May 2, 2025 |Alexander W. Dreyfoos Concert Hall

Edward Gardner, conductor
Molly Turner, NWS conducting fellow
Gil Shaham, violin

Bewitching improvisation, Bohemian fireworks and the return of a legendary violinist… 

A favorite of Queen Elizabeth II, the “chance music” at the heart of Thea Musgrave’s bewitching Song of the Enchanter ensures no two performances are the same. Gil Shaham joins forces with Edward Gardner, Principal Conductor of the London Philharmonic Orchestra, for Bohemian fireworks by Antonín Dvořák. Sections of the orchestra get virtuoso spotlights in Bela Bartók’s orchestral showpiece that culminates in a fiery finale. 

Gil Shaham is considered one of the foremost violinists of our time. Named Musical America’s “Instrumentalist of the Year,” his flawless technique has solidified his renown as an American master. Edward Gardner is the Principal Conductor of the London Philharmonic Orchestra and Music Director of Den Norske Opera & Ballet. He additionally serves as Honorary Conductor of the Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra.

Program to include:
Thea Musgrave, Song of the Enchanter
Dvořák, Violin Concerto in A Minor, Op. 53
INTERMISSION
Bartók, Concerto for Orchestra

Beyond The Stage Pre-Concert Talk
6:30pm-7pm
Persson Hall
Hosted by the Kravis Center’s Classical Artistic Advisor, Phillip Bergmann, gives the inside story of the music, musicians and composers for each classical performance. Pre-concert talks include interesting facts and background about the music and highlight elements of interest to all audience members and feature interviews with special guests from the ensembles.

Beyond The Stage sponsored by Nancy and Jay Parker