s musical style strives for a balance between 20th century compositional techniques and “elegance, style, finish and ... convincing continuity” (Aaron Copland). He is recognized for his neoclassical precision, similar to that of his close associate Igor Stravinsky. The Romanza was written in 1959, commissioned by the Elizabeth Sprague Coolidge Foundation. It is dedicated to Fine’s wife Verna, and was first performed posthumously in 1963. The composer’s sketches indicate the Romanza was to be the first movement of a longer, unfinished wind quintet, and as such might have been a sequel to his often performed Partita.
Gustave Samazeuilh (1877–1967) Divertissement et Musette Gustave Samazeuilh, born in Bordeaux, first took a law degree before entering the Schola Cantorum in 1900 to pursue his musical studies. His teachers included Ernest Chausson and Vincent d’Indy, as well as Paul Dukas. Samazeuilh was a pianist, as well as a music critic and translator. He translated Richard Wagner’s Tristan and Isolde into a french musical drama in three acts, and created a reduction for flute (or violin) and piano of Claude Debussy’s Afternoon of a Faun. He was a fierce champion of many of his contemporaries, including Enesco, Fauré, Roussel and Richard Strauss. As a very close friend of Maurice Ravel, they spent many summers together. Ravel is said to have first played the melody of his famous Bolero for Samazeuilh during one of their summers together and described to him how he planned to use
this melody in an ever-changing repetitive manner throughout the full orchestra. Samazeuilh’s compositional output was not extensive, and the Divertissement et Musette is among his chamber music gems. It is written for a nonet (wind quintet and string quartet) and it has a light, charming quality. It has been recorded by Chamber Music Palm Beach on the Naxos label.
Stewart Grant (b. 1948) Rhapsodie Concertante, Op. 30 Stewart Grant was born in Fort William, Ontario, but grew up in Montreal, where he studied at McGill University and the Conservatoire de musique du Québec. His primary focus of study was the oboe and he was awarded a Premier Prix in oboe in the class of Melvin Berman at the Conservatoire. He enjoyed an extensive career as an oboist, and joined the faculties of both McGill Uniiversity and the Conservatoire de musique du Québec. He performed with the Montreal Symphony Orchestra, l’Orchestre de Radio-Canada and Les Grands Ballets Canadiens. In 1972, he joined the National Arts Centre Orchestra for two seasons, and during this time he decided to pursue a career as a composer and conductor. In 1978 Grant was named Music Director of the Lethbridge Symphony Orchestra—a position he held for 16 years. In 1995, Grant returned to Quebec and has become a sought-after composer, receiving commissions from a long list of various artists and organizations. In 1996, the Rhapsodie Concertante, Op. 30, was commissioned by the CBC for the Saskatoon Sinfonietta, known in more recent years as the Saskatoon Symphony Chamber Players. The premier performance in Saskatoon was recorded by the CBC and may be found at the Canadian Music Centre. Program notes prepared by Margaret Wilson, Principal Clarinet, Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra. © 2013 inTune 24
Quiet introvert looking for someone who loves to read books really loudly. It takes a special person to become a Home Instead CAREGiver,SM not a special degree. Working with seniors in their homes can be challenging but, at the same time, tremendously rewarding. Enjoy training, support, flexible shifts that fit your life, and a job that nurtures the soul. • No certificate required • Training and support provided • Flexible shifts Find out more at: HomeInstead.com/Saskatoon-SK 306.931.4663
Each Home Instead Senior Care® office is independently owned and operated. © 2013 Home Instead, Inc.
Proud to Serve Saskatoon and Area 703 Circle Dr E, Saskatoon 8th and Preston, Saskatoon inTune 25
Photo: Trudy Janssens, Photography One 2 One
October 19, 2013
MAESTRO SAWA + THE SSO AT THE WDM, SASKATOON
A Prairie Pops Spectacular TCU Place, Sid Buckwold Theatre, 7:30 pm
Maestro Victor Sawa conductor Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra Jeffery Straker singer /songwriter / pianist The Jeffery Straker Band Presented by
The Conexus Pops Series is generously sponsored by
Take home a memory! Jeffery’s CDs and
other merchandise are on sale in the lobby. He’ll be autographing them after the concert. inTune 26
A Prairie Pops Spectacular Trainspotting J. Straker / arr. Elizabeth Raum Gone J. Straker / arr. Elizabeth Raum The Wonderful Mrs Bell J. Straker / arr. Ed Minevich Rosetta Stone J. Straker / Arr. Matt McLellan Wood River Connie Kaldor / arr. Marc Ouellette The Storm J. Straker / arr. Paul Suchan
JEFFERY STRAKER
A Case of You Joni Mitchell Slings and Arrows J. Straker / arr. Allan Gilliland
intermission Birch Bark Canoe J. Straker / Christopher Palmer Fall from Grace J. Straker / arr. Matt McLellan Oh God I’m Cinderella J. Straker / arr. Jonathan Ward Four Strong Winds Ian Tyson Coat Hanger J. Straker / arr. Elizabeth Raum
Photo: Calvin Fehr Photography
Walk Away J. Straker / horns arr. Matt McLellan) Old Tin Drum J. Straker / arr. Laura Pettigrew Sans Souci J. Straker / arr. Allan Gilliland
Artist bios are on the following page ďƒ˜ inTune 27
Maestro Victor Sawa conductor
(see bio page 14)
Jeffery Straker
singer / songwriter / pianist Singer-songwriter-pianist Jeffery Straker performs over 100 shows a year across Canada. He recently recorded for CBC radio’s ‘Canada Live,’ and had a music video rise to the top 10 (#6) on Canada’s Much More Music. His 2009 album ‘Step Right Up’ was the #5 selling album in his home-land of Saskatchewan in August 2010, ahead of both Justin Bieber and Lady Gaga. He’s sure neither of them cared. But he is sure that he, in fact, did. Straker launched his next album, ‘under the soles of my shoes,’ in 2011, and toured Canada in support of it, with shows ranging from intimate house concerts to a sold-out orchestral debut with the Regina Symphony Orchestra. His songs have played on both CBC and commercial radio. The Chicago Free Press says, “Rufus Wainwright, as well as k.d. lang are among the Canadians making essential and beautiful music. Add the name Jeffery Straker to that list.” ‘Straker has recently launched his latest collection of songs called “Vagabond” (Oct 2012). The album was produced by Canadian multi-instrumentalist, singersongwriter Danny Michel. A thrill for classically trained Straker was recording on Glenn Gould’s grand piano at the CBC studios in Toronto while creating the work. The release has been met with critical acclaim with the Toronto Star giving it 4 (out of 4) stars and calling it “one of the most faultlessly conceived and meticulously executed albums in any genre to come out of Canada in a long time”. “Vagabond” debuted in the top 20 on the iTunes singersongwriter charts and charted in the top 10 on several college radio stations across Canada. It has also been a top 20 selling album in Saskatchewan. Xtra! (Toronto)
