The Columbus Symphony Orchestra is pleased to present “Transcendence: An Evening with Rochberg, Chopin, and Brahms” on Saturday, November 19, 2016. Brilliant pianist Claire Huangci returns to the CSO to present her specialty, the ultra-lyrical music of Chopin. Her performance is book-ended by two compositions that reflect the profound influence of Beethoven; a piece for strings by American composer George Rochberg, and a monumental symphony by Brahms.

Attend “Know the Score” at 6:30 PM in the Studio Theatre, a casual pre-concert conversation with Music Director and Conductor George Del Gobbo sure to provide more insight into the repertoire on the evening’s concert.

Del Gobbo commented, “Two of the works on the November 19th concert had an impact on the history of music. Brahms' first symphony represented a continuation of the form as practiced by Beethoven, and confirmed to a large part of the music world that the symphony, as a form, was vital and alive.  American composer George Rochberg was among the first mid-20th century composers who sought to bring lyricism back into music after nearly fifty years of writing dissonant music that drove all but the most masochistic audiences to distraction. After working as a strict proponent of serial music throughout his career, he turned to the late works of Beethoven (there's that name again) for inspiration for this group of variations which first appeared in his, Rochberg's third string quartet. The more immediate cause for this stylistic change was the tragic death of his son. He simply was not able to express his grief in the musical language he had heretofore employed. And Chopin?  Well, what can you say?  Chopin is Chopin is honey on a keyboard (maybe not the best image, but you know what I mean).”

The 7:30 PM concert will feature American pianist Claire Huangci, a fourth-time performer and audience favorite with the CSO. Claire says, “This is my 4th time here, and every time has been a great pleasure! Working with Maestro del Gobbo and the orchestra is always so comfortable, relaxed, and yet full of lively interaction. I'm very happy to present Chopin’s 2^nd Concerto this time, as I feel it's a piece that really speaks to each one of us directly to the heart.”

“Transcendence: An Evening with Rochberg, Chopin, and Brahms” is presented by Aflac, Sunny100, WTVM, and Columbus Marriott.

Tickets are $5 to $38 and may be purchased at the RiverCenter Box Office, Monday through Friday, 10 AM to 5:30 PM or one hour prior to the performance (enter doors located on Broadway). Student tickets are available for $10. Tickets for children under 12 years of age are $5. For more information call the RiverCenter Box Office at 706.256.3612 or visit us online at www.csoga.org.

S’MORES – (Final Dress Rehearsal) for this concert is on Saturday November 19^th beginning at 12:30 PM. We encourage attendance from all members of the community including those who are unable to attend the evening concert or looking for a “behind-the-scenes” look into the ensemble. It is also a great way to introduce your children to a live musical experience. Continuing the tradition, this informal and all-inclusive atmosphere is breaking the financial barrier by encouraging attendees to “pay what you want.” Audience members set their own prices to eliminate hesitation and allow new viewers to partake in the music being created by the CSO. For more information visit csoga.org or call (706) 256-3645.