Ahead of the concert, Edusei talked about what ties this music together, what makes it challenging, and why experiencing something like The Rite of Spring live still matters as much as ever.
This weekend, the Colorado Symphony performs a program featuring music by Beethoven, Anna Clyne, and Igor Stravinsky. At the center of it all is conductor Kevin John Edusei, who’s built a real connection with the Colorado Symphony over the years and knows how to shape a program like this so it feels like a coherence experience.
This program moves from the stark drama of Beethoven to the atmospheric world of Glasslands and then into the raw, primal energy of The Rite of Spring. How do you shape that progression so it feels intentional rather than episodic?
Kevin John Edusei: Our program features three entirely distinct compositions, each with their own dramatic context. However, the works by Anna Clyne and Igor Stravinsky draw on the sonic world and timbre of the classical symphonic tradition, which was largely developed by Beethoven. The rawness and primal energy you refer to is something I hear in all three works. A wonderful aspect of Anna Clyne’s saxophone concerto is that it also draws on folk traditions and therefore speaks directly to Le sacre du printemps.
The Rite of Spring is famously complex, as well as rhythmically and physically demanding. What’s the biggest challenge in keeping it precise without losing its sense of danger and spontaneity?
Kevin John Edusei: Conducting The Rite of Spring is one of the most exhilarating tasks a conductor can face. Allowing the music to feel wild and unpredictable, while ensuring every note lands exactly where it should is surely a tightrope walk between control and abandon and that’s what makes it thrilling.
Is there anything else audiences should know about this concert?
Kevin John Edusei: Having the chance to experience The Rite of Spring live in a concert hall is a rare opportunity. We’re at a point in music history where we must realize that the aesthetic experience and authenticity of an acoustic live performance will be of the greatest value in the long run. I’m very optimistic that there always will be a demand for this kind of experience. I’m looking forward to seeing you!
Experience it Live
Don’t miss this electrifying program, conducted by Kevin John Edusei, as the Colorado Symphony brings together Beethoven, Clyne, and Stravinsky all in one unforgettable weekend.
Stravinsky The Rite of Spring with Kevin John Edusei + Jess Gillam
BEETHOVEN Coriolan Overture
ANNA CLYNE Glasslands Saxophone Concerto with Jess Gillam
STRAVINSKY The Rite of Spring