Brandon Hill Chamber Orchestra

From a portrayal of the turbulence and unrest of World War 2 depicted by Stravinsky’s Symphony in Three Movements to the flowing lyricism of Dvořák’s optimistic New World Symphony, Brandon Hill Chamber Orchestra explores this American inspired programme with Andrew Shulman.

Brandon Hill Chamber Orchestra
Conductor Andrew Shulman

Programme

Rachmaninov Vocalise (Orchestral Arrangement)
Stravinsky Symphony in Three Movements
Dvořák Symphony No 9 Op 95, From the New World

The concert opens with Rachmaninov’s own orchestral arrangement of the hauntingly beautiful Vocalise, written prior to his emigration to America in 1918. Rachmaninov became a full American citizen in 1943.

The New World Symphony, which was to become Dvorak’s signature work, captures his fascination with Native American tradition and spiritual melodies whilst retaining the lyricism and folk elements of his Bohemian roots. He took on the commission when he moved to New York in the 1890s.

The optimism of Dvořák’s New World contrasts with Stravinsky’s mood when composing his Symphony in Three Movements. He wrote it between 1942-45, describing it as his War Symphony. Its bold rhythms and musical form convey both the chaos and cultural richness of the time.

Andrew Shulman, now also living in America, continues his long association with Brandon Hill Chamber Orchestra.