In the wake of its 60th anniversary celebration, the BBC National Orchestra of Wales launches its inaugural tour of the United States. On Sunday, George Mason University’s Center for the Arts hosts these veterans of six decades of concerts throughout Europe and recordings for BBC Three.
Thierry Fischer, named Principal Conductor in September, is eager to share the brilliant musicianship of the instrumentalists with American audiences.
“The programming is important on a tour such as this,” he says. “The romantic composers always appeal because most people long to listen to music that expresses emotions, drama, love and hate. For this reason, we have chosen Strauss’s ‘Don Juan’ Opus 20, the Brahms Symphony No. 2 in D Major and Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 21.
“When we’re playing at home, we feel free to explore modern works along with the classical favorites, but we decided to stay with pieces that are well known for this first American tour. The audiences may be certain that we will perform at our highest level and are motivated to deliver our best. This is a strong group with no arrogance and a deep dedication to the music.”
Born in Africa to Swiss missionary parents, Fischer began his musical career as Principal Flutist in Hamburg and with the Zurich Opera before conducting the Chamber Orchestra of Europe to enthusiastic reviews from critics and musicians alike. Since then, he has conducted leading orchestras throughout the UK and Europe. For the past five years, he has been Principal Conductor and Artistic Advisor of the Ulster Orchestra.
Although his home base is Geneva, he revels in the busy schedule that keeps him on tour seven to eight months each year and spends part of the time in Cardiff, where the BBC National Orchestra of Wales has its residence.
“I love doing this,” he says.
IF YOU GO:
Thierry Fischer conducts the BBC National Orchestra of Wales on its First U.S. Tour
When: 4 p.m. Sunday
Venue: George Mason University Center for the Arts
Tickets: $27.50-$55 at 888-945-2468 or visit www.tick ets.com
Info: www.gmu.edu/cfa
