Now is the time to forget old notions of a classical violin solo.
When artist Leila Josefowicz performs on her electric violin this week with the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, those hearing her for the first time will no doubt be blown away.
“Taking this on is a very daring move ? an adventure,” Josefowicz, a classically trained musician, said excitedly.
She and BSO Music Director Marin Alsop will join forces to present the exhilarating work “The Dharma at Big Sur” by contemporary composer John Adams.
It?s only fitting, as the two women are among the greatest components of new music on today?s international scene.
Josefowicz said contemporary works, especially those of Adams, which she has performed many times, keep her “alive and entertained.”
“Fate has placed me in [this] period of time where I can promote new music,” she said.
“The Dharma at Big Sur,” composed in 2003, was inspired by the Buddhist concept of “dharma,” or spiritual unity and correct life path. A tribute to the West Coast, Adams sought to compose a work that, in his words, “express[ed] the moment, the so-called ?shock of recognition? when one reaches the edge of the continental landmass,” as with “Big Sur.”
The concerto is for six-string electric violin and juxtaposes Eastern and blues tones with the Western framework 12-note scale. The result produces profound emotional expression.
“Baltimore audiences should expect dynamic and passionate music-making,” said Jeremy Rothman, BSO?s artistic administrator.
The evening?s repertoire also highlights traditional violin virtuosity with the performance of Rimsky-Korsakov?s “Scheherazade,” based on the ancient Persian tale “1001 Arabian Nights.”
The movement “Blumine” (Flowers) from Gustav Mahler?s Symphony No. 1 was considered lost for more than 60 years when he removed it from the work?s premier. Resurfacing in 1959, the piece rounds out the evening?s program.
IF YOU GO
» Venue: Joseph Meyerhoff
Symphony Hall
» Where: 1212 Cathedral St.,
Baltimore
» Celebrity: 8 p.m. Thursday
and Friday
» Tickets: $25 to $78
» Information: 410-783-8000, www.baltimoresymphony.org
