The School of Music is presenting Russian choral/orchestral masterpieces at the Bass Performance Hall on Oct. 1.
The concert will comprise the Fort Worth-TCU Symphonic Choir, the TCU Symphony Orchestra, and TCU alumni.
Kristen Queen, assistant director for student programs and special events, said this is the fourth time the school of music has performed at the Bass Hall.
“This is their highlight, this is what they’ve been working for,” Queen said. “It’s a very majestic setting for some of the most powerful Russian music from that time period.”
The three Russian works span the late nineteenth century to the middle of the twentieth: Dmitri Shostakovich's "Festive Overture," Alexander Borodin's "Polovtsian Dances," and Serge Prokofiev's "Alexander Nevsky" cantata.
“These are three of the most legendary Russian classical composers from that time period,” Queen said. “The concert reflects the political turmoil happening in Russia.”
Queen said the pieces are very programmatic and illustrative.
“To me, that’s the more interesting thing: to go and listen to this concert and imagine all of the restrictions and the constraints that were put on to these incredible composers and artists," Queen said. "And yet, they were still able to capture so many moments of musical majesty."
The performances will feature TCU School of Music alumni soloist Sarah Klopfenstein, with conductors Germán Gutiérrez and Dennis Shrock.
Shrock, director of public activities, will conduct what Queen said is the biggest work of the night and the third piece: "Alexander Nevsky" cantata.
Shrock said the cantata portrays several scenes of attacks and battles in Russia, and then ends with celebration.
“It’s very exciting,” said Shrock. “The choral and orchestral forces are exceptional and really great. I think the audience is going to have a very enjoyable time. I’m hugely excited.”
Shrock added that the listener would leave feeling excited. “Hopefully, they will feel elevated and inspired. Its very uplifting music.”
The concert starts at 7:30 p.m. Admission for adults is $20, and $10 for students/seniors. Students get in free with their TCU ID.