said of the album: “like the unexpected yet surprisingly down-to-earth lovechild of Neil Young and Elton John”. Straker has crossed Canada on a 50 date tour in support of the release. Originally from small town Saskatchewan, Jeffery Straker is a classically trained pianist, raised by a church organist mother and an auctioneer father. He swears he was born under the piano on the family farm. All this might explain his ability to share songs with audiences. Highlights of his recent touring include a debut performance at the National Arts Centre (Ottawa), his fourth invitation to the Breakout West Festival (Western Canadian Music Awards), a Regina Folk Festival performance, and showcasing at Canadian Music Week (Toronto). He has also performed at JunoFest and NXNE and toured in Ghana (Africa) in early 2012. Straker’s songwriting has seen him become a national top 10 finalist in the Canadian Radiostar Songwriting Competition and a top 20 finalist in the global Unisong Competition, as well as twice placing in the top 10 in the prestigious Mountain Stage Newsong contest. His high energy orchestral show has been called “Simply spectacular...clearly one of the province’s best cultural exports”(Regina Leader Post). In a 4-out-of 4-star review the Toronto Star said, “there’s rarely a note, chord or word too many or too few. As a lyricist he’s at least the equal to any wordsmith (Elton) John has worked with.” Jeffery is a musical descendant of Beethoven through teacher-student lineage (seriously…see his website for the full story). He was a student of the Royal Conservatory of Music and received his licentiate diploma in piano performance from Trinity College, London when he was 19. Jeffery thanks the Saskatchewan Arts Board and FACTOR for their support of his music. inTune 28
Proud sponsor of the Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra
2938 Millar Avenue
306.244.3988
www.fastprint.ca inTune 29
inTune 30
Make your TV Appier.
It’s Back!
Book & Music Sale November 7, 8, 9, 2013
Proceeds support the Saskatoon Symphony
DONATE YEAR-ROUND! Most books, sheet music, records, CDs, videos, DVDs and collectibles are gratefully welcomed.
Drop-off Locations Please call ahead to ensure space is available. EAST SIDE
CORY-PARKE GREENHOUSE 3200 Preston Ave. S. 306.374.4444 maxTV ™ apps include: • Top Recorded Shows • Recommended 4U • The Weather Network iTV • and more! No other provider in Saskatchewan can offer the internet-enhanced TV experience of maxTV. With great digital TV channels, maxTV Online, TV Apps, and more, maxTV is endless entertainment!
WEST SIDE SASKATOON SYMPHONY OFFICE 408 20th St. W. 306.665.6414 Centennial Plumbing, Heating & Electrical 710 51st St. E. 306.665.5366 Galon Insurance Brokers 909 3rd Ave. N. 306.244.7000 LaRoche McDonald Agencies 202A 22nd St. W. 306.244.7955 Mount Royal Drugs 701 Ave. P N. (at 29th St.) 306.382.7373
Humboldt
Smarter. Better. Television.
HUMBOLDT Shoppers Drug Mart 627 Main St. 306.682.2541
For more information and to check for items accepted visit our website:
sale.wgpotter.com or call the SSO: 306.665.6414 inTune 31
Silence is Golden Series October 26, 2013
Nosferatu (1922)
Presented by
Roxy Theatre, 320 20th St. W., 1 pm & 7:30 pm
Brian Unverricht conductor Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra Rick Friend piano BRINGING A WHOLE NEW WAY TO LIVING IN RIVERSDALE
Riversdale Business Improvement District
Just a few doors down is the Saskatoon Symphony headquarters and across the street is our major sponsor. The RBID is In 1990 a determined group of business proud to be the home of the last atmoowners and the City of Saskatoon formed spheric theatre of its kind west of Ontario, the Riversdale Business Improvement and to be offering the classic 1922 District (RBID) to bring business back to the “Nosferatu—A Symphony area and begin the highly desired revitaliza- of Horror” as the District’s tion. Riversdale is now attracting a creative fifth Silence is Golden event mix of young entrepreneurs while maintain- —the first of two in this ing second and third generation businesses. season’s fifth annual series. Today, 23 years later, instead of a parking We hope your experience in lot, you are sitting in one of our crown Riversdale is out of jewels of the District: The Roxy Theatre. the ordinary!
Visit the Roxy Theatre concession for all your movie treats. We are pleased to offer a cash wine bar for these performances.
inTune 32
INTERIOR OF ROXY THEATRE Photo: Rosanna Parry Photography
BRIAN UNVERRICHT
Brian Unverricht conductor Born, raised, and educated in Saskatchewan, Brian pursued further studies in New Jersey, Australia, France, and the University of Calgary. For many years he taught band, choir, jazz studies, guitar, and general music in Saskatoon, Australia, PEI, and the DND schools in Germany. He recently completed seven years of teaching and conducting at the University of Saskatchewan. While at Evan Hardy Collegiate, Brian was music director for 15 musicals and commissioned eight Saskatoon composers to write music for various groups. He has been published in Cadenza, the International Trombone Association Journal, and Canadian Winds, was editor of the Sask. Band Association journal, contributed to music curricula, and wrote a high school guitar course. Brian has served as a low brass clinician, a director and coordinator for band camps and brass or Jazz Days at Hardy, a music festival adjudicator, and the regional rep for the Saskatchewan Music Educators Association. In 2004, he received SMEA’s Outstanding Achievement Award that recognizes outstanding accomplishment and an ongoing dedication to excellence in music; and in 2012, he received the Saskatchewan Band Association Distinguished Band Director Award.
RICK FRIEND
As a trombonist, Brian has been a member of the Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra since the late sixties, and has performed with numerous groups in a variety of genres, including Persephone Theatre, the Metro Jazz Ensemble, various brass quintets, and the Saskatoon Klezmer band. As a symphony conductor, Brian had led the SSO’s last three presentations in the Silence is Golden series. His arrangements can be heard at such diverse events as the Saskatoon Children’s Choir, Yevshan dancers, and special concerts in Marysburg Assumption Church.
