October 6, 2007
Rugged Romantics
Jeffrey Swann, piano

Let yourself be swept away with the strength and beauty of Sibelius’ Fifth Symphony and Brahms’ epic First Piano Concerto.
SMETANA
SIBELIUS
BRAHMS		 The Bartered Bride Overture
Symphony No. 5
Piano Concerto No. 1*

Jeffrey Swann, piano
Mr. Swann is an astounding performer and recording artist with a repertoire that includes more than 50 piano concertos as well as solo works ranging from Bach to Boulez. His international career has taken him throughout the US, Europe and Latin America. A graduate of Juilliard with B.M., M.M. and D.M.A. degrees, he has been honored throughout the world for his mastery of the instrument.
*features guest artist

Programs are listed in concert order, but are subject to change.

All concerts begin at 8 pm in the Terrace Theatre, Long Beach Performing Arts Center.

All concerts conducted by Music Director Enrique Arturo Diemecke
Maestro’s Insights
By Enrique Arturo Diemecke

Rugged Romantics

The Brahms first piano concerto is an extraordinary piece that calls for a special collaboration between orchestra and pianist. That is why I’m so excited about opening our season with Jeffrey Swann as our soloist. (You may remember his remarkable playing from the Chopin Concerto he did in my first season.) Not only is Jeff a virtuoso player, but he is also an internationally regarded chamber musician. He runs a chamber music festival in Italy and regularly performs in New York’s most prestigious chamber music venues.

In his first piano concerto, Brahms breaks new ground. Instead of just a flashy solo part with a simple orchestral accompaniment, Brahms creates a balanced marriage between the soloist and orchestra. The

important lines are tossed back and forth—just like in successful, long-term, marriages where each partner completes each other’s sentences! You have to almost be a mind-reader to create the perfect blend between orchestra and piano. In order for a conductor to make this happen, you must start with an artist as sensitive and experienced as Jeffrey Swann.

 Paired with Smetana’s invigorating The Bartered Bride Overture and Sibelius’ heroic 5th Symphony, it will be an opening night to remember. I can’t wait to see you again at the Long Beach Symphony Orchestra!