Masterworks II - The Romantics and Mozart

Antoine T. Clark, conductor

Michael Cox, saxophone

Program:

Pyotr Tchaikovsky: Suite No. 4 in G major, op. 61 (“Mozartiana”)

Alexander Glazunov: Saxophone Concerto in E-flat major, op. 109

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: Symphony No. 40 in G minor, K. 550

The characteristic traits of Romantic music include individuality, expressive tone colors, chromatic harmony, and intense energy and passion. This series explores the expressively rich, lush, and lyrical music of Pyotr Tchaikovsky and Alexander Glazunov, as well as the emotionally stirring music of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.

Tchaikovsky, a great admirer of Mozart, wrote his Suite No. 4 in tribute to his idol and titled it “Mozartiana.” The suite is a reworking of four lesser-known works by Mozart. Glazunov’s seductive Saxophone Concerto, a staple work in the instrument’s repertoire, boasts the saxophone’s ability to create luxuriant and colorful timbres. Foreshadowing the Romantic period, Mozart’s Symphony No. 40 displays agitated, dark, highly chromatic, and turbulent traits.

Michael Cox, a Professor of Saxophone and Jazz Studies at Capital University, who frequently performs with the Columbus Jazz Orchestra and Columbus Symphony Orchestra, is featured as guest soloist.