Rick Friend piano A native of Clifton, New Jersey, Rick Friend studied piano and composition at the Oberlin College Conservatory of Music. An avid movie buff since childhood, Rick became interested in silent movies in his high school days, when he and his friends rented from the library a 20 minute version of Buster Keaton’s ‘The General.’ Watching it in silence for a few minutes irked his curiosity to go to the piano and start improvising as the film played. From then on, he was hooked on silent movie improv music. Serious improvisations began 20 years later at the Loyola Movie Palace in Los Angeles, where he accompanied international silent movies such as ‘Faust,’ and ‘Madame Dubarry.’ At this point Rick inTune 33
realized that there are so many great movies from the silent era, and decided to make a career of it.
performing his scores for F.W. Murnau’s ‘Sunrise,’ Alfred Hitchcock’s ‘Blackmail,’ and Charlie Chaplin’s ‘The Kid.’
He played for four seasons of the Toronto International Film Festival’s Open Vault Series, and in 1987 began playing for the Toronto Film Society. He became involved in Cinemateque Ontario, accompanying showings of Fritz Lang’s ‘Metropolis,’ and Carl Dreyer’s ‘The Passion of Joan of Arc.’ Later, he mounted a showing of ‘The Passion of Joan of Arc’ with his own score for nine musicians, at The Music Gallery, Toronto.
In 1997, Rick helped Toronto honour their own Mary Pickford (1891–1979) in a CBC-TV special, ‘The Life and Times of Mary Pickford.’ The same year, he finished scoring a dramatic short film, ‘The Red Window.’ His piece ‘Wilcox Street’ for brass quintet has been performed in Los Angeles. He has appeared at the Silent Movie Theater in Hollywood (CA), where he studies film composing while teaching piano and occasionally mounting his own productions of silent movie concerts. This fall, Rick will play for the King Vidor silent film ‘The Crowd,’ in Santa Rosa (CA) and will perform with the Portland Symphony (ME) in February, 2014.
Rick has appeared as soloist with many orchestras, performing his arrangements for ‘The Mask of Zorro,’ ‘The General,’ ‘The Phantom of the Opera,’ ‘Nosferatu,’ and ‘The Thief of Bagdad,’ including at the Atlanta and Fort Worth Symphonies, the Orchestre Symphonique de Quebec, Elgin Symphony, the Ocean City Pops (NJ), and numerous times with the orchestras of Springfield (MA) Regina (SK), Traverse City (MI), and Saskatoon. Rick joined the Savannah Music Festival three times,
Rick has a never-ending passion for live music with silent movies. His favorite venue is the symphony orchestra, which serves well the values, moods, and feelings in these great movies from the 1920s. His mission is to bring this art form to audiences everywhere.
Nosferatu - A Symphony of Horrors (1922; F.W. Murnau, director) As noted critic Pauline Kael observed, “… this first important film of the vampire genre has more spectral atmosphere, more ingenuity, and more imaginative ghoulish ghastliness than any of its successors.” Some really good vampire movies have been made since Kael wrote those words, but German director F.W. Murnau’s 1922 version remains a definitive adaptation of Bram Stoker’s Dracula. Created when German silent films were at the forefront of visual technique and experimentation, Murnau’s classic is remarkable for its creation of mood and setting, and for the unforgettably creepy performance of Max Schreck as Count Orlok, a.k.a. the blood-sucking predator Nosferatu. With his rodent-like features and long, bonyfingered hands, Schreck’s vampire is an icon of screen horror, bringing pestilence and death to the town of Bremen in 1838. (These changes of story detail were made necessary when Murnau could not secure a copyright agreement with Stoker’s estate.) Using negative film, double-exposures, and a variety of other in-camera special effects, Murnau created a vampire classic that still holds a powerful influence on the horror genre. (Werner Herzog’s 1978 film Nosferatu the Vampyre is both a remake and a tribute, and Francis Coppola adopted many of Murnau’s visual techniques for Bram Stoker’s Dracula.) – Jeff Shannon, The Seattle Times (from Rick Friend’s website Silent-Music.com) inTune 34
BRINGING A WHOLE NEW WAY TO LIVING IN RIVERSDALE inTune 35
Photo: Trudy Janssens, Photography One 2 One
SSO Family Concerts Series November 2, 2013
CHRIS DONLEVY
MATHIEU POULIOT
Lemony Snicket’s ‘The Composer is Dead’ Elim Church, 419 Slimmon Road, 2:30 pm
Mathieu Pouliot guest conductor Chris Donlevy narrator
Henry Mancini Theme from The Pink Panther W. A. Mozart A Little Night Music (Eine kleine Nachtmusik, K. 525)
John Williams
Star Wars, Main Theme
Image courtesy of distancemakes.com
intermission
Nathaniel Stookey
The Composer is Dead (story by Lemony Snicket)
Artwork from The Composer Is Dead. Illustration by Carson Ellis; courtesy of HarperCollins
During intermission visit the lobby for fun activities for kids. inTune 36
who sits ns “a person ea m re he ch a word whi t notes “Composer” is iguring out wha f d an g in m m tering and hu composing. in a room, mut This is called .” ay pl to g in a is go the orchestr was not muttering. He t no as w r se the Compo But last night, en breathing. t moving, or ev no as w He g. hummin decomposing.” This is called
Mathieu Pouliot guest conductor Mathieu Pouliot is the principal percussion player of the Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra. Born in Lévis, PQ in 1988, he studied in percussion at the Conservatoire de musique de Québec, where he also began his development as a conductor with Maestro Gilles Auger. At his first appearance on the podium, at the Lévis Symphony conducting workshop, Mathieu was awarded the jury prize, and an invitation to conduct the orchestra in the next season. He later began a Masters degree in conducting at the Université de Montréal with Jean-François Rivest and Paolo Bellomia. Mathieu postponed his studies when he accepted a position with the SSO. He has conducted for a number of orchestras, including the Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra, the Regina Symphony Orchestra, the Québec Youth Orchestra and the Orchestre de la Francophonie. Last season, Mathieu conducted the SSO’s Disney in Concert – Magical Music from the Movies, and One Vision – The Music of Queen with Jeans ‘n Classics. He took the podium once again in August, this time outdoors, when the Queen concert was re-mounted for Evening Under the Stars, a benefit for the St. Paul’s Hospital Foundation. As a percussion player, Mathieu studied with Carol Lemieux, Gabriel Dionne and
Denis Dionne at the Conservatoire de musique de Québec, where he received the Prix du Conservatoire with great distinction, awarded unanimously by the jury— the highest honour of the school. He then studied at the Université de Montréal with Louis Charbonneau, timpanist emeritus of the Orchestra Symphonique de Montréal. Mathieu performed with several orchestras, including the Québec and Lévis Symphonies, and many other ensembles in the province of Québec. Mathieu was invited to join the World Youth Orchestra and performed as a member of the orchestra of the Collegium Musicum Schloss Pommersfelden in Germany, where he was also invited as a guest soloist. He has performed various concertos with orchestras and premiered Auger’s Symphonie Concertante for timpani and orchestra. Mathieu has been a member of the SSO since 2011.
