Opening Night: Rachmaninoff Symphony No. 2

About this event

Program: Mendelssohn Violin Concerto in E Minor Rachmaninoff Symphony No. 2 Philippe Quint Violin Andrew Constantine Conductor Reading Symphony Orchestra This is how the season begins. Come feel it. Romance. Obsession. Beauty that aches. Rachmaninoff Rachmaninoff was a Russian composer, virtuoso pianist, and conductor known for his richly expressive, Late Romantic-era music. He is best remembered for works such as his piano concertos and Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, which remain among the most popular pieces in the classical repertoire. Rachmaninoff’s Symphony No. 2 doesn’t whisper, it pours its heart out. Lose yourself in sweeping melodies, soaring strings, and one of the most intoxicating symphonies ever written. Read Classics 1 Program Notes Here ARTIST HIGHLIGHT Philippe Quint, violin Praised for his “searingly poetic lyricism” (UK Daily Telegraph), Philippe Quint stands as one of America’s leading violinists, captivating audiences with his “breadth of tone and passion” (The New York Times). With multiple Grammy Award nominations for several of his recordings, Quint is consistently recognized for his innovative performances of classical repertoire, advocacy for contemporary music. His boundless curiosity led him to create unique multimedia format programs such as The Muse, Homage to J.S. Bach, Charlie Chaplin’s Smile, and The Legend of Astor Piazzolla. Quint has performed with world-class orchestras including the London Philharmonic, the Chicago Symphony, the Los Angeles Philharmonic, and the Royal Scottish National Orchestra. His dedication to contemporary music is evident in numerous premieres by today’s foremost composers, including Errollyn Wallen, Lera Auerbach, and John Corigliano. In spring 2024, Quint premiered a violin concerto written for him by Belize-born British composer Errollyn Wallen. This co-commissioned work which The Times, London called ‘exhilarating and playful’ saw it’s critically acclaimed premieres with the Calgary…