Symphony’s Beethoven: Empowering the Masses Through Music

After a three-month hiatus, the Sedona Symphony marked its return to the Sedona Performing Arts Center on February 2. This season’s most classical program featured violinist Tai Murray in a captivating solo performance.

The concert opened with the overture from Chevalier de Saint-Georges’ opera “L’Amant Anonyme.” This piece, characterized predominantly by string instruments, revealed the winds as mere accents. Comprising three movements, the overture shares similarities with Saint-Georges’ other symphonic works from an era when the terms “overture” and “symphony” often overlapped. The first movement set a festive tone, reminiscent of aristocrats entering an opera house, while the second evoked a melancholic reflection, foreshadowing the evolution of French music into the 19th century. The final movement reintroduced lively gaiety, showcasing intricate dialogues between the violins and the orchestra, while the Symphony delivered a commendable performance, highlighting the finesse of Saint-Georges’ style.

Next came Mozart’s Violin Concerto No. 5, affectionately dubbed the “Turkish.” The orchestra commenced with an energetic tempo, while Murray’s initial notes were intimate yet powerful. As the piece progressed, her style became strikingly vibrant, diverging from conventional interpretations and offering a youthful dive into its melodic depths.

The second movement contrasted this brightness, beginning pensive and evolving into darker contemplations. Murray’s violin provided a striking counterpoint to the ensemble, under the skillful direction of Artistic Director Janna Hymes. Their collaboration restored balance to the movement as it transitioned into its original themes. In the final movement, Murray’s exuberance united her with the orchestra, translating the piece’s cheerful essence into a spirited performance that captivated the audience.

Wrapping up the program was Beethoven’s Symphony No. 2 in D Major, known for its orchestral promise. Hymes opted for a slower tempo in the opening adagio and allegro than Beethoven likely intended, resulting in a powerful rendition. The Symphony’s initial disorientation gave way to a harmonious blend, epitomizing Beethoven’s mastery of orchestral unity. Hymes’ enthusiasm brought out the best in the orchestra, capturing the movement’s dynamic essence.

In the second movement, the woodwinds enjoyed a prominent role, exhibiting seamless exchanges, particularly during the more tumultuous sections. The larghetto offered a contrast, illustrating a day at the horse show amid both relaxed spectators and the tension of competing horses.

For the concluding movements, Hymes adjusted the tempos closer to Beethoven’s specifications, imparting a stately quality. The horns added a hunt-ball atmosphere, and the performance raced towards the finale, highlighting Beethoven’s intricate writing. The Symphony’s characterful execution underscored the work’s grandeur, culminating in a powerful connection with the audience. This performance signified notable growth since Hymes’ initial encounter with Beethoven’s work nearly two years prior.

Beatlemania!

Symphony board president Margaret Davis announced an upcoming pops concert titled “Classical Mystery Tour,” celebrating the Beatles, scheduled for April 26. This event will coincide with the Sedona International Film Festival, which will screen Beatles films at the Mary D. Fisher Theatre prior to the concert.

Furthermore, Davis revealed that the Symphony will kick off its 2025-26 season on October 19, followed by its inaugural touring performance at the Yavapai College Performing Arts Center in partnership with the Yavapai Symphony Association.