Chris Donlevy narrator Chris Donlevy is a recent graduate of the University of Saskatchewan BFA Acting program. Son to a distinguished acompanist and a choir director, music has played a large part in Chris’s life; it cheers him completely to see young people getting to experience such wonderful exposure to performing music. inTune 37
Ensuring the show goes on.
SGI — proud to support the arts and cultural events. www.sgi.sk.ca
Victor has been the recipient of many Maestro SaskTel Victor SawaSymphony conductor awards and honours, including three in Schools
CanadabyCouncil awards for Conducting, a Generously sponsored Victor Sawa is a triple threat of talent, Grand Prix du Disque—Best Chamber Music experience and personal dynamism. Music Recording (Canadian Chamber Ensemble), Director of the SSO, he holds similar positions with orchestras in Sudbury and Regina. a Grammy award (with the New England Ragtime Ensemble), and the Tanglewood He was previously Resident Conductor Festival award for Outstanding Musician. with the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra (1993-1997), Music Director with the North A Montreal native, Sawa holds a Bachelor Bay Symphony, the Guelph Youth Orchestra of Music with Distinction from McGill and the Kitchener-Waterloo Orchestra. He University and an Honours Masters of also served as Principal Clarinet with the Music Performance from the New England Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony. He has guest Conservatory of Music. He is also a conducted for orchestras across the country. graduate of the Pierre Monteux School for
Performances by Saskatoon Symphony Chamber Players: • develop understanding and appreciation of symphonic music,
• present concepts and ideas aligned with music education standards,
• integrate easily with other curriculum (e.g. language arts, social studies). Invite the Saskatoon Symphony to be a part of your school community. Email Jill Reid, General Manager, general.manager@saskatoonsymphony.org, call 306.665.6414, or visit saskatoonsymphony.org for more information. inTune 38
Photo: Ole Lütjens, 2011
Chris is currently developing original works with DramaTough and Never Ending Highway productions, as well as exploring opportunities to act overseas. Recent works: Bottome’s Dreame (Fringe), Carmen (Saskatoon Opera), Into The Woods (Greystone Theatre), Henry IV, Part 1 (Greystone Theatre), All My Sons (Greystone Theatre), Two Corpses Go Dancing (Fringe Tour).
Nathaniel Stookey composer Nathaniel Stookey as born and raised in San Francisco, where he studied violin and composition. Nathaniel was a violinist and violist with the San Francisco Symphony Youth Orchestra from 1986 through 1988. At 17, he was invited to write a chamber work for the San Francisco Symphony’s New and Unusual Music Series, the youngest composer ever to be so honored. Since then, he has worked with a remarkable range of artists all over the world. In 2000, Stookey received a threeyear New Residencies award from Meet The Composer to serve as composer-in-residence with the North Carolina Symphony.
“The march is made up of music about death by some of the world’s greatest composers, a solid majority of whom are, alas, no longer with us. Classical composers have always had a preoccupation with death, partly because we are human, like you, partly because we grapple with the mysteries of the universe, partly because death sells records and always has, even before there were records. Most of the great classical composers wrote at least one piece about death. Many wrote several. The funeral march that ends The Composer Is Dead includes brief quotations from some of these works, which happen to represent some of the most extraordinary music of all time. (All the rest of the music in the piece is mine and will also be by a dead composer someday, which is very sad if you stop to think about it.)” The Composer Is Dead was released by HarperCollins in November 2008 as a recording featuring Lemony Snicket and the San Francisco Symphony, conducted by Edwin Outwater.
“We Bring People and Nature Together” ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Quality Bird Seed Bird Feeders & Houses Garden Accents Unique Gifts Quality Chimes Optics & Books Much more ...
In 2006, the San Francisco Symphony premiered the new commissioned work, The Composer Is Dead, with libretto by Lemony Snicket. It was immediately taken up by the Toronto Symphony’s New Creations Festival and has since been programmed by orchestras across North America. “I hope I’m not giving too much away by saying that The Composer Is Dead ends with a funeral march,” said Nathaniel Stookey.
330A - 2600 8th Street East Saskatoon (beside Saboroso Restaurant)
306-955-BIRD (2473)
www.wbu.com/saskatoon
inTune 39
Performed in the
Main Stage Title Sponsor
2013/2014
BMO MAINSTAGE SEASON MY CHERNOBYL
BY AARON BUSHKOWSKY SEPTEMBER 18 – OCTOBER 6, 2013
CHELSEA HOTEL
THE SONGS OF LEONARD COHEN
CONCEIVED AND DIRECTED BY TRACEY POWER A Firehall Arts Centre Production OCTOBER 30 – NOVEMBER 17, 2013
THE BLACK BONSPIEL OF WULLIE MACCRIMMON BY W.O. MITCHELL NOVEMBER 27 – DECEMBER 15, 2013
STRAWBERRIES IN JANUARY BY EVELYNE DE LA CHENELIÈRE TRANSLATED BY MORWYN BREBNER JANUARY 22 – FEBRUARY 9, 2014
EQUIVOCATION BY BILL CAIN MARCH 12 – MARCH 30, 2014
LEADING LADIES BY KEN LUDWIG APRIL 23 – MAY 11, 2014
SUBSCRIBE NOW AND SAVE! SINGLE TICKETS ON SALE NOW BOX OFFICE
VISIT OUR WEBSITE
(306) 384-7727
www.persephonetheatre.org inTune 40
Funders and Corporate Sponsors 2012–2013 Season Funding Agencies
Foundations
where
Series Sponsors
} or
you are, you’re going,
we will be there.
