What do Mozart, Beethoven, Brahms and Strauss Polkas have in common?
South Bend Symphony Music Director Alastair Willis presents an exploration of Vienna's musical riches.
"I've always loved theater, and love putting concerts in historical context, surprising and delighting with a script, a character or two, to create a concert experience that comes alive in fresh, new ways," says Willis.
In this episode, Maestro Willis gives a taste of his portrayal of Sigmund Haffner the Younger, the newphew of Sigmund Haffner the Elder, for whom Mozart composed a symphony - No. 35, known as "The Haffner." He transports the audience to late 18th century Vienna at the Burgtheater for the premier of the Haffner Symphony for his uncle, the mayor, Herr Haffner.
There is also a game of "Guess the Composer," plus Brahms Hungarian Dance No. 7, and a sampling of Strauss with the Tritsch-Tratsch Polka.
These pieces were on the program for the South Bend Symphony Orchestra performance Sunday, January 12, 2:30 PM at the DeBartolo Performing Arts Center at the University of Notre Dame.
