Orchestras actively curate concert programs to create a coherent and impactful listener experience. This involves selecting pieces that reflect current themes and fit together thematically. For example, Berkeley Symphony's concert included Samy Moussa's Elysium, followed by two works featuring cellist Gabriel Cabezas, leading to the impactful performance of Beethoven's Eroica. Conductor Dina Gilbert emphasized the emotive qualities and thematic connections among the selected works. Additionally, each program reflects the unique influence of the conductor, showcasing their artistic vision and musical ties within the community.
The concert opens with Canadian composer Samy Moussa's ethereal Elysium, for which the concert is named. Then, instead of a traditional single concerto, cellist Gabriel Cabezas joins the orchestra for two shorter pieces.
These first three pieces are each very emotive in their own way. They form an arc that ends with the Beethoven Symphony, which is described as heroism, idealism and overcoming life's challenges.
The thematic arc that builds up to Eroica makes the performance unique, with century-spanning compositions that expand on the central themes of Eroica.
Each program is also a representation of the conductors who lead it, showcasing their unique perspectives and connections within the orchestral music community.
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