Wherever our members have come from or where they are going on their financial journeys, we’re behind them every step of the way. It’s not about how much they have. It’s about what they want to achieve. At New Community, everything we do is about our members and our community.
Presenting Sponsors
321 20th St. West, Saskatoon, SK
P 653-1300 F 653-4711
www.newcommunitycu.com
Rongve Gabruch Schell & Weikle Wealth Management of RBC Dominion Securities
Corporate Supporters
Media Sponsors SASKATOON
EXPRESS
.com
f
m a g a z i n e
Connecting Business and the Arts FreshWest Media Ltd.
AnnuAl RepoRt 2011
Book & Music Sale
Cory-Parke Greenhouse Mount Royal Drugs Humboldt Shoppers Drug Mart
Thank you to all our funders and corporate partners! inTune 41
Jennifer Campeau, MLA Saskatoon Fairview Jennifer Campeau, MLA 306-974-4125 Saskatoon Fairview 306-974-4125
Ken Cheveldayoff, MLA Saskatoon Silver Springs Ken Cheveldayoff, MLA 306-651-7100 Saskatoon Silver Springs 306-651-7100
Paul Merriman, MLA Saskatoon Sutherland Paul Merriman, MLA 306-244-5623 Saskatoon Sutherland 306-244-5623
Rob Norris, MLA Saskatoon Greystone Rob Norris, MLA 306-933-7852 Saskatoon Greystone 306-933-7852
Don Morgan, MLA Saskatoon Southeast Don Morgan, MLA 306-955-4755 Saskatoon Southeast 306-955-4755
Roger Parent, MLA Saskatoon Meewasin Roger Parent, MLA 306-652-4607 Saskatoon Meewasin 306-652-4607
Corey Tochor, MLA Saskatoon Eastview Corey Tochor, MLA 306-384-2011 Saskatoon Eastview 306-384-2011
Gordon Wyant, MLA Saskatoon Northwest Gordon Wyant, MLA 306-934-2847 Saskatoon Northwest 306-934-2847
Enjoy Enjoy the the Show! Show! Your Saskatoon Your Saskatoon
Saskatchewan Saskatchewan Party Party MLAs MLAs 42 inTune
November 7, 8, 9 Hours: Thurs Nov. 7 & Fri Nov. 8: 10 am – 8 pm
/ Sat. Nov. 9: 10 am–6 pm
inTune 43
Photo: Felix Broede
Gyro Masters Series November 16, 2013
DANIEL SMITH
MATHIEU HAREL
Czech-Mate! TCU Place, Sid Buckwold Theatre, 7:30 pm
The Gyro Masters Series is generously sponsored by
Daniel Smith guest conductor Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra Saskatoon Youth Orchestra Richard Carnegie, Director Mathieu Harel bassoon Dr. David Kaplan
Sponsored in part by
Kaplan Opening Credits Dvořák Carnival Overture, Op. 92 Elgar Romance for bassoon and orchestra, Op. 62 (Mathieu Harel) Weber Andante & Rondo ungarese, J. 158, Op. 35 (Mathieu Harel)
1. Andante
2. Ungarese, Allegretto
intermission
Dvořák
Symphony No. 7, Op. 70, D minor 1. Allegro maestoso 2. Poco adagio in F Major 3. Scherzo: Vivace – Poco meno mosso 4. Finale: Allegro
Pre-Concert Talk Learn about the music in tonight’s program. 6:55 pm – 7:20 pm, TCU Place Green Room. Free with concert ticket. inTune 44
Daniel Smith guest conductor
Mathieu Harel bassoon
One of the music world’s great rising stars, Daniel Smith recently celebrated back-toback wins within just a few months of each other—a coveted Second Prize at the prestigious Georg Solti International Conductors’ Competition, then at the Fitelberg competition and at the Mancinelli operatic competition plus the ‘Orchestra Choice’ at the 2011 Lutoslawski International Competition.
Associate principal bassoon with the Orchestre symphonique de Montréal since 1998, Mathieu Harel was acting principal bassoon of the OSM during the 2003–04 season. Born in Contrecoeur, near Montréal, Mr. Harel studied with Bernard Garfield at the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia, and at the Montreal Conservatory, with Rodolfo Masella and Gerald Corey.
This has resulted in a series of international appearances over the next few months that will see Daniel make his conducting debuts with the Warsaw Philharmonic and Indianapolis Symphony orchestras and a much-anticipated return visit to conduct the Frankfurt hr-Sinfonieorchester. This past summer Daniel also made his first appearance at the Rossini Opera Festival in Pesaro conducting Rossini’s Il viaggio a Reims. He will make his debut conducting the London Philharmonic in March 2015. In addition to being awarded First Prize at the Fitelberg by the distinguished panel of judges, he also won the Orchestra’s Choice Prize for Best Conductor, the Golden Baton, the Orpheus Prize and concert invitations for the upcoming seasons throughout Europe and Asia. Daniel has received glowing reviews from the international press. Following his 2010 debut with the Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra he was described as ‘one of the greatest young conducting promises’ and Polish Radio recently described him as ‘an amazing musician and an amazing conductor.’ Other distinguished orchestras he has so far worked with include the Danish National Symphony, Orchestra Sinfonica di Milano G. Verdi, Canada’s Saskatoon Symphony, where he was described as ‘a young Leonard Bernstein, but with even more gusto’, and the National Orchestra of Romania. Daniel is also a frequent guest artist at festivals continued p. 45
Prior to the end of his studies at Curtis, Mr. Harel won the second bassoon position with the Orchestre symphonique de Québec, and he was also assistant principal bassoon with the Grant Park Symphony in Chicago. He currently teaches at the Montreal Conservatory, and was a member of the faculties at McGill University, at the Trois-Rivières Conservatory and at the Camp Musical des Laurentides. Mr Harel plays on a bassoon made by Canadian maker Benson H. Bell.
