Schumann Symphony No 2 | Greenville Symphony Orchestra

Lee Mills, Conductor
Simone Porter, Violinist
Mary D. Watkins: Soul of Remembrance
Philip Glass: Violin Concerto No. 1
Robert Schumann: Symphony No. 2
About the Program:
Philip Glass and Robert Schumann are composers separated by two centuries. One, an American from Baltimore whose music defies genre: it’s two parts driving rhythm and one part rich string texture. You could even say it’s got a hint of rock n’ roll. Add a true rockstar of the violin, the one and only Simone Porter, and the fear of missing out factor is on another level.
Robert Schumann, best friend of Johannes Brahms and husband of the legendary Clara Schumann was a musical celebrity in 19th century Germany who struggled with mental illness. He found relief and sanctuary in music and the result is some of the most complex and fascinating compositions of the German Romantic period. Despite the composer’s depression, this symphony cuts through the darkness and leaves us feeling hopeful and uplifted. This energetic and elegant second symphony turns the traditional structure on its head by opening with a quiet first movement. Don’t take it from us-come hear this revolutionary and redemptive work for yourself.
This performance is from November 11 & 12, 2023, at the Peace Concert Hall in Greenville, SC.
Video Production by Other Southern
Learn more about the Greenville Symphony Orchestra: www.greenvillesymphony.org/
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[@kkbeethoven]

Ausgezeichnet! I haven't heard much Schumann lately, and during my 20-plus years in Winston-Salem, the W-S Symphony programmed his music infrequently. This performance reminded me of why I became a fan of Schumann's music at the start of my love affair with classical music. (If you must know, that was back in the 1970s, when, as a teenage contrarian, I tended to forsake the sounds of rock for those of Schumann, Brahms, Beethoven, Mahler, Mozart and many, many more.) Anyway, the heady mix of rhythmic vitality and exquisite melodic lines just can’t be beat. It keeps you humming and snapping your fingers as you become swept up in its relentless drive. Yes, I know what I'm saying sounds over the top, but that's how I feel, and I do hope you're of like mind about Schumann, who also introduced the world to Brahms after advocating for him strongly in an influential periodical. Happy listening to even more Schumann in the future! And, thank you, Maestro Lee, for bringing out the best in your fine ensemble.

[@jimryon1002]

This is a fine orchestra. Beautiful performance.

[@nseekpo9038]

Wonderful conducting and playing!

[@steveeagermusic]

Spectacular!