Brahms 3

The peerless violinist James Ehnes returns with Bartók’s intensely romantic concerto, written for and about a woman whom Bartók loved and lost. Brahms’ symphony begins in a stormy and dramatic mood but ends with a sense of calm acceptance.

Bookending the concert with folk music, Giordano Bellincampi finishes with a dash of Brahms’ paprika-infused dances. Ligeti’s Concert Românesc is an affectionate recollection of his Romanian childhood, with the orchestra transformed into a gigantic village band.