Passion Live
with
Inspired live music performed with passion to transform your event into an experience of a lifetime.
www.saskatoonstringensemble.com
Ph: 306-292-6811
inTune 45
Saskatoon Youth Orchestra The Saskatoon Youth Orchestra has been an important part of the musical landscape in our city since the ensemble’s inception 1958, when it was known as the Saskatoon Junior Symphony. It was conceived by then SSO Music Director Murray Adaskin as a developmental system for future professional players and, in fact, a significant number of current SSO musicians are alums of the SYO. This award-winning orchestral program is also represented in professional ensembles throughout Canada and the world. More importantly, the program gives youth aged 12 to 25 in Saskatoon and surrounding communities the chance to demonstrate teamwork, discipline and a commitment to excellence – all while making friendships that will last a lifetime. The SYO is thankful for the mentorship role the SSO has provided to its young players. The chance to take to the TCU Place stage with its talented musicians is a highlight of the year for our players, and contributes greatly to their musical development.
introduced a chamber ensemble concert in the SYO schedule each year in January. He also strives to promote orchestral music to younger audiences by including accessible pieces from the world of filmmaking. The result of his skilful blend of repertoire has been three years of sold out performances and a growing, vibrant music program. This year the SYO is pleased to welcome Stephen Kreuger as Executive Director. Also a bassist with the SSO, Mr. Kreuger is returning to Saskatchewan from Calgary where he enjoyed a busy performance schedule. He is a graduate of the South Saskatchewan Youth Orchestra in Regina, and will bring valuable skills and experience to the SYO in this new role. The SYO Inc. also includes the Saskatoon Strings program, made up of players aged 10 to 17, under the direction of Music Director Bernadette Wilson, and a Double Bass beginner program.
Anyone interested in finding out more about the SYO is encouraged to visit The SYO is guided by Music Director Richard www.syo.ca. Carnegie, who is also the principal bassist for the SSO. Mr. Carnegie is passionate about providing a strong traditional The Saskatoon Youth Orchestra and SYO Music education in orchestral music, and has Director Richard Carnegie take a bow.
inTune 46
Daniel Smith
cont’d from p. 43
throughout Europe, the USA and Australia, most recently at the Mozarteum Festspiele, Järvi Summer Festival, Estate Musicale Chigiana, Aspen Music Festival and Sydney Olympic Arts Festival. Daniel’s main musical bases are currently Sydney and Rome. Here he worked as Gianluigi Gelmetti’s conducting assistant at the Opera House, helping to produce acclaimed productions of Verdi, Puccini, Mozart, Richard Strauss and Berg’s Wozzeck. Other notable opera productions have included Wagner’s The Flying Dutchman at the Monte Carlo Opera and Puccini’s delightful La Rondine at Sydney’s iconic Opera House.
include appearances at the MITO Festival, where Daniel will conduct a rare performance of Cherubini’s Mass in E minor, two mini-tours of Italy with the Haydn Orchestra and Orchestra della Toscana and leading the spectacular Last Night of the Proms in Kraków this September. He currently holds a Master of Music degree from the Sydney Conservatorium of Music (Imre Pallo and Harry Spence Lyth) and Fellowships in Music from Trinity College London and the American Academy of Conducting (Aspen). Website: danielsmithonline.com
Born in Sydney, Daniel initially studied the flute, but following expert coaching from Neeme and Paavo Järvi, Gianluigi Gelmetti and Hugh Wolff, amongst others, he was inspired to take up the baton full-time. Other forthcoming engagements
inTune 47
PotashCorp is proud to feed the future of the Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra and the performing arts in our community. PotashCorp.com
Proud To Support Our Saskatoon Symphony inTune 48
Dr. David Kaplan (b. 1923) OPENING CREDITS Dr. David Kaplan [B Mus (Roosevelt), M Mus (Oberlin), Ph D (Indiana)] spent his formative years in Chicago and moved to Canada in 1960. Professor Emeritus and former head of the University of Saskatchewan’s Department of Music, he was a Professor of Music at the University of Saskatchewan from 1960-90. From 1963-69 and 1970-71 he conducted the Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra. He founded the Saskatchewan Music Council, chaired the Canadian Music Centre’s Prairie Regional Council, is a Member of the Saskatchewan Order of Merit, and a Member of the Order of Canada. His compositions run the gamut of musical genres, from choral works on multicultural themes composed for Saskatoon’s Festival of Faith, for which he was music director (1985-9), to arranging and composing a series of 50 solos for woodwinds for school use, to pieces composed for the Saskatoon Klezmer Band that he founded in 1985. Some of his compositions have been published by Jack Spratt, New York, and Belwin, and others are available through the Canadian Music Centre, of which he was named an ambassador in recognition of his contribution to Canadian music. His services to his community are many, including his involvement with Folkfest and his organization of musical activities for the annual Holocaust Memorial and Remembrance Day services.
For years Dr. Kaplan has delighted Saskatoon Symphony audiences with his pre-concert chats. Tonight the Symphony is delighted to perform his work, Opening Credits. “Opening Credits was written in 2004 for the SYO.The idea,initially, was to have the music played as under-scoring as the film’s director, producer,actors et al are listed on the screen.Well, the idea never took shape. So, Opening Credits became a short,crispy,happy overture. The form of the work is quite similar to 18th Century Sonata Form. That is, there is an exposition section where the main themes are stated. Following this comes the development; snatches of the main themes are combined with other materials. Finally,the recapitulation brings back the original themes in their original keys. In just a brief 4–5 minutes, every section of the orchestra is featured.There are solo passages in the woodwinds and brass, an exciting passage for the percussion,and of course the strings lend their lyric characteristics to the piece.”
LiMeissogood. design@articulateeye.com 1.888.827.8393
inTune 49
Antonin Dvořák (1841–1904) carnival overture, op. 92 Dvořák wrote a trio of overtures, originally titled Nature, Life and Love, to represent “three aspects of the life-force’s manifestations.” Dvořák later changed the titles to Nature’s Realm, Carnival and Othello. Though he used the same theme to represent nature in all three pieces and intended them to be performed together, Carnival is the only one of the three still part of the standard orchestral repertoire. It was sketched during July and August at Dvořák’s country home in Vyšoká, completed on Sept 12, 1891, and performed as part of Dvorak’s farewell concert in Prague in 1892 before he moved to New York. The exuberant music present throughout most of the work gives way at one point to the gentler ‘nature’ theme. Dvořák wrote that he wanted Carnival to portray “a lonely, contemplative wanderer reaching at twilight a city where a festival is in full swing. On every side is heard the clangor of instruments, mingled with shouts of joy and the unrestrained hilarity of the people giving vent to their feelings in songs and dances.”
