2024/10/8 Taiwan News

The Evergreen Symphony Orchestra will present “Gernot Schmalfuss Conducts Mahler’s Symphony No. 4” next Saturday (Oct. 19) at 7:30 p.m. at the National Concert Hall.

Gernot Schmalfuss, the Evergreen Symphony Orchestra’s Chief Artistic Adviser and Conductor Laureate, will lead the orchestra in performing Franz Joseph Haydn’s Symphony No. 101 “The Clock,” followed by Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No. 4 in G Major. The concert will highlight the evolution and continuous refinement of symphonic music, from Haydn, the “Father of the Symphony” in the Classical era, to Mahler, who expanded the symphony in great scale and scope during the Late-Romantic period.

Haydn’s Symphony No. 101 in D Major, also known as “The Clock,” is characterized by its precise structure, showcasing Haydn’s humor, vitality, and charm. The mastery of counterpoint yet relatively simple orchestration provides the music with a clear and transparent tone.

The rhythm mimics the ticking of a clock, and its intricate compositional phrasing interlocks like clockwork gears, revealing a complex beauty of sound. Schmalfuss, who has led the Evergreen Symphony Orchestra for many years, is well-known to audiences for his smooth and delicate conducting style. With his deep understanding of the musical structure and precise yet emotional approach, he will bring a unique vitality and interpretation to “The Clock” on this special evening.

Mahler’s Symphony No. 4 in G Major, featured in the second half, contrasts greatly with Haydn’s clear and structured style, offering a different compositional approach. However, compared to Mahler’s other symphonic works, it is the shortest in length and has the lightest orchestration. It carries an air of innocence, joy, and a childlike spirituality.

In the iconic fourth movement, Das himmlische Leben (The Heavenly Life), the text is adapted from Des Knaben Wunderhorn (The Youth’s Magic Horn), a collection of anonymous German folk poetry that was one of Mahler’s perennial sources of inspiration. This movement will be performed by soprano Grace Lin, whose bright yet warm voice will portray a child’s innocent vision of heaven.

Conductor Gernot Schmalfuss and the Evergreen Symphony Orchestra will present these two contrasting masterpieces from different eras, bringing a colorful musical panorama to the stage. Classical music lovers are warmly invited to the National Concert Hall for this profound and unforgettable musical journey.

Tickets are available online through OPENTIX.

For information regarding the Evergreen Symphony Orchestra and its concert series, please visit the website or call (02) 2351-6799 #6323.