Edward Elgar (1857–1934) Romance for bassoon and orchestra, op. 62 Elgar wrote the Romance for bassoon and orchestra mostly on January 11, 1910, while he was in the middle of working on sketches for his violin concerto. Elgar had once thought to become a violin virtuoso but gave up that dream in order to spend his time composing. He had also taught himself to play the bassoon so he could play in a wind quintet with his brother and some friends. Romance was composed for and dedicated to the principal bassoonist of the London Symphony Orchestra, Edwin James, who premiered the work in February 1911. Because they were written at the same time, it is not surprising that there are similarities in mood and style between
“God grant that this Czech music will move the world!!” Composer Antonin Dvořák .
the Romance and Elgar’s Violin Concerto. Many composers have used the bassoon as a comedic instrument but in this piece Elgar gives the bassoon long, beautiful melodies almost vocal in nature and full of charm.
Carl Maria von Weber (1786–1826) Andante & Rondo Ungarese, J.158, op.35 Weber first wrote Andante & Rondo Ungarese as a concert piece for viola and orchestra in 1809 for his brother, Fritz. In 1813, his friend G.F. Brandt of Munich, for whom he had written his Bassoon Concerto two years before, asked him to arrange Allegro & Rondo for bassoon. Weber is perhaps most famous for his operas and is considered the founder of German national opera. He drew inspiration from German folklore and the popular German music of his day. Both of these influences are evident in the Andante & Rondo: in its slow-fast structure similar to an opera overture and its hints of popular German music. The variations on a melancholy theme in the Andante are punctuated by a four-note motive reminiscent of Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony, which premiered in Vienna a few months before Weber wrote this work. The “Ungarese” (the Italian word for Hungarian) element becomes evident in the Rondo, where lively rhythms allude to inTune 50
Hungarian folk dances. Weber knew how to write well for the bassoon. His Bassoon Concerto is second in popularity only to Mozart’s, and in the Andante & Rondo Ungarese Weber exploits the bassoon’s lyricism and agility as well as its comical side.
Antonin Dvořák (1841–1904) Symphony No. 7 in D minor, Op. 70 Several events influenced the composition of Dvořák’s Seventh Symphony. The great composer Johannes Brahms had been helpful and encouraging to the younger Dvořák. In 1883, Dvořák heard Brahms’ Third Symphony at its premiere and he considered it to be the greatest of all time. It inspired him to start thinking about composing another symphony. He was grateful for Brahms’ support and wanted to create the best work he could. “It must be something respectable for I don’t want to let Brahms down,” he wrote to Simrock, Brahms’ publisher, who had agreed at Brahms’ urging to publish Dvořák’s works. Dvořák was popular in England and, in the spring of 1884, he was invited there on one of his conducting tours. While he was there, the Royal Philharmonic Society of London commissioned Dvořák to write a symphony and elected him as an honorary member. Shortly after Dvořák’s return to Prague, as he was walking to the railway station, “the first subject of my new symphony flashed in to my mind on the arrival of the festive train bringing our countrymen from Pest.” Despite his successes, in many ways this was a difficult period of Dvořák’s life. Less than two weeks after he heard Brahms’ Third, his mother, with whom he was very close, passed away. His colleague and friend, Bedrich Smetana, was suffering from a mental decline that eventually led to his commitment. Several years before, between 1875–77, Dvořák’s three eldest children died. In addition, Dvořák’s
successes brought mounting pressures to turn away from the rising tide of Bohemian nationalism and the Bohemian folk music that he loved and become a more ‘international’ composer, which meant becoming more Austro-German, moving to Vienna and writing operas with German texts, and stopping pestering his publisher to have his name appear as Antonin rather than the German Anton. During this time Dvořák wrote two tragic masterpieces: the F minor Trio and the Seventh Symphony. Dvořák’s footnote to the Seventh’s slow movement reads: “From the sad years.” The Seventh Symphony, Dvořák’s only tragic symphony, was a triumph. In it he used a more Brahms-like orchestration and reached more depths of emotion, thereby gaining a more ‘international’ style without sacrificing his distinctive Slavic sound. He wrote to a friend, “I am now busy with this symphony for London, and wherever I go I can think of nothing else. God grant that this Czech music will move the world!!” Sir Donald Francis Tovey wrote of the Seventh Symphony, “The solemn tone of the close is amply justified by every theme and every note of this great work, which never once falls below the highest plane of tragic music, nor yet contains a line which could have been written by any composer but Dvořák.” Other than the New World Symphony, Dvořák’s symphonies were largely unknown in America until after World War II. Yet, with its copious thematic ideas and tragic mood, Dvořák’s Seventh is now generally acknowledged to be his best. Hans von Bülow, who led the Seventh Symphony in its Berlin premiere in 1889, said of Dvořák, “Next to Brahms, [he is] the most God-gifted composer of the present day.” Sir Tovey wrote, “I have no hesitation in setting Dvořák’s Seventh Symphony along with the C Major Symphony of Schubert and the four symphonies of Brahms as among the greatest and purest examples of this art-form since Beethoven.” Program notes prepared by Joan Savage, member, Violin section, Saskatoon Symphony. © 2013 inTune 51
Saskatoon Symphony Supporters Circle 2013–2014 Season Thank you to all the donors on whose generosity we depend. Your investment allows the Saskatoon Symphony to strive for artistic excellence, and to create meaningful community connections, in a financially sound manner.
Orchestra Circle
Sonata
Maestro’s Circle
John Botari Carol-Marie Cottin Don and Dolores Ebert Daniel Funk Rob Hendry and Pamela Delong-Hendry Michelle LaBrash Dr. Hugh and Sheryl McKee L. Mitchell Noella Nutting Ronald and Betty-Ann Perkins Mathieu Pouliot Lila Rudachyk Dennis and Marie-Jeanne Will Kassidy Schneider Grant Skomorowski Frances and William Schultz Gail Zink
($10,000+)
($5,000-$9999)
Roger and Marie Jolly
Performer’s Circle ($2,000-$4999)
Yvonne Cuttle Skip Kutz Mary Marino Doug and Lilian Thorpe
Encore
($1000-$1999) Sandra Beardsall and Bill Richards Dilys and Eric Burt Memorial Trust* Shelley Ewing Elmer and Anne Guenther John and Myrna King Anna Klassen Fund* Garnet and Susan Packota Joe Ponic Robert D. and Lura Mae Meeds Sider Fund*
Concerto
($500-$999) Articulate Eye Ruth Friesen Brian and Loretta Hartsook Ollie and Bob Hasselback Martha Pankratz Art and Janet Postle Ian and Meredith Sutherland P. Michael and Margaret v. Swan Dr. and Mrs. Jim and Marilyn Veikle Erika Wentzel Anonymous
($250-$499)
Serenade
($100-$249) Vanessa Amy Mary Barrett-Lenz Evelyn Bergstrom Gloria and Herman Boerma Lois Bruce Dr. and Mrs. Robert T. Card Mary Conklin Janice Cook and Ronald Philip Miller Ken Coutu Paul and Viola Coutu Brenda Derdall Robert and Vina Edwards Lois Elder Phyllis Ellis Jake and Barbara Ens Lynn Ewing Joan Feather Jacqueline Ferraton Al and Helen Few Joan and Peter Flood
Cathy and Joe Fry Don and Norma Gendzwill Katharine Grier Aline Guillas Terry Heckman Dr. Bob and Doreen Hickie Dr. Derek and Helen Hill Jack Hilson Akira Hirose Ruth Horlick Hume Family Fund* Dennis and Rosemary Hunt Willis and Marlys Jantz Bev Johnson Kathleen L. Johnstone Gerarda Kaye and John Doane Anne Klaassen Dr. Gerrit J. Kraay Brent Longstaff and Casey Elder-Longstaff Bernard Luttmer Peggy and Tim Martin Miss Mary Matwyuk Vicki McDougall Robert W. McLellan Stuart and Dorothy Middleton Margaret Monks Earl and Mary Ann Nostbakken Connie Owen-Jones Garnet and Susan Packota Martha Pankratz Henriette Quessy Jill and Derby Reid Jeanne Remenda Bryn Richards Al and Sandra Ritchie J. Frank Roy Harvey Sauder George Schmid Judy Schmid Don Schmidt Viola R. Schmidt
* Through the Saskatoon Community Foundation
inTune 52
Saskatoon Symphony Supporters Circle 2013–2014 Season Serenade (continued)
Ralph and Marg Schneider John Senior Dr. Peter and Audrey Siemens Ruth Solheim Agnes Valade Tanya Veeman Albert and Marjorie Veroba Victor and Erna Wiebe Gary and Amy Wobeser William Lang Yip Memorial Fund* Anonymous x 2
Prelude ($20-$99)
Heidi Bartsch Carol Bazin Carol Beaulieu Anna Beeton Dr. Dianne Bekolay
In Memory of MARY SHADICK
Eileen Boryski Mary Chapman Maureen Cline Annemarie Connor Ronald and Elizabeth Cuming Mitchell Doepker Tyler Dovell Margaret Dragan Bev Drew Marie Dunn Richard and Linda Ewen Leona Ewert Meta Freitag Doreen Haaland George and Phyllis James Alicia Klopoushak Katherine Knox Betty McIver B.J. Michaels Linda Miller Ans Nahirney
In Memory of AUDREY ZBITNEW
by Paul and Viola Coutu by Lesley-Ann Crone and Alan Neil R. Hughes Rosenberg Susan Carole Tedesco and Frank and Marna Cutts Mark Kornder Shirley Acton Dr. Stuart and Mary Houston Norwood and Lois Kavanagh Bill and Mary Chapman Bryan and Trudy Johnson Dr. Peter and Audrey Siemens Paul and Donna Tremblay Ted and Marilyn Underhill Kathy Grant Tina Grandey Darlene and David Riley Lorna and David Sim Ruth Cossar
Matthew Neufeld Kenn Neumann Hilda Noton Wendy Obrigavitch Dhayanthi Pfeifer John Prietchuk Neil Rawlyk Karen Reynaud Dorothy Riemer Herman and Myrna Rolfes Sheila D. Scott Rosemary Slater Shannon Sofko Frank W. Strange Kate Toews Dr. Ross R. Wheaton Katie Wiens Catherine Zeilner
In Memory of gordon mclure by Evelyn Bergstrom Dr. Ted and Marie Hammer Charlene Sorenson Kenneth Zender
This list reflects donations received after the publication of Volume 2, Issue 4.2. Donations received after August 26, 2013 will be included in the next issue. Please accept our sincere apologies for errors or omissions.
For information on investing in your symphony through an annual, monthly, or weekly donation, a gift of securities, or a planned gift, including recognition, please email Jill Reid, general.manager@saskatoonsymphony.org or call her at 306.665.4862 . ďƒ˜ inTune 53
321 20th St. West, Saskatoon, SK Phone: 306-653-1300 • Fax: 306-653-4711
Igniting our spirits through music Deloitte is a proud sponsor of the Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra
Š Deloitte & Touche LLP and affiliated entities.
inTune 54
Fastprint inTune ad v2.qxd
9/3/13
9:57 AM
Page 1
Presto! pres-to (pres'tĹ?) 1 quickly., used to indicate the sudden appearance or occurance of something as if by magic. 2 quick. 3 a quick part in a piece of music. 1 adv., 2 adj., 3 n., pl. pres-tos.
2938 Millar Avenue
306.244.3988
www.fastprint.ca inTune 55
Comfortable and spacious accommodations located throughout Saskatchewan and Alberta. EXECUTIVE ROYAL HOTELS www.executivehotels.net
REGINA
Executive Royal Hotel Regina 1-800-853-1181
BEST WESTERN HOTELS
CHOICE HOTELS
SASKATOON
EDMONTON
Best Western Plus Blairmore 1-877-999-1004 www.bestwesternblairmore.com
Quality Inn West Harvest 1-800-661-6993 www.qualityinnwestharvest.com
LEDUC
Executive Royal Hotel 1-888-202-3770 Executive Royal Express 1-877-251-3932 EDMONTON
Executive Royal Hotel West Edmonton 1-800-661-4879 CALGARY
CANMORE
Best Western Royal Hotel Saskatoon 1-888-244-5552 www.bestwesternroyalhotel.ca CANMORE
Econolodge Canmore 1-800-661-2133 www.econolodge.com
ROYAL HOTELS
www.royalhotelgroup.ca
Executive Royal Hotel North Calgary 1-877-769-2562
Best Western Plus Pocaterra Inn 1-888-678-6786 www.pocaterrainn.com
Royal Hotel Lloydminster 1-800-661-7221 West Harvest Express Lloydminster 1-888-505-8884 www.royalhotelgroup.ca
www.royalhotelgroup.ca